The following is a survey of Australian racing tips for Saturday, March 9. The highlights for the day are the Newmarket Handicap (Race 6) and Australian Cup (Race 8) at Flemington, plus the Canterbury Stakes (Race 6) and Randwick Guineas (Race 7) at Randwick. Eagle Farm and Morphettville are also covered.
More tips and previews will be added as they become available.
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Best bet of the day
Flemington Race 5: No. 1 Hawker Hurricane
Flemington Race 7: No. 2 Spanish Whisper
Flemington Race 8: No. 7 Avilius
Flemington Race 9: No. 2 Spanish Reef
Randwick Race 1: No. 1 Spright
Randwick Race 3: No. 4 Tenley
Randwick Race 4: No. 2 Time To Reign
Randwick Race 7: No. 1 The Autumn Sun
Randwick Race 8: No. 3 All Too Soon
Eagle Farm
Race 2, No. 3 Raiden – 3.5 stars
Race 5, No. 9 Francisca – BEST BET – 4.5 stars
Race 8, No. 4 Capital Connection – 3.5 stars
Flemington
Palmerbet – Horse Racing Tips & Previews:
Race 1: MALAHAT
Race 2: ANTAH
Race 3: THUNDER CLOUD
Race 4: YULONG YUHENG
Race 5: HAWKER HURRICANE
Race 6: 1. OSBORNE BULLS, 2. Eduardo, 3. Graff, 4. Santa Ana Lane
Race 7: ANGELIC RULER
Race 8: 1. AVILIUS, 2. Trap For Fools, 3. Sikandarabad, 4. Rekindling
Race 9: I AM A STAR
Unibet – From the Trader’s Desk:
Race 6 #14 Eduardo
Race 8 #7 Avilius – BEST BET
Race 6: 20. Graff
Betfair – Insider Racing Preview:
Race 6:
BACK – Eduardo 1.75 unit
BACK – Graff 1.5 units
BACK – Santa Ana Lane 1.5u
BACK – Zousain 0.25u $26 or better
Race 7, No. 2 Spanish Whisper – 4 stars
Race 9, No. 1 I Am A Star – 3.5 stars
Race 6:
Top 5:
1. Eduardo
2. Osborne Bulls
3. Zousain
4. Encryption
5. Santa Ana Lane
Best Bet: Eduardo ($11)
Next Best: Osborne Bulls ($4.60)
Exotic: Box Exacta 2-4-14-19-21
Race 8:
Top 5:
1. Trap For Fools
2. Avilius
3. Rekindling
4. Ace High
5. Almandin
Best Bet: Trap For Fools ($15)
Next Best: Rekindling ($13)
Exotic: Put 2,4 and 7 in this leg of the quaddie
Betfair – Feature Race Reports:
Race 5:
Betting Confidence: Low
Back – #3 Outlandos; #11 She Shao Fly
Race 6:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Lay – #4 Osborne Bulls
Race 7:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Lay – #1 Angelic Ruler
Race 8:
Betting Confidence: Low
Back – #7 Avilius
Race 9:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #10 Naantali; #11 Penny To Sell; #9 Pure Scot
Race 6:
Play the Trifectas and First Fours with these numbers in order 4, 22, 20, 14, 10, 9.
Race 8:
Tips:
1. Avilius
2. Trap For Fools
3. Rekindling
Suggested Bet(s)
Back Avilius (2.00) to win.
Race 9:
Back Naantali (3.40) to win.
Race 5: Hawker Hurricane
Race 6: Osborne Bulls, Eduardo
Race 7: Spanish Whisper
Race 8: Avilius
Race 9: Spanish Reef
Race 5:
Not the easiest race on the card to label the winner. HAWKER HURRICANE (1) missed a whisker FU in the G3 and then was slow off and back in the Blue Diamond at G1 level. Zahra has to manage a wide gate but the colt has a stack of ability and the extra trip should suit the Moroney galloper. SHE SHAO FLY (11) impressed winning on debut and then improved again just beaten in the Open 2 at the Valley. Expect Currie to use the rail and the filly is a serious player on the quick return. LA TENE (10) might have to find a length or two but is in good hands and no reason why she can’t. Won this trip the latest from the front and peaks now. DALASAN (2) comes over from Adelaide seeking a hat-trick and with a big rap. Has to jump 300m but is in an astute yard and is sure to be very competitive.
Race 6:
OSBORNE BULLS (4) gets his chance top crack a G1. Missed a nose here FU in the Lightning improving again off the G2 win at this trip and venue. You won’t get a better Newmarket trial than that. Bowman booked adds to the confidence and the gelding will be storming home. Having said that, there looks to be to be too many clicks between him and a few others the early markets. The WA Wizard, Willie Pike rides GRAFF (20) and he’s drawn to monitor Bowman’s every move. Powered home beaten a whisker in the Lightning delivering a ratings spike. Fitter now and should relish the 1200m. EDUARDO (14) couldn’t have been more impressive in the Oakleigh Plate from the wide gate. Draws out with the above pair and will be ahead of them in the run. IN HER TIME (6), SANTA ANA LANE (2) and SUNLIGHT (22) also looks genuine contenders.
Race 7:
SPANISH WHISPER (2) returned in good order in the Typhoon Tracy and has more to give off that. Counts a quinella placing behind Mystic Journey in the resume’ and didn’t have much luck in that. Fitter, the speedy filly will take plenty of beating. ANGELIC RULER came over from the West and was just touched off in the Angus Armanasco running her best race. She’s hard to risk and the blinkers are applied first time. ZOUBO (10) just missed in the same race but didn’t get it easy and has more upside than the above in the fitness department. Draws low today and should get a better run. THE CLOSER is better then the FU run suggests. Gets Zahra first time and uses the low draw. She looks a player at longer odds. PRINCESS JENNI (14) finds much tougher grade on resumption, but she will win plenty more races and is worth keeping safe.
Race 8:
AVILIUS (7) peaks off two impressive Group wins and should have this race at his mercy. Made a ratings spike in the Peter Young and can be building on that figure again. The rail may not be ideal but he has the versatility to cope and Bowman to manage. TRAP FOR FOOLS (4) was much better making the quinella 2U in the same race, but was no match. He’s fitter and the on-pacer can be fighting out the quinella placing. NIGHT’S WATCH (12) didn’t have much luck in the same race but ran a career peak. Doubt there’s much between this pair. ACE HIGH (3) was good placing in the same contest and the extra 200m suits. Should be at his best now and has to be considered. The Team Williams trio all create interest – The JAJ MAHAL (3) most.
Race 9:
Things didn’t quite work out for SPANISH REEF (2) in the Mannerism 2U nor in the Bellmaine Stakes prior. She has a big record this course and trip and Zahra gets the opportunity to control proceedings. She gets her chance. I AM A STAR (1) resumed in top order and then disappointed as favourite in the Mannerism. She can use the handy gate today and is too good to dismiss on one run. NAANTALI (10) just missed in the same race and didn’t have any luck. Ran a big peak and is a genuine hope drawn more advantageously. The Team Hayes pair FUTOOH (6) and PURE SCOT (9) also deserve close consideration.
Race 5:
1. Hawker Hurricane (3 stars)
3. Outlandos (3 stars)
10. La Tene (3 stars)
2. Dalasan (3 stars)
Race 6:
10. Whispering Brook (3 stars)
4. Osborne Bulls (3 stars)
22. Sunlight (3 stars)
6. In Her Time (3 stars)
Race 7:
1. Angelic Ruler (5 stars)
9. Kenyan Wonder (4 stars)
12. Etana (2 stars)
6. Pickup The Pieces (2 stars)
Race 8:
7. Avilius (3 stars)
4. Trap For Fools (3 stars)
10. Yogi (3 stars)
11. So Si Bon (3 stars)
Race 9:
12. Supre (3 stars)
10. Naantali (3 stars)
1. I Am A Star (3 stars)
9. Pure Scot (3 stars)
Unibet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 5:
HAWKER HURRICANE (1) Did enough to win three runs back at Ballarat and should get going late. Worth strong consideration. DALASAN (2) Brave effort to win last time at Morphettville but rising in class. Looks very sharp this campaign with 2 wins from as many starts. Winnable race. REALLY DISCREET (12) Got the cash when winning last run at Sandown and was on debut last time. Kayla Crowther and Phillip Stokes are an imposing duo. Place hope. SHE SHAO FLY (11) Racing for the second time this week. Brave effort to win two runs back at Sandown and has drawn the rails. Likely threat.
Selections: 1 Hawker Hurricane, 2 Dalasan, 12 Really Discreet, 11 She Shao Fly
Race 6:
OSBORNE BULLS (4) Flew home to just miss in the Lightning Stakes last start. Better suited at this trip, will go close today. GRAFF (20) Lightly raced type who drops 4.5kg in weight on last run. Well in this. SANTA ANA LANE (2) Multiple time Group 1 winner who won over this course and distance last time out. Looks suited. EDUARDO (14) Unbelievable effort to stick on for 3rd in the Oakleigh Plate when 3 wide the whole way. Will be up on the speed and giving them something to chase down.
Selections: 4 Osborne Bulls, 20 Graff, 2 Santa Ana Lane, 14 Eduardo
Race 7:
ANGELIC RULER (1) Chimed in with a win two runs back at Bunbury and easy to come into at the trip. Big chance here. SPANISH WHISPER (2) Snuck in a place when 2nd last time at Moonee Valley and second up. Has shown early pace in races to date. Must respect. KENYAN WONDER (9) Showed promise when winning last run at Morphettville and second up from a spell. Should be swooping on the field late. Must come into consideration. VICTORY KINGDOM (11) Gave them a lesson when winning two runs back at Sandown but facing a stronger class here. Should race on the speed. Market may be ultimate guide.
Selections: 1 Angelic Ruler, 2 Spanish Whisper, 9 Kenyan Wonder, 11 Victory Kingdom
Race 8:
AVILIUS (7) In 8 starts in Australia has only been beaten in the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup. Should be far too good here. NIGHT’S WATCH (12) Made up good ground last start at Cauflield and will appreciate the step up to 2000m. Will be coming home strongly. REKINDLING (2) Returning to racing since his Melbourne Cup win in 2017. Query on fitness levels but certainly good enough to get the job done. ACE HIGH (3) Should be ready to fire 3rd up and gets out to a more suitable trip today. Include in all multiples.
Selections: 7 Avilius, 12 Night’s Watch, 2 Rekindling, 3 Ace High
Race 9:
SPANISH REEF (2) Suited at this course historically and Mark Zahra is a bonus. Good chance and wouldn’t be surprised to see it pick up a win. I AM A STAR (1) Has a good record third up with 3 wins from 5 starts. Ran on strongly when 3rd two runs back at Caulfield and Ben Melham is a plus. Has the ability to figure. NAANTALI (10) Did a good job when winning two runs back at Caulfield. Capable of getting into the money. FUTOOH (6) Having third run back from a spell. Didn’t find the line when 9th last time at Caulfield. Possesses the talent and has some chance here.
Selections: 2 Spanish Reef, 1 I Am A Star, 10 Naantali, 6 Futooh
Sportsbet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 5:
Both newbies have shown ability at the jumpouts: check betting. REALLY DISCREET was a terrific debut winner, sailing by LA TENE, who then won well with blinkers on and beat OUTLANDOS and WHYKAYOH in a three-way go. Really Discreet’s last 600m was faster than Terbium’s on the day. Terbium then beat G1-placed Zousain! FLING had limited luck behind her there and was no match for SHE SHAO FLY prior. That filly closed off well at MV behind one who’d chased Microphone. DEEP CHILL beat Still Single, who then beat all bar Anaheed at Randwick last week. DALASAN and HAWKER HURRICANE are in this also.
Selections: 12. Really Discreet, 11. She Shao Fly, 2. Dalasan
Race 6:
Wow! Outstanding race. OSBORNE BULLS flew at line in the Lightning Stks with pattern no help, he has looked a G1 winner in waiting for a long while and gets his chance here. EDUARDO’s Oakleigh Plate run was massive when wide on a fearsome speed, he will have a head start on Osborne Bulls and has 52kg. He now has a 4-Zip record over BONS AWAY and that horse did match motors with Osborne Bulls here in Spring (albeit with 5kg less). GRAFF was strong through wire in that Lightning and will eat 1200m, he is pick of 3YO’s for mine. SANTA ANA LANE is a ripper but 58.5kg? IN HER TIME, SHOALS go close.
Selections: 4. Osborne Bulls, 14. Eduardo, 20. Graff, 6. In Her Time
Race 7:
SPEED: 3,6,11,13 can all go fwd. 5,12 up there. 7,14 next? SPANISH WHISPER made a good return in a strong race (rated well – +7.4L Vs overall average) and she was wide when second to Mystic Journey 2nd-up last prep. ANGELIC RULER rushed home at Caulfield off an even tempo, her closing figures were very good, she went by ZOUBO there, do concede Zoubo has more upside and is the game here. GOLDIFOX was sound home to Amphitrite in Vanity Stks here, she then chased Mystic Journey in G1 Guineas. VICTORY KINGDOM, ETANA, SAMOON all hopes.
Selections: 2. Spanish Whisper, 1. Angelic Ruler, 10. Zoubo, 5. Goldifox
Race 8:
SPEED: 4 leads 8 with 3, 13 perhaps handy. AVILIUS is just bulletproof. He wins off fast speeds, slow speeds, first up, third up, inside or outside horses. A class act no doubt! REKINDLING may find 2000m too sharp but he did beat Yucatan at home at 2011m. MUNTAHAA was not bad in a Melbourne Cup but is yet to win below 2414m. TRAP FOR FOOLS, SHILLELAGH (opened $23: the overs!) and HARLEM (sits closer?) are all chances with touch of luck in transit. SIKANDARABAD and NIGHT’S WATCH are in the mix.
Selections: 7. Avilius, 2. Rekindling, 15. Shillelagh, 9. Muntahaa
Race 9:
SPEED: 2 can lead 1 with 10, 12, 11, 9 capable of being handy. SPANISH REEF was wide/good fresh then unsuited in a sit/sprint around Caulfield. She can lead today and is unbeaten this track/trip. I’M A PRINCESS come back to mares grade and has been hitting the line nicely behind the likes of Avilius/Sikandarabad. She is a danger! I AM A STAR won the Let’s Elope Stakes here third up last prep. FUTOOH was luckless last time. NAANTALI was very good in the Mannerism. THINK BLEUE and PAYROLL are chances through that same race. Last chance BRING ME ROSES.
Selections: 2. Spanish Reef, 5. I’m A Princess, 6. Futooh, 7. Bring Me Roses
Betfair – Race Analysis & Selections:
Race 5:
Hawker Hurricane (5 stars)
She Shao Fly (4 stars)
La Tene (4 stars)
Race 6:
Osborne Bulls (5 stars)
Graff (4 stars)
Eduardo (4 stars)
Race 7:
Spanish Whisper (5 stars)
Angelic Ruler (4 stars)
Zoubo (4 stars)
Race 8:
Avilius (5 stars)
Trap For Fools (4 stars)
Night’s Watch (4 stars)
Race 9:
Spanish Reef (5 stars)
I Am A Star (4 stars)
Naantali (4 stars)
Race 5:
DALASAN Puts an unbeaten record on the line after winning two from two in Adelaide. This is her toughest test to date but she looks up to the task. HAWKER HURRICANE Was well beaten in the Blue Diamond last start but her previous two runs were solid including a third in the Prelude two back and does looks suited stepping up in distance. OUTLANDOS Was a Pakenham maiden winner two back before hitting the line strongly when a close second this trip last start. Looks to have some upside and is right in the mix. REALLY DISCREET Came from last to win on debut at Sandown Hillside. Rises substantially in grade but looks to have some upside and shouldn’t be under-estimated.
Race 6:
SUNLIGHT Won the Coolmore Stud this track and distance in the Spring before a close third in the Lightning Stakes resuming. Will be right on the speed and will take plenty of running down.
OSBORNE BULLS Has put together a superb record with nine wins and five placings from 14 starts and is Group I placed. He will be charging late. GRAFF Has won three from seven and was less than a length from the winner when fourth in the Oakleigh Plate resuming. He’s right up to winning this down in the weights with the run under his belt. EDUARDO Was placed in the Oakleigh Plate resuming. Will be right on the speed and can place fitter second-up.
Race 7:
ANGELIC RULER Has made an impressive start to her career with five wins and four placings from 10 starts including a listed win at Bunbury. Showed she was up to this grade finishing a half-length second in the Angus Armanasco at Caulfield last start. Gets the chance to go one better with the blinkers on for the first time. THE CLOSER Needed the run at Flemington resuming last start when she knocked up after leading. Won second-up last preparation and a sharp improvement is on the cards. PRINCESS JENNI Showed promise in her first preparation finishing a close second at Pakenham on debut before a six-length win at Geelong. Has to take up a step up but did win a recent Cranbourne trial and shouldn’t be under-estimated. SPANISH WHISPER Hit the line strongly when runner-up in the Typhoon Tracy resuming at Moonee Valley last start. She’s right in the mix fitter second-up stepping up in distance.
Race 8:
AVILIUS Has won six of his eight starts since coming to Australia with his only defeats coming in the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup. Won the Peter Young last start and is the one to beat again. REKINDLING Hasn’t raced since winning the 2017 Melbourne Cup. The stable have multiple runners in the race so the betting may well be the best guide but obviously has the class if ready. NIGHT’S WATCH Hasn’t been far from the winner in two runs this preparation and isn’t without place prospects this grade. SIKANDARABAD Won the Mornington Cup Prelude last start. Is a consistent gelding and can place.
Race 9:
NAANTALI Was a strong winner at Caulfield two back before finishing runner-up in the Mannerism last start when she endured a wide run in transit. Rates as the one to beat here getting all the favours in running launching from an ideal gate. BRING ME ROSES Has just the one win from 19 starts but consistent at the same time. Has now had three runs back from a spell and no surprise to see her in the finish. I AM A STAR Was placed at Caulfield resuming two back before being a touch disappointing at Caulfield last start when a beaten favourite. Looks suited stepping up in distance and is worth another chance. PURE SCOT Has won two of last three and is chasing back to back wins after a win this track and distance last start. Rises substantially in grade but shouldn’t be under-estimated getting a soft run in transit launching from the inside gate.
Morphettville
Race 5, No. 4 Kifaah – each-way – 3.5 stars
Randwick
Palmerbet – Horse Racing Tips & Previews:
Race 1: SPRIGHT
Race 2: JONKER
Race 3: TENLEY
Race 4: TIME TO REIGN
Race 5: REDZEL
Race 6: 1, KEMENTARI, 2. Trapeze Artist, 3. Shoals, 4. Pierata
Race 7: 1. THE AUTUMN SUN, 2. Nakeeta Jane, 3. Aramayo, 4. Fundamentalist
Race 8: LUVALUVA
Race 9: CASTERTON
Unibet – From the Trader’s Desk:
Race 2 #4 Jonker – VALUE BET
Race 6 #1 Trapeze Artist – LAY BET – bet against this horse with Betfair
Race 1, No. 1 Spright – BEST BET – 4.5 stars
Race 3, No. 1 Exhilarates – 4 stars
Race 8, No. 2 Nettoyer – each-way – 3.5 stars
Betfair – Feature Race Reports:
Race 1:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #1 Spright; #4 La Bella Diosa
Race 3:
Betting Confidence: High
Lay – #1 Exhilarates
Race 4:
Betting Confidence: Low
Back – #2 Time To Reign
Race 5:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #7 Estijaab
Race 6:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #3 Kementari
Race 7:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #1 The Autumn Sun
Race 8:
Betting Confidence: Medium
Back – #3 All Too Soon
Race 3:
Back Exhilarates (3.20) to win.
Race 8:
Back All Too Soon (4.80) to win.
Race 1: Spright
Race 3: Tenley
Race 4: Time To Reign
Race 5: Redzel
Race 6: Pierata
Race 7: The Autumn Sun
Race 8: All Too Soon
Race 1:
SPRIGHT really closed off well in the Oakleigh Plate first up and remains open to good improvement racing second up. McEvoy legs back aboard (won 2/3) and with the speed on up front, she should prove very hard to hold out late. RESIN has won 5/11 and creates plenty of interest fresh for the James Cummings stable. Is unbeaten (3/3) over this trip and with three trials under her belt she should be fairly forward. McDonald booked, major threat. SWEET SCANDAL had excuses last start and a return to her best should see her right around the mark.
Race 3:
TENLEY really impressed in her return last start when far too good at this track over 1100m. This is obviously a good deal harder, but she is clearly a filly trending the right way and hard to knock anything stepping out of the stable at present. Drawn well, hard to beat. EXHILARATES returns from a short break (56 days) and creates plenty of interest unseen since winning the Magic Millions. Brings the best form and obviously has to be respected. ANAHEED won well last weekend and has to be kept safe on the quick back up.
Race 4:
Still not sure how TIME TO REIGN got beaten first up, but he was back in a big way last start when far too good in the Silver Slipper. Returned a new career peak there and the clock backed up the strength of his performance. Has a decent edge off the back of that win and if able to repeat, he is clearly the one to beat. YES YES YES has trialled up a treat for his new stable and brings solid form up from Victoria. No favours with the draw, but still looms as a major threat. BIVOUAC toyed with Time To Reign first up and commands respect with JMac linking aboard.
Race 5:
REDZEL failed to fire in the VRC Sprint Classic prior to a break, however his performance to win the Everest still leaves him as clearly the horse to beast. Has trialled as well as ever and goes like a bomb fresh. Drawn to stalk Estijaab and should prove mighty hard to hold out. ESTIJAAB returned from a lengthy break in fine order when game in defeat behind Fiesta. Since trialled very well and should give plenty of cheek out in front. BALL OF MUSCLE is very fast and looks to lead from the inside. Doubt he can topple the top two, but should be there for a long way.
Race 6:
Two lengths separated the trifecta in the 2018 Randwick Guineas and 12 months on they all line up here (Kementari, Pierata and Trapeze Artist). Trapeze Artist has never beaten Pierata, while the only time he has beaten Kementari was when finishing ahead of him in the 2017 Coolmore (15th > 16th).The ledger stands 2:2 between Kementari and Pierata, with the latter having the most recent scalp when beating Kementari home in the Group 1 VRC Classic [1200m]. As a result leaning PIERATA’s way. Just the one soft trial in the lead up, but 1300m suits and he flies at Randwick. Produced form ahead of all of his rivals last preparation and should prove hard to hold out. TRAPEZE ARTIST and KEMENTARI are obviously capable, but they have clear knocks, while SHOALS is the obvious blow-out.
Race 7:
THE AUTUMN SUN did just enough to win first up and now appears poised to notch up his fourth Group 1 success. Unsuited by the moderate tempo in the Hobartville, he did a great job to run down Vegadaze and he should improve sharply stepping up to the mile. Rated 126 by Timeform following his dominant display in the Caulfield Guineas, he has a fair bit of room to move on his first up display, rated 119. Will likely get back, but should prove very strong late. Surround Stakes winner NAKEETA JANE creates plenty of interest on the quick back up. A bit to find to beat TAS, but could catch him on the hop. ARAMAYO sets up well back in trip and appears the next in line.
Race 8:
ALL TOO SOON caught the eye late first up and remains open to good improvement racing second up. Sure to appreciate the step up to the mile and has drawn to get a lovely run for Clark. Handles all conditions and rates as clearly the one to beat. OCEANEX creates plenty of interest returning from a short break (49 days). Clearly a filly trending the right way and she has trialled well in the lead up. Major threat. LUVALUVA a big watch second up, more than capable back in this grade.
Race 1:
3. Winter Bride (3 stars)
6. Sweet Scandal (3 stars)
7. Star Reflection (3 stars)
5. Resin (2 stars)
Race 3:
1. Exhilarates (5 stars)
2. Anaheed (4 stars)
3. Vincere Volare (2 stars)
4. Tenley (2 stars)
Race 4:
1. Dubious (5 stars)
2. Time To Reign (3 stars)
4. Yes Yes Yes (3 stars)
5. Bivouac (2 stars)
Race 5:
1. Redzel (5 stars)
7. Estijaab (4 stars)
2. Ball Of Muscle (2 stars)
3. Jungle Edge (2 stars)
Race 6:
1. Trapeze Artist (3 stars)
7. Cool Passion (3 stars)
8. Brutal (3 stars)
2. Pierata (3 stars)
Race 7:
1. The Autumn Sun (5 stars)
3. Vegadaze (4 stars)
7. Nakeeta Jane (2 stars)
2. Madison County (2 stars)
Race 8:
8. Oceanex (5 stars)
7. Luskintyre Lass (3 stars)
9. Extreme Bliss (3 stars)
6. Harmattan (3 stars)
Unibet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 1:
SPRIGHT (1) Made up ground when 5th last start at Caulfield. Rates a winning chance. WINTER BRIDE (3) Goes well first up with 3 wins from 4 runs. Fought on gamely when winning two runs back at Caulfield and hard to fault at the trip. Gets a chance to win. RESIN (5) Finished on top three runs back at this venue but fresh after a break. Jockey James Mcdonald rates highly aboard. Include in chances. SWEET SCANDAL (6) Solid win two runs back at Rosehill. Very tidy this campaign winning 3 from 6 attempts. Looks a great place bet
Selections: 1 Spright, 3 Winter Bride, 5 Resin, 6 Sweet Scandal
Race 3:
EXHILARATES (1) Solid effort when winning last run at Gold Coast and very competitive this campaign. Winning prospect. TENLEY (4) Showed promise when winning last time here and second up from a spell. James Mcdonald and James Cummings have a high strike rate together. Can get the job done. ANAHEED (2) Displayed potential when winning last time at this track and third up from a break. Has early speed and positions nicely. Is in good order and can run well here. VINCERE VOLARE (3) Got the cash when winning last start at Doomben and second up from a break. Has early speed and positions nicely. Good each way prospects.
Selections: 1 Exhilarates, 4 Tenley, 2 Anaheed, 3 Vincere Volare
Race 4:
TIME TO REIGN (2) Winner last start at Rosehill and should jump out and bowl along. Going well this preparation. Winning chance in this line up. YES YES YES (4) Resuming after a break. Displayed potential when winning last time at Moonee Valley and change in trainer to Chris Waller. Looks a winning hope. DUBIOUS (1) Third up today. Game effort to win two runs back at Eagle Farm but racing in stronger company here. Can feature here. BIVOUAC (5) Good win last time at Warwick Farm and jockey James Mcdonald is a bonus. Should run into the placings at least
Selections: 2 Time To Reign, 4 Yes Yes Yes, 1 Dubious, 5 Bivouac
Race 5:
REDZEL (1) Was all too good winning two runs back at the track and should race on the speed. Rates highly. ESTIJAAB (7) Having second run back from a spell. Brave effort to win two runs back at Rosehill and shows good early pace. Live winning chance. BALL OF MUSCLE (2) Showed promise when winning last time at Caulfield and should race on the speed. Can be competitive. VIRIDINE (5) Had a break from racing and returns to competition here. Jockey James Mcdonald rates highly. Worth entertaining from a place and exotics perspective
Selections: 1 Redzel, 7 Estijaab, 2 Ball of Muscle, 5 Viridine
Race 6:
TRAPEZE ARTIST (1) Class horse of the field who is looking to bounce back to winning ways today. Gets a great chance here. PIERATA (2) Goes well fresh and will be looking to go on to bigger and better things this prep. Winning hope. KEMENTARI (3) Game effort first up in the Orr Stakes. Should benefit from the run and can have an impact in this. SHOALS (5) Progressive mare who is hard to beat at her best. Will be finishing off strongly.
Selections: 1 Trapeze Artist, 2 Pierata, 3 Kementari, 5 Shoals
Race 7:
THE AUTUMN SUN (1) Arguably the best 3yo in the country right now. Should be close on the home turn and will likely blow them all away. NAKEETA JANE (7) Will be giving the leaders a big start but can show a brilliant turn of foot. Main danger to the favourite. VEGADAZE (3) Really made The Autumn Sun work for it last start at Rosehill. Will give them something to chase down. MADISON COUNTY (2) Classy import for the Baker/Forsman stable. Follow any market moves.
Selections: 1 The Autumn Sun, 7 Nakeeta Jane, 3 Vegadaze, 2 Madison County
Race 8:
LUSKINTYRE LASS (7) Fought on well to win last run here. Will be pushing for a forward position early. Expect a bold showing here and looks the winner. ALL TOO SOON (3) Generally strong second up with 2 wins from 4 attempts. Stormed home when 2nd last start at Rosehill and has a great burst of speed late. Winning hope. OCEANEX (8) Bold effort to win last start at Flemington and can find a nice position from the draw. Open to improvement and is a strong chance again. HARMATTAN (6) Really dug deep when winning two runs back at Rosehill but bit of extra work to do with more weight today. Each way bet is best.
Selections: 7 Luskintyre Lass, 3 All Too Soon, 8 Oceanex, 6 Harmattan
Sportsbet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 1:
Black-type racing from start to finish can only mean a big bold day at Randwick and we have a couple of 3YO stars clashing in the highlight of the afternoon. Conditions were rated Good 4 on Wednesday morning but there was a chance of a shower later on that day. Slightly wary of a forecast that suggested Saturday rainfall as well but we will wait and see on that. Rail in the true position. WINTER BRIDE has trialled pleasingly up north and has compelling fresh form. Can see her getting a nice drop on these in the run and a defeat over Booker last prep reads well. SPRIGHT did her best behind that very horse in the Oakleigh Plate. She won the last time she contested below G1 level.
Selections: 3. Winter Bride, 1. Spright, 5. Resin, 6. Sweet Scandal
Race 3:
I think we’re out now to the last seven Slipper winners having raced on this day, happy with that fortnight lead-in. These next two races are essential to the bigger picture therefore and most of our main contenders are here. Speed from 5 and 3 in the fillies’ group. WAYUPINTHESKY (a debutante whose most recent trial was a beauty) can see favours from a soft draw. TENLEY and EXHILARATES will be nearer the back but are very dynamic. Leaning to TENLEY who has had the more recent run. ANAHEED is on the quick turnaround, something of a surprise perhaps but maybe that fact about racing on this day is simply too compelling to ignore.
Selections: 4. Tenley, 1. Exhilarates, 3. Vincere Volare, 2. Anaheed
Race 4:
9 and 6 get out running with 2 and 8 to stalk. TIME TO REIGN had a serious hiccup when his colours were lowered by BIVOUAC first-up but that was some way to bounce back a fortnight ago. Now 2 from 2 at Rosehill and this should top him off nicely before he heads back there for the big one. YES YES YES and DUBIOUS trialled together and while DUBIOUS won the heat I would say YES YES YES went better. He had to get back and swing out very wide, he was also softer down to the finish. Admittedly that outside draw could be a little tricky. ROME burst through to win a recent heat and will wear the same blinkers here that he did in the trial.
Selections: 2. Time To Reign, 4. Yes Yes Yes, 1. Dubious, 7. Rome
Race 5:
Most of these have some speed obviously but I think BALL OF MUSCLE loves leading more than most horses so expect to see him out front. REDZEL of course can lay claim to being Australia’s best sprinter. He has won essentially half his 29 starts and with two Everests under the belt he been able to amass $15M in prizemoney. Strange then that he has not been able to win back-to-back in his last two preps. Has trialled fine and will be up there to kick on. He won at this track and trip at the beginning of last prep. I’m prepared to have a little something on the filly ESTIJAAB though. No knock at all on her return and she has been back to have an easy trial win.
Selections: 7. Estijaab, 1. Redzel, 4. Kaepernick, 2. Ball Of Muscle
Race 6:
8 and 4 the most likely pacesetters. 6 and 7 next in line. KEMENTARI hasn’t won since winning the Guineas on this day 12 months ago (beating PIERATA and TRAPEZE ARTIST as it happens) and I hear now a few folk giving him some stick about being a bit of a pretender. Funny though, among the nine runs that make up that losing run, I can’t find one that I would describe as poor and many that are clearly excellent. Beaten as fave in the Orr 1st-up but he had no say over his price that day and I thought he was tremendous. He has come back to have a nice trial in Sydney (Feb 25) and he will keep wearing blinkers which he did in that hitout. PIERATA beat him first-up leading into their Spring campaigns and makes an obvious danger.
Selections: 3. Kementari, 2. Pierata, 5. Shoal, 8. Brutal
Race 7:
8 and 3 the leading pair and both have the chance to kick on as they did at their most recent start. On balance however, THE AUTUMN SUN really should be better for the return win and if that’s the case he should only enhance his already very impressive record. He is the best 3YO I have seen in many years and you just had to love the way he dug in when the going got tough last start. VEGADAZE, with race fitness all over him that day, proved hard to run down and it may simply be that he is a galloper of G1 quality as well. NAKEETA JANE clearly is. Just got to FUNDAMENTALIST last week but it was a very worthy victory. Dare say she could make her run with THE AUTUMN SUN?
Selections: 1. The Autumn Sun, 3. Vegadaze, 7. Nakeeta Jane, 4. Aramayo
Race 8:
7, 10 and 12 set the tempo. I’m pretty keen on ALL TOO SOON after a lovely return against males. You could make a case that she is at her best with some sting out of the track (that Soft 7 is as wet as she has raced on) but we did see an excellent run on G3 at the end of last prep. Not only does she have outstanding 2nd-up form (she has won her latest couple 2nd-up at Rosehill) but she really ought to set up perfectly in the run (maybe 5th or 6th stalking). NETTOTER placed in this last year when also 3rd-up coming through the same races. She is a bit of a riddle generally but she rewarded the patient last prep and can again this time around.
Selections: 3. All Too Soon, 2. Nettoyer, 6. Harmattan, 7. Luskintyre Lass
Race 1:
Spright (5 stars)
Resin (4 stars)
Sweet Scandal (4 stars)
Race 3:
Tenley (5 stars)
Exhilarates (4 stars)
Anaheed (4 stars)
Race 4:
Time To Reign (5 stars)
Yes Yes Yes (4 stars)
Bivouac (4 stars)
Race 5:
Redzel (5 stars)
Estijaab (4 stars)
Ball Of Muscle (4 stars)
Race 6:
Pierata (5 stars)
Trapeze Artist (4 stars)
Kementari (4 stars)
Race 7:
The Autumn Sun (5 stars)
Nakeeta Jane (4 stars)
Aramayo (4 stars)
Race 8:
All Too Soon (5 stars)
Oceanex (4 stars)
Luvaluva (4 stars)
Race 1:
SEDANZER Resumes and was only a length and half from the winner in the Group II Chelmsford at Randwick resuming last start. Has had the benefit of two trials finishing a close second in the latest at Canterbury and looks primed for a big run fresh. SPRIGHT Had the best closing splits in the Oakleigh Plate resuming at Caulfield last start when he didn’t get much room late. She’s right in play with the run under her belt. SWEET SCANDAL Won successive races at Kensington and Rosehill and wasn’t far from the winner in the Triscay Stakes at Randwick last start on the back of a four-week break between races. Likely to be a touch fitter and can bounce back. STAR REFLECTION Was a Randwick winner this track and distance earlier in the preparation and is worth including in the wider exotics.
Race 3:
EXHILARATES Recorded some of the best figures for the two-year-olds this season winning the Magic Millions at the Gold Coast. Hasn’t raced since but did finish second in a recent Canterbury trial and expecting her to come right into Golden Slipper calculations by winning this. VINCERE VOLARE Is unbeaten in two Queensland runs winning by significant margins on each occasion. This is her toughest test to date but hard to knock the winning form. ANAHEED Made it two wins from three starts with an impressive win in the Sweet Embrace last start. There is nothing to suggest she won’t be in the finish again. TENLEY Is unbeaten in two starts to date and was impressive winning the Pierro Plate resuming at Randwick last start. Looks to have some upside and looks more than capable of winning again.
Race 4:
TIME TO REIGN Was unbeaten in two runs in his first preparation before failing at Warwick Farm resuming two runs back. Bounced back defeating the Golden Slipper favourite at Rosehill last start and looks the testing material again. DUBIOUS Won the Breeder’s Plate on debut in the Spring before winning at Eagle Farm before being run down late when runner-up in the Magic Millions. Resumes but looked primed for a successful return winning his latest trial at Canterbury. ROME Is still a maiden but both runs to date solid in the Breeder’s Plate and BJ McLachlan. Gets a set of blinkers for the first time and is up to winning this. BELLEVUE HILL Has plenty on a two-year-old field at Canberra on debut winning by over five-lengths. Has to be respected in town with the Waterhouse and Bott polish.
Race 5:
ESTIJAAB Won the Golden Slipper this time last year and looked a half-run short when a brave second in the Inglis three-year-old Sprint resuming last start. Takes on the older sprinters but looks right up to the task fitter second-up. REDZEL Has won both the Everest’s. Resumes here and looked primed for a first-up win with a four-length win in his lead-up trial at Canterbury. BALL OF MUSCLE Resumes and should be fit enough after three trials. Had a terrific Spring winning three from four and only has to return in the same form to be right in this. KAEPERNICK Was less than a length from the winner when fourth in the Southern Cross Stakes at Randwick last start. Is a consistent gelding worth including in the wider exotics.
Race 6:
KEMENTARI Hasn’t won since winning the Randwick Guineas this day last year but has been consistent at the top level in nine subsequent starts. Hasn’t raced since finishing second in the C.F Orr Stakes at Caulfield four weeks back but has trialled in the interim and he is right in play. TRAPEZE ARTIST Hasn’t raced for five weeks since finishing fourth in the Expressway Stakes as a beaten favourite on a wet track. Won the All Aged and T.J. Smith during the Autumn Carnival last year. Has been kept up to the mark with a couple of trial wins. He’s right in the mix. PIERATA Won the Sydney Stakes in the Spring before placing in the VRC Sprint Classic during Melbourne Cup Week. Resumes on the back of a Randwick trial placing and has won two from three fresh. BRUTAL Showed plenty of promise in his first preparation being unbeaten in three runs and there was merit in his effort when a close third at Randwick resuming last start when he covered plenty of ground in the run. This is his toughest test to date but shouldn’t be under-estimated.
Race 7:
THE AUTUMN SUN Made it six wins from seven starts with a huge win in the Hobartville Stakes resuming last start after an explosive win in the Caulfield Guineas. Looks a potential superstar and is the one to beat. NAKEETA JANE Looks a potential top-liner after winning three of her five starts including the Group I Surround last start. Takes on the best colt of their age in what will be a real test but she is top class and will test The Autumn Sun to the limit. MADISON COUNTY Won successive Group I’s in New Zealand before finishing third in the Karaka Classic at Ellerslie last start. Have to respect the stable when they cross the Tasman. MISS FABULASS Things haven’t gone her way in two runs this preparation after winning the Tea Rose Stakes in the Spring. Wouldn’t surprise to see her more forward in the run and can place at good odds.
Race 8:
GIRL TUESDAY Showed plenty of promise winning four from four in her first preparation but has been a touch disappointing in two runs this preparation. A tongue ties goes on which may well tell the tale and a sharp improvement is anticipated. OCEANEX Won three on the trot including a Flemington win before a seven week let-up. Has trialled nicely on two occasions in the interim and has to be respected fresh. LUSKINTYRE LASS Is chasing a hat trick after successive wins at Warwick Farm and this track and distance last start. Hasn’t raced for six weeks but has been kept up to the mark with a Canterbury trial win and is right in the mix. HARMATTAN Won well at Rosehill two back before placing at Randwick last start and there is nothing to suggest she won’t be in the finish again.