6:40am - CHRISTMAS AT THE GARDENS HANDICAP | 1500m | | i

Apprentices may hold the key in this 1500m BM 78, Brock Ryan (3 wins last 50) taking up the running on REFLECTIVITY from Robbie Dolan (5 wins last 50) on TURNBERRY with perhaps Tim Clark (DESTINY'S OWN) and James Innes Jnr (VICTIME DE L'AMOUR) for company (tempo: FAIR). The race map and weight claims give REFLECTIVITY and TURNBERRY very strong chances. There's a big threat from another apprentice rider though, JEAN VAN OVERMEIRE (3 wins last 50) on the classy ASTORIA, who is suited back to 1500m. He peaked on his run in a higher-class 1800m race last start and has group form at his best. NAI'A (up in grade) will be running on and ASTERIUS will be winding up late from the back if the tempo is honest enough and the track isn't too firm. ISLAND MISSILE has some talent, he could be a risk straight to 1500m. [updated 8:55am]