Saturday preview: Courier-Mail racing editor Nathan Exelby breaks down the big races at Eagle Farm

THE Courier-Mail’s racing editor Nathan Exelby breaks down the big races at the much-anticipated return to Eagle Farm, headlined by the Queensland Oaks.

Nathan Exelby

3 min read

June 3, 2016 - 5:00PM

THE Courier-Mail’s racing editor Nathan Exelby breaks down the big races at the much-anticipated return to Eagle Farm, headlined by the $500,000 Group 1 Queensland Oaks.

Track: Soft (5) and almost certain to be worse.

Weather: Heavy rain. Anywhere from 30mm-100mm predicted.

FRIDAY: FORMLINE

HOT TIPS: WEEKEND BEST BETS

BEAT THE BOOKIE: VALUE BETS

SATURDAY’S BEST: RAY AND DUFF

STABLE WATCH: ROSEHILL

Race 3: Eagle Farm Cup

2200m, SWFA Group 2, 1.22pm

In the run: Puccini was good from the front last week, so no reason they won’t try that again. Col ‘N’ Lil and Snapper not far away.

Take note: Puccini and Volkstok’n’barrell are the only Group 1 winners in the field and both come off solid last start efforts. This is the easiest race Donna Logan has had Volkstok in for a long time.

Did you know: The Doomben Cup has provided nine of the past 11 winners of this and that trend should continue here. Volkstok’n’barrell finished best, but Maurus had a tougher run and he’s the one who will definitely relish the wet conditions.

Early money: Everything has tightened up with Provocative securing a run in the Oaks. Fair to say Volkstok’n’barrell has been the best backed runner. Mighty Lucky and Puccini ($5.50) soft.

Nathan’s tip: Maurus $3

Nathan’s danger: Volkstok’n’barrell $2.20

Race 5: Juanmo Stakes

1200m, F & M SW & P LR, 2.40pm

In the run: Speed looks good with Traveston Girl, Echo Gal and Adorabubble. Maybe Miss Cover Girl is also ridden more positively on Saturday.

Take note: Sultry Feeling comes back from a Group 1 test in Adelaide. Won dual G3 races in Sydney before that, so this is a lovely class drop for her. Wasn’t far off Miss Cover Girl on heavy ground last season and she’s a far better horse now.

Did you know: Tina Melina for the Tony Gollan stable was best of those back in the field last time and now arrives ready to peak. Won easily on the softest surface she has ever struck, so expecting her to cope with the conditions.

Early money: Tina Melina is in from $10. Serenade has been $15-$11.

Nathan’s tip: Sultry Feeling $7.50

Nathan’s danger: Tina Melina $8.50

Sultry Feeling should enjoy the drop in class. Picture: Jenny Evans

Race 7: Queensland Oaks

2400m, 3YO F G1, 4pm

In the run: They should run it at an even clip with the likes of Zasorceress, Romantic Maid, Ashlee Marie, Self Esteem and Imposing Lass in the firing line.

Take note: Falkenberg was slow out then struck plenty of traffic problems in the Roses. Liked the way she finished off. Her brother Sebring won the Golden Slipper and Sires on bog tracks, so the suspicion is that she will cope.

Did you know: Provocative is aiming to be just the second filly in the past 11 years to win this coming through a race other than the Roses. Her individual final 600m sectional at Ipswich was the quickest at the venue in at least five years for 2150-2200 races.

Early money: Imposing Lass $7.50 into $7 favourite. Some money for Alaskan Rose at big odds.

Provocative makes her way on the course proper at Eagle Farm. Picture: Annette Dew

Nathan’s tip: Provocative $8.50

Nathan’s danger: Falkenberg $7.50

Race 8: Spear Chief Handicap

1500m, Qty LR, 4.33pm

In the run: Expecting natural leader Religify to be scratched. Beckham, Heart Of A Warrior, Elegant Composure, Allknight Saint can all be there.

Take note: Federal won 1st up off the long break at 1400m, then tried to come back to 1200m and 1300m at next two. Was outsprinted last time against the 10,000 winner and this suits better. Is a heavy track winner at Randwick.

Did you know: Beckham is unknown on wet ground, but his dual Group 1-winning mum Glamour Puss had no dramas with it. Strong win in fast time latest and can make his own luck on the speed.