Oaks winner to add another Group One to tally

RACE ONE:

Following a solid display, despite having every chance in running, the Jason Grimson-trained JANALAN (6) looks the one to beat when the exciting 10 event card ‘kicks-off’ with the running of the Gold Bracelet consolation. On the strength of three quality efforts at Menangle, the latest defeating Watchmedazzle, which has won since, Janalan was one of the main players in her particular heat, but after being perfectly rated by Jack Trainor, the filly faded over the final 100m, resulting in a 5.8m 3rd to jo Rocks and Slick Sophie. Suitably drawn for her upcoming challenge, Janalan again looks poised to take up the running and this time around she should go all-the-way. The second row will contain the main threats to Janalan, commencing with the Mark Hewitt trained and driven, YES EYE SEE (10). Yes Eye See will find this assignment far more comfortable, compared to chasing the NSW Oaks winner, Anntonia, home in posting a 21m fifth. A daughter of Somebeachsomewhere, the filly had been racing soundly prior to that encounter and a bold showing, despite the draw, is a distinct possibility. PATRICIA MAC (11) is also under the care of Mark Hewitt, with the For A Reason filly drawing next her stablemate. Boasting three wins from 10 starts, Patricia Mac is coming off a creditable 10.5m 4th behind Jo Rocks. The switch to the back row is a hurdle, but in this field it isn’t an impossible task. AUNTY BELLA (12) hasn’t posted a win since last September, and although the Chris Frisby-trained filly has been mixing her form of late, a competitive showing wouldn’t be out of order. MISS SONIC BOOM (9) looks to be the other main contender after recording a useful 13.2m 4th to the classy Soho Almasi. Exotic players should consider TAYLORS FOUR (1) and BLAZE COOPS (4).

JANALAN 1, Yes Eye See 2, Patricia Mac 3, Aunty Bella 4.

RACE TWO:

The running of the Gold Chalice consolation will contain three players which many thought would be facing the starter for the feature event. Heading the list is the David Moran-conditioned son of Captaintreacherous, LOCHINVAR CHIEF (7). Facing the starter as a $2.30 chance, despite the presence of Tasty Delight, the 3yo had four wins and the same number of placings next to his name from 11 starts. So, it was a ‘given’ that he would fight out the finish with the 2020 Gold Crown champion. However, after dictating through the opening stages of the contest, the Victorian surreneded that role to the star NSW youngster. With Tasty Delight covering the final 400m in 27.9, Lochinvar Chief faded on his run in finishing a disappointing 15m fourth. There is no doubt that he is better than that run would suggest. That was Lochinvar Chief’s first outing since mid-October and that means he will take a higher level of fitness into this race. And, that should be converted into a winning performance.CAPTAIN CRUSADER (12) was another expected to be in the Final, especially after his quality 10.5m 6th to Patsbeachstorm in the NSW Derby. The Rickie Alchin-trained colt drew the inside of the 2nd row when a creditable 8.5m 3rd to He Aint Fakin, the run not good enough to see him secure a spot in the G1 challenge, but certainly good enough to suggest he is capable of playing an active role in the finish this time around. IDEAL DAN (11) would have been considered as a likely member of the final make-up for the Crown, but he was never a serious threat in recording a 24m 5th to Tasty Delight. The Victorian is capable of a far better effort so don’t write him off. Outside of the ‘big three’, exotic players should consider the likes of EAGLE COMMANDER (5), SAINT JULIEN (6), BLUE OCEAN (9) and HES SWEET (10) when forming investments.

LOCHINVAR CHIEF 1, Captain Crusader 2, Ideal Dan 3, Eagle Commander 4.

RACE THREE:

This race sets up nicely for the Rickie Alchin-trained 3yo, WATTS UP SUNSHINE (6), which had been contesting far harder assignments of last at Headquarters, prior to his stylish heat win of this particular challenge. The outstanding son of Sunshine Beach commenced his latest term of racing with a 10.8m 4th to He Aint Fakin in the G2 Simpson Memorial, prior to posting a 24m victory in a far easier challenge. The 3yo then finished a respectable 3rd to the star Victorian Patsbeachstorm in a heat of the NSW Derby, prior to running a big race in the ‘blue ribbon’ event, again claiming 3rd spot, and, once again behind the exciting youngster from the David Moran stables. Cameron Hart again guided Watts Up Sunshine to a comfortable heat win, with the pair greeting the judge, 12.6m clear of Raging Sea and B K Swy, which was a further 3.8m back. Handily drawn in six, Watts Up Sunshine again looks on target to register an all-the-way win. Looking to upset Watts Up Sunshine and his brother is Jarrold Alchin, who will be represented by DELIGHTFUL DUDE (2). Since crossing the Tasman to link up with the Menangle mentor, the son of Bettors Delight has won his only two starts, both at this venue, commencing with a comfortable all-the-way win. The promising 3yo was again allowed to dictate in winning his heat, this time accounting for Pat McGarry and Ananais. Cameron Hart has also been in the sulky for both of those wins, so his decision on whether he takes the reins behind Watts Up Sunshine or Delightful Dude must be respected. CHASING THE WIND (10) came from a deep peg role in finishing a sound 5.4m 2nd to Pay Me Overs, and although a back row draw will come into play, expect another competitive showing. PAY ME OVERS (11) also drew the back row in defeating Chasing The Wind, with the mare coming with a strong run over the final 200m after enjoying a soft, four peg run. The KerryAnn Morris-trained 7yo will again be driven by Josh Gallagher and a ‘power play’ up front, would certainly assist the Menangle visitor. B K SWY (1) was having her first start since leaving NZ to join the astute David Kennedy team when she recorded a pleasing 16.4m 3rd to Watts Up Sunshine. Gate one is a big plus in her quest to again make a play for a role in the exotics. Stablemate MY ULTIMATE ANDY (3) has also shown potential in both his starts so don’t ignore him when it comes to the multiples, along with NO MORE LYING (4) and RAGING SEA (9).

WATTS UP SUNSHINE 1, Delightful Dude 2, Chasing The Wind 3, Pay Me Overs 4.

RACE FOUR:

With the NSW Oaks trophy already sitting proudly in the cabinet, the David Thorn-trained ANNTONIA (10 will now turn her attention to adding another feature title to her growing list of achievements when she steps out for the running of the Gold Bracelet Final. And, with gate one next to her name, the exciting filly is well on her way to do exactly that. Yet to miss a place in 11 starts, Anntonia has greeted the judge on six occasions while finding one better on the other five trips to the races. Driven to perfection by Jack Trainor in taking out the Oaks, the pair had little trouble posting a comfortable heat win, with the outing giving the filly the opportunity to ‘blow out the cobwebs’ after being off the scene for a month. The pole position will give Trainor the opportunity to secure a kind run, either by holding the inside runner, or more likely, taking a sit on the classy Victorian, SOHO ALMASI (5). The second option will give Anntonia the chance to occupy the sprint lane, if necessary. While Annontia will take a power of beating, SOHO ALMASI (5) will be primed to test the star filly. When it comes to the outstanding daughter of Mach Three, it is simply a case of winning or go home empty handed. Six of her 10 starts have resulted in delight, the other four have all been unplaced displays. Stepping out for her first assignment since last November, the Michael Stanley-trained filly led in scoring an effortless heat win. Luke McCarthy will again look to dictate, a role which certainly suits the classy Victorian. This time last year JOANNA (8) was celebrating her win in the Gold Tiara. Prepared by Emma Stewart and to be driven by Amanda Turnbull, the daughter of Somebeachsomewhere has further enhanced her reputation a year on, and although a wide gate awaits, the filly is bound to loom as a difficult opponent when the final 200m comes into play. That trio should dominant the outcome, which leaves JO ROCKS (12), another quality Victorian and a solid heat winner, to stake a claim for a role in the exotics, along with SLICK SOPHIE (9), which will be looking to find a kind peg run after drawing the inside of the second row.

ANNTONIA 1, Soho Almasi 2, Joanna 3, Jo Rocks 4.

RACE FIVE:

There is no doubt that Lemnos mentor Russell Jack holds the key to the running of the Goold Tiara Final, with JUST HOPE (2) and CAPTAINS QUEEN (4) the fillies in question. Both have drawn ideally and will have the services of Zac Phillips and Amanda Turnbull, respecitively, two outstanding performers in the sulky. JUST HOPE justified her odds-on quote by winning her heat by 16m, zipping home in 27.4 and, with plenty in reserve. The daughter of Bettors Delight is entitled to be looked upon as the one to beat, as a result of that strong performance. And, with the slightly better draw, that should allow Phillips to dictate the terms. Prior to arriving for the opportunity to record G1 glory, Just Hope was responsible for a brave effort on debut. Drawing the inside of the back row for a 1609m assignment at Geelong, Just Hope worked three deep in securing the role outside of the leader before recording an encouraging 4.4m 2nd to Mykorona. The youngster built on that display in taking out her heat and she looks ready to go to another level. CAPTAINS QUEEN debuted with an effortless, and expected win at Albury before heading to Bathurst. The daughter of Captaintreacherous drew the inside of the back row, en route to working to secure the role outside of the leader. Over the concluding 200m, Captains Queen displayed her unlimited potential by forging clear for a strong win. The pair look poised to stamp their authority on the Gold Tiara from the outset and that will then provide an enthralling contest and finish. MARTINI STRIDE (7) is also a promising filly, having won her past two in fine fashion. After leading throughout in scoring at Menangle, Martini Stride had little trouble qualifying for the Final, courtesy of a comfortable all-the-way win. SILK CLOUD (6) won the G2 Pink Bonnet at Menangle at just her second start, then posted a narrow Gold Tiara heat win. The Shadow Play filly should be included in exotic discussions and that also applies to OPPENHEIMER BLUE (3), BETTA SHINE (9) and EYE CAN FLY (12).

JUST HOPE 1, Captains Queen 2, Martini Stride 3, Silk Cloud 4.

RACE SIX:

A year ago, TASTY DELIGHT (12) caused a minor upset when the son of Bettors Delight accounted for the odds-on favourite in the G1 Gold Crown Final. That particular, short-priced elect was Lochinar Chief. Since that memorable night for trainer-driver Brian Portelli, Tasty Delight has continued to excite and delight, and although the classy 3yo will attempt to secure another feature Bathurst win from a second row draw, he appeals as the one to beat once again. For the first time in his brief, but brilliant career, Tasty Delight recorded his first unplaced effort when he finished an 11.9m 7th to Patsbeachstorm in the NSW Derby, courtesy of covering many extra metres. With Blake Fitzpatrick taking over the driving duties for his assignment during the week, Tasty Delight worked early in finding the lead, and from that point onwards, the race was a safely in his keeping. The draw hasn’t been kind, with the gelding drawing the outside of the back row, but an early move is bound to be high on the agenda. The father and son combination of Chris and Anthony Frisby will be hoping for a ‘hown town’ victory and after drawing ideally in gate two, the pair would be excited about HE AINT FAKIN (3)  and his claim on the title. Never a threat when a 23.5m 5th to Tasty Delight at Headquarters back on February 13, the son of Art Major was back to his best in winning his heat on Wednesday night. Dictating from the outset after drawing three, He Aint Fakin was never in danger of defeat and that will again be the game plan. IDYLLIC (6) is another top-class 3yo and although he wasn’t as impress in winning his heat, the Victorian is bound to be a tough opponent, as per usual. In looking to add some value to the exotics, KASHED UP (2), courtesy of an ideal draw, is worthy of being added to the ‘top trio’ of contenders. The Gemma Hewitt-trained son of For A Reason hit the line well in finishing a 5m 3rd behind Idyllic, and with a kind peg role set to come his way, that will certainly enhance his claims of being a factor in the multiples. RICKOSHAY (7) will find this tougher than his heat win but he stays in the multiple mix, with LYRICAL GENIUS (10) being another exotic contender.

TASTY DELIGHT 1, He Aint Fakin 2, Idyllic 3, Kashed Up 4.

RACE SEVEN:

Unbeaten in three runs, and drawing perfectly drawn in gate one, the Ray Walker-trained MISTER REA (1) has bright prospects of stretching his winning sequence when it comes to the running of the G1 Gold Crown. The Pet Rock colt made the trip from Temora to Kilmore, where he debuted with a solid win, despite racing greenly, which led to him surviving a protest. Walker then contested the G2 Sapling Stakes at Menangle with his promising youngster and after becoming engaged in a ‘two-horse’ war with Smaltese, along way from home, Mister Rea emerged victorious and made a huge statement in the process that the Gold Crown would be an ideal fit. There was nothing ‘flash’ about his 1.5m win over Masquerading and Skyfall Benchmark. In fact, at one stage on straightening the colt looked in trouble. However, over the final 100m Mister Rea put his mind on the task at hand, and with a high degree of determination, kept his unbeaten record intact and his Gold Crown dreams alive. Gate one awaits Mister Rea and Daryll Perot will waste no time in making a statement from the outset. While Mister Rea is clearly the one to beat, he won’t want to let his guard down as there are a few outstanding types more than capable of greeting the judge. LIGHTNING DAN (7) is under the asture care of Clayton Tonkin and with local hero Amanda Turnbull in the sulky, the Captaintreacherous colt is bound to have strong support. Debuting wih a gritty win at Horsham, Lightning Dan worked from a wide heat draw, prior to finding the lead and the winning post. There was nothing brilliant about the win, but the colt is a determined character and he knows how to win. ESCAPE ARTIST (8) has drawn the outside of the front line, but the Brad Hewitt trained and driven TinTin in America gelding is loaded with potential. The Goulburn vistor had little go his way from start to finish when on debut at this venue on March 3, but he still managed to record an impressive win. The youngster was also responsible for a brave heat effort, despite going down to Master Stride. A wide gate resulted in a three wide journey through the opening stages, prior to parking outside of the leader. Still learning, Escape Artist won’t give in without a fight so don’t ignore his claims. MASTER STRIDE (12) looks to be the other ‘live’ hope, despite the presence of a back row draw. Also a son of Captaintreacherous, Master Stride opened his career with a couple of promising placings before breaking his maiden status when a shade too strong for Escape Artist and Muscle Bart. With the Anthony Butt-Sonya Smith cominbation enjoying plenty of success of late, and the former driving brilliantly, but that’s nothing new, Master Stride is a definite knock-out chance. Trainer Craig Turnbull returns home with his smart youngster MASQUERADING (2) and from his ideal draw the Pet Rock gelding will give a good account so include him in exotic discusions. Russell Jack will be hoping to take out the ‘big double’ with NINETEENTH MAN (3) and with a good draw assisting his claims, the colt will give plenty of cheek.

MISTER REA 1, Lightning Dan 2, Escape Artist 3, Master Stride 4.

RACE EIGHT:

The Jarrod Alchin-trained ESCALERA (6) will be hoping to celebrate his 50th appearance with a win in the Bathurst Mayors Cup. And, judging by his past three starts at Menangle, that is a distinct possibility. Courtesy of two outstanding drives by Cameron Hart, each time overcoming a midfield peg role, Escalera recorded back-to-back wins, firstly arriving in time to defeat Ellmers Image while the latter saw him post a last-stride win over Bad To The Bone, who was looking to complete a hat-trick of wins. While those two wins were outstanding, the 5yo son of Bettors Delight, with his confidence at an ‘all time high’, then recored a fast-finishing neck 2nd to Cash N Flow. Hart will again be looking to secure a ‘stalking’ role with Escalera, and in such a tough and open field, such a role will only enhance their claims of greeting the judge. Boasting an outstanding record on his home track, FOUROEIGHT (10) will again play an active role in the finish. Trained and driven by Mat Rue, Fouroeight has been freshened since a gritty 2nd to Pitch Perfect in the Tamworth City Cup. Prior to that display, the 8yo accounted for Aphorism and Maximus Red in what was an strong all-the-way win. The second line comes into play, but with the prospect of a keenly contested race from the outset, Fouroeight will prove hard to hold out. ELLMERS IMAGE (9) is rarely far away and although awkwardly drawn, the Amanda Turnbull trained and driven 7yo is bound to make his presence felt. OUR TRIPLE PLAY (7) won the Young Cup in fine style before a solid 3rd behind Ellmers Image and Make Mine Heaven over this course and distance. The Shadow Play 7yo should be included in exotic investments while APHORISM (3) and ALWAYS ROCKIN (1) stay under noticeas well. The interesting runner is the Narelle McCarthy-prepared, former WA pacer, TAROONA BROMAC (8). The 5yo son of Western Ideal had been mixing his form before making the trip across the Nullabor, but a recent sound Menangle trial keeps him in the multiple mix.

ESCALERA 1, Fouroeight 2, Ellmers Image 3, Our Triple Play 4.

RACE NINE:

The consolation of the Gold Crown is overflowing with chances, with the Steve Turnbull-trained BAXTER RED (10) set to overcome a second line draw in claiming the major share of the prizemoney. Debuting with a pleasing 1.8m 2nd to Our George Boston, the son of Well Said then overcame a tricky back row draw, and a three peg trip, in finishing strongly to defeat Pas De Cheval and Betting Star in fine fashion. Stepping out in a heat of the Gold Crown, Baxter Red hit the line strongly from a midfield role in posting a 2m 2nd to Take Out. Although there will be no shortage of threats, Baxter Red looks to have the talent to greet the judge. OUR GEORGE BOSTON (6) accounted for Baxter Red on debut before failing to make his presence felt in in the G2 Sapling Stakes at Menangle, which was brilliantly taken out by Mister Rea. Starting an odds-on favourite in his heat, the Betting Line youngster recorded a creditable 2.3m 3rd to Take Out and Baxter Red. With a useful draw assisting his claims, Our George Boston loooks destined to be involved in the finish. SKYFALL BENCHMARK (5) has been placed in three of his four starts and he will again give cheek while AMANI (8), ALL DA RAGE (7) and BLACK ONYX (9) should be considered when it comes to forming multiple combinations.

BAXTER RED 1, Our George Boston 2, Skyfall Benchmark 3, Amani 4.

RACE TEN:

Steve Turnbull also has bright prospects of taking out the Gold Tiara consolation as well, courtesy of PAS DE CHEVAL (10), which faces the starter on the back of three solid placings to date. Commencing her career in the role as runner-up, firstly behind Collect A Dime, then to her talented stablemate Baxter Red, the daughter of A Rocknroll Dance attempted to qualify for a shot at G1 glory when she led in recording a 3.9m 3rd to Eye Can Fly and Bettors Babe. The filly will be called upon to launch her claim from a back line draw, but her form does appear superior and she should experience that ‘winning feeling’ for the first time. ZENXENA (6) started at ‘cricket score odds’ when a useful 14.2m 4th to Silk Cloud in her Tiara heat. In what will be a competitive contest, Zenxena is capable of showing further improvement. LUCKY ZARA (7) is coming off a creditable 17.2m 3rd behind Martini Stride, with the effort a big improvement on her debut outing. CHRISSYSCREEK (9), BEAUTY PLAY (1), A DUSTY DANCE (3), LULU MAE (4)  and JUNGLE BABY (120 are in the mix when it comes to forming multiple combinations.

PAS DE CHEVAL 1, Zenxena 2, Lucky Zara 3, Chrissyscreek 4.

– MIKE KOCASS