Black Panther back in the fray

Waka Nathan with Black Panther, which is running at Ellerslie today. Picture/ Richard Robinson

A nickname coined by a French newspaper more than 40 years ago for an All Black legend has been passed down the line to another would-be champion.

New Zealand flanker Waka Nathan, known as the Black Panther after he toured France with the All Blacks in the 1960s, will today watch the racehorse he co-owns compete in the $150,000 Great Northern Guineas at Ellerslie.

Black Panther the racehorse is the favourite in the 2000m race and his name is based on Nathan's own formidable running ability.

A French newspaper came up with the name La Panthere Noire after the All Blacks played France in 1963 - its reporter was in awe of the way Nathan could stalk the opposition like a panther.

Journalist Terry McLean reported the headline back to the New Zealand Herald and the nickname has lasted 42 years. Nathan is hoping the horse he co-owns with Auckland Racing Club director Peter Walker will similarly stalk the opposition and run them down.

Nathan was unbeaten in 14 All Black tests between 1962 and 1967 and although Black Panther can't boast the same record, pretty much everyone expects to be cheering the horse home today as the $2.25 favourite.

The classy 3-year-old finished only fourth in his final lead-up, but he had no favours in running and punters are prepared to forgive that unplaced effort.

"I've had quite a few good wins in racing, but nothing to match this if he's able to win," said Nathan as he watched Black Panther go through his final training at Pukekohe on Saturday morning.

The New Zealand Herald is a major sponsor of the three-day Ellerslie carnival, which culminates with the $200,000 City of Auckland Cup raceday on January 1.

The Auckland Racing Club is expecting a huge Boxing Day crowd at Ellerslie today, with many keeping as close an eye on the Fashions in the Field as the action on the track.

At the races

New Zealand Herald Summer Carnival at Ellerslie

* More than 40,000 people expected over the Christmas holiday period.

* Over $1.4 million in prize money up for grabs during three days of racing (today, December 29 and New Year's Day).

* Fashions in the Field on today with Francis Hooper from World as chief judge.

* Admission $20 for adults, children under 15 free.

* Gates open 10am. First race 12.45pm.