3 minute read

Impressive first up winner Draco steps up in grade this evening but appears well placed to make it back to back in the final event at Singapore.

Trained by Cliff Brown, Draco had displayed decent ability during his maiden preparation, placing in two of three attempts.

He failed to fire behind Mr Lewis prior to a break, however he returned in a big way last start when making light work of his rivals over 1200m.

Ridden patiently by Michael Rodd, Draco settled towards the rear but always travelled strongly, slicing his way through the field before cut loose approaching the 300m.

Displaying a good turn of foot, Draco quickly swept to the lead, before asserting his authority late.

Eased down over the concluding stages, Draco saluted easily by 1.5L and looked to have a fair bit up his sleeve.

His performance was strong against the clock and given the race shape favoured those on-pace, it further highlighted the level of his performance.

Admittedly it is never easy for horses making the rise from a maiden to Class 4 company, however he strikes a fairly weak race and rates highly when assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings.

Gerald Mosse replaces Michael Rodd and while drawn out, he was likely to settle in the back half of the field regardless.

Draco is sure to take good improvement from his first up success and if able to springboard off that mark this evening, he should prove very hard to beat.

The Mark Walker trained Champagne Reign has returned two encouraging performances to begin this campaign and appears set to peak racing third up.

A winner of three of his 18 starts, Champagne Reign has placed in two of four attempts over this trip and has drawn to receive all the favours.

While he hasn't won in 485 days, he is certainly more than capable and is expected to make his presence felt with the added aid of the claim.

The Stephen Burridge trained Lim's Casino went to the paddock in good form and appears more than capable of sprinting well fresh.

A winner of three of his 17 starts, Lim's Casino has placed in four of nine attempts over this trip and two of his three career wins have come at this track.

Leading rider Danny Beasley continues his association with the gelding, having placed in four of five attempts aboard the four-year-old.

From the inside draw he should adopt a prominent position from the outset and shouldn't be too far away.

Of the rest the Alvin Tan trained Muscular Dragon appears the next in line.

Only lightly raced, he has placed in two of seven attempts and has to be respected from the middle draw.

Good luck and happy punting.