A perfect kick off point for Akuta

New Zealand’s fightback against another Aussie harness racing invasion during New Zealand Cup Week is about to get a serious uplift with the return of glamour pacer Akuta (Bettor’s Delight).

Not seen since running third in the Franklin Cup of 2023, a significant tendon issue for the now six-year-old keep him off the scene with some concern over him ever being seen on the racetrack again.

Meticulously handled by Mark and Nathan Purdon, alongside their support team, it has been a long road with no corners cut to ensure he was given an ample opportunity for a return. Stepping out publicly in May, the millionaire pacer was then given another brief let up to give him every chance at a genuine Spring preparation and a third New Zealand Cup tilt.

He looks thrown into a R55 to R115 mobile event over 1700metres at Alexandra Park on Friday night, although, he will have a new driver with Brooke Wilkins junior driving concession required for race eligibility.

And while being first up off such a long injury enforced layoff is always a word of warning for punters, co-trainer Nathan Purdon is thrilled with the star’s progress.

“Akuta seems really good for his comeback race this week” he said.

“He is probably at 85% (fitness) going into this week, but he has found the perfect race.”

He is also likely to stick around in the North for longer than first thought with another suitable contest programmed.

“At this point, he will have one more start after this weekend before heading South.”

Albeit far from the biggest race in his calendar, it would be an exceptionally rewarding achievement should the Purdon’s attain fairytale success after all that has gone into his return. It would also be ‘just rewards’ for Tony Shaw who has played a significant role in his rehabilitation and now has an ownership share.

For complete race entries, click here.

By Brittany Graham for Harness Racing New Zealand