Racing: Atom Cat to claw back from alley

Hardy old Bulginbaah will give his fans a great run for their money in the Opunake Cup today. Photo / APN

On Tuesday, Matamata trainer Graham Richardson was living in hope of his rising star Atom Cat beating the ballot for the $100,000 Opunake Cup at New Plymouth today.

The following day he was celebrating. He was in the field proper, even if he was handed the draw from hell, 19.

But such is his high opinion of the 4-year-old Traditionally gelding, he confidently backs him to overcome the wide alley.

"I wouldn't like to say he's the best horse I've trained, but there hasn't been one who has won six times in a season for me," he said.

Atom Cat hasn't surfaced on raceday since June 19 - when he won his third race on end - but he has proven more than a handful in a fresh state.

Atom Cat is a joy to train. He can race on the pace or come from the back, and has no preference for good or bad going, though he does seem to thrive in the deep stuff.

He will be ridden by apprentice Alvin Ng today.

Richardson has Atom Cat nominated for the Winter Cup at Riccarton early next month, but said it was questionable whether he would make the trip. "It comes pretty soon after the Opunake race. The trouble is you have to nominate early for these races because the TAB wants to take early betting on them."

Atom Cat is listed at $12 on fixed odds for the Winter Cup.

Though Richardson has a huge soft spot for Atom Cat he warns punters not to disregard his other Opunake Cup starter, My Lips Ar Sealed.

The son of Maroof turns 11 in a few days and Richardson realises his racing days are fast drawing to an end.

"But he will love it heavy. He just hasn't had the tracks to suit this winter. He missed the kick last start. I'm not sure of the reason for that."

My Lips Ar Sealed has been an honest galloper - eight wins and 12 placings from 53 starts. It could be argued he has under-achieved, seemingly happy at times to play the bridesmaid. All that could change today.

The Opunake Cup shapes as a wonderful betting race.

Wanganui warrior Bulginbaah will seek compensation after losing a plate in last year's race, Elblitzem will try to set the pace but has a shocking draw (the outside gate) and another freegoer, Bruce Almighty, to contend with, while Cent Per Cent, Mega Belt and Just A Whisper are all in terrific form.

There are some mouth-watering betting races on the undercard as well today, with the exciting I Am Sam, Bedlum and Goldmist clashing in the ninth. I Am Sam's trainer Bryce Revell will be looking for a pick-me-up after retiring his group-winning mare Ekstreme during the week.

She won more than $400,000 in stakemoney.