NZ - Awapuni - Race 1

KODIAC BEAR (1) continues to knock on the door this prep with a strong runner-up finish over 6f at this track a fortnight ago. He is peaking at the right time, and from another favourable draw, he looks all set to go one better. DAIWA EXPLORER (2) can be forgiven for his latest effort at Waverley, where little went to plan on a track that was quite holding. He can settle a lot closer this time from the pole position, and with Bruno Queiroz back from holiday, he can figure in the top 3 here. LEICA ACE (3) made an encouraging return when finishing third at Hawera in her first start from the in-form Fannin stable, and she is expected to take another step forward second-up. She looks a genuine winning chance. JUSTIFY THAT (4) also resumed with a solid placing at this track 2 weeks ago, and she will strip fitter for the outing, making her worth including in all top 4 combos again. PISTACHIO (5) resumes from a spell and is not out of this. Don't risk her.