The Mail for Saturday

3 minute read

Somepin Anypin if the gates open

SR 4: (4) SHADOW WEST - It's that time of the year when three-year-olds can make quantum leaps from one start to the next – especially from this stable - and this filly appeals as one ready to take a big step off an excellent maiden win over 1200m at Canterbury. Carrying 58kg, she overcame problems in the run to hit the line like a good filly, giving a clear indication that she has made the necessary improvement since the autumn when she performed with some merit in strong Group races. She will relish the extra 200m with 4.5kg less weight.

SR 5: (5) SOMEPIN ANYPIN - His backers still feeling the pain from his controversial first-up second at Rosehill when his barrier gate malfunctioned will be lining up to recoup their losses. He is an explosive front runner when primed and there is little doubt in most minds that he would have won as the barrier mishap cost him two lengths and the opportunity to lead. This time expect him to jump and run from his good draw over what has proven to be his favourite course and distance.

SR 6: (7) FAST CLIP - Ran a bold race first-up for a close third over 1300m at this course two weeks ago when he held his ground strongly to the line after doing all the chasing. He should not be under-estimated in any company as his record, particularly at this course in this distance range, is excellent. He is a worthy value bet as he could have an advantage racing on the pace with the rail out 6 metres and if the forecast for showers is right he will be well suited if the surface is affected.

ONES TO AVOID

SR 8: (6) GYBE - Got all the favours when she lasted for a narrow win over 1100m at this course on 10 September. She will get no luxuries here from an awkward gate in a big field with a 3kg increase in weight.

MR 5: (3) GOLDEN ARCHER - Despite some others in this race with nice ability, it looks a race in two. Naturally many will jump on Helmet given his form comes out of hot Sydney races, but boy can he do some things wrong. Happy to take him on until he makes all the right moves. With that in mind this Moody colt is doing everything right and he can cross to lead. His ratings are not that inferior to Helmet and he has the advantage of playing from home.

MR 6: (13) SMART MISSILE - This is the first test of the 3yos against the older horses and it really isn't a top drawer version of the G1. No question he is poorly drawn but perhaps we can draw on the influence of history here when a 3yo you might recall called Encosta de Lago came from gate 18 in a great ride to win this race. A field of this size surely has speed on and he deserves his chance to take a race at the elite level.

ONES TO AVOID

MR 6: (1) PINWHEEL - Had to lump a big weight and tried hard last run against the light weights in the Sebring Sprint. However not much has changed here from a similar gate with plenty of other chances including the horse who beat him home. He has won here before with plenty on his back but that was just an open handicap. Will be right there but might just find one better at the elite level.

BR 4: (2) TOPPING - Showed he was back to best when winning here last time out. Will be fitter again, handles any sort of conditions and capable to camping on the pace which should be solid with Rockdale engaged. He's a talented horse in this grade and can put two together.

BR 8: (1) FASTER SON - Here is a horse thought good enough to tackle the G1 Oakleigh Plate where not much went right. Has the pace to race right on the speed and from the inside gate can pozzy up near the speed behind the speed coming from the wide draws. The 3kg claim will be important but he is rated better than this lot. A trial win is an indicator that he is up and about.

ONES TO AVOID

BR 1: (2) VENTURE ON - Given he is unbeaten and from a respected stable, you can bet punters will get involved with this 3yo. However he has some puddin' to carry, stays at the 1200m and meets three last start winners plus other runners who've been around the money. Watch the market to see the moves.

MORPHETTVILLE - tips by Wayne Bristow

AR 7: (1) FANJURA - Looks well placed in a race like this. Might race forward to overcome the gate in this open race. He hasn't won for 18 months but this is the easiest race he's been in for a while. Smart bit of placement with the use of a leading local jockey.

AR 8: (4) ERFAAN - Put up a good performance to score first up here over the shorts. Has a wide draw but the dog leg start means he can get to the most appropriate part of the track. Having last crack at them in the big field might be just the tonic here.

ONES TO AVOID

AR 2: (2) MOON DEVIL - Will probably run very close the favourite here given the trainer, having won first run and being the full brother to Devil Moon. But there are some hurdles including taking on some decent 3yos with winning Victorian form.