Race 4 No 2 ELLIOT NESS
His fifth-place finish last start was better than it looks, considering he was urged early to settle midfield from a wide draw. The slow tempo—highlighted by the leader making all the running—meant few horses could gain ground in the straight, making his effort more impressive.
With a more economical trip this time, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him cause an upset against more fancied rivals.
Race 7 No 6 OTOTO
He showed marked improvement last start, flashing home late from a wide draw to finish second over 1400m at this track. Although he’s placed three times from five local starts, his rating has dropped, and he now looks well suited in Class 4B company. If he can draw a better gate and settle closer to the speed — as he’s done in the past — he’s capable of going one better this time.
Race 8 No 6 PACIFIC POWER
Following a promising debut second, it was no surprise to see him attract strong market support last start. Unfortunately, things went awry from the outset, with the jockey dislodged almost as soon as the gates opened. The stewards have since launched an inquiry into the incident, which appeared visually suspicious and has fuelled speculation — making him worth another chance this week.
Race 10 No 1 EVER RELIABLE
He was likely outclassed in a 3YO feature last start, where his relatively low rating left him poorly weighted under Set Weights conditions. Prior to that, he had recorded a couple of fast-finishing runs in Class 4.
A return to Class 5 — where he boasts two wins and a placing from five starts — looks ideal and could be the key to a much-improved showing.
