3 minute read

The Stephen Miller trained Variation was a real eye catcher behind Rock Magic last start and now appears poised to return to the winner's stall in the Listed Belmont Guineas.

Returning from a slight freshen up (42 days), Variation settled at the rear before really hitting the line hard late in the Belmont Sprint.

His first test at WFA, Variation certainly held his own and he is sure to appreciate the drop back in grade on Saturday.

Due to contest the seventh event, Variation holds a distinct class edge and is expected to press forward from the wide draw.

The son of War Chant won the Group 2 WA Guineas [1600m] last preparation and has placed in 10 of 11 attempts to this point.

Brad Parnham continues his association with the three-year-old (placed 6/7) and while he may have to do a bit of work early, his class should tell over the concluding stages.

When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, he is clearly the horse to beat and only has to hold his form to be winning.

Close to 2-1 was about Variation's chances early doors (luxurious odds) with 5/4 currently the best available.

It is very easy to mark him deep odds-on and hence more than happy to take the price on offer.

Variation is quite the talent and should prove very hard to beat.

Fellow three-year-old More Aces also strikes a very winnable race on Saturday when due to contest the second event.

A winner of five of his nine starts, More Aces raced in great order last preparation and has since trialled very well off a break.

More Aces has won fresh previously and notably possesses a great record at this course and distance.

Despite lining up against a few handy sprinters, he rates clear when assessing Timeform weight adjusting ratings and should prove very hard to beat.

Best From The West

BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 7 #1 Variation @ $2.25

BET OF THE DAY (2): Race 2 #5 @ More Aces @ $4.40