Video Stars
Race 5 – 1 EURO ROCKS
This Francis Lui-trained runner is one to follow on his second start in Class 4 this week, after performing well into fourth on the downgrade the last time he raced in early December last year. On that occasion, he jumped awkwardly, got its head up and as a result, lost ground and mapped back in the field. He did well late and was only beaten by one length into fourth.
He has trialled well ahead of his return, showing positive tactics, which suggests that the same approach will be adopted under race conditions here.
Race 6 – 2 VIVA HUNTER
This six-year-old’s last-start second had a ton of merit. As is often the case with low draws on the all-weather, it can lead to runners trailing the lead speed being hemmed up in the straight. That’s exactly what happened to VIVA HUNTER, as he was held up from the 300m until passing the 100m.
Recent runs have been encouraging and he should be running another bold race if he manages the 1800m journey for the first time.
Sectional Stars
Race 2 – 1 BEAU GOSSE
This runner piques interest on his first start for Francis Lui. Overlook his last start, as he was unsuited by racing wide and without cover throughout the 1650m journey. Instead, focus on his first start at this week’s course and distance three runs back, when he caught the eye late, finishing fifth and beaten by 0.75 lengths after starting from barrier 11. Coming into a low gate should provide him with a far more economical run.
Race 7 – 5 CAPITAL DELIGHT
He finds a race where the speed map could favour his chances third-up. With at least five runners who could push forward, it could set up a genuine tempo that suits his profile. As seen in his three runs at this course and distance, he tends to map midfield or worse and finish strongly down the outside late.
