The Take Us On microscope turns to Caulfield on Sunday, with Bet Legends’ Shaun Beirne questioning whether punters are being asked to take too short a price about Buccleuch in Race 9.
Buccleuch has returned in excellent order this campaign, winning both starts at Sandown, and now steps into Listed company for the Testa Rossa Stakes over 1440m. He is trading around the $2.60 mark at the head of the market.
But for Beirne, the combination of price, race shape and the rise in grade makes him a horse worth taking on.
Race 9: Buccleuch
There’s no questioning Buccleuch’s talent. Before a disappointing preparation earlier this year, the Patrick Payne-trained gelding had put together a string of wins and he has returned with two more victories this campaign.
“Didn’t come up last prep. Otherwise won five in a row. What could possibly go wrong?” Beirne said.
The issue isn’t necessarily the horse. It’s the price being asked as Buccleuch faces his biggest test to date.
“Price is the factor. Biggest test to date and we are taking less than $3. At that I need to see a 1.5-length improvement on last start.”
There is also the map to consider. Buccleuch generally settles off the speed and Beirne expects him to be giving his rivals a start, making the pattern at Caulfield an important factor as the meeting unfolds.
“Maps to be last. How is the track playing?”
With that in mind, Beirne is happy to oppose Buccleuch at the short quote while also attacking an alternative market.
Special: Buccleuch to win by 1L+ at $5
