The Epsom Handicap might be one of the strongest editions in years, but Bet Legends’ Shaun Beirne is more than happy to play bookmaker against the leading chances.
The Group 1 handicap has attracted a deep field, with Autumn Boy, unbeaten Kiwi Well Written and Attica prominent in betting.
For Beirne, that creates an opportunity.
Epsom Handicap
“It’s a great betting race and I’m always happy to be a bookie and lay them all,” Beirne said.
“I can find holes in the first three in the market.”
Autumn Boy has drawn barrier one, which Beirne believes could potentially create problems.
“Barrier one might be a hindrance, particularly if he is even a touch slow away.”
Unbeaten Kiwi Well Written brings a perfect seven-from-seven record to Randwick, but faces comfortably his biggest test.
“His Kiwi figures aren’t up to this, but he has plenty of upside and can improve to the required rating,” Beirne said.
“He’s won seven from seven, so you have to respect what he’s done.”
Attica is another Beirne is prepared to oppose at his current price.
“He trialled nicely, but he has to improve again to win an open-age Group 1 handicap after winning at Group 1 level as a three-year-old,” he said.
“I can’t get him below double figures.”
Special: Any of Autumn Boy, Well Written or Attica to win at $2
Turnbull Stakes
Beirne has a much stronger opinion in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington, where Sir Delius is the horse he expects them to struggle to beat.
“I can’t see them beating Sir Delius over the 2000m,” he said.
While Beirne has plenty of time for Aeliana, he believes her best may come when she gets beyond 2000m later in the spring.
“I like Aeliana as a horse, but I think she explodes when she gets out to 2400m, or even the 3200m of the Melbourne Cup later in the preparation,” he said.
“I’m surprised she is being targeted at a Cox Plate. I think she’s under the odds here.”
Special: Aeliana to run 1st or 2nd at $4
