Kawi favoured in Classic
Multiple Group I winner Kawi is in fine fettle ahead of a tilt at Saturday’s Haunui Farm WFA Classic (1600m) at Otaki.
The 6-year-old, who ran a last start fifth in the NRM Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on his return from a luckless Perth summer campaign, has been in sparkling form on the training track.
New Plymouth trainer Allan Sharrock feels the gelding is in good shape ahead of Saturday’s $200,000 race.
‘‘We are very happy with him. His work on Tuesday morning was probably the best I’ve seen from him this time in and he looks improved,’’ Sharrock said.
Kawi ($2.20) is chasing his sixth Group I winner with Te Rapa victor Start Wondering ($3.20) again standing in his way.
Wanganui trainers Evan and JJ Rayner have been pleased with his progress with the question mark being around his ability at the distance.
‘‘He’s never won against this class of horse at 1600 metres but has won over the trip,’’ JJ Rayner said. ‘‘The way he’s been settling in his races suggests he will be alright.’’
He has won three races at the distance, including an easy win in Rating 75 company on a Premier day at Trentham. He also won over 1500m at Rosehill when trained by Chris Waller.
The son of Eighth Wonder has won the Railway, the NRM Sprint and run second in the Telegraph in a wonderful Group I campaign this summer.
Johnathan Parkes continues his association with Start Wondering while Kawi has a change of rider.
Michael Walker made the trip from Australia to ride at Te Rapa, but injury problems have paved the way for Jason Waddell to take the reins.
Waddell has been in great form since his recent return to the saddle and is delighted to pick up the prized mount.
He has 13 wins from 76 rides on the comeback trail including the Waikato Guineas on Wyndspelle.
Sofia Rosa ($5.50)and Authentic Paddy ($8.50) are the others in single figures for the race.
Sofia Rosa was the on-course tip at Te Rapa and finished strongly after getting well back in her first start since returning from a Melbourne spring campaign.
‘‘She was good in the last bit of the NRM,’’ said trainer Stephen Marsh. ‘‘She’s been doing well since.
‘‘I can’t fault her, her works been spot on and she should run well.’’
Five Group I placings show how honest Authentic Paddy is and he should run another good race.
He was brave running third to Volkstok’n’barrell and Savile Row last start in the Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa and dropping back in distance won’t worry him.