4:25am - JAMES BOAG'S PREMIUM AUSTRALIAN OAKS | 2400m | Group 1 | i

The 2018 Oaks is high quality, the two best Kiwi staying fillies coming across the ditch to take on some of Australia's toughest 3YOs. HIYAAM expected to push forward with CONTESSA VANESSA not far off and SAVVY COUP in the box seat, not too much pressure and a STEADY to FAIR tempo forecast. Looking for the best lead-up runs and the most stamina, HIYAAM was very impressive winning the G1 Vinery, even if she did get a couple of cheap sections early. They set off for a LONG SPRINT home that day and UNFORGOTTEN couldn't catch her (...wasn't far off), while ALOISIA had excuses and could be worth another chance over 2400m after failing in the Victorian Oaks last spring (was in a mood that day). SAVVY COUP could simply be too good for the Aussies based on her last two runs though, dominant in the NZ Oaks, she has the muscular conformation needed to succeed on a Sydney dry track. LUVALUVA the other big chance in the race after getting the job done last week carrying 60kg. BRING ME ROSES (could bounce back), CONTESSA VANESSA and DANZDANZDANCE not far off on ratings too. [updated 8:53am]