Turf Talk:
- Track copped a bit of rain last week and has slowly improved up to a Good 4. The perfect scenario where they don’t have to irrigate.
- There’s a lovely sprint chute that houses the 1000, 1100, 1200m races, giving competitors a nice straight run into the sweeping home bend.
- 1400m chute is down the bottom of the back straight and similarly generous.
- Rarely a disadvantage to be on speed at Echuca. With sunny weather and light winds that will only assist those on speed.
Race 1
Liked the jump-outs of (6) The Mailer prior to his first run for the Cumming stable, where he got too far back at Caulfield but worked through the line OK. Ran ninth, but the run was much better than that, and there’s already been some very good form out of the race with 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 7th all running well since. Stepping to 1400m from a soft draw I expect The Mailer to be right on speed, which should give him a great winning chance.
Likely leader is (2) Meka Vibe who ran well this track and trip on Cup Day. Fitter now third-up and should take plenty of catching.
There was good market support for (10) Bonnie Bouquet on debut at Wangaratta but she didn’t enjoy the best run in transit. Had trialled nicely prior and stepping in trip looks most suitable. Yendall sticking is a positive.
Suggested bet: Backing The Mailer, Quinella 2,6,10.
Race 2
The toppy (1) Silver Capital is the horse to beat. He trialled nicely prior to a very good first-up run over 1000m at Warrnambool. Ideally suited to 1200m second-up and with the chute start, Mitch Aitken can work across and take up a spot in the first six in running.
(10) Sternin had a torrid run in transit at the Heath track. Suspect Yendall will ride her positively getting to 1200m and she should settle in the first two.
(13) Table Twentyeight was chopped out at a crucial stage last start – wouldn’t have won, but should’ve finished closer. Draws for a soft run.
Suggested bet: Backing Silver Capital
