The Randwick stables of brothers Jim and Greg Lee take on a New Zealand flavour during carnival time.
They have provided a second home to many of the Kiwi raiders over the years, none more famous than champion Sunline.
The great mare, trained by Trevor McKee, campaigned in Sydney on eight separate occasions and even had her own box.
“Sunline’s box is number six and the McKees still like to have that one when they bring a horse over,” Greg Lee said.
This year Roger James has been among the Kiwi visitors with Saturday’s Doncaster Mile hopeful He’s Remarkable and Australian Oaks contender Full Of Spirit.
Lee has kept a close eye on both and expects them to be ultra-competitive in their respective assignments on Saturday.
“They should both be hard to beat,” Lee said.
Another regular boarder over the years has been Kiwi trainer Bruce Wallace and his visits have brought some extra benefits.
When Wallace finds horses good enough to be competitive in Sydney, he often leaves them for a stint with the Lees.
One such horse is Zara Dancer, who will tackle Saturday’s Listed Japan Racing Association Plate (2000m).
“He’s been a good horse for us,” Lee said.
“Bruce also left us Mr. Victory, which won a Missile Stakes, and Seattle Gem who won a Furious.
“Bruce has been staying with us ever since he started in the business and we’ve formed a great friendship.”
The Lees won the Listed Frank Underwood Cup with Zara Dancer in November and he had one more run for them in the Villiers Stakes before heading back to Wallace in New Zealand.
He had two runs there before being flown back across the Tasman where the Lees again took over the reins.
The gelding finished sixth to Single over 1900m two starts ago and fourth to Western Symbol over 2000m last time out.
“He had them off the bit last start but he just needed that run under his belt,” Lee said.
“He’s improved since and he’s a great chance.
“He will get through the heavy ground, no trouble.”
Zara Dancer will remain with the Lees after Saturday and be aimed at the Rowley Mile at Hawkesbury, a race they won last year with Keepin’ The Dream.
