3 minute read

The highly promising Start Wondering makes his much awaited return at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon and appears well placed to continue his winning ways in the 'get out' stakes.

A winner of four of his eight starts in New Zealand, the son of Eighth Wonder couldn't have been any more impressive in his Australian debut for the Chris Waller stable.

Heavily supported on that occasion Start Wondering was forced to track three-wide throughout, but still proved too good defeating three subsequent winners.

Successful in returning a new career peak the five-year-old looks set to continue that progression following two handy trials off a break.

Surprisingly this will be his first start short of 1300m, though he appears more than capable of sprinting well fresh.

Admittedly it is a step up in grade, however he appears destined for tougher company and gets in well at the weights after Rory Hutchings' claim.

From the middle draw he looks to receive the gun run in transit, settling just off the speed likely to be set by Paceman, Religify and Idance.

Winners keep winning and Start Wondering remains the one to beat.

The Joe Pride trained Paceman returned to winning ways at Canterbury last start when too strong leading throughout.

Gelded prior to this preparation he had displayed above average ability when formerly trained by Team Snowden and now appears set to go on with the job.

Has to contend with the wide barrier but will put himself into the race from the outset and should be in this for a long way.

The Chris Waller trained Religify won well first up before something clearly a miss last start when finishing at the tail.

No question that wasn't a true indication of his ability and the fact he lines up here suggests Waller is happy with his condition.

Best form stacks right up and he is a dual winner at this track.

Another who will put himself right into the race from the outset and presents good value at this current each-way quote (early drift somewhat alarming though).

Of the rest the Gerald Ryan trained Mahican appears the next best following his handy performance first up for his new stable.

Hitting the line well late behind Felines, he should improve sharply racing second up and appears better suited stepping up to 1200m.

Another who is clearly capable on best form and while drawn out, the in-form Brenton Avdulla sticks and he has to be respected.

Good luck and happy punting.