Two Group 1’s at Eagle Farm this afternoon with the running of the Queensland Derby & Kingsford Smith Cup highlighting an outstanding day of racing. Can long time Derby favourite Kovalica land the big one, can Yellow Brick win his way through to the Stradbroke in a fortnight’s time? Well we’ll soon find out!
The weather is perfect with a sunny 22 degrees forecast & the rail is in the true position. We’re off and running from 11.43am.
BEST BET
Race 5 # 2 YELLOW BRICK
Toowoomba galloper who needs to win this to take his place in the upcoming Group 1 Stradbroke where he is currently third favourite. Outstanding first up win at the Sunshine Coast sitting wide without cover all the way. Vulnerable late? Not likely as he pulled clear of his chasing rivals the final 100m. He’ll land a softer run here; strips fitter & is the horse to beat!
BEST VALUE
Race 6 # 7 ARMED FORCES
Trials were terrific before failing on debut however he just didn’t go a yard on the heavy surface that day. Latest & only other run on a dry surface was a big improvement being run down late by a charging winner (Cifrado) after sitting on a hot speed at Doomben. Fitter, wiser & in the right hands.
Race 8 # 2 A CASE OF YOU
Imported galloper who has had the three Australian outings with all producing eye-catching finishing bursts. He’s been afforded no favours at the barriers drawing wide gates at each of those runs which have given connections little option than to settle rearward & let him attack the line late. This time he draws a lot better & steps it up in distance. Big chance!
Race 9 # 5 HELLFEST
Gave this mare a chance first up at Doomben a fortnight back however she was a big market drifter & settled out the back with no chance of winning. She did however make good ground in the run home without the clearest of paths & will appreciate the bigger track & additional 100m. I’d be surprised if she didn’t run a big race this afternoon.
EAGLE FARM (GOOD TRACK)
Race 1 – 4, 12, 13, 6
Race 2 – 13, 1, 4, 3
Race 3 – 4, 3, 2, 5
Race 4 – 3, 13, 4, 11
Race 5 – 2, 4, 8, 1
Race 6 – 7, 9, 1, 2
Race 7 – 1, 14, 2, 8
Race 8 – 2, 11, 4, 1
Race 9 – 5, 8, 6
QUADDIE
7, 9, 1, 2, 15
1
2, 11, 4
5, 8, 6, 11