Serenade the Stars kicks off our weekend at Moonee Valley on Friday night. This son of Sea the Stars made quite the impression on Australian debut at Bendigo where he grinded home for the win over 1600m. The step up to 2040m at Moonee Valley should suit this rangey stayer. The Gelagotis brothers have been thrilled with his work and attitude since his first-up victory and we suspect he’ll put in a strong staying performance tonight.
On Saturday we have two hopefuls at Sandown. So Far Sokool steps out in the Listed 1400m fillies race. With some black-type form in New Zealand and a good run last-start, we’ll be hoping to see this girl right in the finish. She has taken her time settling into her new surroundings and is now looking for her first Australian victory!
Gallic Chieftain is the hot favourite in the small field of 7 lining up for the Listed Sandown Cup over 3200m. He has been plagued by bad-luck in his last two starts and is more than due for a win. With Dean Yendall back on board, blinkers and tongue-tie on – we should see the wide-eyed chestnut return to the winners circle.
On Sunday we head to Donald for the battle of the Ballarat boys – Matt Cumani vs Archie Alexander or Mighty Quinn vs Star d’Vega. These two young stayers go head to head in R2 over 2000m in search of breaking their maiden status. Mighty Quinn has shown natural talent on the track but is yet to master his racing manners, with some educational runs under him – he should figure in the money.
Star d’Vega heads into this race with good form, finishing 2nd last start over 1800m. Being a daughter of Lope de Vega, she will relish the longer trip and will continue to improve over further distance.
Best of luck to all connections!
