Saturday preview: Courier-Mail racing editor Nathan Exelby breaks down the big races at Eagle Farm
BEST BETS: THE Courier-Mail’s racing editor Nathan Exelby looks for the winners at Eagle Farm with his regular column, Nathan’s Racebook.
THE Courier-Mail’s racing editor Nathan Exelby looks for the winners at Eagle Farm with his regular column, Nathan’s Racebook.
THE FACTORS
TRACK
Good (4)
WEATHER
Mostly sunny, 34 degrees
Race 5: B.J. McLachlan Stakes
1200m, 2yo G3, 2.48pm
In the run: Six of them settled in the first two at their latest outings, so expect some pressure up the pointy end. Of those, Snitzkraft and Tiara are the ones that have to use the most petrol early.
Take note: Debonairly was snubbed off the trial win in favour of second placed Te Amo, but she put a bigger gap in that horse on race day. Stable have super record in this race and would be a surprise if she doesn’t measure up.
Did you know: Ours To Keep has run strong figures in both outings to date, clearly outpointing the fillies when resuming a fortnight ago. Damian Browne was kind on him late in that race and he gives the impression he will relish further now.
Early money: Ours To Keep is in from $4.60. Coorg also popular.
NATHAN’S TIP: OURS TO KEEP $3
NATHAN’S DANGER: DEBONAIRLY $6
Race 6: Buffering Quality
1300m, Qty Hcp, 3.28pm
In the run: Monsieur Gustave and Lucky Tom the pacesetters. Most Important and Ninth Legion will try and tuck in behind.
Take note: In His Stride and Trubia look the two improvers outside the favourites. Both come off solid last start performances and capable of stepping up to this. Can include them in all multiples.
Did you know: Most Important holds a 4-2 head to head lead over Too Good To Refuse from their six meetings, including their latest two. However, the lone time they met on weight terms similar to today, the Desleigh Forster trained Too Good To Refuse had the upper hand. His chances hinge on being able to stay in touch early.
Early money: A sprinkling for Sir Moments, who is into $17. Most Important best backed so far.
NATHAN’S TIP: TOO GOOD TO REFUSE $2.80
NATHAN’S DANGER: MOST IMPORTANT $2.80
Race 7: Bernborough Handicap
1600m, Open LR, 4.08pm
In the run: Coolring could lead easily if Damian Lane desires to, having his first go over the mile. Prince Manitou should also show speed fresh at this trip. Lord Lumberjack right there, with Hopfgarten and Mr Epic crossing to be handy.
Take note: Hopfgarten was hardly disgraced in the G1 Cantala at Flemington and then ran very well in the Villiers over this trip off a wide run. He loves the mile, in particular the mile at Eagle Farm.
Did you know: Lord Lumberjack was initially being aimed at the 2200m Shoot Out on this card, but his trainers missed the nomination deadline. Stays at the mile now. Lone run in Australia was encouraging.
Early money: Grafton Cup winner Rednav has been backed with several agencies. Has firmed from $67-$41 with UBET.
NATHAN’S TIP: HOPFGARTEN $5.50
NATHAN’S DANGER: LORD LUMBERJACK $8.50
Race 8: Nudgee Quality
1200m, F & M LR, 4.48pm
In the run: A big number of these like to settle back. Looks like Flaming Aces can take it up and then Tye Angland can settle to her outside very easily on Global Glamour. Miss Cover Girl might go forward from the bad gate.
Take note: Global Glamour has won G1 races at her past two. The fillies that ran second in those races both also won G1 races subsequently. Takes on the big weight to run over the 1200m (rather than 1300m Vo Rogue).
Did you know: Kinshachi can earn a wildcard into the $1M Magic Millions F & M if successful here. So too can Sold For Song, Ocean Embers, Brook Road and Press Report.
Early money: Ocean Embers went up at a generous $17. Still seems a nice price at $14.
NATHAN’S TIP: GLOBAL GLAMOUR $2.90
NATHAN’S DANGER: KINSHACHI $5.50
Originally published as Saturday preview: Courier-Mail racing editor Nathan Exelby breaks down the big races at Eagle Farm
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