By Hayden Wessel –
RACE 1: A rough one to start with for the youngsters, but going with FOREVER DREAMING (8) on top, strong win last time in and can repeat that from a good draw. For meTOPPA THE MOUNTAIN (2) can run a very cheeky race from gate 1, especially if he kicks up and holds the fence, worth watching. STARRING KNIGHT (7) and VOGUES CHOICE (13) both talented first starters who will no doubt show some promise today.
RACE 2: EXPRESS TIME (2) definitely on top for me here, from a good draw should be able to replicate last starts efforts. SPEEDY MISS(1) will be a danger, and could be a challenge. VITAL BLAST (5) and SNIPPY MISS (8) place chances.
RACE 3: Really tough race this one, leaning with CRESCENT CITY (9), will most likely shoot over and grab the lead. If he can do that then he’ll run a race. Can’t ignore ABERDEEN QUEEN (1), even with the weight and likely lack of speed in the race she’s a class mare. TRULY INSPIRED (8) and BEAT THE BRO (2) are both ones to watch, can’t rule them out either.
RACE 4: SECRET PLAN (7) on top here, with Pike on board he should be able to kick off this preparation with a win. ACROMANTULA (2) is a worry, with a soft lead could give something to chase, but the weight may be a tad much. VANE TEMPEST (3) looks she’ll get the run of the race, interesting to see if she’s got what it takes to finish it off. REIGN OF FIRE (5) place chance.
RACE 5: Very exciting race this one, and can’t go against the shirt favourite MISS CONTEKI(4). A tough win over Nerodio is outstanding form and she’s a classy mare. PANZDOWN (5) the only challenge. GEMMAS SON (1) and LONG BEACH (6) for placings.
RACE 6: Tricky race this one, but FAIREDU (6) for me here. Looks set to get the best run of the race, sit off the speed a tad and chime in down the straight. DEVOTED STAR (13) next best, will have a strong finish but may have too much ground to make up, watch if she settles closer.MR DELEGATOR (8) looks the pacemaker, if he can shoot to the fence and stack them up then it might get interesting. Can’t leave out SECRET STATUE (15) but it’ll be tricky from gate 1, stuck on the fence is not where you want to be.
RACE 7: Stay out race, really not a good betting field and difficult. If I had to, I’d be with ADORNMENT (1). BORN TO TRY (10), BLACKWATER BAY (8) and TRUE ATTRACTION (3) all chances.
RACE 8: Main event of the day, and I’m going with DANCE MUSIX (8). No natural leader in the race apart from her, and if she crosses and takes the fence then I think it might be game over. THE VELVET KING (2) is a definite watch, from the draw could possibly kick up on the fence. If he sits off he’s going to be in a position to challenge anyway. Can’t ignore LEADING GIRL (7), but whether there is enough speed in the race for her to chase I don’t know. KAY CEE (7) is a very classy mare on her day and if she turns up, she’ll give a show. Just depends if she does turn up.
RACE 9: The classic western phrase of “Back Pike and drink what you like” will be on show in the last here. BRIGHT DIAMOND (10) looks set to get the job done. THE SPRUIKER (8) may provide some challenge. NO SURRENDER (7) and LONSDALE LADY (6) for the place.
GOOD LUCK & HAPPY PUNTING!!!
Yeah The Punt 