Start Wondering remains on target for the Gr.2 Lisa Chittick Foxbridge Plate (1200m) at Te Rapa later this month despite dropping away in his trial at Foxton on Tuesday.

The multiple Group One winner had won at the Waverley trials last month, but after tracking the leader in his 1000m heat at Foxton then leading momentarily in the run home, he dropped out to finish at the back of the six-horse field.

“Apparently he hated the ground and just couldn’t go in it,” co-trainer JJ Rayner said. “He’s gone in the wet before but doesn’t like the puggy stuff.

“I wouldn’t be too worried about it. He had a good blow and it’s helped clean him up for the Foxbridge. That’s the main aim.”