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Pace will make the race for the smart filly Cantilena at Wingatui on Saturday.

Trainer Lance Robinson believes a genuine tempo in the Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes will bring out the best in the daughter of Per Incanto, who was foiled by a stop-start affair in the Dunedin Guineas last time out.

“She missed the kick a bit and when she got up into a position they pulled up in front and she over-raced,” he said.

“She was on the back of the winner (Son Of Maher) when they put the brakes on and she was never able to get balanced and into a rhythm.

“The winner was too good on the day, but she could have finished a bit closer.”

Cantilena, who had previously posted a hat-trick of victories at Ashburton, Riccarton and Motukarara, has come through that outing well and she will again be ridden by Samantha Wynne.

“She’s bucking and kicking and I’m sure she’ll go well,” Robinson said. “She’s got an awkward draw, but as long as she begins well she’ll press forward.”

He has a strong team engaged at the meeting with Volcano to get conditions to suit him in the White Robe Lodge.

“He’s going to get a good track and from the inside draw he’ll race up on the speed and you’ll see a different horse,” Robinson said.

Former northerner Still Waters (Wild Range Photography Handicap) has been a welcome addition to the team with two wins and two placings from her last four starts.

“She’s doing a great job and she’s thriving, her work has been excellent,” Robinson said.

Letsavafling (Mark Isaacs Farrier Handicap) hasn’t raced since July and, while she will improve with the run, a bold effort is expected.

“She’s very quick and was pretty impressive at the trials,” Robinson said. “I rate her highly.”