It was the case of third time lucky for the Lisa Latta-trained stayer Platinum Invador ($22.80), who upset calculations in Saturday’s Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m) to register a deserved big race success.
Roger James and Robert Wellwood have one confirmed Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) contender and will take their time before deciding if they double their hand.
Smart stayer Aquacade put her rivals to the sword at Tauranga on Sunday, cruising to a six-and-a-half length win in the J.A. Russell Ltd 2100 on a Heavy 10 surface.
