NZ - Awapuni - Race 3

RUJI (1) has been narrowly beaten in 2 of his 4 starts this prep, and he looks ready to break through after another strong runner-up effort over 1 5/16m at this track a fortnight ago. He drops in grade, and should be hard to hold out. AL PASSO (2) followed up his huge maiden win here in his penultimate start with a sound third over 1 ¹/16m here last start. The extra 2 ¼f will be no problem, and he can figure in the top 3 again. ABEECEE (3) was an overdue maiden winner here nearly 6 weeks ago when having just her third start from the Caitlin Johnson stable. She obviously had no trouble with the poly surface, and could well have turned a corner. Go again. WIND TALKER (4) also broke her maiden status with a solid half-a-length win here 2 weeks ago, and she appeals as the value runner in this. Stick with her. RITHIM (7) has been thereabouts this prep, and she is worth keeping safe, particularly if there is positive market support leading into the race.