Race 4 No 5 OTAHUHU
After scoring an easy win in Class 5 two starts ago, he was used up early from a wide draw last time in Class 4, so it was no surprise to see him weaken late and finish fifth over 1400m — a trip beyond his best.
The drop back to 1150m is a big plus this week, and with a better-timed ride, he should deliver a strong on-pace performance.
Race 6 No 5 COMBUSTION
He likely needed the run first-up over 1200m, resuming from a lay-off just 20 days ago. Racing over a distance well short of his best, he settled off the speed and found the line well to finish seventh.
Stripping fitter second-up and stepping up to 1700m — a more suitable trip — he is expected to show marked improvement.
Race 9 No 7 DRAGON WHISPERER
Despite being hindered by wide draws in his last three starts, he still managed to finish third and fourth, showing a strong turn of foot on both occasions. A closer look at his form suggests he is versatile in running and capable of adopting a more positive racing style. Given those factors, he deserves another chance this week.
Race 11 No 4 BIG CHINA
It pays to overlook his uncharacteristic run last start, where he failed to show his usual early speed. Instead, his previous three outings offer a better guide — racing on the pace, he posted solid third and fourth-place finishes over 1800m and 1600m, respectively. In a moderate Class 5B field this week, he shapes as a value contender if he can recapture his tactical speed.
