Ajax Stakes – 2023

Track: Good Weather: Fine

Waterford was just fair fresh but should be strips fitter and is a leading contender here. Bandersnatch will enjoy this easier race than last start and is well weighted against this lot. Diamil is hit and miss but can give this race a shake. Riodini is best when leading and the booking of Tim Clark is ideal. Sibaaq is very consistent but due for another win. There should be good tempo in this race.

1. Bandersnatch (2)

Nicely weighted against this company and drawn to do no work from barrier 2. Maloney should be able to give it every chance from the draw and it brings in arguably the strongest form of this lot. The $6.00 is good shopping.

2. Diamil (12)

Mixes form but won nicely last start before heading to the paddock and J-Mac on is a positive lead. Keep an eye on the market.

3. Riodini (11)

Riodini is best when leading and finds the right race here. Mixes form but dynamic when taking control and the booking of Tim Clark is perfect for that. Hard to beat against these.

4. Sibaaq (7)

Going well but overdue for a win. A handy runner for those looking for place odds but hard to back for the win. Decent place chance.

5. Bois D’argent (9)

Respect any market moves. Capable of winning.

6. Welwal (10)

Has done nothing so far in AUS and needs to lift. Very talented galloper but hard to have on current form.

7. Ascension (5)

Strong win last start beating Bazooka. This is much, much harder but all they can do is win and the Maher & Eustace stable are very good at placing their horses. Keep safe.

8. Cepheus (6)

Building up to a win and gets the right race. Kind barrier, Nash steers and ready to peak third up. Great chance.

9. Superium (8)

Can’t have.

10. Laure Me In (1)

Prefer in something easier.

11. Ceasars Palace (3)

Good win last start but this looks too tough.

12. Waterford (4)

Just fair fresh but can lift in this and gets the right race. Light weight, Prebble from a kind draw, deserves to be at the pointy end of the market and willt take some holding out.

The following are the top 4 selections for this years race.