Early look at the 2011 Oakbank Stakes

Adam Page gives us his brief preview for Saturday’s listed Oakbank Stakes at Oakbank racecourse, view his full race preview and selections.

Form Guide

I’m very keen on Play Just For Me. Showed a lot of promise last prep which yielded a placing behind Sunday Rose, before close up efforts when beaten by Varenna Miss and Status Symbol.

She struggled at Eagle Farm but she was a tired horse and was looking for the spelling paddock. She trialled well at a couple of weeks ago over 800m in slick time. She looked wound up for a first up win. She’ll get the run of the race and if she handles the track, she’ll just about win.

Sir Sienna is another that looks well suited. Had good form last campaign which ended with a luckless effort at Moonee Valley when she was caught out in no mans land and weakened. Has a tidy fresh record, Lindop knows the mare well and is drawn to get a soft run just off the speed. If they go mad in front, look out for her to be charging at the end.

Arinos is the class facor by miles and if he is fit enough, he’ll probably win, but I suspect he may start too short in the betting. Look for at least $3 for him to put your money on. Big query on whether if he’ll handle the tight Oakbank circuit. He’ll get the soft run and definitely finish top three because he is a class horse.

Glaze does like to lead in her races, but the speed will be hot and then some, and she has drawn barrier six so getting over to the rail will be tough. Having said that, she probably doesn’t need to lead to feature in the finish because she is on the limit, more than likely will get cover and she’ll appreciate some give in the ground. A sneaky first four hope.

Play Just For Me on top, from Sir Sienna, Arinos and Glaze.

Written by Adam Page