Using times to find winners can be risky, but in Race 6 at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Tuesday, the clock clearly favours Churchillian over October Storm. Despite soft going, Churchillian clocked 58.71 for his 1000m maiden win, nearly two seconds quicker than October Storm’s 60.36.
Churchillian’s pedigree adds confidence — he’s a full brother to Master Archie, a top-class Grade 1 sprinter. He’s drawn perfectly in gate 1 and always does best over the minimum trip. Aldo Domeyer rides for Candice Bass-Robinson.
October Storm, under Gavin Lerena for Vaughan Marshall, is highly rated too. He’s built to handle testing ground and, as a full brother to Grade 1 winner October Morn, he has potential but may still be maturing.
Marshall has a strong hand throughout the card. Better Man (Race 1) returns as a gelding and is expected to improve. Nightrain (Race 3), a brother to Thunderstruck, should go close after a smart debut. United Front (Race 4) ran well on debut and is one to follow, despite a wide draw.
Promettere (Race 8) could end the day well for Marshall. He was unlucky last time and has the turn of foot to trouble favourite Sugar Mountain.
Stormwatch (Race 2) impressed on debut and can improve further. Pacific Waters (Race 5) comes from the same formline and should stay the extra distance.
Bass-Robinson’s Trip To Maputo looks the pick in Race 7, with Domeyer choosing her over stablemates.
Race 9 looks open — Azzurri can follow up a good comeback, but watch War Chariot and Happy Days.
Race 10 is tough; King’s Quest is improving but faces dangers in Water Dragon and Arbitration.
