Queensland racing might have lacked top-end depth on Saturday, but the meeting still produced some runs well worth putting in the notebook. The Doomben track played evenly early before gradually swinging to suit those on speed as the day went on, and a couple of horses stood out as genuine coming winners.
Margot’s Deel (Race 1)
Still a bit sick watching this replay. I was with Alectrona, thought she was close to a moral, and she ran to expectations, but Margot’s Deel was simply something else. A maiden coming in, she was snagged back to near last before unleashing a withering burst to go straight past them. It was the sort of acceleration you only see from the good ones. Off that win, she has more in store and looks a serious follow going forward.
Cunnamulla Fella (Race 8)
Another who deserves a reprieve. He has been getting into awkward spots and giving away far too much start, but he is holding his form nicely. Once again he was strongest through the line, and with a softer draw and the right run he can break through soon. Keep him on side.
Deep Focus (Race 9)
Time to draw a line. Once touted as one of the more promising horses in Queensland, he has gone the wrong way. His two runs this prep and even his lead-up trial have been poor. He looks a shell of the horse he was and it is hard to see him turning it around this campaign. Happy to sack.
The Final Word
It was not the flashiest Brisbane meeting on paper, but blackbookers do not have to come from Group races. Margot’s Deel looks a horse going places, Cunnamulla Fella is crying out for the right set-up, and Deep Focus can be avoided until he shows some improvement.
