We saw a good handful of encouraging runs in the past week, which included a luckless 3rd for Docklands at Group 3 level and a dominant Super Maiden victory for Unusual Prospect (pictured below).
This weekend sees city action at Sandown and Rosehill as we prepare for the thrill of the Royal Ascot Carnival, commencing Tuesday.
At Sandown on Saturday
Karburan kicks off his campaign in the 1600m BM78. He’s likely to need this run over a trip well short of his best but he’s trialled well in the lead up and looks to be in for a nice preparation.
Step Aside has gained a start in the final event, a 1400m Open Handicap. Although facing a steep rise in grade, he drops 6.5kg in weight and, with even luck from a wide gate, shapes as a genuine each-way chance.
At Rosehill on Saturday
Sir Chartwell will have his second start on Aussie shores in the 2400m Listed Winter Cup. He was in need of his first up run and although it’s hard to see him in the finish off that effort, we should see a more competitive performance out to this trip on nicer ground.
Should the ground remain soft, Funambulist will have another sounding fitness run in the 2000m BM78. In Saturday company, he’ll need a bit further and a more testing surface to be in the mix.
At Bendigo on Saturday
Didn’t Miss Many drops back from metropolitan level and looks well placed to return to form. Blinkers are applied for the first time, which should help sharpen him up after being a touch plain in the run home last start.
At Wangaratta on Sunday
Andy Win will require a few scratchings to gain a start, having been installed as 4th emergency. Should he gain a run, an improved showing is expected out in trip and back onto softer ground.
At Sunshine Coast on Sunday
Feathertop is a talented staying mare in good form but given she’s much more effective on soft ground, it’s unlikely we’ll see her run in the 1800m Class 2. On the right ground, she’s ready to be a winning hope next start.
We wish all our connections the very best of luck this weekend!
