Last year Clifton Prince definitely needed his first run back from a winter spell.
But trainer Peter McKay believes this may not apply in tomorrow's $30,000 L J Hooker Whangarei Spring Plate.
"He's fitter now than when he resumed last season," he says.
Clifton Prince has not racedsince finishing midfield behind Jazzella at Ellerslie on March 3.
His long-term aim is an attempt to win the Stewards Stakes at Riccarton for the third straight year and he will have one more run at Hastings following this first-up effort before heading south.
"He had the trial at Taupo and it's brought him on," said McKay.
"Prior to last year he always raced well when fresh."
Clifton Prince has 58kg and has drawn wide at 9 at the 1200m barrier, but that is not a major worry for McKay.
"He's quick out of the gates and if something inside kicks up with him he's always happy to sit just off them.
"I don't believe the draw is a real concern," he said.
Clifton Prince will be ridden by Chad Ormsby.
Fresh runner Giovanni has been scratched because of a wide barrier, but even with him missing there should be plenty of early speed.
Last season's Railway winner Donna Rosita is having her first start since that group one victory and from the 4 gate she is certain to be disputing the pace or tracking it.
She is well placed with 55kg and has previously won in a fresh state. Lisa Cropp has the mount.
Dezigna is having his first start since the Singapore Cup in May.
He has a job ahead of him with 59.5kg, but has plenty of class, has sprinted well when fresh in the past and can never be counted out of a race like this. The prospect of a fast pace will suit his back-running style.
Course specialists Tenjuberrymud, Aimee's Idol and Star Of Rio add plenty of interest.
