Country cups for Kiwi stayer Big Mike

WELLINGTON: Cambridge trainer Craig Phelan has jetted into Melbourne to oversee his hardy stayer Big Mike as he tackles today’s Kyneton Cup (2000m).

The natural frontrunner will race as Our Big Mike today and Phelan is pleased with the way the 6yrold has settled into his Victorian surrounds.

‘‘He travelled over really well and has settled in at Cranbourne,’’ Phelan said.

‘‘We’re staying with Peter and Rachael Cunningham, which is great. Pete’s an exKiwi jockey. Half the battle is won if you’ve got somewhere to stay with people you know and can trust.’’

Phelan has not made firm plans for Big Mike’s campaign and will get a better gauge on where he sits following the Kyneton Cup.

‘‘We thought we’d go over and chase some of the country cups; the prize money is outstanding,’’ he said.

‘‘We’ll just see how we go with this first run, but if he is competitive there are races like the Pakenham Cup or even the Ballarat Cup which we can pick away at.’’

Big Mike performed well in three runs at the recent Hawke’s Bay Carnival, finishing runnerup behind Melbourne Cuprunner Sir Charles Road at his first outing before placing behind subsequent stakes winner Five To Midnight.

At his most recent performance, he was sixth to Savvy Coup in the group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m).

Big Mike has drawn barrier 10 in the $A125,000 cup and will be ridden by Michael Dee. — NZ Racing Desk