Saturday late mail, tips, analysis for Stradbroke Handicap Day

Queensland’s most famous race, the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap, headlines a big day of racing around Australia on Saturday, and our team of experts have got you covered.

Matt Williams

less than 2 min read

June 14, 2024 - 6:05PM

Queensland Saturday Preview | Racing Queensland

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It’s Stradbroke Handicap day on Saturday — and what a race the $3 million Group 1 should be.

It’s an even race with plenty of winning chances.

As I wrote in my weekly column with Ben Dorries, I’m strongly against the favourite, Vilana, in the Straddy.

I’ve got real doubts he can repeat such a strong performance seven days apart, and I’m leaning towards The Goodwood winner, Benedetta, on top.

Britt Taylor with Benedetta.

The 1400m shouldn’t be an issue for her, and she’s drawn the right gate to ensure she can get the trip.

She possesses a strong turn of foot, which will only be enhanced carrying 54kg.

Magic Time and Bella Nipotina will run well, while the best roughie in the race is Nugget.

With the Ciaron Maher polish, he’ll be primed to run a big race, and it’s very rare that Jason Collett gets down to ride at 53kg.

Broadsiding should win the JJ Atkins, but he’s short odds around $1.70.

At Sandown, Flying Fizz ($9) looks a nice each-way bet in Race 4 and the same applies for Cindy Falls ($13) in Race 5. Hard To Cross (Race 6) is my best bet of the day in Melbourne.

At Rosehill, Lyrical Gangster should run well in Race 4 at a decent price, and so should Amati in Race 6.