The New Zealand mountain running representative's performance in the Edmond Cup event last month mirrored his performance of last year, as he ran down the home straight to finish runner-up to Daniel Balchin (Caversham). Last year, his nemesis was Bevan Stevens (Caversham).
The Edmond Cup course at Wingatui is considered physically less demanding than the Otago cross-country course at Waikouaiti, with its four hill climbs, which could play into Thorburn's hand.
Also in Thorburn's favour is that in recent years the person to finish runner-up in the Edmond Cup steeplechase has gone on to win the Otago cross-country title.
"It will not be a given," Thorburn said of his chances today.
Course conditions are expected to be similar to those experienced last year where Thorburn adopted tactics employed by six-time national cross-country champion Phil Costley (Canterbury), adjusting his technique to short snappy strides in the muddy conditions.
Ready to challenge Thorburn over the 12km course will be past junior champions Balchin and Callan Moody (Ariki).
Balchin is the form runner, following his victory in the Edmond Cup, while Moody's form should not be discounted, following his victory in the 10km road race section of the Christchurch marathon at Queen's Birthday Weekend.
Stevens is another expected to make his presence felt, following a disappointing run in the defence of his Edmond Cup title last month.
He is a runner due for another big result following his Routeburn Challenge victory earlier this year in record time.
Interest will also be on the Caversham quartet of Balchin, Stevens, Tony Payne and Peter Meffan, to see if they can edge an Ariki quartet headed by Thorburn and Moody for the interclub team trophy.
Kirsty Morris (Leith) is favoured to win the senior women's title and complete the race-track double of Edmond Cup and Otago cross-country victories.
The senior women's race over 8km starts at 1.30pm and the senior men's 12km follows at 2.15pm.
