It took just over three minutes for Auckland Reactor to remind everybody just how good he is yesterday.
The champion pacer returned to the trials with a blazing win over Harness Jewels heroine Nearea Franco in an almost perfect comeback.
Almost, because the 4-year-old did gallop briefly atthe start of the 2400m trial.
That cost him 15m but he effortlessly recovered to win by half a length in a smart 3:3 for the 2400m.
The latter sectionals were far more impressive, with Auckland Reactor pacing his last 1600m in 1:57, his final 800m in 54.8 and 400 in 26.3 seconds.
While those times are not unusual for a top class pacer on the lightning fast Ashburton track, they are extremely good for a horse having its first public outing since May.
Trainer-driver Mark Purdon was happy but far from surprised.
"He had been working well and a horse like him should be able to run those times but he felt very good."
Auckland Reactor will trial again next week before resuming racing on October 27.
