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The Australian
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Australian
Horse racing tips: Ray Thomas and Ron Dufficy analyse every race for Missile Stakes day at Randwick
The Daily Telegraph racing editor Ray Thomas and Sky Thoroughbred Central's form expert Ron Dufficy debate the chances in all 10 races at the Missile Stakes meeting at Royal Randwick on Saturday. • PUNT LIKE A PRO: Become a Racenet iQ member and get expert tips – with fully transparent return on investment statistics – from Racenet's team of professional punters at our Pro Tips section. SUBSCRIBE NOW! SUGGESTED BETS DUFF'S BEST R7 No.2: KERGUELEN NEXT BEST R8 No.4: GENERAL SALUTE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ RACE 1: MIDWAY HANDICAP (1500m) Ron Dufficy: This is a tough race but I feel RANTAN (5) is a capable horse and although not a lot has gone right for him of late, he's very fit now. There is a little question mark about him on the heavy track but I'm willing to take the risk. STRATAFY (13) is a good longshot as his two runs back have had merit. Tenderize is not a noted first-up horse but he's got the blinkers back on and he is a Midway winner on a heavy track last preparation. CHANGE MY ADDRESS (10) is a lightly-raced three-year-old with upside and I will be watching the market with her. She's in good hands. Ray Thomas: MAL COUPE (3) is flying this campaign with three wins from his last four starts, all on soft/heavy tracks. He was dominant winning at Canterbury last start when carrying 59.5kg. He will be in this for a long way. STILL ALICE (12) always sprints well fresh and did win first-up last campaign. She adds value to multiples. RANTAN (5) does look ready to win and I'm not letting Change My Address under my guard, either. RACE 2: TAB HIGHWAY (1000m) Dufficy: I like the way CAMBAR (4) is trialling. He has won both trials easily, he is two from two at 1000m and the wet looks no issue for him. DUKE OF BRONTE (1) is going well, he has got the right form, he's very fit and he likes it soft but can he handle the big weight? EXIT FEE (3) has had five weeks off and is back to 1000m which is the query but he is a better horse than that last run suggests. NATION CHANGING (13) is an unbeaten Tamworth horse resuming but he won his most recent trial by nine lengths and is a huge watch. Thomas: This is race of many chances, like most on the program today. EXIT FEE (3) was disappointing second-up when an odds-on favourite but he's been freshened since and could easily bounce back here. DUKE OF BRONTE (1) is bursting to win a race after two very good runs to start his preparation but his outside barrier and big weight is the leveller. NATION CHANGING (13) won his only two starts comfortably during autumn and resumes off that huge Gunnedah trial win. He's has to be included among the main chances. I understand why you have gone with CAMBAR (4), Ronnie. He's trialling very well and handles wet tracks. RACE 3: PETALUMA HANDICAP (1200m) Dufficy: USEAPIN (3) was very good winning two starts back but then as it turned out last week the on-pace bias was completely against her. I'm prepared to give her another chance. DOLLAR MAGIC (1) is a professional 'bridesmaid' who is crying out to win another race. She has a big weight here but is sure to be in the thick of things. REGIMENTAL COLOURS (2) is untried at 1200m but has won three of her last four starts and should run well. The other chance is KARINSKA (8). She's a young horse down in the weights here but she showed talent in some strong two-year-old races last preparation. Thomas: KARINSKA (8) was scratched from the Canterbury midweeks and saved for this race. She hasn't been exposed to a heavy track before and is taking on older horses first-up but showed promise last season, is drawn well and has no weight. REGIMENTAL COLOURS (2) surged late to win at Randwick and she does excel on rain-affected going. DOLLAR MAGIC (1) is always very competitive and USEAPIN (3) deserves another chance for the reasons you mentioned, Ronnie. RACE 4: CHANDON HANDICAP (1400m) Dufficy: AMREEKIYAH (5) is an unbeaten mare who is heading in the right direction. She's proven at the distance, looks an adaptable type and I'm happy to lean her way. STARDEEL (1) looked a different horse when allowed to roll along last week at 1200m. He only has to run the 1400m to be in the finish again. AXIUS (2) is also up in distance and although he was a little disappointing last start, he can bounce back. PRETTY POWERFUL (7) was just fair in two runs back but 1400m does suit her better. Thomas: I'm also with AMREEKIYAH (5). She let down very impressively to win at Canterbury first-up to make it three wins from as many starts. Talented mare who can win again. STARDEEL (1) will give Amreekiyah something to chase. He led and dominated in very heavy conditions at Rosehill and might be able to get control again. AXIUS (2) is lightly-raced but has ability and 1400m should suit. VETWELVE (4) will find this harder than his easy win at Kembla but he's racing in very good form. RACE 5: RANVET HANDICAP (1000m) Dufficy: Another very even race, Ray. BONITA QUEEN (6) is a sharp mare resuming. She has no experience on heavy tracks but that is a risk I'm willing to take as she has been so good at the trials. WORLD ALLIANCE (4) is going well and nicely placed in a race like this. The only concern is he is coming back to 1000m being a backmarker. BUNDEENA's (8) two runs back have been great, maps well from his inside barrier and should be around the mark again. FRILLED (7) is a 1000m specialist and is trialling OK so I will be looking for any confidence about her in the market. Thomas: BONITA QUEEN (6) is an exciting, frontrunning mare and she looked very sharp in her recent Warwick Farm trial wins. She's resuming but does have good fresh form and is proven on soft tracks although this will be her first test on heavy going. BUNDEENA (8) has returned to racing in very good form, he has a strong finishing sprint and should handle these track conditions. WORLD ALLIANCE (4) has never been racing in better form and he will be charging home. HI DUBAI (5) had excuses last start and deserves another chance given her proven ability to handle wet tracks. RACE 6: TAB HANDICAP (2400m) Dufficy: I'm with CORMAC T (5). He's a very fit horse, he has a gear change, and ticks a few boxes in a very, very tough race. PIGGYBACK (6) backs-up on a testing track which I see is a positive. She has never been over 2400m but this is the right time to try her. KNIGHTS ARMOUR (2) is sneaking up in the weights through sheer consistency but he keeps jumping the bar and loves it wet. Thomas: I concede PIGGYBACK (6) is a query at the trip but she's on the back-up after a game effort when third at Rosehill in very wet conditions last week. Piggyback is fit, will race on the speed, handles these track conditions and will give her backers a great sight. Why is STYLEBENDER (11) $34? I know he is up in grade but he was very good at Kembla winning easily over 2400m last start, he's in a rich vein of form, stays strongly and will have no trouble with the heavy track. CORMAC T (5) is overdue for a change of luck and ELLE HUDSON (14) is a tough stayer working his way into form. RACE 7: ASAHI SUPER DRY HANDICAP (1200m) Dufficy: KERGUELEN (2) is one of the better bets of the day. He was beaten by an in-form horse in King Of Rouseau last start but can go one better here. Kerguelen's best form is on the wet and he gets the chance to get another win on the board for his new stable. The big danger has to be THEBLADE (12). He's always shown talent, he's been well looked after, he was gelded before this preparation, and looked very good in his trial. With 54kg he is going to be the testing material. WINSTON HILLS (9) was pretty good this grade last preparation and his fresh form is great. SILVANITO (8) is a good longshot as he is trialling well and his best form is on wet tracks. Thomas: I've been with KERGUELEN (2) every time he has raced but I'm jumping off him and going with THEBLADE (12) first-up. He was brilliant winning a Rosehill trial last week, goes well on wet tracks, and has always shown something, as you pointed out, Ronnie. The 6.5kg he gets off Kerguelen might be the crucial difference on the heavy track. WINSTON HILLS (9) is a first-up specialist and he has a powerful finishing sprint. Kerguelen excels on heavy tracks with three wins and two seconds from his five starts. He's a deserved favourite and might just be too good. POINT AND SHOOT (1) was in great touch last summer but he has a lot of weight first-up on an unsuitable wet track. RACE 8: MISSILE STAKES (1200m) Dufficy: GENERAL SALUTE (4) ran well first-up in Brisbane, he has trialled nicely since and is set to run boldly. I'm confident about his chances. BRUDENELL (5) looked sharp in his Gosford trial win and he probably has better 1200m form than most of these. ENCAP (3) never runs badly, he's a tough competitor and can run boldly even though this is probably short of his best distance. ROBUSTO (2) has to come back in distance which is not ideal but he has a decisive race fitness edge. Thomas: ENCAP (3) is an underrated by classy horse who has been placed at Group 1 level in the Golden Rose and Doncaster Mile last season. He's also a Group 2 winner at 1300m, has good first-up form and his recent barrier trial win at Warwick Farm was very impressive. He's over the odds. The in-form ROBUSTO (2) is very fit which should help coming back to 1200m in these wet conditions. GENERAL SALUTE (4) has superior soft track form. BRUDENELL (5) is a tough sprinter who races well this track. RACE 9: PREMIER'S CUP PRELUDE (1800m) Dufficy: Where do we go here? It's hard to read some of these stayers resuming but I've gone with ADELAIDE RIVER (2). He has been gelded before this preparation and has won two trials five weeks apart in very good style. He looks like he arrives here ready to make a statement. SALTCOATS (16) is the danger after a couple of recent runs. ST LAWRENCE (8) is ready to pounce at a distance that should suit. GLORY DAZE (12) is racing well, has no weight after the claim and has to be a contender. Thomas: There's a lot to like about SALTCOATS (16). He has been improved by two runs from a spell and his effort to close late for third at Listed Level in the Winter Challenge last start is a great pointer for this race. He's getting out to his right distance range and he did win over the Randwick 1800m course when last in work, plus he handles heavy tracks. The classy ADELAIDE RIVER (2) has looked really good in two recent trials and looks primed to run well. ESTADIO MESTALLA (5) is very fit and racing well. ROYAL SUPREMACY (13) was big odds when he won over this course and distance last start but looks an improving type. RACE 10: DRINKWISE MILE (1600m) Dufficy: This is another even race but I feel PURE ALPHA (7) is going well without winning but the booking of Nash Rawiller may help to find that extra length. PUNTIN (3) is the danger. I want to forgive him when a beaten favourite on that sticky track last start and back to a mile he deserves another chance. GLAD YOU THINK SO (6) landed some good bets winning last start and could easily go right on with the job. MORNINGTON PIER (12) has looked good winning both his starts for the new stable. Thomas: PUNTIN (3) missed a placed for the first time in his career last start but coming back to 1600m suits. He's very genuine and rates as a strong winning chance. His dangers include GLAD YOU THINK SO (6) who powered to the line to win over this course and distance last start. PURE ALPHA (7) gets his chance to finally breakthrough here and NANA'S WISH (5) is a tough mare who excels on wet tracks.
News.com.au
3 days ago
- Sport
- News.com.au
Ray Thomas and Ron Dufficy analyse every race for Missile Stakes day at Randwick
The Daily Telegraph racing editor Ray Thomas and Sky Thoroughbred Central's form expert Ron Dufficy debate the chances in all 10 races at the Missile Stakes meeting at Royal Randwick on Saturday. SUGGESTED BETS DUFF'S BEST R7 No.2: KERGUELEN NEXT BEST â– â– â– â– â– RACE 1: MIDWAY HANDICAP (1500m) Ron Dufficy: This is a tough race but I feel RANTAN (5) is a capable horse and although not a lot has gone right for him of late, he's very fit now. There is a little question mark about him on the heavy track but I'm willing to take the risk. STRATAFY (13) is a good longshot as his two runs back have had merit. Tenderize is not a noted first-up horse but he's got the blinkers back on and he is a Midway winner on a heavy track last preparation. CHANGE MY ADDRESS (10) is a lightly-raced three-year-old with upside and I will be watching the market with her. She's in good hands. Ray Thomas: MAL COUPE (3) is flying this campaign with three wins from his last four starts, all on soft/heavy tracks. He was dominant winning at Canterbury last start when carrying 59.5kg. He will be in this for a long way. STILL ALICE (12) always sprints well fresh and did win first-up last campaign. She adds value to multiples. RANTAN (5) does look ready to win and I'm not letting Change My Address under my guard, either. Mal Coupe notches his second win from four starts this prep, keeping a strong run of form rolling! ðŸ'¥ @HalloranRacing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) July 3, 2025 RACE 2: TAB HIGHWAY (1000m) Dufficy: I like the way CAMBAR (4) is trialling. He has won both trials easily, he is two from two at 1000m and the wet looks no issue for him. DUKE OF BRONTE (1) is going well, he has got the right form, he's very fit and he likes it soft but can he handle the big weight? EXIT FEE (3) has had five weeks off and is back to 1000m which is the query but he is a better horse than that last run suggests. NATION CHANGING (13) is an unbeaten Tamworth horse resuming but he won his most recent trial by nine lengths and is a huge watch. Thomas: This is race of many chances, like most on the program today. EXIT FEE (3) was disappointing second-up when an odds-on favourite but he's been freshened since and could easily bounce back here. DUKE OF BRONTE (1) is bursting to win a race after two very good runs to start his preparation but his outside barrier and big weight is the leveller. NATION CHANGING (13) won his only two starts comfortably during autumn and resumes off that huge Gunnedah trial win. He's has to be included among the main chances. I understand why you have gone with CAMBAR (4), Ronnie. He's trialling very well and handles wet tracks. Dufficy: USEAPIN (3) was very good winning two starts back but then as it turned out last week the on-pace bias was completely against her. I'm prepared to give her another chance. DOLLAR MAGIC (1) is a professional 'bridesmaid' who is crying out to win another race. She has a big weight here but is sure to be in the thick of things. REGIMENTAL COLOURS (2) is untried at 1200m but has won three of her last four starts and should run well. The other chance is KARINSKA (8). She's a young horse down in the weights here but she showed talent in some strong two-year-old races last preparation. Thomas: KARINSKA (8) was scratched from the Canterbury midweeks and saved for this race. She hasn't been exposed to a heavy track before and is taking on older horses first-up but showed promise last season, is drawn well and has no weight. REGIMENTAL COLOURS (2) surged late to win at Randwick and she does excel on rain-affected going. DOLLAR MAGIC (1) is always very competitive and USEAPIN (3) deserves another chance for the reasons you mentioned, Ronnie. Useapin digs deep to take the win at Rosehill for @cwallerracing and @ZacLloydx! ðŸ'¥ @aus_turf_club — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) July 19, 2025 RACE 4: CHANDON HANDICAP (1400m) Dufficy: AMREEKIYAH (5) is an unbeaten mare who is heading in the right direction. She's proven at the distance, looks an adaptable type and I'm happy to lean her way. STARDEEL (1) looked a different horse when allowed to roll along last week at 1200m. He only has to run the 1400m to be in the finish again. AXIUS (2) is also up in distance and although he was a little disappointing last start, he can bounce back. PRETTY POWERFUL (7) was just fair in two runs back but 1400m does suit her better. Thomas: I'm also with AMREEKIYAH (5). She let down very impressively to win at Canterbury first-up to make it three wins from as many starts. Talented mare who can win again. STARDEEL (1) will give Amreekiyah something to chase. He led and dominated in very heavy conditions at Rosehill and might be able to get control again. AXIUS (2) is lightly-raced but has ability and 1400m should suit. VETWELVE (4) will find this harder than his easy win at Kembla but he's racing in very good form. RACE 5: RANVET HANDICAP (1000m) Dufficy: Another very even race, Ray. BONITA QUEEN (6) is a sharp mare resuming. She has no experience on heavy tracks but that is a risk I'm willing to take as she has been so good at the trials. WORLD ALLIANCE (4) is going well and nicely placed in a race like this. The only concern is he is coming back to 1000m being a backmarker. BUNDEENA's (8) two runs back have been great, maps well from his inside barrier and should be around the mark again. FRILLED (7) is a 1000m specialist and is trialling OK so I will be looking for any confidence about her in the market. Thomas: BONITA QUEEN (6) is an exciting, frontrunning mare and she looked very sharp in her recent Warwick Farm trial wins. She's resuming but does have good fresh form and is proven on soft tracks although this will be her first test on heavy going. BUNDEENA (8) has returned to racing in very good form, he has a strong finishing sprint and should handle these track conditions. WORLD ALLIANCE (4) has never been racing in better form and he will be charging home. HI DUBAI (5) had excuses last start and deserves another chance given her proven ability to handle wet tracks. BONITA QUEEN continues the great run of form for @BBakerRacing and takes out the fifth race from @WyongRaceClub under Adam Hyeronimus. — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) January 11, 2025 RACE 6: TAB HANDICAP (2400m) Dufficy: I'm with CORMAC T (5). He's a very fit horse, he has a gear change, and ticks a few boxes in a very, very tough race. PIGGYBACK (6) backs-up on a testing track which I see is a positive. She has never been over 2400m but this is the right time to try her. KNIGHTS ARMOUR (2) is sneaking up in the weights through sheer consistency but he keeps jumping the bar and loves it wet. Thomas: I concede PIGGYBACK (6) is a query at the trip but she's on the back-up after a game effort when third at Rosehill in very wet conditions last week. Piggyback is fit, will race on the speed, handles these track conditions and will give her backers a great sight. Why is STYLEBENDER (11) $34? I know he is up in grade but he was very good at Kembla winning easily over 2400m last start, he's in a rich vein of form, stays strongly and will have no trouble with the heavy track. CORMAC T (5) is overdue for a change of luck and ELLE HUDSON (14) is a tough stayer working his way into form. Dufficy: KERGUELEN (2) is one of the better bets of the day. He was beaten by an in-form horse in King Of Rouseau last start but can go one better here. Kerguelen's best form is on the wet and he gets the chance to get another win on the board for his new stable. The big danger has to be THEBLADE (12). He's always shown talent, he's been well looked after, he was gelded before this preparation, and looked very good in his trial. With 54kg he is going to be the testing material. WINSTON HILLS (9) was pretty good this grade last preparation and his fresh form is great. SILVANITO (8) is a good longshot as he is trialling well and his best form is on wet tracks. Thomas: I've been with KERGUELEN (2) every time he has raced but I'm jumping off him and going with THEBLADE (12) first-up. He was brilliant winning a Rosehill trial last week, goes well on wet tracks, and has always shown something, as you pointed out, Ronnie. The 6.5kg he gets off Kerguelen might be the crucial difference on the heavy track. WINSTON HILLS (9) is a first-up specialist and he has a powerful finishing sprint. Kerguelen excels on heavy tracks with three wins and two seconds from his five starts. He's a deserved favourite and might just be too good. POINT AND SHOOT (1) was in great touch last summer but he has a lot of weight first-up on an unsuitable wet track. King Of Roseau breaks the 532 day drought with a great win at Rosehill! ðŸ'¥ @djgibbons22 | @SnowdenRacing1 — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 RACE 8: MISSILE STAKES (1200m) Dufficy: GENERAL SALUTE (4) ran well first-up in Brisbane, he has trialled nicely since and is set to run boldly. I'm confident about his chances. BRUDENELL (5) looked sharp in his Gosford trial win and he probably has better 1200m form than most of these. ENCAP (3) never runs badly, he's a tough competitor and can run boldly even though this is probably short of his best distance. ROBUSTO (2) has to come back in distance which is not ideal but he has a decisive race fitness edge. Thomas: ENCAP (3) is an underrated by classy horse who has been placed at Group 1 level in the Golden Rose and Doncaster Mile last season. He's also a Group 2 winner at 1300m, has good first-up form and his recent barrier trial win at Warwick Farm was very impressive. He's over the odds. The in-form ROBUSTO (2) is very fit which should help coming back to 1200m in these wet conditions. GENERAL SALUTE (4) has superior soft track form. BRUDENELL (5) is a tough sprinter who races well this track. Dufficy: Where do we go here? It's hard to read some of these stayers resuming but I've gone with ADELAIDE RIVER (2). He has been gelded before this preparation and has won two trials five weeks apart in very good style. He looks like he arrives here ready to make a statement. SALTCOATS (16) is the danger after a couple of recent runs. ST LAWRENCE (8) is ready to pounce at a distance that should suit. GLORY DAZE (12) is racing well, has no weight after the claim and has to be a contender. Thomas: There's a lot to like about SALTCOATS (16). He has been improved by two runs from a spell and his effort to close late for third at Listed Level in the Winter Challenge last start is a great pointer for this race. He's getting out to his right distance range and he did win over the Randwick 1800m course when last in work, plus he handles heavy tracks. The classy ADELAIDE RIVER (2) has looked really good in two recent trials and looks primed to run well. ESTADIO MESTALLA (5) is very fit and racing well. ROYAL SUPREMACY (13) was big odds when he won over this course and distance last start but looks an improving type. A robust win to Robusto! A thrilling battle in the Listed Winter Challenge, with the @BBakerRacing galloper victorious! â›'ï¸� @JoshuaParr8 @Darby_Racing @aus_turf_club — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) July 19, 2025 RACE 10: DRINKWISE MILE (1600m) Dufficy: This is another even race but I feel PURE ALPHA (7) is going well without winning but the booking of Nash Rawiller may help to find that extra length. PUNTIN (3) is the danger. I want to forgive him when a beaten favourite on that sticky track last start and back to a mile he deserves another chance. GLAD YOU THINK SO (6) landed some good bets winning last start and could easily go right on with the job. MORNINGTON PIER (12) has looked good winning both his starts for the new stable. Thomas: PUNTIN (3) missed a placed for the first time in his career last start but coming back to 1600m suits. He's very genuine and rates as a strong winning chance. His dangers include GLAD YOU THINK SO (6) who powered to the line to win over this course and distance last start. PURE ALPHA (7) gets his chance to finally breakthrough here and NANA'S WISH (5) is a tough mare who excels on wet tracks.
News.com.au
03-07-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
Ray Thomas, Shayne O'Cass tips, analysis for all 10 races at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday
Form analysts Ray Thomas and Shayne O'Cass debate the chances on the 10-race Winter Stakes meeting at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday. Shayno thinks he's found massive value in $71 pop VALIMI (Race 10 No.14), an import who's been trialling 'fantastic', while Ray advises punters to stick with EXIT FEE (Race 3 No.6). â– â– â– â– â– RAY'S BEST BET Race 3 No.6 EXIT FEE RAY'S BEST VALUE Race 8 No.13 COSMONOVA SHAYNO'S BEST BET Race 9 No.14 RUBY FLYER SHAYNO'S BEST VALUE Race 10 No.14 VALIMI â– â– â– â– â– Ray Thomas: I was taken by RAGING FORCE (1) 's win at Kensington when he led throughout to win easing down by four lengths. This came after an easy first-up win in the Red Crown at Muswellbrook. Promising colt who is destined for big things in the spring. His danger is HORSESHOE HILL (11). She was very impressive winning her maiden at Hawkesbury and is right up to Saturday grade. CAESAR (7) has looked very good in successive barrier trials and is one to watch. Shayne O'Cass: MARCHON (9), by Wootton Bassett out of Ottawa Stakes placegetter Marchena, was just gliding along throughout when he won his June 20 heat here. I concede race experience is gold, particularly with two-year-olds, so RAGING FORCE (1) commands respect. That's a big win at Randwick to Raging Force, who makes it two wins in a row! ðŸ'° @TommyBerry21 @SnowdenRacing1 @aus_turf_club @Darby_Racing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 25, 2025 â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: ZOURIPPER (1) looked good winning first-up at Kembla last start, Shayno. It was only a class 1 but he made light of 60kg and showed good acceleration to come from off speed and win by a widening margin. He gets into this race with 55kg after the claim and will go close. IRON MAN (1) is a dual acceptor (he's third emergency for race 7) but he does look very hard to beat if he starts in this race. Trainer Kerry Parker has a couple of good each way chances with EQUILIBRIST (7) and CLOSE ENCOUNTER (10). O'Cass: RT, it's funny how pedigrees work sometimes because Trapeze Artist was a 'duffer' on wet tracks yet here's one of his sons EQUILIBRIST (7) who ploughs through the slop. I wonder if it has anything to do with the fact that his fourth dam is Easy Date, the mother of the brilliant Snippets who was an absolute swimmer. Whether it is heavy or soft, Equilibrist is in good nick to win this. NOBLE SOLDIER (2) 's 'best' is better than any of his rivals. He was good enough first-up in a much deeper race than this one. Zouripper you ripper! ðŸ'¥ The @JTRacingRwik trained gelding wins at double figure odds in Race 2 at Canterbury with @SchofieldChad on board. — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) July 24, 2024 • Rosehill Turf Talk: Best bet gets a key gear change, plus a $71 tip â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: EXIT FEE (6) was heavily backed first-up at Randwick and ran on well for a close second to the speedy Calico Miss in a Highway. He looked to have his chance the other day but will be improved by the run. Drawn to get all the favours and he does go well this track. LUNAITE (4) would have been top pick with a better barrier. Gate 22 looks terrible on paper but she will come into barrier 14 after the emergencies come out. She was very competitive in a strong form race last start. Bengal won a Highway first-up then finished unplaced in the same race that Lunaite contested. He's worth another chance. MARTINI MUMMA (5) is also back in her right grade. O'Cass: I've gone with one of racing's real bargain basement buys, LET'S GO BRANDON (10) who was bought online in May 2024 for $1,250. He's already won $37,125 in four starts and take it to the bank, it should be $13,000 more had he not thrown away a potential debut win at Canberra on Black Opal Day. He's got his act together now with back to back wins and he's not done with yet. There is nothing like Highway form for a Highway. Enter your selection, RT, and that's EXIT FEE (6) who has won one and was runner-up to Lisztomania in another. SHOW 'EM HOWL (21) was huge in his Highway debut. Calico Miss races away with the TAB Highway at Randwick! ðŸ'° @weir_mikayla @aus_turf_club — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 21, 2025 â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: CODETTA (1) has been placed in two starts this track since resuming, and she has been luckless in both. She was held up in the straight until charging through for second behind King's Secret (who has since won again) then she was trapped three-wide without cover before a game third to Winning Proposal. Codetta was a beaten favourite last start but she lost no admirers in defeat. I've been on her both starts and have to stay with her, Shayno, particularly now she is up to 1300m. GATEKEEPER (7) is a very interesting runner. He's superbly-bred, won nicely on debut, and resumes off two easy trials, the most recent when he was desperate to go faster. DIDDLE DUMPLING (4) and GOLDEN STRAAND (8) both come off big wins at Gosford. O'Cass: How about DIDDLE DUMPLING (4) 's form, RT. She had four runs as a two-year-old including back-to-back fifths in Manaal's Sweet Embrace and in the Percy Sykes (Lady of Camelot was second). Then she opened her three-year-old season with a second to Aeliana! Not surprisingly, Diddle Dumpling bolted in at Wyong first-up and she is well up to Saturday city grade. Riff Rocket's little half-sister CODETTA (1) is your rolled-gold model of consistency. Paid the price for her 7 of 9 alley last time and hasn't fared any better this weekend either. Nakeeta Jane's son GATEKEEPER (7) could have a high ceiling. It's no secret that King's Secret has a bright future! ðŸ'' He wins at Rosehill for @PrideRacing and Andrew Adkins! @aus_turf_club | @ProvenTbreds — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) May 31, 2025 â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: I wasn't sure which way to go here, Shayno, but landed on TARPAULIN (5). He showed promise with successive wins on winter tracks last year then he was tested at stakes level where he ran competitively to just miss a place in the Danehill Stakes last spring. He resumes off a long spell but he trialled brilliantly at Canterbury. SHALL BE (4) has his share of ability and does go well fresh. I'm wary of STORM THE RAMPARTS (1). He is flying this campaign and just missed notching a hat-trick of wins last start. He carries weight well and makes his own luck racing on speed. POKERJACK (6) is an each-way contender. O'Cass: I'm also with TARPAULIN (5). There was a bit of a boom on him this time last year when he won those two midweeks late in his two-year-old season. His best run since then, and so far, was his fourth in the Danehill Stakes last spring. He has been off the scene a fair while but his trials indicate a happy and healthy horse ready to race. He loves the wet too. But he'll have to be right up to the mark to beat a very fit and in-form STORM THE RAMPARTS (1). That said, he is right up in the weights. SHALL BE (4) is fast, drawn well, has 2kg off and excels on wet ground. Tarpaulin runs away with it! ðŸ'¨ @mcacajamez and @JamesCummings88 combine to win the Randwick opener 🙌 — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) July 27, 2024 â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: If winning becomes a habit then I'll go with WINNING PROPOSAL (2), Shayno. She's always been a filly of talent and finally had luck go her way with a tough win over this course and distance last start. She finds herself in a fillies and mares race and is not badly weighted after the claim. HI DUBAI (1) has run two excellent races since resuming and this is an easier assignment. USEAPIN (7) and LONHRO'S QUEEN (5) both have a powerful finishing surge and are value chances. O'Cass: QUEEN OF THE MILE (3) has turned in more good runs than bad ones, and by far. It is just plain to see that the race that what best suits her is a Saturday city Benchmark 78. So much so that this Saturday will be her sixth '78' in a row subsequent to her noteworthy third in the Magic Millions 3&4YO at Wyong on Dec 28. The caveat is she needs it to dry out. USEAPIN (7) is well up to winning this and I made her my best bet last time but she was scratched. I've got to mention her nonetheless. ðŸ'� Winning Proposal with a late effort to get the win along the inside at Rosehill! @BBakerRacing | @AnnaRoper_ — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 • â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: GENTILESCHI (14) bumped into a smart type when chasing home She's Unusual over 1800m at Randwick last start. Although no match for the winner, Gentileschi beat the rest of her rivals convincingly and is ready to win. ASSAILANT (17), a former English galloper, has shaped promisingly in two Australian starts for trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott. He puts himself into his races early and is tough under pressure. SOUNDS UNUSUAL (7) is worth another chance now he's up to 2000m and imported galloper NELLIE LEYLAX (1) has a wide barrier and big weight but has ability, too. O'Cass: GUZUMPED (18) is an emergency with no jockey but I'm hoping he gets a run, RT. I have been 'on' the son of Dundeel both runs this preparation and they haven't been at all bad. Third-up, loves the wet and loves 2000m. No one could have missed Ortensia's granddaughter GENTILESCHI (14) in that 1800m Benchmark 78 at Randwick on June 21. You have found her, Ray, and I understand why as she looks ready for 2000m again and excels with the sting out. Don't forget GOOD BANTER (15) won the Adrian Knox on a Heavy 9. She's nice... unusual! She's Unusual wins in style for @JohnOSheaRacing with @TommyBerry21 in the saddle! 🤩 @aus_turf_club @OTIRacing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 21, 2025 • â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: Did you know COSMONOVA (13) is unbeaten third-up from a spell? I think she is ready to maintain that record after two solid efforts this campaign including her closing third at Randwick last start. I don't mind her barrier because if she can slide across and find cover then she is going to be hard to hold out. DOLLAR MAGIC (14), racing's professional placegetter, will be in the mix again and KING OF ROSEAU (11) really attacked the line to score here last start but he has to come back slightly in trip. WORLD ALLIANCE (8) will be charging home and Bunker Hut always races well fresh. O'Cass: I didn't realise that statistic about COSMONOVA (13) and concede she has a great chance. In saying that, I want to be with FLEETWOOD (4). He is something of a rarity at Godolphin given he was bought not bred. They must have liked him because $160,000 is not an insignificant sum for an Encryption yearling. He has turned out to be another canny buy for the Royal Blue, having won five races and more than $330,000 in a relatively short time. Best of all, he is unbeaten in both starts on Heavy. BUNKER HUT (3) has an inviting and enticing set of numbers right across the board except maybe that he hasn't won on heavy and all his best form is on good tracks. Cosmonova gets the head down in time to win Race 3 at Rosehill for @PrideRacing in a thrilling photo finish! ðŸ'¸ — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) August 3, 2024 • â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: WELWAL (2) had five weeks between runs when he finished strongly for second behind Headley Grange in the Civic Stakes. The winner is in rare form and Welwal ran a blinder to get within a half-length. He will be fitter and handles soft tracks. In a race of many chances THUNDERLIPS (10) is in career-best form and on the seven-day back-up after his fast-finishing win at Rosehill over 1500m. WHINCHAT (8) has again drawn wide but if he breaks cleanly and races on speed, he will take running down. ACCREDITED (4) bounced back to winning form on the drying track last start. His chances soar if the track is closer to good than heavy. O'Cass: RUBY FLYER (14) is the sort of horse who could make his presence felt in The Big Dance if he got there and it was pouring cats and dogs on the day. My point there is that he is one of the best muddies racing all day on Saturday, he is a Randwick Mile winner and was placed in a Rowley Mile. This is 1400m of course but no less suitable for the Brad Widdup-trained gelding. WELWAL (2) was given the perfect ride by Tommy Berry when ripping into the margin behind Headley Grange last start. He is getting oh so close. ASTERO (11) is always underrated. Headley Grange adds the Listed Civic Stakes to his impressive record, and it's a Randwick treble to Jason Collett! 🙌 @PrideRacing @aus_turf_club — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 21, 2025 • â– â– â– â– â– Thomas: KERGUELEN (5) went up sharply in grade but was sent out a short-priced favourite before finishing an even fourth to Accredited. He looked to have every chance but still stuck to his task and was beaten just over a length. Kerguelen is back in his right grade and is drawn to get the run of the race. SACRED ROCKS (12) produced an amazing effort to win over 1300m here three weeks ago. She has drawn off the track but she will go back early and charge home. BRAVE ONE (10) drew wide and covered extra ground but was still too classy at Randwick. The barrier is the concern again. LITTLE COINTREAU (8) doesn't run a bad race. I know what you like in the last, Shayno and if it wins, to use one of your phrases, you will be a hero to a nation. O'Cass: I'm with VALIMI (14), RT! This is the French import with Kris Lees whose form back home includes three stakes race appearances, most notably the 2023 French 2000 Guineas where he ran fifth. What about his Australian runs? They weren't great, that is true, but it would seem to be that he can only go on soft and/or heavy tracks. His trials were just fantastic too. At $71, I think Valimi is over the odds and will run a big race. Joe Pride-trained horses seem to hold to their form like no other trainer and for that reason alone, LITTLE COINTREAU (8) has to go in somewhere.
News.com.au
27-06-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
Ray Thomas and Shayne O'Cass analyse every race at Rosehill on Saturday
The Daily Telegraph racing editor Ray Thomas and form expert Shayne O'Cass debate the chances across 10 races at the McKell Cup meeting at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday. â– â– â– â– â– SUGGESTED BETS RAY'S BEST VALUE BET Race 7 No.3: HOPEFUL SHAYNO'S BEST Race 6 No.8: USEAPIN VALUE BET Race 7 No.6: MORMONA â– â– â– â– â– RACE 1: MIDWAY HCP (1300m) Ray Thomas: CRAFTY EAGLE (1) has improved steadily with each run this preparation and indicated he was close to top form again with a closing third to King Of Rouseau over this course and distance last start. He was forced back to the near the inside which wasn't the place to be last start and still ran on strongly. With the claim, he's not badly in at the weights and he's ready to win. MISS SPACEGIRL (11) and PRESIDES (7) are both very genuine and will be the mix, while HOW MUCH BETTER (10) was very good first-up and should improve. Shayne O'Cass: PRETTY TAVI (12) has a very famous seventh dam, none other than Chicquita who was a champion on and off the track, RT. He had quite good form in Victoria but was never what you call 'city class'. That's not the case now that he is in NSW, Hawkesbury to be precise. His three Midway runs, all of them very good. KHUMBILA (6) is ready, in fact is crying out for 1300m third-up. He has finally drawn a good alley and that could make all the difference. ROLLING MAGIC (2) has some solid formlines. King Of Roseau breaks the 532 day drought with a great win at Rosehill! ðŸ'¥ @djgibbons22 | @SnowdenRacing1 — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 RACE 2: TAB HIGHWAY (1500m) Thomas: I've got Brett Cavanough going 1-2 with NEW PHARAOH (5) and WARRIOR FOR PEACE (3), Shayno. New Pharaoh was trapped three-wide most of the way and still ran on strongly late to just miss a place over this trip late last month. New Pharaoh, who finished right alongside stablemate Warrior For Peace (third) last start meets his stablemate better at the weights and he's drawn to get the right run. Warrior For Peace is going to be hard to beat again. THINK LIKE PADDY (1) was competitive at Group 3 level in Brisbane last start and this is much easier. TO BE FRANK (8) is a chance at odds. O'Cass: RED RAGS TO BULLS (10) has contested two Highways prior to this, finishing third to Super Norwest in the first and fourth to the same horse here at Rosehill two weeks ago. If he is going to win one, probably this is the one. THINK LIKE PADDY (1) ticks all the boxes so let me just throw in a bit of trivia regarding the name, RT. He is by So You Think and was bred by Patrick Hogan (who used to call Sir Tristram – Paddy). This is Sir Patrick's amazing Gay Poss family. Thomas: Love your work, Shayno. In the third, I don't think there is much between PUNTIN (9) and TASORAAY (10). I'm leaning to Puntin after his good first-up effort when he was narrowly beaten at Canterbury. The step up to 1400m suits, he's very consistent and will be in the finish. Tasoraay might have gone too hard in front and was ambushed late by Don't Forget Jack last start. He will at his peak after two runs from a spell and will take running down. DON'T FORGET JACK (3) appreciated the solid tempo and overwhelmed his rivals with a fast finishing effort two weeks ago. If this race is run to suit, he will be hard to hold out again. NORTHERN EYES (2) is very genuine and deserves a win. O'Cass: I'm going with a horse than ran 11th of 12 at Randwick last Saturday – PRETTY POWERFUL (12). His run was best summed up by the stewards – 'began awkwardly, held up over the final 400m and, as a result, was unable to be fully tested'. And that's putting it mildly! Can't imagine the same thing happening this weekend with barrier 11 of 12. I've always been a fan of AGITA (11). This is a nice race for the son of Adelaide to resume in. KADAL (6) has finished on the podium at 15 of 21 starts. Deserves another win and is getting close too. Don't Forget Jack gets back to form with the perfect run at Rosehill! ðŸ'� @NockBraith | @ANeashamRacing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 RACE 4: PRECISE AIR HCP (1400m) Thomas: WEEPING WOMAN (5) led for a long way only to be collared in the final few bounds by the very promising Sacred Rocks over 1300m here two weeks ago. She will be fitter after two runs from a spell and she gets any sort of control up front, she will be tough to catch. CAPTAIN AMELIA (1) has been improved by recent racing and is on the quick back-up after her solid effort when fourth as favourite at Randwick last week. She's worth another chance. CHANGING COLOURS (7) is very consistent but finds it hard to win. SUPER NORWEST (10) won a Highway last start and has each way claims. O'Cass: PANJATI (6) was a $500,000 yearling, not so much because she is a Pierro, but the fact that her third dam is the broodmare gem, Shantha's Choice, dam of Redoute's Choice, Manhattan Rain and Platinum Scissors. Gerald Ryan co-trains Pajanti, he also trained her handy mother, Crystal Flute. As for Pajanti, she can't get to 1400m fast enough. WEEPING WOMAN (5) has been a very costly conveyance at her two runs this time; but in her defence, she struck a Heavy 8 first-up then drew 12 of 12 the next time and was only beaten a neck. CHANGING COLOURS (7) hasn't missed a medal in eight starts. Thomas: LIVIN' THING (3) unleashed an impressive burst of acceleration to race away from his rivals at a Kensington midweek meeting last start. He's up in grace here but gets in well at the weights after the claim. MANAAJEM (13) was beaten as an odds-on favourite first-up at Warwick Farm but she's fitter and will improve on the drier track here. KING'S SECRET (5) has his chance when unplaced in a strong form race last start and he's also worth another chance. SOVEREIGN HILL (7) showed talent last season but is resuming off a long spell but he's trialling well. O'Cass: USEAPIN (8) is a Chris Waller-trained filly by one of his two Everest winners – Yes Yes Yes. She's won three of her nine starts, albeit at the NSW provincials but she has run some honourable races when tried in town against the likes of More Territories and Aeliana no less. She was never let loose in either trial so watch for market moves. RANTAN (6) had no luck at Gosford there on Cup day in what has turned out to be a very strong form race. SPYWIRE (1) is almost certainly the best horse in the race and I will be watching if they back him. Livin' Thing records an impressive win in Race 4 at Randwick Kensington. @JohnOSheaRacing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 11, 2025 RACE 6: SCHWEPPES HCP (1500m) Thomas: MICKEY'S MEDAL (7) is in a rich vein of form although this is toughest test. He's won successive Rosehill 1500m races and is so genuine, he will be in the mix again. THUNDERLIPS (2) was held up for a run but when the gap came he burst through to score an impressive win. He's also racing in top form and carries weight well. SIR ARTIE (3) ran well first-up and can only improve. GREEN SHADOWS (1) ran a blinder in the Civic Stakes last week this easier race sets up well for him. O'Cass: I've got TESTATOR SILENS (5) to do the ultimate form reversal here, RT. He was rock solid in betting when third-up here two weeks ago but as it turned out, he never passed a horse. Nothing in the stewards' report to shed light on the poor performance so we just have to write it off to horses not being machines. Me? I do think the 4kg reduction in weight will help. THUNDERLIPS (2) deserves so much praise for that win at Randwick last start. GREEN SHADOWS (1) is all but pitched in here with 57kg. Thomas: HOPEFUL (3) hasn't won a race for over three years but this might be his chance. He stuck to his task in the Winter Cup last start to finish a close third and if he can repeat that effort, he will go close to winning. CASUAL CONNECTION (8) won well at Randwick then led for a long way under a big weight before his close second to Tympanist at Kensington. He drops 5kg and rates highly although the wetter the better for him. BACIO DEL MIST (10) got too far back in the Winter Cup but her effort tin the Lord Mayor's Cup two starts back indicates she can be competitive here. ALEGRON (2) has been struggling this campaign but if anywhere near his best, he would win this race. O'Cass: MORMONA (6) has been on my radar since before and after he resumed in the Lord Mayors Cup where he ran an eye-catching seventh of 14. He followed that up with a sixth of 14 in the Winter Cup up against a fair few of this weekend's Stayers Cup rivals. By the way, this race should be 3200m if you ask me! I agree with HOPEFUL (3) – he's certainly overdue for another win. The one thing you know about CASUAL CONNECTION (8), he will stay the trip. What a finish at Rosehill! Sir Lucan fights off Bear On The Loose to win the Listed Winter Cup! â�'ï¸� — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 RACE 8: ASAHI SUPER DRY HCP (1800m) Thomas: FEDERER (12) went back to the inside which was inferior going early in the straight then was guided back out wider before he ran eighth to Thunderlips at Randwick when resuming. There were excuses for his last start effort and he did show considerable potential when last in work. PIGGYBACK (10) can give trainer Ciaron Maher a stable quinella. She's racing well and wasn't disgraced when a close third to Shohisha in a slowly run race at Randwick last start. Drawn to get the right run and will be very competitive. PURE ALPHA (9) and MISTERKIPCHOGE (15) haven't been far away in recent starts and find themselves in a winnable race. O'Cass: I was moderately keen on LENAPE VIBE (14) second-up but few were as he drifted from $51 to $61. Maybe he was run short, RT, but there is no doubt that he should have finished closer than he did. Take note he comes back from 2000m to 1800m but I'm mindful that he is one for one at the track and trip. KALZALARK (13) has raced himself into peak fitness now and gets to 1800m off his best run this time in. I can see where you are coming from with Federer. He will be fitter for his 'second serve'. Thomas: ELAMAZ (3) is a stakes winner in France who has not missed a top two finish in seven starts, winning four. He makes his Australian debut off three barrier trials where he has shown tactical speed. Promising and this is not a strong race. LOCH EAGLE (2) charged home to win over the Randwick mile course last start and he has won up to 1800m before. This is his first attempt at 2000m but the way he attacked the line last start suggests this is the right time to test his stamina reserves. ADELAIDE RIVER (1) did run fourth in the Caulfield Stakes at weight-for-age last sprint and is resuming off two slashing trial wins. He's very talented and looks to have returned in great order. GLORY DAZE (6) is racing in good form. O'Cass: ADELAIDE RIVER (1) boasts an absolutely fascinating CV. He is a son of Australia who won the English and Irish Derbies, just like his own father Galileo did. Adelaide River didn't win them but he ran in the English and Irish Derbies (second) as well as the French classic (which he ran second in as well). All we can say about the present day is that he is trialling like he is back in business. BELVEDERE BOYS (5) is two for two at the track and distance including a big win in the Country Classic. Thomas: LIBERTY STATE (10) resumed with a dominant win at Rosehill, unleashing from back in the field with a powerful finishing surge. She's a smart mare building a good record and she is protecting a perfect second-up record. LADY EXTREME (13) broke through for a deserved confidence-boosting win when resuming at Rosehill and she could got right on with it now. SNACK BAR (12) has had a few chances but can't be overlooked and UNSTOPABULL (9) ran well for third in a good form race last start. O'Cass: UNSTOPABULL (9) has a commendable overall record of 12 podium finishes from 20 starts and four of them are wins. I would venture to say a few of those eight placings could have been wins but for his pattern and/or circumstances beyond the horse's control. This is more or less his trip, RT, and with Jeff Penza on from a wide gate, it could be down the middle and over the top. FLYING DESTINY (5) has massive excuses for the first-up last at Canterbury when wide throughout being the gist. Drawn three this time. Liberty State returns after a spell with a big win in the last at Rosehill, and that's a double to @djgibbons22! 🥳 @HawkesRacing | @aus_turf_club — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) May 31, 2025
News.com.au
26-06-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
Turf Talk: Shayne O'Cass keen on $19 value pick at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday
Shayne O'Cass and Ray Thomas debate all the key chances at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday in this week's edition of Turf Talk. Shayno is keen on the chances of $19 pop Useapin in the 3yo Benchmark 72 (1100m), while Ray thinks Bjorn Baker can keep racking up the winners with Puntin ($4.20) in the 3&4yo Benchmark 72 (1400m). â– â– â– â– â– Ray Thomas: The final Group 1 race of the season, the Tatt's Tiara at Eagle Farm tomorrow, is wide open. I've gone for Tashi – she deserves a big race win. I'll put you on the spot, Shayno – a Tiara tip and also your Group 1 highlight of the season? Shayne O'Cass: Floozie for me RT. Aeliana winning the Derby was mine. I wonder if she's the next Verry Elleegant? You? The Derby goes to the filly! 🤩 Aeliana destroys them in the G1 Australian Derby, and just how good is she?! @cwallerracing | @LaneDamian | @StarTbreds | @aus_turf_club | @WorldPool — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) April 5, 2025 O'Cass: We'll find out. I have no doubt the 'best' Adelaide River just wins but he's got to bring those amazing trials to race-day. ðŸ�… Mickey's Medal gets more gold, storming home to win at Rosehill for @ANeashamRacing! @NockBraith gets a treble halfway through the card! ðŸ'Œ — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) June 14, 2025 • O'Cass: Pajanti has been crying out for a race like this – at home, fully fit now, and ready to win. I think she can beat Weeping Woman. Keeping the faith with Testator Silens RT, we're all entitled to one bad one. Thomas: I don't know why the Stayer's Cup and McKell Cup are on the same day, Shayno. Can you explain it? Anyway, I've gone for Hopeful in the Stayer's Cup as he seems to be working his way back into form. O'Cass: Madness. Also, to be a true Stayers Cup, it has to be 3200m! Why are there so few of them around. They can be so exciting; mid-race moves, tearaway leaders, all the things that we almost never see in so many of these 'conventionally run' races. Thomas: Bjorn Baker has a chance to train 100 city wins this season and he can keep his stable's momentum going with Puntin (race 3). Puntin wins on debut! 🤩 @RachelK11 @BBakerRacing — SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) December 15, 2024 O'Cass: That is a remarkable achievement isn't it RT; 100 in the city. I was with Pretty Powerful first-up – in light of what happened, I'll stick rock solid. Thomas: On the subject of 'centuries', the Australian cricket team's top six batsmen are really struggling. I'm worried about the Ashes this summer. Back on subject – what's your best for Saturday.
