Racing: Redbreb ready to step up a gear this time

Redbreb's third to Italia in the $500,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Classique is the best possible guide to his winning chances at Matamata tomorrow.

And that's if you take that effort on face value.

It's actually better than that because trainer Mark Walker believes Redbreb - the racecallers' worst nightmare - is a fitter horse than when he ran at Te Rapa last start.

"If I'd had just one more week to play with leading into that race he'd have been better," said Walker.

"We'd had trouble with him going shinsore and he'll line up a better horse this time."

The other factor is that the pair that beat Redbreb home in the big race - Italia and Royal Pericles - were both more experienced.

A nice No 3 barrier draw puts Redbreb into the frame to be a short-priced favourite.

Habana will appreciate not having to chase the likes of Chant, Royal Pericles and Italia around.

He thoroughly deserves a winning turn and if the favourite is even slightly off, Habana has a big chance.

So has Chateau Cugat, who is stepping way up in class.

He was very impressive winning at Avondale last start after covering extra ground around the home bend.

* Habana's stablemate Captain Kurt resumes in the $25,000 Rich Hill Stud 1200 after bleeding in the 2000 Guineas at Riccarton and having to cop the mandatory three-month stand-down.

He is the type to sprint well when fresh and should be a worthy opponent for Australian Danehill filly Langness.

* The $25,000 Stanley Group 2000 is a bit of a mystery race with the three main chances - Kerry O'Reilly, Viz Vitae and Pentane - using the race as a final lead-up to the $600,000 SkyCity Auckland Cup.