Turf Talk:
- Haven’t race here since October so track should be in pristine condition.
- Bendigo is a beautiful, spacious track with a lovely sprint chute off the top of the home straight.
- Rare a disadvantage to be on speed with the rail true, but given it’s coming off a significant renovation keep an eye on the first few races.
Race 1
Small field. Like Celtics. He did plenty wrong as a colt last campaign but still showed good ability despite that. His two jump-outs leading in have been nothing short of outstanding, and from gate one I’d expect him to hold the front.
(8) Yuuki always trials well and has done so again. She will push forward and be in it a long way on her home deck.
Suggested bet: Surprised Celtics hasn’t opened up favourite. Taking the $2.20 on offer.
Race 2
Good race. They should fly along here.
(12) Salaria went around in two strong maidens in her fist campaign and ran well in both. Finished last in a recent jump-out but that wasn’t reflective of her performance, she never got a crack at them and went to the line hard held -it was a satisfactory bit of work. Gets a soft run here and should appreciate the strong tempo.
Suggested bet: Backing Salaria.
Race 4
Kokonda trialled nicely leading into this her first campaign before finishing second on debut at Kyneton (third has since won). Had excuses last start when covering plenty of ground at Cranbourne. Draws to land on speed without doing any work and Jake Duffy jumps back in the saddle, which is a plus.
(12) Good Harmony got a mile back in what has proven a strong form race at Sandown first up. Step to a mile looks ideal.
(9) Adamana has been a touch disappointing given the talent she has shown in trials. Was strong late at Kyneton last start and that was off eight-weeks between runs, so should strip fitter here.
Suggested bet: At $4.40 and $5 can back both Kokoda and Good Harmony.
Race 6
Horses don’t trial much better than (10) Tres Magnifique and she should be wining this barring bad luck. Craig Williams comes out for just the one ride, one assumes in the chopper! Wide draw, but they come out of the chute start here so not overly concerned. She won a very good maiden on debut last campaign before not having much luck behind Point Barrow at Caulfield.
Suggested bet: Had to have fast fingers to get the black odds this AM. Happy to watch at $1.70.
