Magnus gelding Platinum Kingdom had the odds stacked against him in the South Pacific Classic (1400m) at Randwick.

First run in Australia, carrying top-weight of 58kg, dropping back 600 metres, a heavy surface and some highly rated opposition.  And to make matters worse, Platinum Kingdom shied badly in the closing stages and looked at one stage as if he would end up in the grandstand.

But the highly promising Kiwi ended up prevailing by a length plus change to notch his fourth stakes victory for trainer Lisa Latta.   He defeated Casual Choice (Choisir) and Limes (Commands) by over a length despite difficulties running right-handed for the first time.

“We think he is a fair sort of a horse and the plan is to take him to Brisbane,” stable foreman Bruce Herd said.  “He gets on the toe a bit but he always gives 100%.”

Platinum Kingdom (3g Magnus – Miss Rangoon by Giant’s Causeway) had already claimed Listed victories across the Tasman in the Champagne Stakes, Dunedin Guineas and Southland Guineas for his owners Lincoln Farms and Neville McAlister.

He was a $67,500 buy from Rothwell Park at the 2010 Magic Millions National weanling sale.

Magnus (Flying Spur) stands at Eliza Park and is on top of the Australian second-season sires’ premiership with 28 winners.  He shares the lead with fellow Flying Spur sire Casino Prince.