BEST BET

Race 7 – #4 Private Eye

A pretty thin affair for a G2 and that’s why I think Private Eye can get away with this one. He stormed home last start at listed level in Sydney to run second behind the talented Ellsberg. He was drawn wide on that occasion, but in this smaller field he may be able to sit a little closer in the run. Last prep he won four on the hop before running into Isotope when at the end of his prep and having excuses. Interestingly, he stepped out at 1400m first-up and now goes to the mile second-up. He gave the impression that the mile looks a perfect assignment second-up. He will be storming home late and may have too much class for this lot.

NEXT BEST

Race 4 – #6 Setanta

A big tick from this 3yo colt is that we know he handles the Eagle Farm surface. After starting his career in Victoria, he was sent north to Tony Gollan who produced him for an impressive first-up win here just over two weeks ago. This is a decent step up in class, but he is a horse who competed at G2 level in Victoria and didn’t disgrace himself. I’m sure he’ll come on from that first-up victory. He’s drawn a middle gate but should have the speed to lob in the first couple, or even lead. Glen Boss takes the ride and expect the slight step up to 1300m will be to his liking.

BEST EACH-WAY

Race 9 – #11 Asharani

This 5yo mare has plenty of talent when right and saves her best for firm tracks. Despite likely rain in Brisbane, the Eagle Farm surface should remain in the ‘good’ range due to its exceptional drainage. She is first-up off two trials, and although neither set the world on fire, she does save her best for raceday. Her form in Sydney around the likes of Through The Cracks, Athiri, Irithea and Trumbull lines up very well for this race. While the top two in betting (Fender and Garibaldi) look promising, I think Asharani is the forgotten horse. There’s plenty of pace in this race and she’ll sit back smoking her pipe waiting for one last crack in the long Eagle Farm straight.