30/06/12 - Caulfield, Rosehill and Sunshine Coast

Caulfield

Race 1 - There should be a solid speed in the opening event.  That should suit my pick, Le Societe (2).  Has the Moody/Nolen combination and will revel in the slow going.  Her 1st 2 starts she looked great winning in these conditions.  Had a tough run last start but still finished just 1.4 lengths from Shopaholic.  Other hopes to Vatican (1), Lovemelongtime (5) and Loveyamadly (7).

Race 2 - By the time you read this, the horse has probably bolted so to speak with Elite Elle (6).  This filly has been absolutely crunched in from $3.80 to $2.20.  She has an unbeaten record and has been mighty impressive in both starts.  Has won on heavy.  Other hopes to Flamberge (1), Haussmann (2) and Grand Emperor (4).

Race 3 - Rue Maple (2) has to lug 60kg here but that may not be enough stop her.  She has the in form Brad Rawiller on board.  She's always thereabouts as her overall record suggests.  She has great slow track form and has won or placed 8 from 11 at the track.  Will take up a great position from the good gate.  Other hopes to Pyrenees Express (10), Songbird Lane (11) and Spurcific (4).

***With the scratching of Songbird Lane, I'll promote Legion's Belle (12) to the other hopes***

Race 4 - Langridge Street (4) has been racing in great heart lately, winning 1 and placing 2nd in it's last 3 starts.  It has a good record over this distance and also hasn't been out of the placings on a slow track.  Last start it beat Turnitup and meets it better at the weights here.  Other hopes to Turnitup (2), Paddy O'Reilly (1) and You Think So (8).

***With the scratching of You Think So, I'll promote Crafty Cruiser (7) to the other hopes***

Race 5 - I don't think there's much separating Platelet and Roses In The Glen.  I think Roses In The Glen (2) gets a much better run and can camp up right on the speed.  Her wet track form is excellent and she loves this distance.   Froggy Newitt rides and he'll be wanting to get the win to help him jag the jockey's premiership.  Other hopes to Platelet (1), Gig (3) and Handcut (13).

***With the scratching of Handcut, I'll promote Champagne Shisha (6) to the other hopes***

Race 6 - Lord Wimble (8) looks a massive chance in this.  Firstly he drops considerably (6kg) in weight here from his past races and gets the champion jockey Glen Boss in the saddle.  His wet track form is good, winning or placing in 5 of 7 races.  His overall record is a good one also.  With the Bossman guiding him, you know he's going to get a great run.  Other hopes to Ebony Rock (7), Streets Away (5) and Cosmic Causeway (3).

Race 7 - Vihanna Victory (10) gets in well here with just 51kg after the claim.  It has won it's only go over this distance and has never been out of the placings on wet tracks.  There doesn't seem to be a great deal of speed here so I think it can push up from the inside draw and take a nice position.  Other hopes to Manhattan Maid (2), Sussuro (4) and Charlie's Queen (7).

Race 8 - I was a little concerned where a lot of these will end up once the gates open.  Jayconi (9) is one such horse that won't have a problem with that.  He'll jump out and head to the front.  I feel that he may be able to control the pace in this race.  He has a good record over this distance and also on slow tracks.  I just feel he'll put himself into the race whereas some of the other hopes might encounter problems.  Other hopes to Hotham Heights (3), Jugahlation (5) and Oregon Spirit (7). 

Rosehill

Race 1 - This is not a race I'll be getting involved in.  I'll be watching with interest Grand Business and Knight Exemplar.

Race 2 - Bello (1) looks right up to winning this.  He'll get a excellent run from the gate and will be able possie up just behind the leader.  He has a great wet track record and likes this track.  His last start 2nd where he ran 1.3 lengths to Eucumbene is excellent for this.  Other hopes to Hendricus (3), Flying Zero (4) and Australian Start (10).

Race 3 - Radharcnafarraige (1) isn't an Irish horse having it's 1st start for the Freedman/Rogerson team.  She won a Group 3 in Ireland over this distance.  She's had 2 trials since coming to Australia and her latest was an impressive effort.  She beat horses such as Lady Lynette and King Lionheart by 5 lengths.  She lead on that occasion and I think she can get to a forward position here.  Has handled all track conditions.  Other hopes to Embark (3), Divya (8) and Jester's Girl (13).

Race 4 - This isn't a race I'm particularly excited about.  Having said that, I think Euryale (11) is a winning chance.  She has won both her starts this campaign at this track and over this distance.  Has won both her starts on heavy going so a wet track won't phase her.  Should enjoy a nice run behind the speed.  Other hopes to Havana Rey (1), Nissile (2) and Cumin (5).


Race 5 - River Of Salvation (3) will lead here and I think can control the race.  He has won 3 from 4 over this distance.  He would ideally like the track to get to dead but has a slow track win to his credit.  Robl is a good booking to guide this bloke to victory.  Other hopes to Sindarin (12), Let Them Have It (6) and Calvo (10).


Race 6 - Ideal Position (8) grabbed the chocolates for us last time and I'm thinking he can repeat the dose here.  He has a great overall record, winning 8 from 15.  He came to this track last start and won over this distance on slow going.  Will position himself midfield and come home with a flurry.  Other hopes to Alberton Park (4), Think Mink (9) and Tromso (3).


Race 7 - Going with Turf Hero (7) in this.  He has a good record over this distance and can handle all types of going.  He came very close to beating Famous Seamus last start and raced very well against Dee 'n Gee a few months ago.  He should be able to position himself handy from the good gate.  Other hopes to Whitlam (11), Earnest Ernest (12) and Kirinata (8).

***With the scratching of Turf Hero, I'll make Earnest Ernest (12) my top pick and promote Martin Place (4) to the other hopes***


Race 8 - I'm keeping the faith with Harry Trimbole (11) in the last.  He goes particularly well on dead/slow tracks.  He's raced reasonably well in his last 2 starts and I think he's due to win.  Other hopes to Tropicana Girl (9), Glintz (2) and Lethal Arrow (7).


Sunshine Coast


Race 1 - With a heavy 10 track and that's probably being conservative, I'm on the look out for noted mudlarks.  In this race Vipera Gold (1) fits that bill.  This mare thrives in the wet, possessing a record of 8 wins or placings on wet tracks from 10 tries.  She has a good record at the track and won her only start over this distance here.  Other hopes to Miss Barwang (3), Mossriver (2) and Pretty Composed (9).


Race 2 - I was on Telesto Warrior (8) Ipswich Cup day and felt he was a little unlucky.  I'm sticking with him here.  He has won 2 from 5 on heavy and the last of those wins was a 4 length win over Ausworld who he faces here.  This is his pet distance and will carry just 51kg after the claim.  Other hopes to Ausworld (6), Grey Assignment (7) and Lake George (4).


Race 3 - I would prefer the price on offer for The Ringmaster (2) to be higher but the fact of the matter is that he's a classy horse.  He hasn't raced on worse than dead but he's by noted wet tracker Clang so I'm going to put my trust in him handling the ground.  His perfect 3 from 3 1st up record and 3 from 3 over this distance record is hard to ignore.  Other hopes to Jopa (7), Pattie's Mate (4) and Product (10).


Race 4 - I'm not going anywhere near this race.  


Race 5 - I'm putting Venture On (7) on top in the Guineas.  He hasn't come across a heavy track but he has a win and 3rd on slow going to his credit.  He is unbeaten at the track from 3 starts.  His last start 2nd to Mental where he finished off really well should have him aiming up here.  Other hopes to Double Impact (1), Peppered Black (3) and Ametsis (15).


Race 6 - Jetset Lad (3) has been flying in his last 2 starts, narrowly going down in both.  He has a respectable heavy track record and likes this distance.  He looks due.  Other hopes to Meet George (10), Vareena Miss (5) and Phelan Ready (1).


Race 7 - I'm a big fan of Shenzhou Steeds but I feel the 58kg may find him out.  I'm going with Roi D'Jeu.  He almost pulled off a win over 3200m last start in Sydney on a bog track.  It was a real slog that day and I liked his fighting qualities.  It will be the same in this race.  Other hopes to Shenzhou Steeds (1), Winmara (9) and Za Magic (7).


Race 8 - I really like the look of Cash 'n' Style (5) in the last.  This guy has come back in great style after nearly a year off.  He has a 2 wins and 2nd in those 3 starts.  He has a good wet track record, winning or placing in 5 of 7.  He likes this track and gets in with just 52kg after the claim.  Other hopes to Kiss Me Deadly (6), Mr Orient (1) and Leicester Square (4).

***With the scratching of Leicester Square, I'll promote Darth (15) to the other hopes***


Best Bets


Caulfield - Race 2 Number 6 Elite Elle
              Race 6 Number 8 Lord Wimble


Rosehill - Race 5 Number 3 River Of Salvation
             Race 6 Number 8 Ideal Position


Sunshine Coast - Race 1 Number 1 Vipera Gold
                        Race 8 Number 5 Cash 'n' Style    

22/06/12 - Flemington, Warwick Farm and Eagle Farm

Flemington

Race 1 - Not a race I'm particularly keen to get involved in.  Backing 2 year olds on a potentially heavy track is fraught with danger.  Having said that, the 2 that I would be interested in are General Orders (1) and Royal Chassis (8).  Both horses have seen heavy going and ran well on it.  

Race 2 - Again we have 2 year olds on wet tracks but in this case there's next to no wet track form to speak of.  I'll sit this one out. 

Race 3 - I think Crabs (3) can turn the tables on Swooper here.  Last start Crabs went down by 1.2 lengths over 2400m.  On that occasion he wasn't given the best of chances with the way he was ridden yet still fought on well.  With a better ride here, he can be right in the finish.  Swooper will carry 59kg while Crabs gets in with 54.5kg after the claim.  That could be crucial on a heavy track.  Crabs has also shown a liking to this distance, winning or placing 8 out of 12 times.  His slow track stats are exceptional.  Other hopes to Swooper (1), Streaky Fella (9) and Lordoftheparrots (6).

Race 4 - Rushworth (5) looks hard to beat.  The jockey probably went a little late last time and just missed out.  He hit the line really well.  The start prior, it won by 6.5 lengths on a heavy track.  Other hopes to Molvivre (2), That's The Way (9) and You Tell Me (4).

Race 5 -  Future Solution (15) looked good resuming when it ran 3rd by just a half a length over 1400m.  It raced in the worst going on the inside when they were coming down the outside.  It loves a wet track and has a good record over this distance.  I would imagine it will get a good run from that barrier.  Has Froggy Newitt on board who is chasing the jockey's premiership.  Other hopes to There's Only One (10), Doubtful Jack (3) and Sophrosyne (12).

Race 6 - Menados (8) is a promising type who is putting together a nice record.  He has won 3 of his 5 starts.  He also has a slow and a heavy track win to his credit.  Drops to 54kg after winning with 60kg last start.  Although he has a wide gate, King should be able to slot him in nicely behind the leaders.  Other hopes to Ebony Rock (3), Academy Jack (10) and Population (1).

Race 7 - Johannapine (9) looks incredibly hard to beat here.  She should have won 1st up but was hindered at the 300m before getting going again.  She gets a big weight relief on those that she faced last start.  Has a great record 2nd up, over this distance and on wet tracks.  I can't see her getting beaten.  For the multiples I would include Dash of Viz (8) and Alpha Proxima (1).

Race 8 - Turner Bayou grabbed the cash for The Silk last time out at great odds but I'm going against him this time.  I'll be with Genuine Spin (8).  This Moody trained horse has raced quite well in it's short career.  After an easy win over 1600m on heavy, she ran 2nd to Aeronwy who has since won again.  In that raced it ran wide throughout but still managed to box on.  It has won or placed on it's 2 goes on wet tracks.  Gets in with 54kg.  Other hopes to Turner Bayou (3), Rock Wizard (7) and Burnout (2).


Warwick Farm


Race 1 - I won't be getting overly involved here.  I'll have a small wager on Headless (4).  This filly had a reasonable opening campaign in QLD.  Her last start before a spell, she ran within 1.3 lengths of Doubtfilly who went on to run 4th in the Golden Slipper.  Can handle a wet track.  Will probably head to the front or handy from the inside gate.  Other hopes to Agulhas (9), Magondo (7) and Zin Zan Eddie (3).


Race 2 - I'm not keen on this race. 


Race 3 - This looks a little tricky to me.  I'm going with the Hawkes runner, Blue Lion (10).  It has only had the 1 start which it won in impressive fashion by 4.5 lengths.  I wouldn't imagine that the wet track will hinder it too much.  Should be able to just camp behind the leaders from the good gate.  Being a Zabeel, it should be strong at the finish.  Will carry just 52.5kg.  Other hopes to Green Beret (4), Malavio (2) and Queenian (1).


Race 4 - San Zaim (6) won well last start against the girls.  Steps up to 1600m and against the boys but I don't think that will stop her.  She has a good record over this trip and handles the wet.  She also has won her only start here.  I just think she is travelling much better than the others.  Other hopes to Erewhon (2), Altered Boy (3) and Glintz (5).


Race 5 - On the strength of his wet track form, I'm going with Harry Trimbole (8).  This guy has won or placed 6 from 8 on wet tracks.  He came 2nd by the narrowest of margins last start over 2000m.  Think the 2200m here should suit.  The 54.5kg will seem like a luxury after lumping big weights in recent starts.  Other hopes to Red Eye Special (5), Sour Mash (7) and Southern Shimmer (9).


Race 6 - Romanus (8) hardly ever wins but such is the standard of this race, I'm going with him here.  3 wins from 31 starts doesn't fill one with confidence but he's usually thereabouts.  I feel that there could be a bit of a battle up front and this bloke will able to sit behind them waiting to pounce.  Has shown an ability to handle a wet track.  Other hopes to Coup Ay Tee (4), From The Vault (10) and Zakynthos Imprintz (2).


Race 7 - Urgent Bells (9) has built a nice record up over her 14 starts.  She's only been out of the placings 4 times in those.  She likes this distance, goes well on a wet track and has a good 1st up record.  She has warmed up for this with a couple of nice trials.  She will be able to sit in behind the speed and unleash her trademark finish.  Other hopes to Empress Milly (10), Girls Go Racing (2) and Dehere Hunter (6).


Race 8 - Rushing To Win (7) has started her career in excellent fashion, only losing the 1 start from 5.  She steps up to 1400m here which she has never seen before.  I'm willing to give her the benefit of the doubt and say she can get it.  She should be able to get to the front from the nice gate and I'm hoping she can dictate the speed.  Her wet track form is good.  Other hopes to Disputes (2), Madam Nash (1) and Fashion (4).


Eagle Farm


Race 1 - This is a competitive race with numerous winning hopes.  I'm going with Raise Up (4).  Has the experience of K. McEvoy on top who has ridden the horse it's last 2 starts to good results.  He loves this track, being in the placings 8 from 9 times.  Other hopes to Thefifthhole (1), Tahitian Black (11) and Captain Clayton (2).


Race 2 - Stradon (7) ran really well last start in the Group 2 QLD Guineas where he ran 3rd by 1.4 lengths.  This is an easier assignment than that race.  I can see him getting a great run from the good gate.  I really think he's coming into his own at the moment.  Other hopes to Howmuchdoyouloveme (4), War Charm (3) and Viking Heart (10).


Race 3 - Oak Street (9) should be able to lead here and dictate terms.  That's how he does his best racing.  His last 2 starts have been horrors but 3 starts back he beat Solzhenitsyn at this track and distance.  Gets a firmer track here which will be to his liking. His record here is excellent.  Other hopes to Bianca Jewel (5), Dusty Gold (8) and Fire Up Fifi (11).


Race 4 - Sunset Affair (12) looks to be great value here. Has only had the 3 starts but has looked good in all of them.  She has shown an ability to run on which will help in this 1400m race. She should get an excellent run from the nice gate.  Something that can't be said for the favourite Hoss Amor.  I think she can turn the tables on that horse.  Other hopes to Holey Gadoley (1), Hoss Amor (8) and Discreet (9).


Race 5 - I'm taking the chance that Hugh Bowman won't crucify Firebolt (1) 2 starts in a row.  The horse has been racing really well lately and this looks taylor made for him.  He has a good record at this track and loves this distance. Other hopes to Carry Me Bluey (5), Mystical Grey (4) and Jetset Lad (2).


Race 6 - I was on Kinnersley (4) last week when he was nutted in the dying stages of the Ipswich Cup.  I'm sticking solid in this race.  This horse has a good record over the distance and likes a firm track.  He's on the quick back up which I'm hoping means the Waterhouse team think he's in good shape.  His form has been excellent recently.  I can see him getting a lovely run for Munce.  Other hopes to Wazn (6), Maythehorsebemagic (15) and Ginga Dude (1).


Race 7 - The Tatts Tiara looks a cracking race.  I'm going with Bonnie Mac (14).  This horse has put together a super record, winning 5 from 7.  She'll will get a gun run from the nice draw.  I'm prepared to forget her last start as she was slow away and it was on heavy going.  Having said that, she still made ground.  Her starts prior to that were excellent.  She loves a dead/good track and has a good record over this distance.  Other hopes to Soft Sand (17), Red Tracer (2) and Shopaholic (15).  


Race 8 - There should be a solid pace set here and for that reason, I'm going with Griffon (8).  Last start he was having his 1st run 6 months and what an effort it was.  He flew home and word from people at the track was that you could hear jockey Paul Hammersley making steam train noises in the straight.  He has a good 2nd up record and has won his only start at this track.  Other hopes to Tromso (5), Excellantes (4) and Havatryst (9).  


Best Bets


Flemington - Race 4 Number 5 Rushworth
                  Race 7 Number 9 Johannapine


Warwick Farm - Race 4 Number 6 San Zaim
                      Race 7 Number 9 Urgent Bells


Eagle Farm - Race 5 Number 1 Firebolt
                   

          

16/06/12 - Ipswich Cup Day

It's finally here....Ipswich Cup day!  I really look forward to this day every year and have many fond memories from the past 16 years.  Not all of them have happened on the track! 

This year's event looks set to be a ripper with perfect weather forecast and great fields engaged.  The track is currently rated as dead but I wouldn't be surprised if it improves further.  Good luck!

Race 1

Telesto Warrior (5) just loves the track.  He's raced here 9 times and won 4 and placed 2nd once.  He has won his only start here over this distance.  This horse has been racing in excellent fashion lately putting together 3 wins and a 3rd in it's last 4 races.  Gets in with just 51kg after the claim for Brooke Richardson.  Should be able to hug the fence from the nice gate.  Other hopes Grey Assignment (7), River Of Salvation (8) and Lake George (2).

Race 2

There will be a fair speed set here in this race for 2 year olds.  For that reason, I'm going with Fantisha (8).  It has a horror draw but with so much speed engaged, that shouldn't be as much of a problem.  She has had 2 career starts and both were full of merit. It's debut win by 6.5 lengths was on dead going and from a wide gate. Conditions it will face here.  She will be steaming home!  Other hopes to Splendent Choice (12), Caldetes (2) and Mafia Princess (1).


***With the scratching of Mafia Princess, I'll promote Moment Of Impact (5) to the other hopes***


Best of luck Gibbo with your fella!

Race 3

Rocker (3) looks the one to beat here.  Has put together a nice record in it's short career, winning 5 and placing in 3 others from 9 starts.  It has a win at the track and does like this distance.  Will love the firmer surface on offer.  Colless has a great record riding this horse. Comes into this race following a close 3rd behind top horses Excellantes and Seek And Find. Good form for this!  Other hopes to Startsmeup (10), Pretty Composed (14) and  Altai Warrior (4).

Race 4

This race is headache material.  Any number of these could win this.  You might be best to ask somebody that knows nothing about racing what name they like or what has the prettiest colours.  It is that much of a lottery!  I've looked for a bit of value and have come up with Sir Stanley (5) at around the $13 mark.  He's drawn the 2nd outside gate but he likes to lead and I don't think he'll have much trouble crossing.  He has a good record at the track, winning 3 and placing 2 from 8 starts.  He has a good record at this track and distance.  Other hopes to Bell Academy (1), Crosscannons (3) and Easy Lager (9).

Race 5

Andromache (11) has been flying since coming over from New Zealand.  She has won all 3 of those races, the first 2 being in impressive fashion.  They were run on wet tracks but I think this is a classy animal and won't be worried by a firmer track.  Her record over this distance range is good.  Jeff Lloyd will be able to give her a fantastic run on the speed from the excellent gate.  Other hopes to Gai's Choice (7), Hidden Kisses (8) and Sophie's Spirit (2).  If Neriani (17) the 1st emergency gets a start then I would definitely consider her. 

Race 6

The Ipswich Cup.  Ginga Dude is the class in the race and has been racing very well.  However he has a lot to overcome here.  No winner of the Cup has carried 60kg to victory and he draws the outside.  Having said that, I wouldn't be surprised if he won.  I'm going with the Gai Waterhouse trained Kinnersley (3).  This horse comes off a last start win in the Lordmayors Cup in Sydney over 2000m where it beat Wazn and Firebolt.  Wazn went on to run well in the Brisbane Cup.  Kinnersley also ran well behind Western Symbol the start prior.  Has a good record over this distance and will get a great run on the speed from Munce.  Warmed up for this with a nice trial win at Warwick Farm.  Other hopes to Ginga Dude (1), Shenzhou Steeds (6) and Mr Light Blue (7).

Race 7

The Eyeliner.  Belltone (5) looks up to his eye balls in this race.  He's going to get all the favours from the good draw.  His record over this distance is super, winning 4 and placing in 5 from 12 starts.  His 2 runs back from a spell have been top shelf.  He ran wide when missing out by a half a length to Tiger Tees and then ran 2nd to Celtic Dancer in the wet.  Third up here, he should be cherry ripe to pounce.  Munce has a great record on the horse.  Other hopes to Gundy Son (6), Adnocon (3) and Brigadoon Jack (16).

Race 8

The final race on the card is by no means an easy task to work out.  Vacallo should lead with a number of horses coming across from the outside.  Where they all settle down is anyone's guess. I think we'll be needing for a bit of luck with my pick, Divine City (6).  Has drawn towards the outside but more than likely will settle towards the back of the field.  That's not ideal at Ipswich.  Having said that, she does possess a strong finish.  She ran on well 1st up after being held up for a run. She has a good 2nd up record and appreciates a firm surface.  Munce rides so he'll give her every chance to get clear in the straight.  Other hopes to Ametsis (14), Absalon (2) and Vacallo (4).

  

    

09/06/12 - Eagle Farm, Flemington and Rosehill

Eagle Farm

Race 1 - Discreet looks an excellent chance in the opening event on Stradbroke day.  She won the Calaway Gal last campaign in dominant fashion.  It's form this time around is good also.  Narrowly lost to Regular who is in good form 1st up and then was not too far away from the very good Sizzling.  With a solid pace, Discreet will be able to get to a nice position without much effort.  Has run 2nd on dead and heavy going.  Other hopes to Hoss Amor, Caliente and Tinszelda.

Race 2 - The Heathcote team changed the racing style of Solzhenitsyn 2 starts back and wow, don't the results speak for themselves!  In his past 2 starts, he has raced on the speed and done it at both ends.  Has the little gentleman, Michael Rodd on top to control things.  If that's the case then he'll be mighty hard to run down.  Other hopes to Firebolt, Skyerush and St Germaine.

Race 3 - Mental looks the one to beat here but at $1.60, you simply can't back it. 

Race 4 - This is the David Jones Lightning Handicap and there couldn't be a more apt name for the race with so many speedsters engaged.  They are going to go hell for leather once those gates open.  I'm going with the very much in form runner here in Excellantes.  This horse is flying at the moment, winning it's last 2 starts.  It loves this track with a record of never being out of the placings from 8 starts.  Goes particularly well on a dead track.  It's slow track stats aren't fantastic but it put in some bottler work this week on slow going where it gave a 20m start to Griffon over 1000m and ended up passing it on the line.  Brown has won 5 times from 6 starts on this horse.  Other hopes to Nuptse, Facile Tigre and Seek And Find.


Race 5 - It's very hard to go past Sizzling.  This horse has been dominant since returning from a spell.  He has won all 3 starts and has charged to the line in all 3.  The 1600m looks taylor made now.  Can race on any surface.  Having said all that, I'm not keen on taking the $1.85 currently on offer and will wait and see if that prices improves.  Other hopes to Kabayan, Donna Cattiva and Boban.


Race 6 - I keep coming back to Brambles.  He ran them ragged last start over 2200m and was very good when winning the start before.  He has put together a great record winning 4 from 9 and placing in 4 others.  He can handle any going.  I don't necessarily think he'll lead here. He should be able to cruise across and take a very handy possie.  Other hopes to Vatuvei, Zabeelionaire and Westsouthwest.


Race 7 - I'm very keen on Wealth Princess in the Stradbroke.  She has been in sensational form since coming back after a long spell.  Last start she didn't like the heavy track but still managed to run just 1.8 lengths off Red Tracer who is a deadset swimmer when carrying 59.5kg.  She drops to 53kg here which she'll just cherish.  Her record over this distance is excellent.  She'll be charging to the line.  Other hopes to Buffering, Sea Siren and Temple Of Boom.  


Race 8 - I found it hard to separate Mawingo and Lights Of Heaven.  I have gone with Lights Of Heaven because I think it can handle a slow/dead track better.  She's going very well at the moment and put in a ripper effort last start where she brained them.  Meets Scenic Shot 1.5kg better for belting him!  Has a poor barrier but I think it can get across easier enough to take up a decent position.  Other hopes to Mawingo, Dance With Her and Scenic Shot.


Flemington


Race 1 - Fringed won on debut on the synthetic Geelong surface after leading all the way.  Will get a great run from the inside gate here and could do the same again.  Has the experienced Steve Arnold to guide.  


Race 2 - Roses In The Glen will be right in the finish here.  Has won or run 2nd in 7 of it's 8 starts.  Can handle any going which is a bonus with the chance of rain about.  Although it has a wide gate, it should be able to push across to sit in a handy position.  Other hopes to Family Crest, Kasmaher and Houston Benefactor.


Race 3 - Johannapine will be tough to beat here.  She has a great record and probably should have won 1st up.  Her 2nd up record is perfect, winning 2 from 2.  Any dampness in the track will play right into her hands.  Hardest to beat is Perturbo.

***With the scratching of Johannapine, I'll make Perturbo my top pick***


Race 4 - I'm really not keen to get involved here so I'll pass.


Race 5 - Perhaps the safe bet here is to take Zamorar and Lady Melksham in a quinella.  They are clearly the best 2 in the race.  I would put Lady Melksham on top based on how dynamic it won last start.  A soft surface won't hurt it's chances.


Race 6 - This looks an open race to me so I'm treating it with caution.  I'm going with Chosen To Fly.  Looked good winning last start and it's 1st up run in the Wangoom was alright also.  Has a horror barrier but I would think that it will be able to come across relatively easily to take up a decent position.  Goes very well at this track, winning 2 and running 2nd in 4 starts here.  A dead track would be ideal but can handle slow.  Other hopes to Glaneuse, Population and Bereft.


Race 7 - I'm taking the tip here from Steven Arnold for Turner Bayou.  Arnold doesn't ride at 56kg too often so you know that he must have an opinion of this horse.  Last start it narrowly went down to Campeao over 2100m. It meets that horse here better at the weights.  2 starts back it went down to Soros who was a QLD Derby horse before being scratched.  Other hopes to Outback Ranger, Campeao and Two Sugars.


Race 8 - Going with Hurdy Gurdy Man in the last.  Has been a model of consistency lately.  Melham goes back on and he has a super record aboard.  He has always won or placed when he's been the jockey.  Goes particularly well on dead/slow ground.  Other hopes to Finiguerra, Swooper and Crabs.


Rosehill


Race 1 - I'll give this race a miss.


Race 2 - Going with Famous Seamus here.  Has put together a decent record of 3 wins from 7 starts.  Goes particularly well over this distance with 4 wins or placings from 5 attempts.  Can handle a dead/slow surface.  Gets 3kg relief with Guymer in the saddle.  Should race handy from a good gate.  Other hopes to Hendricus, Not A Dancer and Air Comet.

***With the scratching of Famous Seamus, I'll make Hendricus my top pick and promote Battant to the other hopes***


Race 3 - Censor meets Charing Cross 5kg better off here after going down by 3 lengths last start.  On a damp track, I think that could be all the difference Censor needs to turn the tables. It has been running on well in it's past few so the 2000m should suit.  Other hopes to Charing Cross, Gopanna and Southern Shimmer.


Race 4 - Ideal Position has a great record winning 7 from 14.  Those have been in the country but it's last start 4th to Riva De Lago at Scone where it was only 1.8 lengths away after not getting a clear run.  Greg Ryan follows it to town which is a good lead.  Will need the speed on so it can come home hard.  Other hopes to Zedlion, Green Beret and Dunrossil.


Race 5 - Not a race I'm particularly keen on but since it's the 1st leg of the quaddie, I'll look at it.  It's a race of many chances.  I'm going with Titbit.  Won 3rd up last campaign which is where it is at this time around.  Goes particularly well on a dead surface but can handle wetter.  Other hopes to Madam Nash, Disputes and San Zaim.  


Race 6 - Alberton Park looks primed for a 1st up attack here.  Has won or run 2nd 5 times from 6 1st up starts.  Goes particularly well on a dead/slow surface and likes this track.  Blinkers are on here.  Competed in the Coolmore and other listed races last campaign.  Other hopes to Skytrain, See The World and Zaratone. 


Race 7 - Lethal Arrow makes his way up from Melbourne to race here and I think he has a great chance.  He prefers the sting out of the track and does his best racing when racing from in front.  He should be able to do that here from the good gate and with not much weight.  He has been racing in what I would consider tougher races in Melbourne than this affair.  Other hopes to Erewhon, Samui Lad and All Legal.


Race 8 - Coup Ay Tee will appreciate the sting out of the ground and can win 1st up here.  This horse has only run 1 bad race from 11 starts.  Has had 2 good trials leading into this and gets in well at the weights considering it's past results.  Past form is superior to the rest.  Other hopes to Magic Cassius, Alumbrado and Romanus.


Best Bets 


Eagle Farm - Race 6 Number 2 Brambles
                  Race 7 Number 17 Wealth Princess e/w


Flemington - Race 2 Number 2 Roses In The Glen
                  Race 7 Number 11 Turner Bayou e/w


Rosehill - Race 6 Number 7 Alberton Park
             Race 7 Number 13 Lethal Arrow e/w

02/06/12 - Sandown, Warwick Farm and Eagle Farm

Sandown

Race 1 - Not a race I'm overly keen to get involved in due to the fact it will be on wet ground and many of these haven't run this distance.  However I will have a small bet on Jacaranda Avenue.  This filly has had the 3 starts for 2 2nds.  Those 2nds were on slow and heavy going.  She'll more than likely jump to the lead from the inside gate and prove tough to run down.  1st up she did a similar thing but was run down on the line.  With improved fitness 2nd up, that hopefully won't be the case.  Other hopes to Triquetra, Maglissa and Clinking.

Race 2 - Rocking Force looks a great chance here.  His form is much better than his rivals.  He loves this distance, winning 4 and placing in 7 of 12 starts.  He also goes well at this track.  Has 2 slow track 2nds to his credit.  If the track improves to dead, that will further improve his chances.  Should be able to sit just off the speed.  Gets a 3kg weight relief with the apprenctice onboard.  Other hopes to Doubtful Jack, Stanzout and Miss Bindi.

Race 3 - Although Fareer has a 3kg advantage from the last time they met, I think Al Karam could still be too strong here.  Last start he won by 4.2 lengths on a slow track.  He can obviously handle slow/heavy tracks as shown by his 9 wins or placings from 17 tries on wet going.  Hardest to beat Fareer.

Race 4 - There's no disputing that Palmero is the testing material here.  However I'm going with the horse that ran 2nd to it last start, Gotta Take Care.  Firstly it does it's best racing on slow and dead going.  Gets a slight weight advantage here over Palmero for running a length behind.  Ran 1.3 lengths behind Black and Bent 2 starts back.  Other hopes to Palmero, Tuscan Fire and Kirribilli Gold.

Race 5 - The New Boy looks well placed here.  He rises just 0.5kg for winning last start.  He has a win and a 3rd from 2 attempts at this distance.  Goes particularly well on a dead track which is probably what he'll get here.  Although if it was slow, I doubt that would cause much concern.  He will get an excellent run from the inside draw and gets 3kg's off for the apprenctice Duffy.  Other hopes to Juliet's Princess, Westsouthwest and Apollo Creed.

Race 6 - Puissance De Lune is short enough but looks to be a more than handy horse.  Has had 2 starts in Australia and has looked impressive in both.  Last start it won by 3.2 lengths over 1800m with plenty in hand.  The extra 300m here shouldn't be a concern as will the state of the track.  Other hopes to Mr O'Ceirin, Magnifique Soleil and Turnitup.

Race 7 - I'm going for one here at big odds.  Miss Zoom is currently around the $19 mark and that's the way I'm going.  On face value it's form isn't fantastic, winning 2 from 9 starts.  However if you dig a bit deeper then it's got some great form around it.  In it's initial campaign it ran close or beat the the likes ot Shopaholic, Miss Somaly, Miss Stellabelle and Platelet.  If it can run up to that sort of effort here then it should be highly competitive.  It ran 2nd in it's only start at this track and should get a nice run.  Other hopes to Flash Of Doubt, Bonaria and Lady Melksham.

Race 8 - All the speed has gone out of this race with the early scratchings.  Andromache can race forward or back and from this draw, I'd say she'll go forward which will be of benefit.  Besides that, she's been racing in excellent style since coming over from NZ.  She's won both her starts comprehensively.  Other hopes to Candy Stripes, Sussuro and Go My Girl.

Warwick Farm

Race 1 - I'm staying well away from this race of only 6 starters.  Well that's not true, I'll have a sneaky fiver on Master Shep just in case miracles can happen.  The new comer Nechita should win this after a trial win against Sizzling and a more recent trial win by 7 lengths.  

Race 2 - Betrayal looks the one here.  Although it's currently under $2 so having a bet on it may not be worthwhile.  It looked good winning last start when it lead and then kicked away.  The extra 150m here should be ideal. 


Race 3 - This is a tricky race with a number of winning chances.  I'm going with the unbeaten Lucymaylyn.  She's won her only 2 starts and has looked good doing it.  She won her 1st start by 5 lengths and then ran good time at Wyong.  She was scratched midweek to run here.  Has won on dead and slow.  Should be able to cross over from her wide gate and dictate.  Other hopes to Secluded, Jester's Girl and Miss Milanese.


Race 4 - Flying Fuji ran 2nd to Pampelonne last start when it ran on strongly from the tail.  I think that's pretty good form for this.  On that occasion, it had a wide gate.  Here it draws in and will get a great run.  2kg off for Schofield Jnr.  Other hopes to Song And Roses, Cannery Row and Money Never Sleeps.

***With the scratching of Song And Roses, I'll promote Triple Six to the other hopes***


Race 5 - There should be a fair speed set here with a handful of these that like to go forward.  For that reason I'm going with Ricci Royal.  This guy get backs and runs on.  I would love him to settle a bit closer but regardless, we know he'll be hitting the line hard.  Other hopes to Skip Town, Sacred Pins and Green Beret.


Race 6 - Reuben Percival has been racing well lately and looks right in this.  He does his best work on ground with the sting out and that's what he'll get here.  He should get a great run on the speed.  Last start he was run down by Adroitly.  I don't think that will happen in this race.  Has a win and a 3rd to his credit over this distance.  Other hopes to Adroitly, Altonio and Roi D'Jeu.


Race 7 - Coup Ay Tee is a very consistent horse.  He's only been out of the placings once in 11 starts.  He warmed up for this with a 2nd to Albert The Fat in a trial.  Goes well fresh.  Will get a great run.  Other hopes to Eucumbene, Sacred Flyer and Alumbrado.

***With the scratching of Coup Ay Tee, Sacred Flyer and Alumbrado, I'll make Eucumbene my top pick.  I won't list any other hopes as that would mean I'm going down to what originally would have been my 7th best horse in this race***


Race 8 - Going with the track specialist in the last, Thumbtacks.  Besides his great record at the track (4 wins from 9 starts), he is racing in great form.  He will get a great trail here from the good gate and will prove hard to beat.  2kg's off for Schofield Jnr means he will race with 5.5kg less than last start.  Other hopes to Take The Oath, River Of Salvation and Chateau Fort.  


Eagle Farm


Race 1 - With the prospect that we'll be racing on a bog track, I'm going with noted wet tracker Karoo in the opener.  This guy loves the wet.  From 7 tries on slow/heavy going, he's won 3 and placed 2nd in 2.  He also goes very well over this distance and track.  Will more than likely take up the running or be very handy.  Other hopes to Lovingthelimelight, Angusroy and Rhetoric.


Race 2 - The French import Miss Chrissy is a group horse.  Admittedly most of it's racing have been over distances ranging from 2400m - 3000m.  It has wet track form and put in an excellent trial so it might have a bit of sharpness for this 1500m event.  Down in the weights.  Other hopes to Neriani, Mr Armstrong and Carry Me Bluey.

***With the scratching of Neriani, I'll promote Dusty Star to the other hopes***


Race 3 - Sizzling looks too good again here as shown by the $1.70 on offer. You simply can't get on at that price.  Academus looks the only other hope.


Race 4 - Lights Of Heaven should be tough to beat here.  She has looked impressive in her last 2 starts.  The 2200m should be right up her alley now.  Should handle a wet track being a Zabeel and has a 2nd on heavy to her credit.  Other hopes to Shez Sinsational, Ginga Dude and Scenic Shot.


Race 5 - The obvious wet tracker here is Red Tracer.  However I simply can't ignore Wealth Princess.  After 2 years off the scene, she's come back in awesome style.  It must be noted that her 1st up run was on slow going where she came home hard.  Loves this distance.  Other hopes to Red Tracer, Bonnie Mac and Forfeiture.


Race 6 - With all the rain about, Boys On Tour comes right into this.  This bloke just loves it, winning  3 from 4 goes on a heavy track.  That's not to say he's not in form.  His last start 3rd to Mental was good as he didn't get clear till late.  Perfect record at this track.  Other hopes to Mental, Double Impact and Silk favourite Punch On.  


Race 7 - This is going to be a great race.  There's a number of chances but the 1 I'll be with is Miss Artistic.  Was running on late 1st up on the heavy going at the Coast.  Then was good when just getting nudged out in the Roses last start.  She should be cherry ripe now and will take a lot of beating.  Has won her only start over this distance which was the Group 1 NZ Oaks.  Should be able to handle the wet track.  Other hopes to Scorpio Queen, Quintessential and Dowager Queen.


Race 8 - The best wet tracker in the race is clearly Neeson.  He has won 3 from 6 and placed in 2 others from 6 goes on slow/heavy going.  He has also won 3 from 5 over this distance and has raced well at this track.  He's got a big weight and a wide barrier which are concerns.  However he's the best horse in the race and maybe that will just give us a better price.  Other hopes to Celtic Dancer, Meet George and Belltone.  


Best Bets


Sandown - Race 2 Number 2 Rocking Force
               Race 5 Number 1 The New Boy
               Race 8 Number 8 Andromache


Warwick Farm - Race 7 Number 11 Eucumbene
                        Race 8 Number 9 Thumbtacks


Eagle Farm - Race 1 Number 10 Karoo e/w
                  Race 4 Number 8 Lights Of Heaven
                  Race 6 Number 7 Boys On Tour