Antonio for Ruakaka

It's a while since we've seen a horse as well off in the weights and by the conditions as Antonio Lombardo in tomorrow's Westbury Stud Northland Breeders Stakes at Ruakaka.

The flying son of Pins was one of our top juveniles of the old season.

He banked $290,315 in a season that would have been much better had he not been beaten a lip in the $1 million Karaka Million at Ellerslie. Tomorrow, he faces one 3-year-old who has won twice (Society Lady), five that have won one and five maidens.

All at level weights.

To ensure he is a great prospect he beat open sprinter San Bernadino at the Cambridge barrier trials recently.

"You had to be happy with that trial," said trainer Peter McKay yesterday. "It's topped him off nicely."

The one negative is the outside barrier draw, but Antonio Lombardo has ample speed to overcome it.

In his last start before being spelled last season, Antonio Lombardo pushed champion juvenile Anabandana to a nose decision in the Manawatu Sires Produce.

If Anabandana started in this race she would be a $1.20 favourite.

There is a little depth in the field though.

Shanghai Bund impressed at the Brisbane winter carnival without actually filling a place.

At his other start he drew out again in the Sires Produce and it cost him any chance in a hot field.

This is a whole lot easier and he rates very well.

Local Darci Brahma colt Sir Lovesalot made a huge impression leaving maidens on this track last start and although this will be a lot tougher, he has a bright future.

So does Society Lady, twice a winner on this track