Steve Paul

Yes, Zonda's Derby win was one of the best equine performances I have ever seen, anywhere. What he did in that race, sprint then settle numerous times is something only the very very best can do. Shame he had soundness issues, could of been anything. Steve.

I have only been in NZ for about 20 years so mine are obviously relatively recent: Jezabeel. Xcellent. Zonda. Steve.

R4 - 14 Goodlookin Chick. R7 - 15 Motoring Major. R9 - 2 Overarm. R10 - 14 Sunny Glenis.

Pretty sure the very impressive Chevron Supreme is in at Auckland on Friday.

Again, if you're not on speed today, you have limited chance of success.

Is it me or do you have to be on pace at both the NZ tracks today to have any chance at all!

WOW, very nice!!!!!!

What was Rory thinking!!!!

Nice HTP, got me off to a good start for the day, was a little surprised by the price, pleasantly, would normally expect a McGrath first starter with ability to be a lot shorter! Steve.

Mad Lu Li for me in R5, hate the draw over the mile but just think it's the best horse in that field. And Sans Le Sou in the same race always gets some of mine. Steve.

GUTTED, better team won though, another 4 year wait!

Avondale tomorrow R7 # 11 Bellinsky.

Surprised no-one has mentioned Craig Williams stunning performance at Flemington yesterday? We all know the adage Horse's for courses and undoubtedly some do perform better at certain venues. I have always felt that it is the same for jockeys, had a relatively good day yesterday as I believe Craig rides Flemington better than anyone else. A couple of others I like are Leith Innes at Ellerslie and Johnathan Parkes at Awapuni. Anybody else like a certain jockey at a certain course? Steve.

Yes, I have seen it before, very sad, in fact there were quite a few members of the 66 winning team who did not fare too well later in life. Speaking to be people back home it is brilliant at the moment, imbibing in the pub gardens while experiencing a heatwave while watching the national football team exceeding everyone's expectations. Not often said this since coming to NZ, but wish I was there!

Horrible way to decide any football game, especially last 16 at a world cup...but don't you just love watching penalty shootouts!

Yes been surprised at how well England have looked, obviously very early against weak opposition, but they do look as though they could go deep (however, our recent history does suggest that we cruise through the group stages and then lose on penalties in the first knockout round!). Prior to the start I did not give them a realistic chance! Thought it was by far the worst England squad I had seen going into a major tournament for a long time with the worst England manager I had seen for a long time, considering his predecessors included; Allardyce, Hodgson, Capello and McClaren that is some statement! Anyway pleased to be proved wrong and enjoying the ride!! Go England!!!!!! Steve.

City of course, the only football team actually in Manchester.

Girlfriend from Stoke!!!!!

The best part...Manchester.

Don't forget the Rugby, both codes!!! T'is good to be English at the moment.

I can't find some of them even after the fact! It is not an exact science. Steve. Great thread by the way.

Croatia looked as though they could go deep. Agree, Argentina looked ordinary, but it's just about getting out of the group stage into the knockout rounds, that's when the tournament really starts.

Yes fantastic game, Ronaldo is undoubtedly a superb footballer but I really find it difficult to warm to him, always get the impression it's all about him. Thought the Australian's were a little unlucky, probably deserved a draw.

The proper World Cup starts tomorrow. Anyone interested? I have backed Belgium at the last few major tournaments and they have disappointed, still look strong on paper so I will go again. Will also punt Argentina, likely Messi's last WC and probably the only thing missing for his legacy is a good WC. And of course, England will get some of my money, but that's more of a heart bet than a head bet. Thoughts Anyone? Steve.

My thoughts exactly, perfect stable riding...