Five-horse races can sometimes be an awkward proposition for a hot favourite, but The Diamond One is on track for the Canterbury Breeders' Stakes after a win at Wingatui yesterday.
The Tale Of The Cat mare settled at the back of the small field, and once jockey Chris Johnson workedher out to a gap in the middle of the track, the $1.40 win price was looking as safe as a Swiss bank vault.
Trainer Steven Anderton admitted to some nerves as Johnson muscled his way into the slim gap which presented itself, but was pleased with the way she let loose once she was clear.
"He was a bit game coming up in the middle," Anderton said. "But she levelled out really good.
"He suits her good because she can get a little mouthy - he's got good hands."
Yesterday's win over 1200m was just the tune-up The Diamond One needed as Anderton gets her ready for the $55,000 fillies' and mares' feature at Riccarton on November 13.
"She'll go straight to the Canterbury Breeders' Stakes - that gives us three good weeks before then."
Heroic Guru's problems are more of the male variety.
The Gallant Guru colt - a full brother to Valiant - backed up his strong second on debut at Gore on September 30 by winning a 1100m maiden by a neck over Allesio, who produced an eye-catching run for second.
Co-trainer Brian Anderton would like to see the 3-year-old take on the south's best in the southern Guineas races in the New Year. "He's just a bit colty at the moment - hopefully we'll get him through that."
