Sectional Star of the Week

Race 6 Matamata, 20 September

Adam I Am

This 4yo gelding could not have been more impressive. He went out hard in 23.94 and had every excuse to weaken in the last 100 metres. But he won easing down in a fast speed rating and clearly the best last 400 and 200. Traces back to terrific mare Battle Eve, so obviously has some of the family ability.

Sectional Standouts

Race 8 Woodville, 21 September

Kattegat

She was set to win fresh up and from the wide draw, worked early to get over to third outer. From there, she drove through late to run the fastest last 200 metres. Not too many horses can do it at both ends. She has come back stronger and is lightly raced. She has won over a middle distance too.

Race 2 Tauranga, 23 September 

Rochmie Ray

The way he closed off in the quickest sectionals shows that this 6yo still has it. Won on a good track over a middle distance and looks on track to repeat that.

Race 7 Tauranga, 23 September

Verstappen

After settling last from the wide draw, her finishing burst was excellent running the fastest closing sectionals for second. Her best form is over more ground and when she strikes it, watch out for her.

Race 7 Awapuni, 23 September

Dionysus

From last he improved wide on the corner and came home strongly, prompting commentator Tony Lee to say, "Dionysus a run!" The sectionals were strong and he looks in for a good campaign.