We have the VRC Members Race Day at Flemington on Saturday, where a forecast Heavy 8 track is sure to throw up some surprises and some forgive runs.
More showers and possible hail are forecast leading up to racing, while a westerly wind will be in runners’ faces heading to the post. The rail is +3m the entire circuit, and we are hoping that Flemington’s long straight will see a few backmarkers run on later in the day.
Our first look is Race 6, VRC Member Lily Liu Sprint (1200m), and we will be hoping to see Legio Ten salute in the Godolphin silks. After just going down to Baraqiel by 0.3L last time out at Caulfield, he meets him 2.5kg better this race which might be the deciding factor. Neither horse has seen a heavy track to date although both have good soft form, while Legio Ten has form down the Flemington straight.
Home Rule has exposed form on heavy going (three wins and a minor placing from five starts) and could cause a big upset at his current price of $26.
Race 7 is the Deane Lester Flemington Cup over 2800m, and we are tipping Damien Lane to do the double and steer Speycaster (GB) to a win. No stranger to a heavy track (3:2), he ran home strongly last time out at Rosehill for a commanding win at odds, and the step up to 2800m looks to suit. With most of the speed drawn to the outside he probably settles in the back half of the field, but look for him to be coming down the outside late.
We round out the day with Race 8, VRC Member Peter Drake Plate (2000m). Cadmus (IRE) returns to racing after a 35 day freshen, and we will be looking to him for another run over the top of them down the straight.
He is in great form this prep with two wins and a third from four starts, and Jye McNeil (1:1) keeps the ride from his last start win at Sandown. Pounding will likely look to cross and lead from barrier 7, and it could be a replay of their last finish with Cadmus running him down late.
Enjoy the day and happy punting.
As published on Thoroughbrednews.com.au