The G3 Taranaki Cup (1800m) saw the local hero and favourite Kawi bury them to win with something in hand despite an awkward start. Kawi was odds on and despite a poor beginning was relaxed third last in a solidly run race that clearly helped the run on types. His rider Jonathon Parkes did not need to move up wide until nearing the home turn and quickly went from eighth turning in to taking the lead just inside 100m to go. This was the sixth win in twelve starts for the 4yo and he showed that middle distance will be his target trip this spring in both New Zealand and all going well in Australia. He should have won all four starts this campaign rather than the last two but being a backrunner is always vulnerable to track bias and races where the leaders get away with walking to the home turn. Iamishwara ran a game second under 59kg (he gave the winner 3kg) and is very durable and handling a very busy schedule. Re Deel ran well for third while the next three home in Likeapins, Silverdale and Capone all caught the eye late. The first eight home were covered by just over two and a half lengths. Unfortunately Just The Tip bled and is automatically barred for three months. He won at Listed level three starts ago and notably defeated that day Maygrove and King Kamada. The winner Kawi is the serious horse from the race and only wet ground could stymie his expected progress next season onto the big stage of G1 racing. The time today of 1:50.98 is decent enough but does need perspective on the day. The impressive 3yo filly winner earlier on the card Chenille clocked 1:52.45 when bolting in a Special Conditions even for maidens to two win gallopers. Kawi ran nine lengths superior. A 3yo filly field in the race after this for 50K clocked 1:53 and was a reasonable contest that is an Oaks lead up race of many at the moment. It does make Chenille line up well as she ran three lengths faster.