Stars aligning for Platinum Invador in first big staying event on Sunday at Te Rapa

The stars are all aligning for comeback stayer Platinum Invador who tilts at the $200,000 Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Te Rapa on Sunday.

The now seven-year-old will be having his fourth run back from an injury-enforced spell of 18 months when he tackles the first big staying event of the New Year.

And trainer Lisa Latta believes she has the horse spot on after encouraging lead-ups over 1600 metres, 2040 metres and 2300 metres.

Platinum Invador carried 61kg, 60kg and 59kg in those belt tighteners and with only 58kg on Sunday Latta says he looks comparatively well placed.

“Obviously it makes it tough when you’re carrying top weight all the time. He still has to gve 5kg to Dionysus, who looks one of the hardest to beat, but it’s the lightest weight he’s had this time in.”

Latta is also looking forward to running Platinum Invador on the good 3 footing expected as he’s not been suited by the heavy and slow footing he’s encountered in each of his lead-up races.

It should also help negate any unfamiliarity with racing at Te Rapa where kickback on rain-affected ground can upset horses.

“He doesn’t mind a good track,” Latta said.

Drawing gate six could be even more helpful for the horse who, not helped by wide alleys, has been slow away in each of his races this term.

Jonathan Riddell … will be looking to ride Platinum Invador handier in the running.“I think having a decent draw is going to be a big help and should allow Jonathan Riddell to ride him a touch handier.

“At Te Rapa it can be hard to come from the back but if we can get midfield and one-off he should get every opportunity.”

Latta really liked the way Platinum Invador hit the line last time at Trentham where, suited by the big, roomy track, he powered home for fourth in the Manawatu Cup, only half a head and a short head from second.

All three of the placegetters ahead of him that day had significant weight advantages, carrying 53kg and 53.5kg.

On Sunday he steps up another 100 metres to his favourite 2400 metre trip and Latta says he will strip a very fit horse for his fourth run back.

“I’m really happy with him and I feel like I have him pretty spot on. We just need some luck in the running. It’s an even field but if he is back on top of his game on a good track he won’t be too far away.

“Hopefully he can weigh in, especially looking forward to the cups races, but he’s also a definite winning chance.”

Latta also rates her other cup runner Charms Star, who couldn’t cope with the heavy track in the Manawatu Cup, and gets in on just 53kg with the talented Wiremu Pinn aboard.