Race 6 – 4:20PM – NEWGATE CLASS 1 & MAIDEN PLATE (1600 METRES)
3 KING JERRY – $4.4
He’s honest and consistent, and while he’s yet to race beyond 1400m, the way he finishes off his races suggests the mile will be no issue. Covered ground two back in a decent Highway, then got well back again last time and wasn’t disgraced. Drops back in grade here and gets in nicely with the apprentice claim. If they go quick up front, expect him to be thundering late. Big chance.
8 SAINTLY SANDS – $5
String of runner-up efforts would test the patience of any punter, but you can’t knock the consistency. She’s flying this prep and handles all surfaces. This is her pet trip and she maps to be a touch closer than usual. Doesn’t win out of turn but keeps finding the line and deserves another crack at this grade. Hard to leave out of the numbers.
10 GOLD CAPITAL – $26
Maiden who has found one or two better in weaker races but has shown enough to warrant some interest here. Will get back from the wide draw and need luck in running, but if the speed’s on and he’s saved for one late run, could surprise a few at big odds. Rough hope.
Race 7 – 4:55PM – SCONE EQUINE MAIDEN PLATE (1400 METRES)
1 PARALIA – $12
Well-tried maiden with enough runs to suggest one is just around the corner. Tends to settle on speed and give a good sight, but can be vulnerable late. Drops in grade slightly and has the services of Bullock which is always a tick. Will give them something to catch if he lands in the first couple. Place claims.
8 PAWA – $9
Promising type who’s done enough in his first few starts to suggest a maiden win is imminent. Gets a nice draw here and Bell sticks. His effort last time had merit given he didn’t get much room. If he finds clean air late, he’ll be right in the finish. Must include.
11 BACKHANDER BOBS – $19
Still learning the caper but has put in a couple of encouraging runs, including a second at Tamworth. Wide draw no help, but Buckley takes the reins and she should strip fitter for recent outings. Knockout chance if things fall her way.
Race 8 – 5:35PM – THE COUNCIL CANTER COUNTRY BOOSTED CLASS 3 HANDICAP (1200 METRES)
2 PONY SOPRANO – $5
High-speed gelding who tends to either blow them away or fade late. Fitter for recent runs and this is a noticeable drop in grade. Drawn to lead again and gets Bullock on board which is a big plus. If he finds the front uncontested, they may not catch him.
7 BULLION HUNTER – $18
Has some talent and was tough winning a CL1 two back, but the last-start effort in a stronger race showed he’s still a work in progress. Wide draw means he’ll need to burn early or go back and loop them. Capable of a run-on placing.
8 CRESTA RUN – $5.5
Bounced through the grades quickly and wasn’t disgraced last time in a Highway. Back to a more suitable level here and she maps nicely with the claim. Expect her to settle midpack and chime in late. One of the better bets on the card.
Rusty’s Plays:
Best Bet:
1 NICCONI’S PROMISE (R6) – Won’t know himself back in this grade. Maps well and has the engine to win.
Value:
2 OUR CITY (R7) – Maps for the right run and drops sharply in class. Could surprise at odds.
Each-Way:
5 BIG HITTER (R5) – Drawn well and peaking at the right time. Looks ready to break through.
