Top 5 Early Insights
Published: 14 Nov 2018
#1 The bear charges down the outside!
Sandown Hillside Race 2
There were a few smart analysts tipping Darren Weir’s stayer YOGI as an outside chance in the Melbourne Cup, but he couldn’t get into the race by winning one of the qualifying lead-up events.
Settling last in the on-pace dominated Geelong and Hotham Cups gave the big-strider no chance. He’ll be very hard to beat over the two miles on Saturday.
#2 Will he show up this time?
Rosehill Gardens Race 6
NOTIO was a “no show” last week when he drew a bad barrier. He’s a reliable galloper with a big sprint that should really suit Rosehill, the Hawkes stable know what they are doing bringing him to Sydney.
There’s a warning though, he’s not always the most genuine in the run to the line so play him each-way.
#3 Back to basics for Ben
Sandown Hillside Race 8
Ben Melham rode THE TAJ MAHAL to victory in the Zipping classic twelve months ago and he kept it simple that day, pushing to the lead and breaking clear in the straight.
Things were much less favourable in his lead-up run, stuck wide on a strong pace when only 9th in the Group 2 Moonee Valley Gold Cup.
Expect Ben to make his move early and be right in the finish, the Williams’ team love winning the Zipping Classic.
#4 ‘Tis the Season
Rosehill Gardens Race 8
Another horse that drew a bad barrier last week was the Les Bridge trained SEASONS, a daughter of Sebring that should almost be unbeaten in her four starts.
The barrier trials were eye-catching leading into this Saturday and she’s drawn ideally near the inside in and around the speed horses. Very hard to beat!
#5 The news is Kim wins again
Rosehill Gardens Race 9
Muscular mare NEWSFAN powered home best to win first-up at Rosehill Gardens two weeks ago and she could be the one again this Saturday. Three of her challengers SCHUBERT, MAPMAKER and MONSIEUR SISU all crossed the line together in a lower rating race on the same day, while ASTERIUS and SOUTHERN LAD will get a long way back from their barriers.
Taking on a lesser form-line and two swoopers means our Analyst Team are fans again.