Racing: Cooksley revels in successful Atapi reunion

Grant Cooksley guides an improved Atapi to victory on Saturday. Picture / Glen Jeffrey

Grant Cooksley reacquainted himself with Atapi in Saturday's Winning Begins @ Karaka 2006 Handicap and, judging by the result, it was a happy reunion.

Cooksley hadn't been aboard Atapi since they were partnered through Atapi's entire 2-year-old campaign, which included 4th placings in two group one races.

"He's definitely improved a lot since then, said Cooksley. "He's a gelding now and he's much more relaxed."

Atapi settled nicely in Saturday's race, given that the pace through the early sections was not strong.

Once in the straight Cooksley brought the son of Last Tycoon between runners and it was soon clear he and well-fancied Orpington would provide the quinella.

"He was always going to pick up Orpington," said Cooksley. "They didn't go that hard so it was a good run. The track was really hard today and I think he's better with a little bit of give in it."

The moderate early pace and smart 46.15s last 800m underlined the quality of Atapi's come-from-behind win.

The victory also confirmed Atapi's place in the Thorndon Mile, for which he is now a $13 chance.

The winner of the Thorndon gains guaranteed entry into the Futurity Stakes at Caulfield in early March.

That race is the first leg of the Asian Mile Challenge, and trainer Richard Otto has also spoken about April's Doncaster Handicap as a longer-term goal.

One of the main disappointments was the performance of 2004 Thorndon Mile winner Sir Kinloch.

The front-running grey may have preferred a softer track but, given the uncontested lead he was allowed, should still have done better.

At the tail Sovereign and Shinko Bay both struggled at what were only their second attempts over a mile.

Later in the programme talented prospect Charliehorse cemented his status as a live derby chance with a strong win in the Lindauer 1600m.

The son of staying sire Bahhare and group placed sprinter Rebus did things wrong in the straight but was still too good for Avondale Guineas placegetter Mr Jinky.

The slow pace in the first half of the race made the run of fourth placegetter Abbey Drive, who came from last under 58kg, at least as good as that of the winner.