Racing: Master top plate chance

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Whosyourmaster can provide further evidence he's one of New Zealand's most improved gallopers in tomorrow's Lion Red Plate at Rotorua.

Under handicap conditions, Whosyourmaster lumped 59kg at Hastings last start and mastered the opposition.

This time, he races at weight-for-age and from a perfect barrier that puts him in the frame.

Even the weather forecast is in his favour - the expected rain will only assist his chances.

There is plenty of opposition: Spin Doctor, Fix, Antonio Lombardo, Ginner Hart and Guevara are among those to consider, along with last week's runaway winner One Cool Message.

Against One Cool Message is that this time he will carry 5kg more against a stronger field.

Soriana is a deserved favourite in the $50,000 Agrodome Rotorua Plate, but faces a tough task.

The 59kg is a big ask for a mare in a handicap, even though there is no doubt she has earned it. Her thirds to Pure Champion and Costume, albeit with perfect runs in passage, were top efforts on the past two days of the Hastings carnival.

From a nice barrier there is no reason Rory Hutchings cannot provide her with an economical trip.

A lightweight - 6kg less than Soriano - to consider is Saint Kitt. His 4-year-old form last season was only fair after finishing placed in the Derby, but often a 4-year-old career can come up flat.

He has had only one run this preparation and ran out of room in the home straight at Awapuni.

Gwynethanne's winning form last start will count for plenty.

Graham Thomas has made a flying start to the season and could add to his tally at Tauranga today.

The Cambridge trainer has already sent out six winners to be just one shy of the winning totals he achieved for the previous two terms and within sight of his personal best of 13.

Thomas has the Keeninsky mare Forbidden in excellent form and she promises to give another bold account in the 2100m event.

- Additional reporting NZ Racing Desk