The Golden Slipper field is almost crystal clear following yesterday’s racing at Rosehill.
With the final two ballot-exempt spots going to Salade and Altar, the order of entry is complete for the world’s richest juvenile race.
Confirmed non-runners are Uate (7th), Golden Archer (9th), Hallowell Belle (11th), One Last Dance (12th) and Anevay (17th).
Darley has five horses in the top 25, but only two are definite runners and they may run one more.
Current favourite Sepoy and yesterday’s Magic Night Stakes winner Altar are both certain runners.
Helmet will trial on Monday, having failed to load at the trials on Friday, while Aerobatics and Anise are possible but unlikely runners.
Surprisingly, Bart Cummings has said he will pay up for two horses – yesterday’s Pago Pago Stakes winner Salade and impressive Canterbury winner Do You Think.
It is highly unlikely that Do You Think will get a run, but it is possible he will be an emergency.
Melbourne filly Mosheen may also be a surprise contender, with connections to pay a $150 000 late entry fee tomorrow.
She is currently on the cusp of gaining a start.
If Darley runs only three horses, the top 16 horses in the order of entry are:
Satin Shoes
Elite Falls
Smart Missile
Shared Reflections
Salade
Altar
Sepoy
Running Tall
Karuta Queen
Foxwedge
Masthead
Saramenha
Pane in the Glass
Fast and Sexy
Hot Snitzel
Helmet/Anise/Aerobatics
Next in the order are Boys on Tour, Mosheen and Exceed and Exalt.
The Slipper field will be declared on Tuesday, with the barrier draw to be held at midday at Martin Place in Sydney’s CBD.
Written by Andrew Hawkins
