All Star Mile contender crunched despite horror draw

Image: Bruno Cannatelli

Alizee and Mystic Journey are locked in battle for All Star Mile favouritism

Two hours after the barrier draw for Saturday’s All-Star Mile took place at Flemington, the gap is tightening between Alizee and Mystic Journey in the battle for favouritism.

Alizee has drifted as TAB’s favourite from $3 to $3.20 with the early support coming for Mystic Journey, who has tightened from $4.60 to $3.80 despite drawing barrier 16 of 18 with emergencies included.

“Alizee has been in outstanding form this preparation with three wins since December 29 including the Group 1 Futurity Stakes at Caulfield on February 23, so it is a little surprising that she has eased as favourite,” TAB’s Trent Langskaill said.

“Mystic Journey won the Australian Guineas in devastating fashion at Flemington on March 2 and TAB punters have indicated early that Tasmania’s princess of the turf can extend her winning streak to six races.”

Happy Clapper has run gallant seconds to Winx in the Apollo Stakes (February 16) and TAB Chipping Norton Stakes (March 2) this preparation and the three-time Group winner over the Randwick mile is TAB’s $5 third favourite for the world’s richest mile race.

Hartnell is an $11 chance along with Hawkshot and Amphitrite – who finished second and third to Mystic Journey in the Australian Guineas – while last year’s Australian Guineas and Makybe Diva Stakes winner Grunt is a $17 hope.