Racing: Howard to finally play the tough guy

Kirk Larsen knows this is his chance.

For the last two seasons Larsen has travelled Australasia with Howard Bromac, always knowing that when the big races came around he was running for place money.

Tomorrow's Auckland Cup could change all that.

Like favourite Alta Serena, Howard Bromac looks well placed to take advantage of so many outstanding pacers missing the race.

"This is our best chance to win a cup," admitted Larsen.

"Last year we had to be realistic because were weren't going to beat Elsu and I had to drive him accordingly.

"But with some of those top horses gone I can afford to be more aggressive on him.

"I think we have the respect of these drivers and I won't be scared to put him in the race this week."

That is all the warning punters need that Larsen will be keen to stay in front if he can reach the lead tomorrow, rather than hand up as he has in major races in the past.

With few in the field good enough to attack him that makes him the horse Alta Serena has to beat.

Howard Bromac has only had one run since winning the New Zealand Free-For-All at Addington on November 11 and that was when he made ground late for fifth in last Friday's Summer Cup.

While he usually takes racing to come to his peak Larsen does not see that as a concern tomorrow.

"It is not like he had a long time away from the track and I think he is as fit now and when he raced at the New Zealand Cup meeting.

"He definitely needed last week's run but he has come through it well and fitness won't be an excuse if he gets beaten."

About the only aspect of tomorrow's race that does play on Larsen's mind is the start.

"It will be crucial, especially with most of the favourites drawn well.

"If Bobs Blue Boy or Alta Serena can get to the front they will be hard to beat and the same goes for my fella so whoever steps the quickest will play a big role in the finish."

* Tim Butt is warning punters not to disregard Tribute tomorrow.

The four-year-old has won only eight races but his astute trainer rates him an upset hope in the cup.

"The way he won the Franklin Cup three starts ago he is not the worst chance in this field.

"With a few of the open-class guns missing, he will have his chance if they go hard because he is a good stayer."

Tribute looks one of the best value options, particularly as Butt's stable has a good record in Alexandra Park features.