Kiwi for Cup

Press, 9 January 1986, Page 17

Kiwi for Cup

Special correspondent Wellington A start for Kiwi in the Wellington Cup on January 25 looks certain following the eight-year-old’s slashing late run into fifth in the Pahiatua Cup at Woodville yesterday. After an indifferent effort to beat only one home at Awapuni last month, yesterdays Woodville outing was decisive. When he was tailed off, almost four lengths last on the home turn, the chances of Kiwi getting to Trentham looked grim. But over the closing strages the gelding flew and was closing quickly. His rider, Noel Harris, was delighted. He had been offered the Wellington Cup mount on Manawatu Cup winner, Whitole, but after the race he was quick to state his preference.

“I’ll have to stay with the old bloke,” he said, “I’ll talk „ to Snow.” “Snow” is the trainer, Ewen Lupton, and yesterday • he was much happier. ~ “He was chopping his / stride a bit last time,” he said. “I had a talk to Noel before the race and asked - him to check it. “I think he likes to race. ‘ He’s not getting the full benefit of his trackwork." Lupton may line Kiwi up - next Wednesday in the ■■ $20,000 Marton Cup at Awapuni as another lead-up to Wellington. ; Equally impressive was the run of Imaprince, which was a few places in front of Kiwi and also rattled home . late. Yesterday’s run in the Pahiatua Cup was the last for the stallion before the = Wellington Cup on January ; 25.