Race 6 – 3:48PM – Congratulations Brisbane Broncos Class 2 Handicap (1640 METRES)
1 MR BUSTER (IRE) – $3.1
A well-travelled European import who looks ready to strike. His Australian runs have been solid without breaking through, but this looks like the right set-up. The drop in grade from strong BM70s and his proven staying ability suggest he’s primed. Maloney hops on from a sticky gate, but if he can slot in, his turn of foot over the mile could prove decisive. Clearly the class of the race, just needs luck early.
2 MAN OF THE TOWN – $5.1
Has really hit his straps this prep, putting together two very convincing wins over 1400m and 1600m. Loves it soft, maps for the gun run from barrier one, and Cartwright knows exactly when to press the button. While this is a step up, his recent figures suggest he belongs here. Can measure up with the right tempo.
8 STEEL IMPACT – $13
Honest mare who’s been building nicely through easier races in Victoria. Has form around consistent types and wasn’t disgraced last start in a CL1 behind Man Of The Town. Gets weight relief, draws well, and will likely be tucked away midfield looking for gaps. Not out of it in a wide-open affair.
Race 7 – 4:23PM – XXXX Gold Benchmark 70 Handicap (1350 METRES)
1 THE LITTLE PUMPER – $6.6
Big weight and awkward form pattern, but his recent placing at Eagle Farm suggests he’s ready to peak third-up. Has class on his side and maps well from gate 2 with a big claim. Gollan doesn’t send them here without intent. Expect a bold front-running showing.
4 DISNEY CASTLE – $7.1
Fresh off a win at Eagle Farm in BM68 company where she charged late to score. Lightly weighted with the apprentice claim and finds a similar field here. Is hard to follow at times but clearly has ability when she gets the right set-up. Worth keeping safe.
10 BOLLINGER MISS – $5
Honest mare who always puts in. Rarely wins but runs time and can sit closer in the run here. Drawn awkwardly, but if Harley can slot in, she has the form to feature in the finish. Include in everything.
Race 8 – 5:02PM – Ladbrokes Mates Mode Open Handicap (1200 METRES)
2 GOLDSBOROUGH (NZ) – $7.6
Veteran sprinter who’s been holding his form admirably in tougher company. Has won at this track/trip and thrives in soft conditions. Drawn perfectly and should settle in the first few. Has the class edge if he brings his best.
3 AT WITZ END – $13
Old boy still has some fire in the tank. He was solid last time out and brings form around the likes of Nettuno and Bunker Hut. Maps for a soft run behind the speed and drops weight with the claim. Don’t discount at odds.
6 HATCHET – $3.45
Hard to knock the way he’s been finishing off this prep. Brings solid metro form and the 1200m is ideal. Can absorb pressure and still quicken, which will be key from the middle draw. Thompson sticks and that’s a positive lead. Leading hope.
The Professor’s Plays
Best Bet:
3 RUSSIAN SUB – Maps for the ideal run and his first-up effort in Saturday grade was full of merit. Should find clean air and prove too sharp for this lot.
Value:
6 SANTERO – Back in trip and down in grade. The map looks tricky, but she’s got a powerful finish and can capitalise late if the tempo’s strong.
Each-Way:
7 HEARSAY – Flying this prep and the ratings are no fluke. Versatile enough to adapt from the gate and brings a competitive profile.
