Could the racing have got any better on Saturday? Whether it was the comeback kid Lion Tamer bursting into Spring calculations with a strong win in the Underwood Stakes at Caulfield, or Sincero and his tough but brilliant win in the George Main Stakes, you had to be impressed.
This weekend of racing has always been a very good guide to the major Spring features and I think there won’t be exception from Saturday.
Rosehill:
Stand To Gain – It’s a shame that the forecast is for a dry Spring because if the heavens do decide to open up, this bloke would be very competitive in the Melbourne Cup. Caught the eye when finishing off nicely for fourth behind Trusting. He was no where near right for that race so expect massive improvement from this import. He is ticking over nicely for Chris Waller but with these dry tracks, it seems unlikely he’ll be claiming a Spring feature.
Ego’s Dare – Didn’t mind this blokes run in The Shorts (1200m). Got well back along the fence, was going no where at the 300m but he picked up and flashed home for fourth. This is his right grade and there is a race for him very soon if he repeats Saturdays effort.
Caulfield:
Mr Chez – Kiwi three year old who ran in the 1700m race. He never looked a winning chance, he was off the bit about 800m out due to the strong tempo up front, but he got to the line well enough to keep following him. He looks a lovely type for the Derby at Flemington. Bigger track and 2500m will suit him perfectly if connections head that way.
Scarlett Lady – Very confident about her Caulfield Cup chances and her run in the Underwood has not changed my mind. 800m out, she was near the tail and under riding from James McDonald, yet she finished off hard to finish within five lengths of Lion Tamer. With more fitness, she is going to get better and better. Loved it and I can’t wait for the 2400m feature race in a months time.
Hastings:
And from Hastings in New Zealand on Saturday, kiwi superstar Jimmy Choux was dominant in the Windsor Park Plate (1600m) and has laid claims for the Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley. He is flying at present and will be hard to beat in whatever he runs in from now on.
Written by Adam Page
