Racing: Pickings better overseas

A Brisbane winter campaign is being considered for Go Our Kingi after he took his unbeaten record to two at Awapuni in Palmerston North.

The logical next step for Go Our Kingi is the group three $45,000 Wellington Stakes (1600m) for three-year-olds at Trentham on January 29 but Awapuni trainer Mike Breslin has other ideas.

"I think we have got bigger fish to fry in Brisbane," Breslin said.

"I'll have a look at the field for the Wellington Stakes and see how we go.

"But my preference is to give him a run right-handed in preparation for Brisbane and then give him a break."

Go Our Kingi was the second favourite for the $10,000 Rural Bulk Spreaders (1400m) for three-year-olds at the Marton Jockey Club's meeting after having scored in his debut at Tauherenikau on January 2.

The Desert King gelding took a while to settle for rider Hayden Tinsley before securing a position two back on the outer.

In the straight, Go Our Kingi got through on the inside of Kettle Hill to beat her by a long neck.

"He would have learned a lot from that race," Breslin said.

"He's always shown a lot. He's a very laid-back horse and I think he's going to be awesome once he gets over 2000 metres."

Go Our Kingi was bred and is owned by Roy and Shirley Potter of Palmerston North. Breslin said the Potters did not offer Go Our Kingi at a yearling sale because he had injured a tendon.

"It may have been a blessing in disguise," Breslin said.

The favourite on Saturday was O'Borio who did well for third. The O'Reilly gelding was last soon after the start, loomed up early in the run home and did not help his cause with a tendency to lug inwards.

- NZPA