Moonee Valley marvel ready for Group One

Leon Corstens could not have guessed six months ago that Kaphero would be a Group One contender ago but the trainer is now excited about his chances in next Saturday's Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley.

The five-year-old will be chasing his sixth win in a row and fourth in succession at the Valley to the delight of Corstens who has marvelled at the Kaphero's achievement.

"He keeps surprising me," Corstens said.

"Six months ago I was hoping I would win an ordinary race with him but he has turned out to be a great acquisition for the stable."

Kaphero started his career with Lee Freedman who trained him to win an Adelaide Magic Millions which was his only 1200 metre victory in 10 wins in 27 starts.

His other nine wins have all been at 1000 metres but he has given Corstens every impression that the extra 200 metres in the Manikato won't be a problem.

"I think he has improved since his last start," said Corstens referring to Kaphero's 1-3/4 length win over Morgan Dollar and Lucky Secret in the Group Three McEwen Stakes (1000m).

"He looks a treat and if he is ever going to win a Group One it will be at the Valley."

Kaphero has posted six wins and a second from eight starts at the track.

"He loves the track and is nice and relaxed when he races there," Corstens said.

His success around the circuit earned Kaphero the title of Moonee Valley Horse of the Year for the 2007-08 season.

Corstens is at a loss to explain Kaphero's winning run.

"He has always had ability and all I know is he is going well."

"I'm happy to have him in the stable and really I think he deserves to win a Group One."

The Manikato Stakes is the first Group One race of the new season and among Kapher's opponents will be Perth star Marasco and Sydney Group One winner Typhoon Zed.