RACE 1

Pickaxe jumped out well at Cranbourne a fortnight back, closing off nicely over the concluding stages. We see the majority of speed in this race coming from Fire Power and Snipastar. From barrier 2 with Ben Allen to ride, we’ll look to have him where he’s comfortable, likely to be midfield from where we hope to see him hit the line strongly. Has done everything right at home, but we expect him to be better over a greater trip later in the prep.

Golden Estralla is a three-year-old filly out of Zoustar on debut here after two pleasing jumpouts this time in. From barrier 10 prior to scratchings with Ben Melham aboard, we’ll look to park her where she’s comfortable from the wide gate. She’ll improve off this, and this is a city maiden, but her class should take her close, presenting here as a top-three chance.

Lady Avenger makes her debut here, following two jumpouts. Johnny Allen will look to ride her where she’s comfortable, from where we hope to see her hit the line nicely. She’ll take plenty of educational benefit from this but will likely need the run fitness-wise, being one to look for later in the prep over a greater trip.