Racing: Frontrunner a bit fresh

Phillip Stevens doesn't entirely agree with the theory that Kristov is not a first-up performer.

Kristov has not won a career race when resuming from a spell, but Stevens says tomorrow's $200,000 Mudgway Stakes is a different scenario.

"Previously he's had like one quiet trial then gone to the races.

"This time he's had two barrier trials against Darci Brahma, one exhibition gallop at the races and another trip to Taupo for a gallop.

"He's a lot more forward than he's ever been when resuming."

A complication was thrown into the equation when Kristov, a natural leader, drew barrier No 13.

The connections of all the other runners are keen to know what Kristov will do in the first 400m.

Kristov's huge advantage is his remarkably high cruising speed and he needs to be in front to put it into play.

"Look, if he gets across to the rail and gets there easily then [leading] that's what we'll be doing for sure.

"But if something wants to go crazy in front, we'll be letting them, that's equally for sure."

Stevens has enormous respect for Darci Brahma.

"He's the horse we've all got to beat for sure. He looked a million dollars at the Matamata track."