Dean Watling runs the rule over the NSW meetings and pulls out the runs worth more than the form guide suggests. This week’s Blackbook focuses on horses with genuine upside, strong late work, and clear reasons to improve next start. If you like getting ahead of the market, these are the ones to keep onside.
3/1/26 – Randwick R3 – Clancy
Loved the trials of Clancy leading into this preparation and he again showed he’s a genuine fresh horse, having won impressively first-up last campaign. Settled back in the field here from a wide draw and notably raced without the blinkers (would have preferred them on). Really liked his final 200m and the way he worked past the post.
Second-up looks key – expect the shades to go back on and a significant jockey upgrade.
3/1/26 – Randwick R9 – Candlewick
Talented mare who has since changed stables following a failure in Stakes grade last start. That run was also first-up off a 27-week spell. Now with the Pride camp, who are renowned for improving horses deeper into their preparations.
She knuckled down well late and was doing her best work over the final 200m. Expect sharp improvement second-up.
28/12/265 – Gosford R2 – Lady Of The Castle
Appears to be a strong form race. Happy to follow the second and third placegetters, but particularly keen on Lady Of The Castle. Settled too far back when fresh, yet loved her late sectional strength. Trialled up like a quality horse leading in and should prove the best horse out of the race.
Ideally suited by a longer straight second-up and a jockey change to Zac Lloyd.
