By Michael Guerin
After two years of trying the mountain top is in sight for Agua Caliente.
Ever since his 4-year-old days the South Auckland pacer has looked destined to win a great race.
But every campaign is the same. Fine trials, stunning racenight efforts then something goes wrong.
Leg problems, viruses, you name it, Agua Caliente will discover a way to suffer from it.
But finally there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Because with just one more race on his programme before the New Zealand Trotting Cup the speed machine is in perfect condition.
Sure, his flashing win at Cambridge last Friday night was impressive but ability has never been the problem for Agua Caliente.
What should have his supporters buzzing is the way he has come through his races this season. He has actually got better with each start, instead of his usual pattern of getting worse.
Legendary trainer Peter Wolfenden says he has no worries that Agua Caliente's former ailments will come back to haunt him.
"I think he has shaken most of those problems off this season. He is older and stronger," said Wolfenden.
Agua Caliente is showing no signs of his former leg problems and has kept the sickness bugs at bay.
Wolfenden also thinks Agua Caliente has two aces up his sleeve in the battle to overcome two more potential problems.
Agua Caliente has never raced south of Cambridge but being able to fly to Christchurch just a week before the Cup is expected to make travel a minor issue.
And racing away from his home track of Alexandra Park is also expected to help Agua Caliente with his wayward standing start manners.
The gelding stepped well at Cambridge last Friday night and Wolfenden says that should be the case at Addington because the track is left-handed.
"He should step better on the left-handed tracks because left-handed he runs out, whereas right-handed he runs in at the start. He is more likely to get away safely running out than in."
If Agua Caliente does get things right on Cup day the $7.50 he is paying at present looks good money.
Horse Racing: Fingers crossed for superstar
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