Emperific and Matt Maguire and in no way 2nd stringers. Emperific has gone some very good races here in NZ. Was unlucky on cup day when he galloped and has gone some very good races in Auckland and some pretty bad draws. Gold Ace has had pretty good draws the whole way along which although isnt the reason hes won all his races but it certainly helped. He did run a massive race to win the sire stakes on cup day. Matt Maguire has had a few issues in the past but is one of the best 3year olds when hes on his game. Ran close to the track record at Ausburton the thursday after cup day on a track known for speed. 1:54 i believe. I'm thinking that in all the heats it seems like the New Zealand owned and trained horses should come out on top. Sure you Australians have some good 3 year olds but I really do think we're once again a step a head.