Turf Talk:
- Colac is a unique track with an uphill run from the bottom of the back straight to the top corner. Conversely the home straight is downhill, which gives those on speed a kick along late.
- It’s a tight-turning track with a short home straight.
- Warm conditions forecast for Cup Day so expect it to get to a Good 3 at some point and with light winds in the offing, certainly bonusing horses on speed.
Key stats:
- Dean Yendall is striking at 19% from his last 100 rides, that increases to 23.5% here at Colac – definitely a jockey to be bonusing.
Race 2
Speed looks good. (9) Brutify probably leads, (8) Hellofacury was handier in a recent trial and (7) Enniscrone has speed.
Liked the trials of (5) And I Am leading into this debut. He jumped-out nicely at Ballarat some time back and his recent Geelong trial in reasonable time for the morning was very good. Dean Yendall riding is a big plus and from gate seven he should be able to settle just in behind the abovementioned speed, enjoying a good run in the race. 1200m is ideal for his debut coming off a solid 1000m jump-out.
Hellofacury has been back to the trials after getting back from a wide draw over 1100m at this track on debut. He was strong late there and looks better suited up to 1200m from a good gate.
Suggested bet: Backing both And I Am and Hellofacury
Race 4
Good race. Heat of the Country Mile Series.
The toppy, (1) Buzzaroon hit a purple patch last campaign and he seems to go well for Tom Madden (6:4:0:0). Recent trial at Camperdown over 1000m was good and you can completely forget his poor first-up record as both fresh runs have been at 1200/1300m – he’s far better resuming here at a mile. In an open race, can have something small E/W at $10+.
Suggested bet: Small EW play Buzzaroon at $10+.
Race 5
Think (1) Stolen Art probably leads with (4) Brandjam its outside.
Good race for Brandjam to get back to the winner’s circle. Has been tackling stronger company in town and been up on speed in two fast-run races, including last start over 1300m at Sandown. Drop back to 1200m only seems a positive and has a good jockey up in Teo Nugent.
Stolen Art is the clear danger. Produced a career peak rating to win at Cranbourne last time out, albeit with a decent bias in his favour, one he will probably benefit from again today.
(3) Becauseyou’re Mine has always shown good talent but can mix his form. Has hit his straps at his last two outings and is up to winning a race like this.
Suggested bet: Backing Brandjam at $3, saving Stolen Art at $7. Quinella 1,4.
