Better Racing

[Sheerluck Holmes]

Re: Better Racing Well done mate. Hope this is you turning the corner. :ok

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Thanks mate! 8.10 Chelmsford: Class 2 Handicap, 6 furlongs This is a really fascinating contest. The betting already reveals that the race is as open as it gets, with almost any of the seven runners in with a very fair chance. Current favourite Trojan Rocket has been nicely improving this winter and won two on the bounce. Can he overcome a new career highest mark? Ballista showed a return to form lately and can race off the same mark as when beaten only on the line recently. Same applies to Mishaal who improved nicely on the All-Weather and was only beaten in a photo last time out. Quiet Warrior and Golden Amber aren't out of the equation either. And let's not make the mistake to rule out classy Chookie Royale, who drops significantly in trip. What makes this race particularly compelling from a tactical point of view is the fact that most runners are known to be right up with the pace, if not making all. It'll be interesting to see how that pans out. On the deep Chelmsford polytrack this could easily end in a test of stamina, rather than end speed. I feel that this may play into the hands of Chookie Royale who is a top class performer over seven furlongs. He's the class act in this field, as a result has to give weight away and the drop in trip to 6f doesn't look ideal at the first glance. But with the pace in mind and the fine form he showed lately, I think he could be ready to run a big race. Trainer Keith Dalgleish isn't travelling 383 miles with his top performer to have a good night out. Chookie Royale @ 13/2 Coral - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 5.40 Meydan: Zabeel Mile, 1m After his latest two impressive wins over seven furlongs, Safety Check is a hot favourite to make it three in a row. He always looked a classy individual and it is good to see him fulfilling his potential. His most recent Group 2 success in the Al Fahidi is the stand out form and for that reason alone he warrants an awful lot of respect. Is he a sure thing in this field, though? I'm not so sure about it. It's now his third race in rather quick succession, and he has shown his very best over seven furlongs, which could point to him being a specialist for that particular trip. He has to bring all this now to a mile today, and will have to give three pounds away. He has previous form over the distance, but he encounters some classy rivals today. On of those rivals comes from his own stable. Outstrip returns to turf after a rather disastrous try on the dirt. This should suit much better for obvious reasons. His Breeders Cup Grade 1 success is the form that is the best in this field by a country mile. Since then things didn't go to plan in his classic season last year. He went straight into the Guineas after his seasonal break and finished tailed off. A very much improved performance saw him finding back to form in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot when he finished third behind Kingman and Night Of Thunder. The small field in the Sussex Stakes and a slowly run race didn't suit him at all subsequently and it didn't get better in the Joel Stakes either, which ended his season. After this recent outing on the dirt, it is hard to know what to expect of Outstrip today. He is the highest rated individual in this field, though probably flattered by a mark of 118. I believe he deserved another chance. No excuses today. Ground and trip are sure to suit. Progressive Dark Emerald was impressive in Handicaps this winter and his latest triumph was very taking indeed. Not impossible that he can improve further, but he'll have to lift his game to another level today. De Kock has a strong hand in the race with Anaerobio, who, if he could find to last seasons form, would be in with a good chance to go close, though age may be catching up with him and his best came over 7f. Darwin is an interesting runner. Thought to be a potential superstar when brought over from the US to Aiden O'Brien, he couldn't quite live up to the early promise, but a third in the Sussex Stakes must rate strong form, however he had the run of the race back then and he'll need to bounce back after a poor effort on the dirt. Johann Strauss is another former O'Brien horse now in De Kock's care. Hard to know what to expect from him today. Hugo Palmer's Short Squeeze deserves a shot in this race today. He is a very fair performer in hot handicaps and Listed level. Perception is that he needs to find a bit to be really competitive here today. That says, on balance, I feel Outstrip is overpriced. One has to trust him to find back to something of his old best. No excuses for him today, though. It one last chance he deserves. All is set for a big run. It's on Outstrip to show if he is good enough these days. A performance like at Royal Ascot last year, would be good enough to win this I suspect, and with fitness on his side after the last outing, he's the one I side with here. Outstrip @ 13/2 Coral - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 6.15 Meydan: Class 1 Handicap, 10 furlongs This is a Handicap which lacks the competitiveness of what one would see in recent weeks in this very similar slot. Not too many of the runners in the line-up give the impression to be well handicapped or have conditions in favour for a career best run. That makes Tha'ir a very fair favourite and his last win was a big performance, no doubt. I wouldn't be surprised if he could follow on and he has every chance here, but I'm not sure if he should be much shorter in the betting than what he is now, given he has to overcome a rise in the mark. Mushreq is a consistent performer, though doesn't seem to be as good this season around as he was the last years. First time tongue tie fitted doesn't instil much confidence and as the top weight is one to avoid here today. Berling ran a fine second behind Tha'ir recently, and another bold bid is one the cards. He's to overcome a wide draw once again and may find one or two too good today. Belgian Bill didn't quite have the run of the race in the very same race and stayed on nicely. If that is indication that he gets the trip fine these days, he'll be a big runner. Francis Of Assisi, if fit after a break, is a very interesting runner, now in Godolphin colours, while Star Right may well be able to build on a promising last run. However the most interesting runner and also the only really overpriced one in my mind, is Mike De Kock's Flying The Flag. He was a Group 3 winner in Ireland over 10f back in 2013, joined subsequently De Kock's yard without setting the world alight in two starts in pattern class. Dropped into handicap company on his seasonal reappearance earlier this month, he travelled very well but had a tough ride turning widest and losing loads of ground. He really stayed on very strongly eventually. That performance came over 1m but general perception is that he is best over 10f. The step up in trip should suit perfectly today and his mark of 106 gives him a very nice chance to run big today. De Kock was pretty bullish talking about Flying The Flag which is a significant boost for his chances: "He’s catching the eye in his exercise gallops. He ran on well after a rest last time and I fancy he’ll be very competitive here." Flying The Flag @ 7/1 Paddy Power - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Nice! Just home watched the replays - Flying The Flag on the line! Right when it mattered he put his head in front in a thrilling finish. That's some nice profit already for the day, regardless of what Chookie Royale does later on. Thought it was a poor ride nonetheless. Jockey had clearly an awful lot of horse beneath but went wide throughout and made a huge move at the worst possible moment, giving so much weight away. Went around the whole world it seemed. Anyway, horse was clearly good enough in the end. Can't be said about Outstrip. I was happy to give him this chance today for the price. He looked however a horse simply fed up with the game. Never travelling, didn't find anything in the home straight. He has had enough. Retire him now. He is a very nice stallion prospect with the Grade 1 over 1m as a juvenile on his CV.

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Choookieeee! WOW he crushed them from the front! I was worried when was more than reluctant to actually get into the gate, and even more surprised when he then got away with the lead, given that there should have been others interested in that as well. But if they couldn't or if they didn't want... I don't know. Chookie seemed to do way too much for my liking the first half of the race but he simply galloped on and most rivals were never in the race. What a star he is! So, that makes it 2 winners, from 3 selections today! Flying The Flag 7/1, Chookie Royale 13/2. Outstrip the big disappointment. That is some turnaround in fortunes I suppose, given the way it was before the start of this week. But I always thought I did a good job and believed things must change sooner or later. So nice to see it finally happened. Wouldn't mind it continuing that way. That says, the thread is finally in profit! [ATTACH]6815[/ATTACH]

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 7.45 Wolverhampton: Class 2 Handicap, 12 furlongs Godolphin's progressive Dream Child is turned out quickly after failing by the narrowest of margins to get his head in front four days ago over 9.5f. He got hampered that day over 1f out at a crucial stage of the race and as a result had to re-organize himself. He quickened nicely nonetheless and almost got there on the line. He travelled strongly throughout and followed up nicely on a hugely impressive success over 12f at Wolverhampton in January. Dream Child is still lightly raced and the fact that he can race off the same mark today as four days ago, makes him a huge chance here. The step up in trip poses no problem whatsoever. On this latest performance, he should be a couple pounds higher rated and potentially goes all the way into pattern class after this in my mind. No doubt Dream Child is the most talented runner in this field. The main dangers are Noble Gift who's holding his form well and he should run a good race once more. Luv You Whatever has excellent form and was able to translate his Southwell forms to the tapeta last time out. But has to overcome another hike in the mark, which means a career best is required. I'm usually not for the short favourites, but think in this case that Noble Child should be a good deal shorter. With Kirby booked I hope he won't meet trouble in-running this time and then he should simply have too much on the plate for the rest. Dream Child @ 11/10 Coral - 10pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Dream Child as easy as it gets, wins it on the bridle! That's the way you want your short priced favourite to prevail. Wonderful ride by Kirby as well.

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 2.25 Turffontein: Gauteng Guineas (Grade 2) This yeas Gauteng Guineas shapes as quite an intriguing contest where some rather exposed and seasoned runners are going to meet a bunch of unexposed, fresh contenders. Fitness levels, stamina and class are question marks for most runners in the line-up though we have right on top of the queue two extremely classy individuals - I'm talking about Harry's Sun and Unparalleled of course. They are standing head and shoulders above the rest of the field, which is clearly reflected by heir respective official ratings. Harry's Sun interestingly has already Guineas form - he was a very respectable runner-up in the

behind top drawer Act Of War. Harry's Sun was the leading two year old last season due to his success in the Grade 1 Champion Stakes. He followed up with another graded success however was subsequently beaten in the in the Dingaans in very convincing fashion by no one else than Unparalleled. One could argue that he didn't run to form that day, but one could also say that the winner was simply the better horse. He was better in the mentioned runner-up effort in the Cape Guineas, which overall rounded up a highly successful season for Harry's Sun. He hasn't been seen since though, and the lack of a prep run must be considered a worry. It is obvious that the preparation for the big race didn't got to plan, yet he is currently trading as the 11/4 favourite. We have to trust his fitness, though no doubt he has the class to be a big runner if fully fit. Harry's Sun has the luxury of a generous draw, much in contrast to his *potentially* main rival Unparalleled. The Lateral son is literally drawn in the car park (18) and that could complicate things for obvious reasons. Nonetheless there is still plenty to like about his chance and a I've to admit that I'm a huge fan of his horse. I'm particularly fond of his excellent cruising speed and ability to produce an instant turn of foot. The draw is an issue, but he has a top jockey on board and he showed himself a very versatile runner if it comes to tactics. So more than anything in a race like this, it'll count for allot to settle well and be relaxed in the early parts, as well as to get the 1.600m trip. All those things are ensured with Unparalleled. He has a proven track record, has been progressive towards the end of last season and has been able to make a successful transition from handicaps into graded company, culminating in his emphatic Dingaans (1m) triumph. What I like about Unparalleled is the fact that he had a two month break, came back and impressed in his prep run over slightly shorter (1.450m). He'll be bang on for the Guineas.

Mike De Kock has to be respected as always. He saddles two runners: Anjaal and Mutamakkin. The latter one should appreciate the trip and had a good prep run. He finished second behind Belong To Me and a neck in front to Unparalleled in the Grade 3 Tony Ruffel Stakes over 1.450m. More is required here around though, as he has much more weight to carry this time. His stable mate Anjaal was an excellent third in the Champion Stakes last year, however was slightly disappointing on his seasonal reappearance. He should strip fitter this time and has the potential to run really well in first time blinkers. Sean Tarry's Zambezi River hasn't done much wrong in his career. A lightly raced winner of three races, who found the Cape Guineas too hot, had a fine prep run over 1.200m in a big sales race recently. He looks more like a sprinter than a miler, though, and may find this trip too far once again. In contrast Tarry's second runner French Navy would certainly appreciate a real stamina test. He has fair form over 1.800m lately and if they go a mad pace, he'd have a chance. Belong To Me was a fine Grade 3 winner recently, beating Unparalleled and Mutamakkin in a tight finish. The question is how much improvement has he left. Also the 1.450m trip of the recent was probably as far as he wants it. The booking of Anton Marcus for Precursor looks significant. The Captain Al son should be much better than his last two forms. He tries 1.600m for the first time, having only contested over sprinting trips. While he may have a fair chance to stay the trip on pedigree, it is much more a question mark if he'll be able settle early on. The Captains Tune did well against older horses already and might be the pace angle here. if he gets an easy lead he could be dangerous. Normally he shouldn't be good enough to win, though. Verdict: There are a couple of bigger prices in the field that could well improve and run very well. But given all we know, it is hard to look beyond the first two in the market. Harry's Son is a classy individual and if he is fit, he'll be right there when it matters. The lack of recent run is a concerning fact though. This could open the door for Unparalleled. I was very surprised to see a price as big as 11/2 available. Analysing the race this morning without knowing the prices, I thought he would be my selection if it is about the most likely, though knowing how obvious his claims are, he'l be probably a very short and unattractive price for me. To see him as big as he is, I believe it is way too big. I expected 5/2, and can't let 11/2 go. Yes, he has to overcome the widest draw and that needs to be reflected in the price. Yet he has the best form to offer, had a perfect prep run, loves track and trip and looks a class act the way he is travelling as well as quickening in his races. The dark horses are the De Kock runners. Both could have more to offer and are interesting in their own right. Particularly Anjaal is intriguing. However his prep was utterly disappointing, despite the long lay-off you would have expected him to do better against a bunch of low grade handicappers. Nonetheless with first time handicappers, he is a horse that attracts me, but I can't get over it to back him. So I gonna stick with Unparalleled in the hope he jumps well, settles well, is well positioned when the field turns for home and if so, I believe he'll be very hard to stop. Unparalleled @ 11/2 Sportingbet - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 1.50 Turffontein: Gauteng Fillies Guineas (Grade 2) This looks a much more open contest than the the boys' Guineas in my mind, with moire unexposed runners and plenty of guesswork to do. However we have a very good favourite at the head of the market with Same Jurisdiction. She was a top class juvenile, won a big Grade 1 last summer and had an excellent prep last month in Grade 3 company. She rates a worthy favourite, though the downside is her rather poor draw and the fact that she had bleeding problems in the past. A lack of run at this track also counts as a negative. She deserves to be favourite, however is too short in the betting in my mind. Progressive Smart Call was utterly impressive in her prep, though this here is much tougher today. If she can improve again, she is right up there with the best. So should be Sean Tarry's Siren's Call. A hardy filly, she finished a well respected 4th in the Dingaans and her prep win in a big sales race over shorter rates top form. If she stays the trip in a truly run race, she must be a big danger. Never make the mistake to dismiss Turffontein top trainer Tarry's second or even third string. His other runners Tamaanee and Bichette may be big prices in the betting today, but could spring easily a surprise. The former one the slightly more exposed already, has form over 1.600m and won against older. A good draw will help. She is an interesting price, though I restrict myself to one bet in this race and I've to admit that Bichette is the one that looks hugely overpriced here. She is very lightly raced, won over shorter a good handicap and performed well in her prep in Grade 3 company over 1.450m. She isn't the quickest but is gutsy,very well bred and looks big with plenty of scope. Her pedigree points to a mile and the step up to this trip will certainly suit her, so should the testing standside track. She has a good draw and will probably use this to race in a handy position as she prefers to do. She won't go down with a fight I suspect and while it remains to be seen if she can make the step up into this hot top level company, she has the right looks, pedigree and progressive form. From a betting point of view, Bichette is the underestimated runner in this field. Other fillies, like Grade 3 winner Sensible Lover or De Kock's Pine Princess can't be underestimated either. The fillies Guineas looks open, but very interesting and should provide spectacular action. Bichette @ 25/1 Ladbrokes - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing

2.25 Turffontein: Gauteng Guineas (Grade 2) This yeas Gauteng Guineas shapes as quite an intriguing contest where some rather exposed and seasoned runners are going to meet a bunch of unexposed, fresh contenders. Fitness levels, stamina and class are question marks for most runners in the line-up though we have right on top of the queue two extremely classy individuals - I'm talking about Harry's Sun and Unparalleled of course. They are standing head and shoulders above the rest of the field, which is clearly reflected by heir respective official ratings. Harry's Sun interestingly has already Guineas form - he was a very respectable runner-up in the

behind top drawer Act Of War. Harry's Sun was the leading two year old last season due to his success in the Grade 1 Champion Stakes. He followed up with another graded success however was subsequently beaten in the in the Dingaans in very convincing fashion by no one else than Unparalleled. One could argue that he didn't run to form that day, but one could also say that the winner was simply the better horse. He was better in the mentioned runner-up effort in the Cape Guineas, which overall rounded up a highly successful season for Harry's Sun. He hasn't been seen since though, and the lack of a prep run must be considered a worry. It is obvious that the preparation for the big race didn't got to plan, yet he is currently trading as the 11/4 favourite. We have to trust his fitness, though no doubt he has the class to be a big runner if fully fit. Harry's Sun has the luxury of a generous draw, much in contrast to his *potentially* main rival Unparalleled. The Lateral son is literally drawn in the car park (18) and that could complicate things for obvious reasons. Nonetheless there is still plenty to like about his chance and a I've to admit that I'm a huge fan of his horse. I'm particularly fond of his excellent cruising speed and ability to produce an instant turn of foot. The draw is an issue, but he has a top jockey on board and he showed himself a very versatile runner if it comes to tactics. So more than anything in a race like this, it'll count for allot to settle well and be relaxed in the early parts, as well as to get the 1.600m trip. All those things are ensured with Unparalleled. He has a proven track record, has been progressive towards the end of last season and has been able to make a successful transition from handicaps into graded company, culminating in his emphatic Dingaans (1m) triumph. What I like about Unparalleled is the fact that he had a two month break, came back and impressed in his prep run over slightly shorter (1.450m). He'll be bang on for the Guineas.

Mike De Kock has to be respected as always. He saddles two runners: Anjaal and Mutamakkin. The latter one should appreciate the trip and had a good prep run. He finished second behind Belong To Me and a neck in front to Unparalleled in the Grade 3 Tony Ruffel Stakes over 1.450m. More is required here around though, as he has much more weight to carry this time. His stable mate Anjaal was an excellent third in the Champion Stakes last year, however was slightly disappointing on his seasonal reappearance. He should strip fitter this time and has the potential to run really well in first time blinkers. Sean Tarry's Zambezi River hasn't done much wrong in his career. A lightly raced winner of three races, who found the Cape Guineas too hot, had a fine prep run over 1.200m in a big sales race recently. He looks more like a sprinter than a miler, though, and may find this trip too far once again. In contrast Tarry's second runner French Navy would certainly appreciate a real stamina test. He has fair form over 1.800m lately and if they go a mad pace, he'd have a chance. Belong To Me was a fine Grade 3 winner recently, beating Unparalleled and Mutamakkin in a tight finish. The question is how much improvement has he left. Also the 1.450m trip of the recent was probably as far as he wants it. The booking of Anton Marcus for Precursor looks significant. The Captain Al son should be much better than his last two forms. He tries 1.600m for the first time, having only contested over sprinting trips. While he may have a fair chance to stay the trip on pedigree, it is much more a question mark if he'll be able settle early on. The Captains Tune did well against older horses already and might be the pace angle here. if he gets an easy lead he could be dangerous. Normally he shouldn't be good enough to win, though. Verdict: There are a couple of bigger prices in the field that could well improve and run very well. But given all we know, it is hard to look beyond the first two in the market. Harry's Son is a classy individual and if he is fit, he'll be right there when it matters. The lack of recent run is a concerning fact though. This could open the door for Unparalleled. I was very surprised to see a price as big as 11/2 available. Analysing the race this morning without knowing the prices, I thought he would be my selection if it is about the most likely, though knowing how obvious his claims are, he'l be probably a very short and unattractive price for me. To see him as big as he is, I believe it is way too big. I expected 5/2, and can't let 11/2 go. Yes, he has to overcome the widest draw and that needs to be reflected in the price. Yet he has the best form to offer, had a perfect prep run, loves track and trip and looks a class act the way he is travelling as well as quickening in his races. The dark horses are the De Kock runners. Both could have more to offer and are interesting in their own right. Particularly Anjaal is intriguing. However his prep was utterly disappointing, despite the long lay-off you would have expected him to do better against a bunch of low grade handicappers. Nonetheless with first time handicappers, he is a horse that attracts me, but I can't get over it to back him. So I gonna stick with Unparalleled in the hope he jumps well, settles well, is well positioned when the field turns for home and if so, I believe he'll be very hard to stop. Unparalleled @ 11/2 Sportingbet - 5pts win

I do remain confident in Unparalleled, who is now available at even 6/1. However monitoring the betting, I can't help but feel not attracted by the huge price for Precursor. Now available at 25's, I have to get on that as it is simply way too big. The stamina question remain not insignificant, but on pedigree he has a fair chance. And from a good draw, I can see Marcus placing his mount in a handy position, ensuring that he settles and relaxes over this new trip, without pulling all his chances away. Marcus is a top man if it comes to that and as said before, his booking is a significant boost. - Precursor @ 25/1 Sportingbet - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 15.30 Lingfield: Class 2 Handicap, 2 miles A Fast-Track-Qualifier for Good Friday with another progressive Godolphin Handicapper at the head of the market. Gold Trail won his last three and warrants plenty of respect, however he tries this marathon trip for the first time and there are doubts about his staying ability. It's worth to take him. John Reel was equally progressive this winter and finished a fair third behind Gold Trail last time over 12f at Wolverhampton. He won over the marathon distance already and has a good chance to turn the form around with the favourite. Front-runner Double Discount may get away with a soft lead and that could help him to get the trip. Hard to know what to expect from Hurricane Higgins after a very long lay-off. On his old best he'd be a major player, but probably is best watched today. Also not sure what Triumphant is up to today. He gets the trip but was disappointing lately. Masterpaver finished a good second behind Gold Trail at Lingfield over 12f last month. He needs a stiffer test and the step up in trip should suit. Though 14f may be his optimum and 2m already too far. Leaves us with veteran Uramazin, who is surprisingly low mileage for a nine yea old. He won't have an issue with the trip as he is a course and distance winner of a class 2 Handicap back in December here. He followed up nicely with an excellent second in a 2m Fast-Track Qualifier behind progressive Anglophile. He travelled super strongly but got first run and was simply the better horse. Uramazin is in clearly good nick right now and should be very competitive today. He looks overpriced in my eyes and may go much closer than the betting suggests. Uramazin @ 11/1 VC - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing No joy yesterday. Uramazin was the one that came closest and I'e got to admit when he turned home travelling much the strongest I felt excited, unfortunately he didn't find enough eventually. Still a good run for my money. Didn't quite work like that over in South Africa. Unparalleled overcame quickly the poor draw, though probably used loads of energy in doing so. He finished well enough but had no chance with the extremely impressive winner Harry's Son. Precursor got a peach of a ride by Marcus but didn't stay the trip. Bichette wasn't good enough to feature. Greyville 12.30: Graduation Plate, 1.200m The 2013 Champion 2 year old Kochka is on his way to find back to his old best after a long injury lay-off. His comeback run over 1.200m earlier this month was excellent given his break of 18 month. He finished a fine runner-up and badly needed the outing, according to his trainer. Kochka won back summer 2013 the big Grade 1 Champion Stakes and surly has bigger targets on his mind this season than an ordinary Graduation Plate, also he'll soon step up in trip to a mile again I suspect. But on his second run, he should have way to much for this lot even over this sprint trip, given the improvement one would expect. from run to run. Even if he may not quit yet be as good as his 105 rating, he is meeting some mid-70 rated individuals here, with one exception, of 88 rated Nineteen Fourteen. He's a decent handicapper & consistent but only one win in 16 starts which came in maiden company, means he shouldn't have enough on the plate to be a real threat to Kochka. Kochka is rightly the odds-on favourite, however he is not short enough with Sportingbet, and is a 1/2 chance on my tissue, therefore I think this price is actually quite generous. Kochka @ 4/5 Sportingbet - 10pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Kochka won it as expected. That was nothing more than a 'Public gallop' for Kotchka under race conditions at Greyville. Was it still a canter or already hands & heels? Anyway, did it very easily once in the clear hitting top gear, despite the short wining margin. Super horse, glad he's back. Just updated the stats. Glad February showed a profit after all. Very much thanks to this excellent week. Nice to start the new month with a winner as well. Even if it's only an odds-on one. Long may it continue. [ATTACH]6832[/ATTACH]

[Smarty72]

Re: Better Racing Great punting Rob! Very impressive!

[Sheerluck Holmes]

Re: Better Racing Nice three timer there mate. :)

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Thanks guys! Was quite a turnaround this week. Funny old game it sometimes is. :) I've written earlier this week a small piece about this whole topic in my blog, about enduring a long losing run and when suddenly all comes together: http://horseracing-international.com/2015/02/26/celebration-time/ Kochka's win today below. Looking forward to see him going up in trip again. Horse to take out is clearly Nr. 8 Saratoga Dancer (78 rated). Lightly raced, needs further, got an odd ride, never touched and still finished close 3rd while only receiving 3.5kg by Kochka (105 rated) and half a kilo by Nineteen Fourteen who is a fair measure stick. Let's see what the handicapper does, but up in trip nto, he must be a big runner.

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 6.45 Kempton: Class 2 Handicap, 10 furlongs The clear favourite at head of the market is Godolphin's progressive gelding Tryster. He is on a hat-trick and has to carry a big weight of 9st 7lb according to his high rating of 100. The four year can be a tricky ride sometimes and clearly showed signs of greenness at Chelmsford when he beat Gaelic Silver in a controversial finish. Tryster made things look much easier the next time at Wolverhampton and won like a horse that could go on to bigger things. A hike of 7lb in the mark is fair for that performance on on hand, but could still be generous on the other hand. The best price of 11/10 looks a fair one too, no doubt. But is there a chance to take this hot favourite on? Nearest pursuer in the market is Beach Bar who also ha a progressive profile. Only beaten in the last couple of strides over 10f at Lingfield the last time, he has clear credentials to run well again. I'm question his stamina, though. He had the run of the race lto on his only start over a trip that far, and looked like he couldn't quite hold on to it. He is bred rather for a mile in my mind and the speed on the dam side clearly makes me wonder if he may fade away in a race where a couple of runners might want to chase a bit more aggressively the lead. On the other hand if he could get an easy lead in front he has a chance to get home, particularly over the sharp Kempton 10f course. The Gay Cavalier has won his last two starts and clearly thrives on the Kempton All-Weather. He never does too much once in front, yet his recent success was visually a compelling one to my eyes. He takes quite a step up in class now and has effectively to carry 7lb more on ratings this time against much stronger opposition. He may well be up for it with further improvement not unlikely, but that also says he faces a tough task in my mind. Gaelic Silver was a controversial runner-up behind Tryster at Chelmsford in January. He disappointed subsequently of a revised mark and has to prove that he can overcome a career highest mark. Rebellious Guest on his best, would have a chance, but his form is poor lately. Same applies to George Guru. It's hard to see either of them going close here. Leaves Richard Hannon's six year old gelding Viewpoint. Once a progressive and prolific 10 furlongs handicapper, he won a big Apprentice Handicap at Glorious Goodwood in summer 2013 and also landed the All-Weather Championships Apprentice Handicap over 12f on Good Friday last season. Since then things went downhill for him. Last year was mainly a complete disaster, bar the early Al-Weather success, and his most recent efforts didn't instil too much euphoria either. However the last three back on the All-Weather he ran in hot competition and looked a bit better again. With the AW handicap mark falling, he was well in contention at Lingfield lto back in January, though lost all chances when a horse fell right in front of him. Now, there is still not too many positives speaking for Viewpoint. However I believe he is a huge price here against the favourite. He gets a good deal of weight, and would go very close if he finds back to anything near his best. The drop in trip back to 10f looks ideal, particularly here at Kempton. I can see him reverting back to more positive tactics, to be right up with the speed and make it a stamina test. Then being up with the pace is a huge advantage at Kempton's 10f course. So if he would be able to kick on turning for home, I could see him holding on to it over the short run-in while Tryster, sitting probably trailing, may not be there in time. Viewpoint @ 14/1 Ladbrokes - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 4.30 Lingfield: Class 3 Handicap, 7 furlongs This is quite an interesting little race which features two rapidly improving Godolphin horses right at the top of the market. If the bookmakers got the order right, I'm not so sure, though. Four Seasons with Ryan Moore on board makes plenty of appeal for obvious reasons, as he is on a hat-trick here today. That says visually his most recent win wasn't all that impressive in a race which he was clearly entitled to win on ratings and weights. That doesn't mean that he can't improve again and he is obviously nicely bred and cost a good deal as a yearling, nonetheless I think he is a very short price, given that you can pick big holes into his recent forms and that he has to overcome a three month long break. I'd prefer stable mate - though trained by bin Suroor - Greatest Journey. He cost even a bit more as a yearling and he looks a really nice, big, scopy gelding who improved dramatically on the All-Weather this winter - he is here to complete a five-timer today! He went up big time in the ratings for obvious reasons and now on a mark of 97, he'll need to improve again. I'm not so worried about that, and think he could be absolutely up to it. However the drop in trip is a big question mark. He looks more like a horse crying out for further, as his pedigree is pointing that out too. He won over 9.5f already, and while he may have enough class to be competitive even over 7f, I believe off a mark as high as he is on right now, it is very seldom that you can afford to race over a trip clearly too sharp of the optimum. Carry On Deryck could run well fresh and should find this easier than what he competed in last year, however he has to overcome a very big weight and may struggle. Anonymous John is consistent and competitive. He can win a race but maybe the step up to 7f is not the right thing to do. Polarisation has loads to find and doesn't make any appeal. Much more interesting is Charlie Hills' very lightly raced colt Pharmaceutical. Only two starts to date, he could be open to any kind of improvement. He was not a cheap yearling by any means either, with a price tag of €100k and in fact is a pretty nicely bred Invincible Spirit son, out of a Listed race winning mare. He did a fair job in a rather poor maiden on a winning debut run, but couldn't quite back it up subsequently. That was an odd race though and he kept on nicely. Despite finishing second last he was less than two lengths beaten, without getting beaten up at all. Obviously he needs to show more today, up in grade against better opposition. That says he should improve naturally, have learned a fair bit from his first two starts and if he could live up to his pedigree, must rate a competitive runner in this field. Pharmaceutical receives an awful lot of weight from most of his rivals here, most notably from the favourite Godolphin horses. In addition to that he has Cam Hardie on board who is more than worth his 3lb claim. So effectively he can race off 76 today! I believe there is a very good chance that this colt is a fair bit better than that. If that is the case indeed, he will go very close. Pharmaceutical @ 6/1 PP - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 2.50 Wolverhampton:Lincoln Trial Handicap (Class 2) No surprise to see this Handicap as competitive as it is with more than half of the field in with a legitimate win chance. Right at the head of the market is the recently so impressive Lingfield winner Mindyourownbusiness. A progressive colt, he improved nicely from run to run and got his game very much together the last time to win with a bit of authority. He had quite the run of the race, though, and up 7lb in the handicap mark, more is needed. Though, given his profile, he could easily be up to it. Melvin The Grate finished a gallant fourth that day, following on from some excellent performances. He tracked the eventual winner all the way but couldn't cope with the acceleration of Mindyourownbusiness. Not impossible that he can improve again, but he will have to as it looks to me as if he may be in the grip of the handicapper now. He certainly will need a quick pace and probably a bit of in-running luck if connections decide to revert to the successful hold-up tactics. Always consistently competitive is Marco Botti's Solar Deity. In his last five starts he has never been beaten by more than three lengths and finished was in the money in the majority of those races. That is reflected in his handicap mark, which stand stiff at 105. For that reason he has to carry a very big weight today as the highest rated horse in the field and may find one or two too good once again. Godolphin's Billingsgate had a quick trip to Dubai, but finished last in a competitive Handicap there. Shipped back to the UK, he must rate a good chance here, based on last seasons form, though the travel stress is a slight worry. David Simcock's Halation is an interesting runner. This Azamour gelding is clearly progressive, and had excuses when he finished down the field behind Mindyourownbusiness at Lingfield on his seasonal reappearance. The handicapper gave him a big chance subsequently and he obliged duly. He was in the right position that day, but also travelled beautifully and looked like a horse with much more to come. Consequently raised in the mark, he will need to improve, but the trip should suit well as on pedigree he is supposed to get further as well as get better with time. A fine 7lb claimer cancels effectively out the 6lb rise of the the handicap mark and therefore I would expect Halation to be very competitive today - if he is able to overcome his wide draw - which has to be a slight concern. Veteran Santefisio hasn't been seen to best effect in recent starts, however he is on a very long losing run and simply need more help from the handicapper. Jack Of Diamonds ran with loads of credit in his last starts. Expect him to be competitive today. He has a bit to find with the more fancied rivals, though. Don't Call Me looks as good as ever, but that says looked unlikely to be able to win off a mark as high as the current one in this grade. Pearl Nation is better suited to Southwell, though has Wolverhampton form. He did well lately, however it's much more required here today. On balance, I feel Halation is the dark horse to an extend and is overpriced. He is on a mark that gives him a chance to win if natural improvement would kick in for this lightly raced gelding. He showed nice form recently, has a good 7lb claimer on board and should like the trip. Halation @ 6/1 PP - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 3.30 Meydan: Al Maktoum Challenge R3 (Group 1) This race looks certain to evolve around the first three in the betting: African Story, Prince Bishop and Frankyfourfingers. Those three renew their rivalry from the recent Al Maktoum Challenge Round 2, where Frankyfourfingers prevailed under a canny front-running ride by Mickael Barzalona. The French gelding has rapidly improved since his first start on the Meydan Dirt, which came in January in the Round 1 of this race. That day over 1m, he travelled well but couldn't quite match the speed of eventual winner Surfer. However he looks a horse naturally suited to the Dirt, and he proved that when he took Round 2 in excellent style. Critics would say he got tired in the end and the additional half a furlong could find him out today. I would rather think the opposite. He looked to idle as he was alone in front and in fact the slight step up in trip should very much suit on pedigree. More improvement is not unlikely to come. What about Prince Bishop, who came very close in the very same race after staying on in extremely eye-catching fashion? Yes, he is a big player, certainly. He proved to be able to cope with the new surface and his past form rates a very strong one. He may stripper fitter today, and must be in with a big shout. However there is a valid concern, given the fact that he seems to develop a habit of starting slowly and lazily these days. He won't be able to allow that to happen again today. With this risk in mind, he looks a very short price. Stable mate African Story is the reigning Dubai World Cup champ and naturally warrants plenty of respect. His Dirt debut was okay I thought, given the long break. He didn't look like really enjoying to get Dirt into his face, though, and I would rather like to see another run of him performing really well on this surface before I would back him. US runner Long River makes his Meydan debut and has fair form in his native country. He surly will enjoy the test but if he is quite up to the standard required here remains to be seen. As touched on already, I feel Prince Bishop is too short in the betting given his habit to blow the start. If he could get it right this time, he is obviously a very big runner. I can't trust African Story today but I'm interested to see some improvement. Natural choice is Frankyfourfingers with the right form in the book and the right profile to take this. He looks overpriced and would have thought that he is at the top of the market. Frankyfourfingers @ 4/1 VC - 10pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Santa Margarita Invitational (Grade 1) Small field at Santa Anita for this Grade 1, without a real outstanding candidate, and in general it looks a rather open renewal. Warren's Veneda is trading as favourite at the moment after she looked an improved mare over the last number of weeks. She won two on the bounce, most notably her recent success in the Grade 2 Santa Maria Stakes. She got the perfect race and ride, trailing the field and making a sweeping move around the home turn to win with a bit of authority. She steps up in trip to 1 1?8 miles for the first time, but has a fair chance to stay the additional distance. A couple in this field try this trip for the first time and that adds to the openness of the contest. The mare I feel is a good deal overpriced is the generally still rather lightly raced Uzziel. She finished runner-up in the Santa Maria, and was fair and square beaten in the end. However she was the one who fared best from the horses up with- or tracking the pace, while the winner and the horses behind her came all from off the pace. The fact that she was able to keep going must give her a fine chance of getting the new trip, as she looked more beaten for speed than anything else. On pedigree, this should suit very well too. That says it is not out of this world that she can turn around the form with Warren's Veneda. And if she can do that, then she'll go very close here today. Uzziel @ 14/1 William Hill - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Uzziel ran out of gas in the home straight. Favourite Warren's Veneda won it in impressive fashion. 2.25 Greyville: Kings Cup (Grade 3 Handicap) This intriguing handicap looks a wide open race to my eyes. The Hangman heads the market and he is a worthy favourite, no doubt. A Grade 1 winner as a juvenile, he had his fair share of problems in recent years, but found back to something close of his best when winning a MR 92 Handicap as top weight over 1.400m last month. The Hangman took advantage of a career lowest mark that day and proved himself to be still in love with the game. This form entitles him to be a big runner today, and the step up to 1.600m shouldn't be an issue today. However a 7lb hike in the mark is something he has to overcome and currently a 9/4 chance he isn't more than a fair price. Christmas Handicap winner Fourth Estate will enjoy to be back at his beloved Greyville after two below par efforts at other tracks. Due to the big win in December, he is still on a career highest mark and after 46 career starts it looks unlikely that he can improve any further. Over this CD he rates a fair runner, but others make more appeal. Candy Moon was fourth in the Christmas Handicap but encountered a troubled run. He stayed on very strongly once in the clear and with a 2.5kg swing in the weights with the winner gives him the edge over that rival. He found 2.000m a bit too far subsequently, but the drop to a mile at Greyville should certainly suit. Candy Moon is two from three over CD and while he is another one who has to produce a career best, his penultimate effort gives him a strong chance. Classy Uncle Tommy runs consistently well and to his rating, despite the fact that has always big weights to shoulder. Up in class today, he has a huge 62kg to overcome and that could simply be too much asked. Royal Zulu Guard and Stolen Destiny are improved sorts lately . They should be competitive but also have to prove that they are up to their new career highest marks. Auction King and King Neptune are not out of this by any means. Though they don't strike as particularly well handicapped either and more is needed here. Verdict: If The Hangman can overcome the hike in the mark and continues to find back to his formerly brilliant best, then he has an ideal opportunity to score here over ideal course and distance. It is not a straightforward ask though and I take an chance with gradually improving Candy Moon who loves this track and trip and was a bit unlucky lately. With a clear run he should be a very big runner here with conditions in favour. Candy Moon @ 5/1 Sportingbet - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Candy Moon ran a huge race in 2nd, came from off the pace in race ran at no pace at all. The Hangman was perfectly placed in contrast and wasn't to beat after all.

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 4.30 Chelmsford: Class 3 Handicap, 6f Nice little race for a Monday, an open contest with many in the hunt for the money. The favourite Related must rate a fair chance, dropping in class after running with credit in hot company. This is easier, and he should go close. Progressive Oriental Relation is a course and distance winner this winter already, he made a big jump right into Listed company the last time but was found out. This here is not quite as hot, but still tough enough and a career best would be required today. Rich Again really excelled on the Wolverhampton tapeta in recent weeks. He couldn't quite translate the same form over to Lingfield lto and a career highest mark may find him out this time again. Money Team went agonisingly close in a strong 6f Handicap last month, proving his good latest form. He didn't get a run the last time when upped in trip and may find this today easier over potentially ideal 6f on the slow Chelmsford polytrack surface. With the right form in the book, job-jockey Gibbons in the saddle and a fair mark, he's the value in the race in my mind. Money Team @ 4/1 Bet365 - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing Pretty disappointing run by Money Team. Didn't seem to enjoy the deep surface as I hoped he would. Faded badly 2f out. Moving over to South Africa once more today... 2.35 Vaal: MR 92 Handicap, 1.700m The betting market suggests that this a widen open race with plenty of chances, and indeed, that is the case. Though I can drill down the field to a handful of runners with realistic chances to go close. Favourite Orchestrated will be one of them. He won over course and distance last month and had a couple of runners in this field behind him. A swing in the weights and a five pound higher mark make life tougher though. He found 2.450m too far subsequently, dropping back to 1.700m will surely suit. He's a fair favourite and a fair price. The only three year old in the race, Kingmambos Legacy has a very light weight and that must give him a chance, as well as you always have to respect De Kock's runners. But he hasn't shown anything in six starts that suggests he is up to this standard. He also has been campaigned over further and may find this trip too sharp. Tee Jay Ar finished 3rd behind Orchestrated the last time. A 2.5kg swing in the weights can help to get closer, but the trip is a worry. His best is over shorter and he may find this too far once again. Talented Eurakilon loves this track and has fair form in the book. But his problem is that he gets going way too late on too many occasions. He has an obvious chance if he can produce his finish earlier, but I wouldn't bet on it. Lightly raced Thatho Magetique is an interesting horse. He has fair form to offer and may be able to improve a bit. A light weight gives him a chance but it remains to be seen how he fares for the step up in class against much stronger rivals. Exposed Noble Star has plenty to find on ratings, however a very light weight of 52kg gives him a chance to be in with a shout. He's been consistent lately in lower grades but hasn't won in ages. He shouldn't be good enough, though the weight is in his favour. Zanzibar Man goes well at this track and wasn't too far beaten by Orchestrated last month, swing in the weights with this rival gives him a competitive chance, though he has hit the crossbar a bit too often and his last win dated back almost a year in lower class. Dark horse could be Leeuloop Jet. A good deal beaten by Orchestrated the last time, he usually loves track and trip as he is 2 from 3 over course and distance. He's coming down in the weights and rated to be competitive today with conditions very much to suit. He was only a lengths beaten on his penultimate run by a lightweight, a repeat of that form should see him going close. Interestingly top jockey Piere Strydom gets the leg up, which must mean that a strong run is expected. Strydom has a 24% strike rate with trainer Moffatt and steered Leeuloop Jet to two wins last season. So to see him up again is a confidence boost. Leeuloop Jet is a 9/1 chance with looks too big and the value in this field. Leeuloop Jet @ 9/1 Bet365 - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 2nd FFS! Excellent ride by Strydom from the front but the favourite got up late.

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 2.10 Fairview: East Cape Sprint Cup (Listed) Copper Parade is a proper Grade 1 horse running at Listed level today. There are reasons for that, as he can be bit temperamental in times and hasn't been seen since January. Bigger targets are on the mind of connections with the big Grade 1 sprints looming. He is the top rated sprinter in the country due to his success in the Premier G1 Computaform Sprint last year and a subsequent runner-up effort in the G1 Mercury Sprint. He's been a bit up and down in the next three, but dropping big time in class today, he is clearly the one the others have to beat. That says he is a slightly better horse over 1.000m but has won over further in the past, so 1.200m should be okay and class should prevail. On official ratings he is well in today. Main opponent should be the only filly in the race, Yoshie. A multiple winner of sprint races at listed level, she is well in the weights compared with most rivals and should run a very big race. However she has loads to find on the ratings with Copper Parade. In-form horse Unannounced won four on the bounce and should be competitive, but as most in this field, has mainly been running in handicaps. If things go normal, Copper Parade can't get beaten here. A 115 rated individual against 100 rated horses and lower. This discrepancy is not offset by weight allowances at all, so if he runs to his ability, it should be game over at 200m post. Copper Parade @ 5/4 Sportingbet - 10pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing The richest race on the planet is just around the corner - the $10 million Dubai World Cup! I could debate all day long if this race deserves its status and the incredible amount of prize money that is on offer - but let's concentrate on the sport for the moment. California Chrome: Last years Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes hero California Chrome made the trip over to Dubai and has been installed as the red hot favourite. Chrome proved himself a versatile horse, with Group 1 successes on Dirt and Turf alike. He came close to win the Triple Crown last season and it would have been easy to retire him to stud after such a great year, so one has to applaud connections for their brave decision to keep him in training for another season. Can he add to his impressive tally of victories? Possibly. Chrome started the new year with a very good effort in the San Antonio Stakes. Only beaten by Shared Belief that day, this prep run should bring him along nicely for the big day. One of the few concerns is the Meydan Dirt. Seemingly different to what he knows from the US, we will have to find out on the day itself how he handles it. There are positive vibes, though, following good workouts since his arrival in Dubai. The 2.000m trip won't be a problem at all. He won the Derby over this distance and finished a gallant third in the Breeders Cup Classic. Usually aggressively ridden, he should be helped by the way the new Meydan Dirt track has worked out so far over the course of the season. Lea: A multiple Stakes winner in the US, he broke the track record at Gulfstream Park in the Grade 1 Donn Handicap over 1 1/8 mile last year. He had a long lay-off afterwards but was probably near his best when reappearing in January, winning a Grade 3 over a mile. He followed up with a nice runner-up effort in the 2015 Donn Handicap. That all sets him up nicely for a crack at the Dubai World Cup and he rates a big chance. The main question is the trip. He never tried 10f before, albeit there aren't that many opportunities in the US to do so. He's got a chance on pedigree, but the way the Meydan Dirt rides and the possibility of a very quick race, this is a potent concern in my mind. African Story: Last years impressive World Cup winner, although back then on Tapeta, has put concerns to bed about his ability to translate his class to Dirt. A fair effort on his seasonal reappearance, followed by a very gutsy success in the Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge R3, proved that he is capable of running well on the Dirt. He hated the kick-back on his first run, but was much closer ridden to the pace the last time and that proved the deal breaker. African Story isn't getting any younger but his most recent run was clearly promising and over the years he has excelled under the Dubai sun. Naturally he has to be one of the main contenders, given the fact that he is proven over the course, surface and trip. He also showed guts and the right mental attitude to compete with the best on Dirt. Prince Bishop: A versatile and talented horse, albeit also a quirky character, Prince Bishop has been a close runner-up in two starts on the Meydan Dirt this season. He has developed a habit of starting poorly as well as racing lazily in the early parts of a race and that caught him out the last two times. He stayed on very impressively on both occasions, but the risk is there that he loses the race at the start and any ground he'd give away early on would be difficult if not probably impossible to make up in the World Cup this time. Epiphaneia: The 2014 Japan Cup winner is a top class horse and exciting addition to this race. If he can translate his class to the Dirt, he must be a big runner. But there is the big question mark: He's never tried this surface On pedigree there is a possibility that he can adapt to it. But first time out here in a big race like the World Cup may prove quite a difficult task. He is a former St. Leger winner, so one has to be slightly concerned about the sharp 10f trip, particularly as early speed is so important on Dirt. It could be all happening a bit too quickly for Epiphaneia. Hokko Tarumae: Another high class individual from Japan is trying his luck in the World Cup. Hokko Tarumae was a long way beaten in the very same race last year, but the change of surface should make a big difference to his chances. He is the reigning Japan Dirt Cup winner, in addition to a long list of other big Grade 1's on Dirt in his home country. Hokko Tarumae likes to be ridden close to the pace and he showed himself in good nick lately. If he travelled well over and can adapt to the Meydan Dirt surface, he should be a big chance to go really close in the Dubai World Cup this time. Candy Boy: The four year old was thought to be one of the more fancied Kentucky Derby contenders last year but disappointed in the race itself and was a long way beaten by California Chrome that day. He ran out some creditable placed efforts in some big Stakes races, however was more than five lengths beaten in the Breeders Cup Classic. He looks up against it here, particularly with the trip not sure to suit. Side Glance: He has been running really well in Group 1's all over the world last season and was only half a lengths beaten in the Cox Plate when seen the last time. He was fourth in the 2013 Dubai World but has never raced on Dirt and that is an obvious concern. Worth a try with him here, but hard to fancy him against top class opposition. Verdict: The 2015 Dubai World Cup looks an open enough renewal. The Meydan Dirt surface is a question mark for many runners, but it can be assumed that the US horses have enough class to take to it. If that is the case, then Lea but probably even more so California Chrome have to be strong contenders to land the richest race on the planet. However it would be a mistake to underestimate the local runners. I feel that African Story in particular doesn't get the respect he deserves. He is a proven top class performer, defending his crown, and has seemingly adapted to the new surface as his most recent success proved. He showed good gate speed that day, and if he can get a good break this time again, he'll have a big chance to go really close. At 8/1 he looks a huge price. The other international horses have to be respected as well. Japan's top Dirt performer Hokko Tarumae should play a big role this time I feel. He wasn't suited to Tapeta at all last year, but should be really suited by the test on Saturday. It is sometimes hard to know how this Japanese form translates to the international stage, though my perception is that Hokko Tarumae would be a classy Dirt performer anywhere in the world. Widely available at 12/1, he is overpriced and together with African Story I select him as a value bet against the two market leaders California Chrome and Lea. African Story @ 8/1 Betfred - 5pts win Hokko Tarumae @ 12/1 Paddy Power - 5pts win

[robertob]

Re: Better Racing 2.35 Doncaster: Cammidge Trophy (Listed) Wide open renewal. The ground is drying out and that may catch a couple out, particularly last years winner Dinkum Diamond. On the other hand the ground may not be quite quick enough for Naadirr, who i like allot, but under a penalty would only be confident enough in with quick ground. Astaire will find this easier than the top races he contested in last season. He is a worthy favourite, but not more than a fair price. As the value here, I fancy the filly Perfect Blessings to go well. Still rather lightly raced, she looked promising in spring last year and may do better now as a four year old than her last two results may suggest. If she is fit today, she could outrun her price with conditions to suit. 1/4 odds EW with Coral looks tasty here. Perfect Blessings @ 33/1 Coral - 2.5pts EW