Here we go again, another benefit for the local Chris Gibbs stable at Ruakaka tomorrow.
But wait — it's not all plain sailing — three of the stable's best chances from a myriad opportunities have landed in the same race, the $35,000 Northpine Waipu Cup.
Rikki Tikki Tavi, Rockabyebaby and recent addition Vinevale clash in the 1400m main event and you wouldn't be surprised at which one could end up favourite. There is a strong case for each.
Rikki Tikki Tavi has enormous claims. She received a perfect trail in her race on the track two weeks ago, but the downside was she was left in front virtually from the home turn and she had none other than Hiflyer breathing down her tail. In a tough run to the line Hiflyer burst through to win and the much lighter weighted Fire Jet worked past Rikki Tikki Tavi late and into second.
Mercifully there is no Hiflyer this time and because the race is a no-claiming affair, Fire Jet meets Rikki Tikki Tavi 3kg worse off, which should be significant. It is also significant that Rikki Tikki Tavi is dropping back a grade from open company and carrying the same weight.