Mitch Ellis returns for the final day of the Warrnambool May Carnival with thoughts on the feature jumps races, including the Grand Annual Steeplechase and Novice Hurdle, plus his plays in the Warrnambool Cup.
Mitch produced a huge result for punters on Day 2, confidently tipping Golden Garden with a place bet on Pressfal, nailing the Dunroe Steelpechase.
Race 1 – Novice Hurdle | 3200m
(1) GOLDEN CRUSADER The most progressive jumper in the field and has won both hurdle starts to date by strong margins. Pateman goes on and this looks a clear target race. Will be short but deservedly so.
(2) MR LINCOLN Looks over the odds. Finished nine lengths off the favourite last time but should improve sharply off that effort. Loves heavy ground and appeals as a great each-way play.
(9) ANDY WIN Strong winner on Tuesday. If he backs up well and has come through the run in good order he can measure up again. Still think he lacks the class of the top selection.
(8) FENGARADA Another proven heavy tracker who was very good again on Tuesday, railing through strongly to score. If he’s recovered well he’ll be around the placings again.
Suggested Bet: GOLDEN CRUSADER (Win) and MR LINCOLN (Each Way)
Race 7 – Grand Annual Steeplechase | 5500m
(2) DUKE OF BEDFORD The reigning champion and looks hard to beat again. Racing in excellent form on the flat and his trademark front-running style makes him a major player once more.
(4) COUNT ZERO Won first-up when many had written him off. Has a real spring in his step for an 11-year-old and you know he’ll run the trip strongly. Double-figure odds appeal.
(8) BAZINI Brave third in this race last year. Fell at his latest start but if he’s recovered well he’s capable of bouncing back. The price makes him worth the gamble.
(9) GAMBU Eric Musgrove had him flying last season and he was being set for the Grand National before things went amiss. Expect him to be fit and ready for a big showing here.
Suggested Bet: COUNT ZERO (Each Way) $12
On The Flat 👀
Race 8 – Warrnambool Cup | 2350m
Suggested Bet: ALDER (Win) and KHOR (Each Way)
