Race 4 @ 3.32 pm - #6 Jolimont & #8 Mannion

We start with Jolimont who is making his debut.  He's had two workouts this time back and pleased me in both.  On exposed form it looks like there are a few handy maidens in the race.  Having said this, I'd like to think he's a top four chance.

Mannion was too bad to be true first up and thankfully we found a problem which we've since treated.  He performed nicely at the workouts on Saturday so fingers crossed we're back on track.  It'll be hard from the outside of the arm but look for him to be finishing the race off.

Race 5 @ 4.04 pm - #3 Pacing Hope

She stuck on bravely last week after having a tough run outside the leader.  It's a moderate line up and from her handy draw I rate her a strong winning chance.

Race 8 @ 5.25 pm - #6 Perfect Bet & #7 Crusader  

Perfect Bet is dropping back from top company.  She had a freshen up when she returned home and has since performed with merit at the workouts.  While the wide draw doesn't swing in her favour, she does look one of the better runners.  I see her as a key player.

Crusader went down fighting in his first run back.  Like Perfect Bet he has a horror barrier to contend with.  You can't knock anything he's done to date so I expect him to feature again.  He's a lovely quinella/trifecta hope.

Race 9 @ 5.49 pm - #2 Glenthorne, #7 Bad Medicine, #10 Taipo & #11 Rough And Ready

Unfortunately Glenthorne missed getting into the lower graded race by one point.  Being an ex Southerner I don't expect the standing start to hold any fears.  He'll need to be at the top of his game against this calibre of field.

Well what can you say about Bad Medicine - he doesn't know how to run a bad one.  His work since returning from Manawatu has been top notch.  He'll begin well so should land handy to the pace.  Go each way and you won't be too far off the mark.

It's probably fair to say we haven't seen Taipo's true form for a while, however he's still running very good sectionals against the open class horses.  2700 metres isn't his pet distance but hopefully he can get a soft trip.  If the real Taipo turned up he'd be right amongst it.

Rough And Ready made up a few lengths in the Summer Cup off a quick last 800.  He's one who'll give you a great sight and a run for your money.  Cover him in combinations.