The following is a survey of Australian horse racing tips for Saturday, December 4. The focus is on the racecards at Ascot, Doomben and Pakenham. The highlights of the day include the Group 1 Kingstown Town Classic (Race 8) at Ascot and the Pakenham Cup (Race 7) at Pakenham.
More tips will be added as they become available.
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Best bets
These bets may change leading up to the race day.
Ascot Race 1: 1. Revitup at 4.00 (bet365)
Ascot Race 4: 4. Reliable Star at 2.20 (bet365)
Ascot Race 8: 7. Western Empire at 1.40 (Sportsbet)
Doomben Race 3: 3. Ashgrove at 2.60 (bet365)
Doomben Race 5: 1. Tiger Heart at 3.00 (PlayUp)
Doomben Race 8: 2. Wandabaa at 3.90 (Sportsbet)
Pakenham Race 9: 5. Kissinger at 3.70 (Sportsbet)
Ascot
Race 8: Western Empire/Notorious One (quinella)
Race 1:
REVITUP (1) Couldn’t keep the pace going when 2nd last time here and will appreciate the drop in class. Cannot underestimate. COSTUME PARTY (6) Nice effort when winning last start at Belmont and was on debut last time. Trainer has gone for the blinkers on, take note. Go close. SAINTORIO (5) Stephen Miller trained 2yo by Oratorio on debut and can save some energy from the alley. Has placed in all previous barrier trials. Stronger amount the place bet advised. VAMPI AT PLAY (13) Playing God 2yo having first race appearance for trainer Neville Parnham. Placed 2nd in a barrier trial at Belmont on Nov 8th. Should go very close.
Race 2:
WAR WARRIOR (5) Competitive effort when 2nd last start at Belmont and dropping weight today. Racing again inside a week. Should go close. VANE TEMPEST (1) Ran 3rd two runs back at this venue but rising in weight. No shock to see a win. MERCANTO (4) Really dug deep when winning two runs back around here and Clint Johnston-porter is a bonus. Very tidy this preparation winning 2 from 3 starts. Might take a while to wind up but should be hitting top gear in the straight. Winning hope. SCANDOLO (8) Got the upper hand late when winning two runs back at Kalgoorlie and should race just behind the speed. Racing for the second time this week. Keep in mind.
Race 3:
AIN’T NO OTHER MAN (5) Produced an eye catching run when 3rd two runs back at the track and dropping weight today. Third up from a break. Every chance today. WRITTEN MATTER (4) Won narrowly last run at the track and second up from a spell. Likely to get a nice run behind the speed. No surprise to see a forward showing and one of the main hopes in this race. FOREST WAR (6) Kept finding the line when 3rd last run at Belmont and suited by the weight drop. Winning hope. KENYLUCK (2) Led and controlled the pace when winning by a margin of 1 1/2L last time at Geraldton and won’t be far away during the run. Flying this campaign with 3 wins from 3 starts. Modest chance for multis.
Race 4:
RELIABLE STAR (4) Snuck in a place when 2nd last time at the track and likely to race off the speed. Has run into the money 3 from 4 attempts this campaign. Can go on with it. BLACK SHADOW (2) Good performance to run into 3rd last run at this venue. Expected to be flashing home. Will give a big sight. LADY DUCKWORTH (10) Improved when 4th last start at Belmont and displays very good closing speed. Interesting to see the blinkers go on for the first time. At least a place chance. CONQUERED ZONE (5) Did its best work late when 2nd last start at this track and goes down in weight. Should be around the mark.
Race 5:
COMFORT ME (6) Nice effort when winning two runs back at the track and expecting to settle positively. Mitchell Pateman is a plus. Racing consistently since returning from a break. Expect to go close. VALOUR ROAD (1) Came on strongly when 2nd two runs back at this course and going down in class. Should just about get the run of the race. Has run into the money 3 from 4 attempts this campaign. Major player. MASSIMO (3) Forgive the run when 7th around here. Looks nicely placed today and likely to be well placed early. Been in the money 3 from 4 attempts this preparation. Leading chance. STAGEMAN (4) Put in a competitive run when placing 2nd last run here and has a great burst of speed late. Some confidence with William Pike doing the steering. Been in the money 3 from 4 attempts this campaign. Suited.
Race 6:
ACEFIRE (4) Scored a victory last run at Belmont and suited by the weight drop. Racing consistently since returning from a break. Must respect in this event. FLYING MISSILE (2) Really dug deep when winning last start at this course and won’t be far away during the run. Been in the money 3 from 4 attempts this campaign. Major hope. LIWA (1) Did its best work late when 2nd last time at the track. Gets a nice run behind the speed. Can feature. STAY SAFE (3) Scored a victory three runs back at Northam and dropping in class. One of the major hopes.
Race 7:
BRIGHT DIAMOND (9) Really dug deep when winning two runs back at this venue. Always seems to find the line well. Classy enough for this field and is one of the major players. SHEZA CHALMER (5) Kept running on late when 3rd last run at this course and having third run back from a spell. Likely to race off the speed. Ready to win. ANGELIC MISS (4) Scored a victory last run at the track. Possesses good finishing speed. Good chance and wouldn’t be surprised to see it pick up a win. BAM’S ON FIRE (1) Finished strongly when 4th last run at the track and will try to take advantage of the alley. Expecting to settle just off the pace. Looks to be the value.
Race 8:
WESTERN EMPIRE (7) Had a comfortable win last run at this track and having third run back from a spell. Should get a lovely cart into it from just behind the leaders. Ultra competitive this campaign with 2 wins from as many runs. Makes it very hard to bet against. REGAL POWER (1) Displayed potential moving through the field into 4th last start at the track and third up. Winner in a barrier trial at Lark Hill on Nov 15th. Big danger. SEARCHIN’ ROC’S (10) Solid win last run at this course and suited by the weight drop. Expecting to settle just off the pace. Each way appeal. KISSONALLFORCHEEKS (9) Got the upper hand late when winning two runs back at this venue but rises in weight. Going well this preparation. Maybe for the trifectas and a marginal hope.
Race 9:
EXPRESSIONIST (2) Really dug deep when winning last time at the track but rises in weight. Ready to win. MEMORABLE MISS (9) Won narrowly last run at Belmont and will appreciate a good gate. Having third run back from a break. Can go on with it. BRAGWELL (7) Flew home into 3rd last run here and Shaun Mcgruddy rates highly. Expecting to settle just off the pace. Must respect in this event. DOWNFORCE (1) Finished 3 1/4L behind the winner at this course last run on a good track and going up in weight. On a short back up. Very strong each way claims.
Sportsbet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 1:
REVITUP has the score on the board and has to be the 2YO to beat. Nailed right on the line after leading in the 1100m Crystal Slipper and knocked off the well regarded Snowdome on debut this track/distance, so returning to 1000m is an advantage. With a clean getaway apprentice Holly Watson can find the rail in front and make full use of her 3kg claim. Really taken with the effortless Belmont 22/11 trial win from NUNES and expecting her to figure prominently on debut. Pike has been booked for $120,000 first-starter CIAO LUNA and her lead-up trials and likely map make her a major player. COSTUME PARTY did what she had to on debut and will have admirers, while MRS KANGAROO is another speedy, trial-winning juvenile to step out for Dion Luciani.
Selections: 1. Revitup (Top Tip), 11. Nunes, 8. Ciao Luna, 6. Costume Party
Race 2:
Hard to look past MERCANTO. Jumped out of the ground to win his first two runs this prep before being luckless in a stronger race than this two weeks back, where he would’ve gone close with clear galloping room. He’s suited with Johnston-Porter back on board and while he’ll be settling rearwards, his closing speed is strong enough to get over them late. VANE TEMPEST could give him something to catch out in front though. Brave in the Jungle Mist Classic, she gets in well after Holly Watson’s claim. Interesting to see what position VADETTE DE STAR can hold from gate one and she showed 1200m wasn’t beyond her last start. SCANDOLO is on the quick back-up after being stiff in defeat in the Regional Championship Final, while MISS VASARI hits the line hard and stablemate WAR WARRIOR has to be a factor if he butters up after racing at Belmont 1/12.
Selections: 4. Mercanto (Best of the Day), 1. Vane Tempest, 6. Vadette De Star, 8. Scandolo
Race 3:
ZIEBELL won this race last year and thinking he can run them ragged again. He’ll appreciate the services of Chris Parnham after two junior riders have been on board so far this prep, and he looks ready to hit his straps, especially without having to face Wilchino, Triple Missile and Secret Plan. Jumps, runs them along and takes some catching. WRITTEN MATTER is the horse most capable of running down Ziebell, but this could be a sticky map and he may be spotting the leader a reasonable head start. Have to include NIGHT VOYAGE after his tough performance behind The Front Bar last start as Pike jumps on with only 54kg. STARFIELD IMPACT isn’t far away from a win for the new stable and FOREST WAR continues to hold his own.
Selections: 1. Ziebell (Top Tip), 4. Written Matter, 9. Night Voyage, 3. Starfield Impact
Race 4:
RELIABLE STAR looks ready to win. Has stretched well regarded stablemate and Perth Cup fancy Pure Devotion with a junior rider on at her past two outings, but Peters Inc’s main man William Pike is back in the saddle for this assignment. Maps soft from gate one and with clear galloping room late, Reliable Star has them covered. BLACK SHADOW is the obvious threat and his last-start result suggests Team Taylor have this bloke ready to peak. Always a tough bugger to combat when he’s fit and firing. Anticipating sharp improvement from COME RIGHT BACK third up from this alley, while weight-droppers LADY DUCKWORTH and THE ROAN RANGER are up for discussion also.
Selections: 4. Reliable Star (Top Tip), 2. Black Shadow, 3. Come Right Back, 10. Lady Duckworth
Race 5:
Small but select Scahill Stakes and confident COMFORT ME comes out on top. Charged into Railway Stakes calculations with two monster ratings race victories, before running his heart out behind Western Empire in the $1 million Group 1 two weeks back. Comfort Me thrives in fast races and with a suitable tempo this fellow can show he belongs at this level. Don’t be surprised to see RED CAN MAN give this a shake. Had little luck in the Winterbottom last week and with a free-flowing run on top of the speed, he’ll make things very interesting. MASSIMO will be looking to repeat his Lee Steere Stakes win by leading all the way, while STAGEMAN gets only his second look at 1400m, having finished fourth in the 2019 Scahill. Warhorse VALOUR ROAD can never be underestimated.
Selections: 6. Comfort Me (Top Tip), 5. Red Can Man, 3. Massimo, 4. Stageman
Race 6:
Plenty of hopes in an open Lee Steere Classic and ending up siding with REAL DANGER. Isn’t really one of the Peters Investments pin-up horses, but was quite taken with her Placid Ark Stakes effort coming from last with some of the best splits of the day. Likely settles rearwards again but thinking she has the closing speed to swoop over the top. FLYING MISSILE got the listed win she deserved in the Placid Ark and will be really hard to beat again up on top of the speed. ACEFIRE is coming off the back of two dominant midweek wins but despite the class rise will have some fans, while quality stablemates STAY SAFE and LIWA have peak form capable of winning this event.
Selections: 8. Real Danger (Top Tip), 2. Flying Missile, 4. Acefire, 3. Stay Safe
Race 7:
Barriers have narrowed the Jungle Dawn Classic down to a race in two on paper between SHEZA CHALMER and BRIGHT DIAMOND, and rolling with Sheza Chalmer to keep the cerise-and-white army at bay. Was massive first up behind Wilchino and was among a number of unlucky runners in the Jungle Mist Classic when a slashing third. Gets her chance from this low draw and expecting her to be strongest late. Bright Diamond was super stiff in the Jungle Mist and probably wins with clear running. Does tick a lot of boxes and has to be the horse to beat. ANGELIC MISS is at her explosive best over 1200m and, while the draw hinders, I’m still anticipating a competitive performance at 1400m. REAL CHARISMA is back from a setback but if right will be charging home into the finish. LA FAROLA has to be respected after an impressive first-up win over God Has Chosen.
Selections: 5. Sheza Chalmer (Top Tip), 9. Bright Diamond, 4. Angelic Miss, 10. Real Charisma
Race 8:
WESTERN EMPIRE made the racing world’s jaw drop with his Railway rampage two weeks back. He’ll have to do it a different way from this draw, with Pike likely to drop him out and cool him off early, but with “The Wizard” plotting a path around a smaller-than-usual Kingston Town Classic field Western Empire is still expected to cruise to another arrogant victory. The very best of All Star Mile-winning stablemate REGAL POWER could make things interesting and his two runs this prep confirm the camp have him back on track. 1800m is the big query on KISSONALLFORCHEEKS but she maps for a soft run and just needs to chill out early to record another Group 1 placing. High-quality filly SEARCHIN’ ROC’S gets the draw to make the most of her 50kg and 3YOs often hold their own in this. Possible leader TOO CLOSE THE SUN improved second up and finished fourth in this race last year.
Selections: 7. Western Empire (Top Tip), 1. Regal Power, 9. Kissonallforcheeks, 10. Searchin’ Roc’s
Race 9:
Thinking relative newcomer BENJI’S is the way to go in the “get-out”. Showed plenty of promise in his initial racing campaign with the stable not shy about testing him in black-type company, where he exceeded market expectations. Resumed with a strong midweek result under 60.5kg, drops 4kg, strips fitter, blinkers go on and Steve Parnham gets the draw to give him every conceivable opportunity. MEMORABLE MISS closed off well to salute second up over 1300m but will be even better suited rising to the mile. Maps soft from gate one and likely gets last crack at them. Tea mate EXPRESSIONIST finally put it all together last start, but can he do it again? BRAGWELL has done plenty right this prep and DOWNFORCE appears well placed down in class.
Selections: 8. Benji’s (Value Bet), 9. Memorable Miss, 2. Expressionist, 7. Bragwell
Unibet – From the Traders’ Desk:
Race 4 #4 Reliable Star (2.25) – LAY BET
Race 4 #14 The Roan Ranger (19.00) – VALUE BET
Race 7 #5 Sheza Chalmer (3.90) – BEST BET
Race 8 #7 Western Empire (1.40)
Doomben
Race 9: Zoustyle (2.45) – LAY BET
Race 1:
FEARLESS KNIGHT (3) Made considerable ground when 3rd last run at Sunshine Coast and fitter for debut run. Capable of taking this out. CAPITAL TOWER (1) Did enough to win last run at this course and was on debut last time. Must be considered. RUSSIAN WARRIOR (11) Allan Chau trained 2yo by Russian Revolution on debut. Major player who should go very close. MISHANI MENTAL (2) Really dug deep when winning last run at this course but rises in weight today. Could sneak a place.
Race 2:
AMMOUDI BAY (2) Nice run when 2nd three runs back at Mackay but rising in grade. Winning hope. KEDLESTON (16) Won last time at Longreach and gets some weight relief. Likely to get a nice run behind the speed. Been in the money 5 from 6 attempts this campaign. Key hope. HI HARRY (12) Flashed home late into 2nd last run at Roma and has minimal work to do from the draw. Should land a nice spot just off the speed. Keep an eye on the market. RATHER SALUBRIOUS (1) Fought on gamely when winning two runs back at Yeppoon but rises in weight. Very competitive this preparation. Could win with the right run.
Race 3:
ASHGROVE (3) Won by a huge margin last time at this venue but rising in class. Strong claims. CABOCHE (1) Showed a clean pair of heels to win by a margin of 1/2L last time at Sunshine Coast and won’t be far away during the run. Very competitive this preparation. Strong hope. GYPSY GODDESS (6) Fought on gamely when winning last time at Sunshine Coast and will try to take advantage of the gate. Flying this campaign with 2 wins from 2 starts. Has the ability to figure. DEEP TEMPEST (5) Nice effort when winning two runs back at Sunshine Coast. Should just about get the run of the race. Follow market leads.
Race 4:
WALL STREET TYCOON (10) Fought on well to win last run at Longreach and gets some weight taken off today. Has hit top form this preparation with 5 wins from as many runs. Better claims. PIRACY (2) Really dug deep when winning last run at Chinchilla and very competitive this preparation. Should get a lovely cart into it from just behind the pace. Better claims. PATENTED (9) Led and controlled the pace to win by 1L last time at Roma but up against stronger competition today. Racing consistently since returning from a break. Market may be ultimate guide. AHWAHNEECHEE (3) Got the prize when winning two runs back at Barcaldine. Likely to get a nice run behind the speed. Has been a model of consistency since resuming from a break. Could win with the right run.
Race 5:
TIGER HEART (1) Snuck in a place when 2nd last time at this venue and let up. Should enjoy a cosy run off the pace. Hard to overlook. FAR TOO EASY (2) Did enough to win last start at Gold Coast but faces a rise in distance. Second up from a break. Hard to dismiss. ZUMA CALIFORNIA (8) Set the pace to win by a margin of 3 1/2L last start at Toowoomba and suited by the weight drop. Very tidy this campaign winning 2 from as many attempts. Betting may be best guide to the chances and each way is the likely play. WARDADDY (6) Was outmuscled when 2nd last time at this course and having third run back from a break. Shows good early pace. At least a place chance.
Race 6:
LIGULATE (1) Bold effort to win two runs back at Eagle Farm. Been in the money 3 from 4 attempts this preparation. Take beating. WAPITI (3) Got the upper hand late when winning last run at Sunshine Coast. Been in the money 5 from 6 attempts this campaign. Can get the job done. SO YOU WIN (2) Good run when finishing 2nd three runs back at Ipswich and having third run back from a spell. Finishes off strongly. Among better hopes. HUMBOLT CURRENT (6) Jumped at $26 and looked flat when 10th last start at Sunshine Coast and likely to get back in the run. Having second run back from a break. Each way prospects.
Race 7:
TAMBO’S MATE (5) Brave effort to win two runs back at the track and very competitive this campaign. Ryan Maloney has multiple wins aboard. Has genuine claims in this race. THE HARROVIAN (3) Ran on strongly when 3rd two runs back at the track but first run back after a spell. Expecting to settle just off the pace. Good to see Brad Stewart is jumping back on. Winning hope. NICCANOVA (2) Bold run when 4th last time at the track. Having second run back from a spell. Should just about get the run of the race. Will be in the finish. MORETHANNUMBERONE (12) Was all too good winning two runs back at Gold Coast and will appreciate a good barrier. Possesses very good closing speed. Can go on with it.
Race 8:
WANDABAA (2) Rattled home nicely into 2nd last time at Newcastle but hoping that the added weight won’t hurt. Include in chances. MIAMI FLEISS (7) Was first to greet the judge when winning last start at Gold Coast and shows good early pace. Had a break from racing and returns to competition. Winnable race. LYRICAL GIRL (10) Led throughout to win by 1 1/4L last time at this track but facing a stronger grade today. Won’t be far away during the run. Deserves consideration. JUAN DIVA (15) Was found wanting late when 2nd three runs back at Gosford and back in an easier grade. Displays good tactical speed. Won’t be far away and represents an each way player.
Race 9:
ZOUSTYLE (5) Controlled the pace when winning by 1 3/4L last run at Sunshine Coast and Brad Stewart is a key engagement. Races well second up winning 2 from 3 runs. Will be positive in the run early. Definite winning chance. BALLER (4) Was first to greet the judge when winning two runs back at Eagle Farm and proven runner at this distance. Having second run back from a spell. Respect. WEONA SMARTONE (11) Showed a clean pair of heels to win by a long neck last time at Gold Coast and expecting to settle positively. Could build on a strong first up record. Winnable race. SHOOTING FOR GOLD (9) Displayed potential when winning two runs back here and generally strong second up. Likely to race off the speed. Serious player.
Race 10:
RHAPSODY ROSE (2) Made all to win by 2 1/2L last run at Eagle Farm and back from a freshen up. Likely to be well placed early. Appears as a winning threat. ME ME LAGARDE (6) Game effort to win last start at the track and should race just behind the speed. Having second run back from a break. Worth a ticket. STELLAR MAGIC (4) Really dug deep when winning two runs back at Eagle Farm. Displays very good finishing speed. Must respect in this event. PUTONTHEREDLIGHT (10) Was fighting out the finish when winning three runs back at Sunshine Coast but up against stronger competition. Strong chance.
Race 1: Fearless Knight
Race 2: Ammoudi Bay
Race 3: Deep Tempest
Race 4: Patented each way
Race 5: Tiger Heart
Race 6: Ligulate
Race 7: Tambo’s Mate
Race 8: Wandabaa
Race 9: Zoustyle
Race 10: Rhapsody Rose
Sportsbet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 1:
After a washout last week, another deluge this week, a transferred meeting midweek things finally look to be improving on the weather front. Track rated a heavy (10) as I type Wed morning, Thurs onwards mostly rain free. We kick off with the 2yo’s & from what we’ve seen the pace comes from 1, 2 & 5 however I’m suggesting there will be others also pushing on. Liked FEARLESS KNIGHT’s debut when missing the start just over a length, he really surged late suggesting 1200m suits & the breed get through the ground. FLORAL OASIS excuses latest bred to swim. Loved the trial of RUSSIAN WARRIOR.
Selections: 3. Fearless Knight (Top Tip), 6. Floral Oasis, 11. Russian Warrior, 1. Capital Tower
Race 2:
First of our ‘Country Challenge’ finals which are always a great spectacle however not so great if you’re trying to find the winner! I’ll go with the Rocky trained HI HARRY who does tick a number of boxes. Firstly he draws well which will give Brad Stewart options, he’s won here at Doomben over this trip, he’s won twice on soft ground, placed on heavy & importantly he’s in form having placed 3 of his past 4 starts. LI’L RODGE should be a decent price, well placed getting back onto a grass surface. ‘Battle Of The Bush’ winner RATHER SALUBRIOUS in the mix also, gate & going could be better!
Selections: 12. Hi Harry (Top Tip), 14. Li’l Rodge, 1. Rather Salubrious, 4. Doom
Race 3:
Could be a tricky map with all runners going to the 2000m trip for the first time, Caboche looks the most likely with Deep Tempest possibly settling a little closer than he has at his 3 starts to date? Ashgrove & Du Maurier handy. Fair to say ASHGROVE didn’t beat anything at his demolition job here recently however he could only win & he did that by 3.5L eased down late. His prior runs were good, he’s in the top yard, is bred to get this trip & further & handle the going. The Vandyke pair DEEP TEMPEST & GYPSY GODDESS have done nothing wrong, logical threats. SERGEANT SILVA must go in also.
Selections: 3. Ashgrove (Top Tip), 5. Deep Tempest, 6. Gypsy Goddess, 2. Sergeant Silva
Race 4:
The other country series race is for the sprinters over the 1110m & we’re likely again to have a full field. I’m with PIRACY who gets the services of Ryan Maloney & comes off a recent trial here where he held off the very smart sprinter The Odyssey in good time with neither of the pair being pushed out. He’s racing well having won his past couple which includes a win at Dalby two back lumping 71.5kg. AHWAHNEECHEE ran third in the ‘Battle Of The Bush’ final after tracking wide, gate no help again. Similar story for the in-form PATENTED. Can WALL STREET TYCOON keep his ‘picket fence’ going?
Selections: 2. Piracy (Top Tip), 3. Ahwahneechee, 9. Patented, 10. Wall Street Tycoon
Race 5:
Wardaddy can lead however he may not have it on his own with nos.5, 8, 12 & possibly 2 all pushing on? Ryan Maloney can park just off the speed on TIGER HEART who comes up with an ideal draw. Both runs this prep good without luck, he’s been back to the trials winning a heat here recently in good time & won’t have any concerns on the wet ground. FAR TOO EASY could be unbeaten, he missed the start 2 lengths at his only defeat & was beaten 2.1…! WARDADDY will give a sight whilst I like the look of the other Gollan runner MUSCHIALLI who has improved nicely this prep.
Selections: 1. Tiger Heart (Best of the Day), 2. Far Too Easy, 6. Wardaddy, 7. Muschialli
Race 6:
From the sand to the turf, last start Roma Cup winner Tears Of Love should lead Happy Go Plucky & Wapiti who will both come across. The race does set up perfectly for last start winner WAPITI who is a proven weight carrier & should handle the rise in weight. However SO YOU WIN really caught my eye in the same race as WAPITI at the Sunshine Coast last start making good ground, this is his right trip, he comes to hand quickly & he’s won more races on soft ground than dry. Stablemate HUMBOLT CURRENT was good also, he may need another though? PROMETHEUS placed this trip in 2017! Ligulate 2000m?
Selections: 2. So You Win (Top Tip), 3. Wapiti, 8. Prometheus, 1. Ligulate
Race 7:
Feel a bit sorry for this race, set to be run last Saturday, then Wednesday now today, just hope it’s not an omen & we get a 100/1 winner! Barney’s Law leads 5 or 8 on the map, there’s not a lot of tempo about on paper. In the conditions I’m with NICCANOVA who I thought put in a very encouraging run first up finishing off nicely without threat, the step up in trip is a plus as is the wet ground. Love the way BALLISTIC BOY is going, with better luck he could be going for 7 straight here, recent trial very good. TAMBO’S MATE & THE HARROVIAN definite winning chances also, both love the wet.
Selections: 2. Niccanova (Top Tip), 4. Ballistic Boy, 5. Tambo’s Mate, 3. The Harrovian
Race 8:
What will Tony Gollan do with Miami Fleiss? All set to run her this week & comes up with a car park gate, glad it’s a decision I don’t have to make! Absulute raffle where the pace should come from her stable mates 1 & 12 who have also drawn poorly. With no confidence at this early stage I’ll put WANDABAA on top as she’s got the Lost And Running form which ties back through Nature Strip & The Everest, she loves the wet ground as well which is a big help. TARA JASMINE is a swimmer, PALAISAPAN isn’t proven in it however her first up run was terrific & she’ll enjoy the step up in trip.
Selections: 2. Wandabaa (Top Tip), 16. Tara Jasmine, 20. Palaisipan, 7. Miami Fleiss
Race 9:
The days feature is the Group 3 George Moore where the speedy Zoustyle leads, there is no way Weona Smartone can cross him from out there, Stampe from gate 1 will land behind Zoustyle. Love the gate for BALLER who can lob into a perfect spot for Steph Thornton, his first up run in the Keith Noud was a cracker charging home late from further back than connections would have liked. His only heavy run was a 5 length defeat in a Group 1 behind Nature Strip, he’ll handle it! Zoustyle will give a sight, won 3 times on soft however all below 1200m. Cannot leave out the likes of nos.9 & 11.
Selections: 4. Baller (Value Bet), 5. Zoustyle, 9. Shooting For Gold, 11. Weona Smartone
Race 10:
The lucky last is a terrific race for the 3yo fillies where I’d expect the pace to be set by nos.7, 12 & 13 predominantly however there are others quite capable of also going forward, tempo should be solid. Going to take a punt on STELLAR MAGIC running the 1200m, she’s had a couple of goes prior & just hasn’t shown the same closing speed as she has over 1000m. Her runs this time in though suggest that’s what she’s looking for? ME ME LAGARDE is a class act, impressive effort to get over the leaders first up & she’ll take good improvement off that. GLORIOUS RUBY will give her usual honest sight.
Selections: 4. Stellar Magic (Top Tip), 6. Me Me Lagarde, 1. Glorious Ruby, 3. Miss Hipstar
Pakenham
Race 1: #3 HIGH ‘N’ DRY (8.50) – BEST VALUE
Race 4: #1 MARINE ONE (4.20) – BEST BET
Race 3: Brownie (3.10) – BEST BET
Race 1:
LYRICAL LAD (4) Kicked clear when winning last start at Cranbourne but rising in weight. Likely to get a nice run behind the speed. Looks a strong bet for punters. TYCOON BEC (7) Claimed late when 3rd last run at Geelong and second up from a spell. Won’t be far away during the run. Has the ability to take this out. MR PICKWICK (8) Nice run when 3rd last run at Donald and second up. Should just about get the run of the race. Watch it go close. HIGH ‘N’ DRY (3) Put in a competitive run when placing 2nd two runs back at Bendigo. Third up from a spell. Exotics chance.
Race 2:
MAYBE THE BEST (6) Did well when 2nd last time at Cranbourne and drops back to a suitable grade. Displays good tactical speed. Rates well in this race. MARIAMIA (2) Made every post a winner to win by a margin of 7L last start at Moonee Valley and will benefit with the weight drop. Racing for the second time this week. Rates a winning chance. GROOVY KINDA LOVE (5) Was rock solid when winning two runs back at Ballarat but carrying more weight than last time. Shows very good closing speed. Expected to fight out the finish. STARLIGHT SCOPE (4) Dictated terms in front when winning by a margin of 1 1/4L last time at Sandown and should muster plenty of early toe. Very tidy this campaign winning 2 from as many starts. Marginal hopes.
Race 3:
BROWNIE (9) Set the tempo to win by a margin of 3 1/4L last start at Moonee Valley and won’t be far away during the run. Tracking very well this campaign. Could prove hard to beat. WINSUM (10) Rattled home nicely into 3rd three runs back at Caulfield but coming back in trip today. Could build on a strong first up record. Expecting to settle just off the pace. Can have an impact. GALENUS (6) Finished on top two runs back at Cranbourne and should be going forward early. Races well fresh winning 4 from 6 runs. Goes close. LADY SOLLY (3) Did a good job when winning last run at Moonee Valley and shows good early pace. Goes well second up with 3 wins from 6 attempts. Good prospect for the exotics at least.
Race 4:
UNFLINCHING (3) Gave them all something to chase to win by 1 1/2L last run at Moonee Valley but going up in weight. Unbeaten this campaign with 2 wins from as many runs. Very hard to beat. MARINE ONE (1) Did a good job when winning two runs back at Moonee Valley and dropping in class. Will be pushing for a forward position early. Racing consistently since returning from a break. One of the better chances. CECIL STREET LAD (4) Did enough to win three runs back at Sandown and winkers go off for the first time. Likely to race off the speed. Has the ability to take this out. RUSHEEN (6) Nice run placing 3rd last time at Moonee Valley and second up from a break. Always seems to find the line well. Could be value.
Race 5:
FRANKIE PINOT (7) Came on strongly when 2nd last run at Ballarat and carrying less weight this time. Should get going late. Racing in good fashion and a definite winning chance in what appears a suitable race. HI STRANGER (1) Did a good job when winning last start at Kilmore and easy to come into at the trip. Chance to break through and a could give a show. DON’T DOUBT DORY (2) Landed the spoils when winning two runs back at Mornington and strong performer at this distance in the past. Likely to be well placed early. Expected to fight out the finish. NONAME LANE (9) Was much too speedy in front when winning by 1 1/2L last start at Morphettville and won’t be far away during the run. Very competitive this campaign. Capable of getting into the money.
Race 6:
RANTING (6) Rattled home nicely into 3rd last time at Ballarat and finishes off strongly. Trainer has gone for the winkers off, take note. Key hope. OCEAN BEYOND (8) Was fighting out the finish when winning last start at Ballarat and ideal distance as proven previously. Has the ability to figure. DEFIANT DANCER (9) Finished 3 3/4L behind the winner at Flemington last run on a soft surface but carrying less weight this time. Races well second up winning 2 from 3 runs. Can feature. BLAZEJOWSKI (1) Hit the line well when 3rd three runs back at Caulfield and second up. Displays good closing speed. Can threaten if right today.
Race 7:
SMOKIN’ ROMANS (8) Winner three runs back at Moonee Valley. Been in the money 10 from 13 attempts this campaign. One of the major players. TEAM CAPTAIN (10) Found another gear when winning last start at Flemington. Has been a model of consistency since resuming from a break. Can give this a shake. MANKAYAN (6) Game effort to win last time at Cranbourne and carrying less weight this time. Should muster plenty of early speed. Warrants a bet. MIMI’S AWARD (14) Came on strongly to finish 2nd three runs back at Caulfield but racing in stronger company today. Might be ridden for luck. Has to be strongly considered.
Race 8:
YULONG JANUARY (1) Set the pace when winning by a long neck last run at Flemington and Jye Mcneil rates highly. Likely to be well placed early. Serious player. WAY TO GO PAULA (11) Good performance to run into 2nd last time at Ballarat and third up from a spell. Possesses very good closing speed. Cannot underestimate. WINNING PARTNER (2) Displayed potential when winning three runs back at Balaklava and freshened up. Will be hitting the line strongly. Could go well. LOOKS LIKE ELVIS (3) Stormed home when 3rd last start at Hawkesbury but goes up in weight. Looks value and a good place bet.
Race 9:
KISSINGER (5) Good run finishing 2nd two runs back at Geelong. Should race just behind the speed. Big chance. ROUSSEAU (12) Brave effort to win last time at Moonee Valley and racing again inside a week. Drawn to sit just in behind the speed. Keep in mind. THE AWESOME SON (14) Did a good job when winning last run at Moonee Valley but rising in class. Possesses very good closing speed. Good prospect for the exotics at least. COURT DEEP (4) Finished on top last run at Penshurst and expecting to settle positively. Very competitive this preparation. Not without claims.
Race 1: High ‘N’ Dry
Race 2: Groovy Kinda Love
Race 4: Marine One
Race 5: Frankie Pinot
Race 6: Munitions
Race 8: Winning Partner
Race 9: Kissinger
Race 1: Blow Torch
Race 2: Starlight Scope
Race 3: Brownie
Race 4: Cecil Street Lad
Race 5: Don’t Doubt Dory
Race 6: Vainstream
Race 7: Mankayan
Race 8: Way To Go Paula
Race 9: Kissinger
Race 1:
1. Denero, 3. High ‘n’ Dry, 7. Tycoon Bec, 4. Lyrical Lad
Race 2:
5. Groovy Kinda Love, 2. Mariamia, 8. Standoff, 4. Starlight Scope
Race 3:
6. Galenus (SCRATCHED), 10. Winsum, 3. Lady Solly, 9. Brownie
Race 4:
3. Unflinching, 1. Marine One, 6. Rusheen, 4. Cecil Street Lad
Race 5:
4. Holbien (BEST ROUGHIE), 1. Hi Stranger, 7. Frankie Pinot, 2. Don’t Doubt Dory
Race 6:
8. Ocean Beyond, 1. Blazejowski, 4. Munitions, 6. Ranting
Race 7:
14. Mimi’s Award, 6. Mankayan, 9. Flash Aah, 2. In a Twinkling
Race 8:
3. Looks Like Elvis (BEST VALUE), 11. Way To Go Paula, 1. Yulong January, 7. Turbeau
Race 9:
5. Kissinger (BEST BET), 13. Royal Order, 1. Wyclif, 12. Rousseau
Sportsbet – Race Comments and Selections:
Race 1:
BLOW TORCH coming off a freshen and stepping back to his best trip sparks interest. He gets in nicely weighted with a 3kg claimer engaged, he ran well two and three runs back and the form lines through those races read more than well enough for a race like this. TYCOON BEC certainly did enough for mine first up in what was her first career defeat. The two that beat her home both had race fitness and both look live chances later on in the card. DENERO will be running on from the back. HIGH ‘N’ DRY is third up and ready to fire over the mile back on firmer footing.
Selections: 2. Blow Torch (Top Tip), 7. Tycoon Bec, 1. Denero, 3. High ‘n’ Dry
Race 2:
Sticking with the winning form of STARLIGHT SCOPE and happy to suggest that she can notch up a hat-trick here. She now has to do it in stronger company but drops 4kg from her last win and I like that the stable has kept her to this trip. STAR OF EDEN has jumped out nicely, gets good weight relief with a 3kg claimer and maps for the run of the race. UNDER MY SPELL always fires first up but best efforts are 1600m+. On form though she is right up to a field of this calibre. It might prove advantageous for STANDOFF to step back to 1400m. She will be strong at the back end of the race.
Selections: 4. Starlight Scope (Top Tip), 3. Star Of Eden, 1. Under My Spell, 8. Standoff
Race 3:
BROWNIE is a horse with real upside for mine and I think she’s deserving of a crack in this grade. I love that she gets in super light with Josh Richards sticking on. She will go forward and be given every chance. WINSUM has been jumping out very nicely leading into the prep and maps to park behind a wall of them vying for the front. GALENUS has won four from six first up and placed in the other two. That stat alone puts him in the mix and two trials wins leading into this only strengthen his case. LADY SOLLY will be in it for a long way, the final 50m is the query.
Selections: 9. Brownie (Top Tip), 10. Winsum, 6. Galenus (SCRATCHED), 3. Lady Solly
Race 4:
I would rather have seen CECIL STREET LAD not draw barrier one, but I like the form through his first prep and a recent jumpout was rock solid. Where Jamie gets him to in running looks the key to his winning chances. UNFLINCHING has some serious speed to burn and didn’t give rivals a chance last time out after leading. Said rivals included TRANSLATION and RUSHEEN, who look to be the other main hopes in the race, but Unflinching has their measure for mine.
Selections: 4. Cecil Street Lad (Top Tip), 3. Unflinching, 9. Translation, 6. Rusheen
Race 5:
I’m happy to forgive the last-start effort of DON’T DOUBT DORY in the Cranbourne Cup; his wheels were spinning on a heavy 10 deck. Loved his win two back and his recent tick-over jumpout win was rock solid too. He offsets weight with a 2kg claimer aboard, so with nothing on his back and on a good track, he very much appeals. HI STRANGER is the class horse of the field so has to lump 60kg, which could anchor him a bit. NONAME LANE has super-consistent overall form in SA and we can tie that form in via Sign Of Ussuri/Regalo Di Gaetano. FRANKIE PINOT next best.
Selections: 2. Don’t Doubt Dory (Top Tip), 1. Hi Stranger, 9. Noname Lane (SCRATCHED), 7. Frankie Pinot
Race 6:
VAINSTREAM was given a strong hitout to win a trial leading into this so, as prior form suggests, he is ready to fire first up. I will concede last preparation he was a little underwhelming, but on his best efforts the prep prior he was scratching the surface of being stakes quality. BLAZEJOWSKI was solid first up lumping 60kg over an unsuitable winning trip on heavy conditions, which aren’t to his liking. RANTING ran on strongly last time out. A repeat effort will see him chiming in when it matters. OCEAN BEYOND has been rock solid this prep.
Selections: 3. Vainstream (Value Bet), 1. Blazejowski, 6. Ranting, 8. Ocean Beyond
Race 7:
MANKAYAN beat all bar Caulfield Cup fifth Great House in the Hotham before a gutsy win last start over this trip when flushed out early on the turn and having to sustain a run. 3kg lighter here and with the booking of Jye McNeil, he should prove hard to beat. TEAM CAPTAIN bypassed Zipping Classic day in preference for this after an impressive last-start Flemington win courtesy of a peach ride by B.McDougall. MIMI’S AWARD went to the line untested two back and then finished well over shorter last start. Big yes to 2500m now. SMOKIN’ ROMANS is super honest and must be a main hope too.
Selections: 6. Mankayan (Top Tip), 10. Team Captain, 14. Mimi’s Award, 8. Smokin’ Romans
Race 8:
WAY TO GO PAULA ran on very well from right back last time out, which just screamed that she needs more ground, noting all of her best runs have come over 1400m. Concede she is drawn to receive no favours and might have no option but to get back again, but Jamie Kah jumps back aboard so a good steer can see her chiming in when it matters. LOOKS LIKE ELVIS sparks interest. He hasn’t won for a long time but the majority of his racing has been in stakes grade. YULONG JANUARY is a trip specialist who maps to lead so you won’t die wondering. TURBEAU chasing a hat-trick goes in the mix.
Selections: 11. Way To Go Paula (Top Tip), 3. Looks Like Elvis, 1. Yulong January, 7. Turbeau
Race 9:
KISSINGER has done everything but win in his last two runs and should be peaking now fourth up. He maps for the gun run and again offsets weight with a claimer on. It just sets up very well for him. WYCLIF was solid first up over an unsuitable winning trip and now gets the right distance, but is 31 days between runs and “maps sticky” from a low draw. ROUSSEAU on the quick back-up had the track pattern to suit at The Valley to score but there was merit in the run. SALTPETER is racing like he wants this trip.
Selections: 5. Kissinger (Best of the Day), 1. Wyclif, 12. Rousseau, 8. Saltpeter