RUFUS (6) showed pace to lead fresh up at Te Aroha 10 days ago and battled on fairly well to hold fourth by less than 2 lengths. He is backing up relatively quickly, which is always a good sign, and if he can find the top from a tricky gate, then he can take them all the way here. UNRESTRAINED (13) was fourth in G3 company at Ellerslie in September and has mixed her form since then. If she can run up to her best form, then she is the one to beat. WILD THING (12) has been beaten by a pair of wide draws in her last couple of starts, and slots into the pole position this time. A form reversal is on the cards. Each way value. KUDOS (4) has been thereabouts in all 4 starts this prep, and he will be suited to the mile for the first time. His only placing came on this course, and he has solid top 4 claims. NEW CASTLE (3) has put together 2 good runs this season and will be at his peak fitness third up from a spell on his home track. Don't treat him lightly. Each way claims.
