The four blacktype races at Caulfield all had their significance, whether it was a big race favourite looking to hold its form, the three-year-olds kicking off their Autumn campaign, the sprinters looking to see if they can match in better class company, or the stayers and where their short term future is. Overall, it was a fabulous days racing at Caulfield and here is my review of the main events as we head towards C.F. Orr Stakes Day next week where the racing world will see if Black Caviar can stretch out beyond 1200m with the ease that she has shown throughout her career.
Race Four- Emirates Airline Stakes (1100m)
FORGIVE:
I think they all had their chance here. Can’t offer an excuse for any.
FORGET:
For the moment, put a line through Timely Truce. Not the best ride by Boss, but the horse didn’t find much despite racing like he wanted more ground the start prior. I wouldn’t sack Jimando. First up after a good spell, he got tired late and will benefit immensely thanks to that. He is still one of the horses to beat for the Blue Diamond.
FOLLOW:
The first six over the line look above average based on what we saw yesterday. Fourth, fifth and sixth, which was Pronto Pronto, Adjuster and Wakeel respectively, all appear as if they’ll be winning some nice races in due time. But the winner was super impressive coming from last and weaving through the ruck, which is not easy to do for a juvenile on debut.
Race Five- Shadwell Stud Australasia Stakes (1200m)
FORGIVE:
Petman missed the start. That was the end of his chances after that. Whether if he is up to this class or not…I am not sure. He does have talent, but he is a house with no lights.
FORGET:
Rifleman in this grade. Was stunned he started so short thanks to a Ballarat maiden win and a weak three-year-old race in Adelaide. Was given a perfect ride by Dunn but found zilch in the straight, despite having a fitness edge.
FOLLOW:
First four across, in particular the winner Mosheen, are in for a fruitful Autumn. She is probably the third best three-year-old filly in Australia behind Atlantic Jewel and Streama, but based on her effortless win here, she can certainly leapfrog past these two.
Race Six- United Arab Emirates Stakes (1000m)
FORGIVE:
Unnanimously and Definitely Ready did far too much work early and that threw away any chance they had. To his credit, Unanimously stuck on superbly for fourth while Definitely Ready went for 800m and folded up badly.
FORGET:
General Truce. Given a nice ride by Boss, but didn’t ping in the straight. Not sure where connections go with him, because that is two very disappointing runs in a row.
FOLLOW:
I’m not sure if he can win a Group One due to the fact he may clash with Sepoy, but Bel Sprinter is right up there with the best sprinters in Australia now-apart from Black Caviar of course. Devastating turn of foot in the straight and that is the key to him- ride him cold and save him for the final 300m. He’ll give the Oakleigh Plate and almighty shake.
Race Seven- Reaan Plate (2000m)
FORGIVE:
Sea Galleon was first up after a break and didn’t show a great deal. I’m expecting him to bounce back in his hometown feature race, the Mornington Cup (2400m).
FORGET:
Apres was given a lovely run by Symons, but was easily beaten in the run home. Starting to become a money muncher and if you do continue to back him, then you are brave because he won’t be having my money anytime soon.
FOLLOW:
Bolton has an electric turn of foot and that won him the race. Got to the front too early hence why he got the staggers late. Probably needs to be held up just that little bit more if he is going on towards the better class races because the talent he has suggests he can and more than likely will.
