3 minute read

Star three-year-old Kia Ora Koutou is set to make his return on Saturday with the Adam Durrant trained galloper well placed to making it a winning one.

Unbeaten from his first four starts in the West the son of Blackfriars was then thrown in the deep when acquitting himself well finishing third in the Group 1 Victoria Derby [2500m].

Kia Ora Koutou didn't have a lot of luck on that occasion and has since trialled very well off a break.

The decision to line up over the mile first up should definitely suit and under the set weights and penalties conditions he is very well placed.

This season the Adam Durrant stable is striking at 21% with gallopers racing first up and 41% with favourites (+3.7% POT).

While drawn a touch awkwardly he can roll forward and negate this hindrance with regular rider "Smoking Joe" Azzopardi aboard.

Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings he is clearly the horse to beat and at his current quote he appears a more than worthy gamble.

As much as $2.80 was offered about his chances early doors and although he has firmed - 6-4 is still readily available.

If priced aggressively we have marked the odds on favourite and more than happy to bet up at his current quote.

The final event also presents a decent betting opportunity with stablemate Regal Commander well placed to return to the winner's stall.

A handy winner fresh, Regal Commander was simply not suited by the moderate tempo last start when forced to drop out from the wide draw.

Hitting the line gamely he proved a sectional star and should appreciate the step up in trip on Saturday.

From the inside draw he looks to receive a far better run in transit and with the Wizard sticking he looks to set a decent standard for his rivals.

As much as 2-1 is being offered about his chances which is a more than fair as a return to his best form should see him very hard to beat.

We expect him to start around the 6-4 quote and see him as a great way to round out what we hope is a profitable day

As a side note, TopBetta will offer a minimum of $10K for Canterbury Stakes Day and while Ascot won't play a part it is definitely worth checking out - Click Here .

BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 6 #1 Kia Ora Koutou @ $2.50

BET OF THE DAY (2): Race # Regal Commander @ $3.00