Secret Agent Man returns to Gore today after lengthy absence

By Jonny Turner 

The atmosphere might not be as intense but the tactical battle could be when Secret Agent Man returns to racing at Gore on Thursday.

The pacer was a strong performer at last year's New Zealand Cup Carnival, backing up a nice Ashburton victory with two solid fourths during Cup Week itself.

Injury following the latest of those efforts in the South of the Waitaki event has meant the Nathan Williamson trained pacer hasn't been seen at the races since.

While the trainer-driver is confident his pacer can resume on a strong note, he isn't quite sure how they will go about it.

"We have drawn outside our two main dangers Justaweesip and Tabasco so it might depend on how things play out early."

"I certainly think that my horse is forward enough to be going a nice race with the right run."

"Those two have the advantage of having a fair bit of racing so we will probably need the right trip."

As part of putting Secret Agent Man's injury woes behind him, Williamson has given him a steady build-up which has included three workouts.

"He has improved with his workouts and I would expect him to be better again on Thursday."

"He is obviously going to benefit from racing but he is forward enough."

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Williamson also has Diva Bee resuming at Gore on Thursday.

The trotter has also been off the scene since November of last year.

Though she's had just the one workout, she looked to have plenty to offer when going to the line under a nice hold.

"She's a handy mare who has had a few wee niggles that we have had to get on top of."

"We hope to get her back and get a bit of racing into her."

"She is well and in an even field I would expect her to be a pretty good chance."

Williamson links up with several outside drives at Gore on Thursday, including some good each way chances.

"Kings Choice gets into a race he should be very competitive in."

"His run for second in the Southern Surge looks very good form for a race like this."

"I haven't been driving him, but The Bricklayer has been going near enough."

"He was only just beaten two starts ago then he sat parked and went not a bad race last start."

Williamson will reunite with trainer Darryn Simpson with first starter Maverick Hill, who has looked handy in his trials leading into Thursday's opener.

"It is good to have the old firm back together, I would expect the horse to be a chance if he can bring his manners."

Williamson also links up with Lunar Vale, Arinitti and Reimburst on Thursday.