Promising Hello Youmzain Filly Impresses on Track

Chris Rutten’s expertise in selecting potential contenders for the Karaka Millions 2YO is once again on display. This time, he has shown keen judgment with Sweetest Thing, a filly trained by Roydon Bergerson. She recently performed admirably, finishing as the runner-up to Lassified in the Listed Wellesley Stakes at Trentham.

Impressive Performance at the Wellesley Stakes

Sweetest Thing impressed in the race, completing the 1100-meter event and earning $18,500. This result places her on the brink of qualifying for the $1 million TAB Karaka Millions, scheduled for January 24 at Ellerslie.

Rutten’s Successful Legacy in Karaka Millions

Rutten has a strong history with the Karaka Millions, having secured victories and placings in previous years. His notable wins include:

• Vespa (2014)
• Touche (2013)
• Kingsman (2016)
• Yourdeel (2019)
• Avonallo (2021)
• Wolverine (2022)
• Karaka Millions 3YO with Scott Base (2018)

He hopes to replicate this success with Sweetest Thing, despite lingering questions about timing and preparation for the upcoming race.

Plans and Considerations for Sweetest Thing

Training discussions are ongoing, with Bergerson expressing his satisfaction with the filly’s performance. He noted that jockey Wiremu Pinn mentioned she became disoriented at a critical point in the race but concluded strongly. “She has always shown a lot of ability,” Bergerson remarked. “I am really happy with her.”

Bergerson intends to assess her condition over the next few days before making a definitive decision. He aims to balance preparation and well-being for Sweetest Thing as they consider her future races. “We’ll likely give her one or two more starts and then assess what happens next,” he stated.

Background and Pedigree of Sweetest Thing

Sweetest Thing was purchased for $80,000 from the Wentwood Grange draft at the 2025 New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale. She is co-owned by Rutten and Ian Farrelly.

Pedigree Highlights

This filly boasts an impressive European lineage, being out of two-time winner Ocean Drive. Her pedigree includes:

• Half-sister to dual Group Two winner Indian Days
• Group One performer Reply
• Group Three performer Binou

Despite initial doubts about her suitability for the Karaka Millions due to her breeding, Bergerson acknowledged her physical attributes. “She was a really scopey filly, well-balanced with a bit of strength,” he added. This combination of ability and lineage underlines the potential for Sweetest Thing as she looks forward to her racing future.

Too Sweet’s Recovery

In related news, Bergerson indicated that Too Sweet is currently resting and recovering after dealing with a viral infection. She is expected to return to training soon to prepare for upcoming autumn races.