6:25am - DE BORTOLI WINES GOLDEN ROSE | 1400m | Group 1 | i

The Group One $1 million Golden Rose gains momentum and another great field comes together this year. Not often do you see a race with the quality group of up-and-coming horses that are so evenly matched, but this Weight For Age 1400m event always delivers at the early stage of the season. The speed in the race should at least be Even, and maybe even Good, with the natural pace of Press Report and a few drawn wider that can go forward. The one-paced racing style of Almalad will also ensure a genuine speed as Tommy Berry presses on early to use the natural strength of the Gai Waterhouse galloper. His last 50m in the Run to the Rose was solid enough and he is too good to be discounted. Leading betting markets are Bring Me The Maid and Hallowed Crown, who are two of the more genuine chasers you will see. Both horses "put their head down" and fight hard when asked and are sure to be running on at the end. If the track is wet they will be very hard to hold out, but if the track is dry, the more powerful types like Nostradamus, Scissor Kick and Sarajevo will come into their element. Other hopes include Better Land (unlucky last start) and Kumaon (very solid return) in what is sure to be an exhilarating race. (note current tips based on Dead/Slow track).