Race 7 – 8:45PM – Apache Cat Classic (1200 METRES)
2 HEDGED – $3.9
Classy campaigner back in grade here after a competitive prep in black-type company. He’s trialled up nicely and draws to get the gun run from barrier 1. Expect him to be close enough to pounce if he’s wound up.
5 GEEGEES GEMSTONE – $11
Sharp first-up record and comes into this off two jump-outs. He has solid Listed-level form from Tasmania and should get the suck run behind the speed. Could easily run top three if he’s ready.
6 CHARCOALS – $3.15
Won four of his past five and continues to raise the bar. Drops to 55kg and maps to stalk the speed from midfield. With Mertens aboard, he’s a serious chance to notch another one.
Race 8 – 9:15PM – Highview Accounting & Financial Pinker Pinker Plate (2025 METRES)
1 ALMA RISE (NZ) – $5.1
Looks suited back to mares grade. She’s got a great record at the trip and her run in the Sandown Cup stacks up. Blinkers on is a strong signal of intent.
4 BRAVE MISS – $4
Very consistent this prep and looks to get the right run. She doesn’t win out of turn but always gives you a sight. Solid place chance.
8 SAXON BEAUTY – $9.1
In career-best form and handles a strong tempo. She’s a genuine stayer and drops back to 2025m, which suits her late burst. Don’t dismiss.
Race 9 – 9:45PM – Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup Saturday 22 November BM62 Handicap (2520 METRES)
3 FLASHLIGHT (NZ) – $3.9
On the up and was dominant last start over 2400m. He sticks to the trip and carries weight well. Drawn ideally and looks like he’ll grind them into the turf.
6 WONDERING SPIRIT (NZ) – $6.5
Lightly raced type who’s been building through the grades. Gets a soft gate and should be prominent throughout. Definitely in the mix.
8 TEE EIGHT (NZ) – $9
Tough customer who finally broke through last start. This is harder but he stays all day and will be running on when others are stopping.
The Professor’s Plays
Best Bet:
6 CHARCOALS – Flying and maps to get the right run in the Apache Cat. Loves the distance and is on an upward curve.
Value:
8 SAXON BEAUTY – Keeps improving and should be hitting top gear late in the Pinker Pinker.
Each-Way:
8 TEE EIGHT (NZ) – Stays all day and could surprise late in the staying contest.
