Christmas Handicap – 2023

Track: Good   Weather: Fine

A field of 14 runners have accepted for the 2023 Adelaide Galvanising Industries Christmas Handicap with 9 geldings, 4 mares and a filly. There is one 3YO, three 4YOs, four 5YOs, two 6YOs, two 7YOs one 9YO and one 10YO. Four runners had their last start in an Open Handicap over 1200m at Morphettville on 25th November won by Validated, while the rest all came through different races. One is resuming from a long spell. Two runners are sired by Valentia and two by Impending.

The early betting market is quite open. The early favourite is Wakanjeja who has won all 3 starts this preparation. Second favourite is Walk Like An Angel who won by 4.3 lengths at this track and distance last start. Third favourite is Validated who won at this track and distance on 25th November, beating several other runners in this race. Starlite Valley has won her last 2 races and goes really well at this track. All other runners are currently $11 or longer.

1. Beau Rossa (12)

First-up from a long spell and has a massive 60kg to carry. Didn’t make the trifecta in 4 runs last campaign. Prefer others.

2. Lord Vladivostok (14)

Drawn the widest barrier and has been disappointing at his last 2 runs. Normally goes well here but prefer over longer.

3. Struck By (4)

Has a good record at this track. In the mix.

4. Morvada (8)

This 10YO is the oldest runner in the race this year. His first 2 starts this campaign have been poor but he should be fitter now. Unlikely.

5. Validated (13)

One of 2 runners sired by Valentia (the other is Starlite Valley). He won an Open Handicap over 1200m at Morphettville on 25th November beating 3 other runners in this field and this is his best distance. One of the chances.

6. Starlite Valley (3)

Has won her last 2 races and goes really well at this track. Don’t dismiss.

7. Magic Max (10)

He’s finished midfield at his 3 starts this preparation. Not the worst.

8. Prairie Flower (5)

Has placed at her last 2 starts and goes well here. In the mix.

9. Grinzinger Prince (7)

Carried 63.5 kg to run 2nd at this track and distance on 18th November. Respect.

10. Mouse Almighty (2)

On a 7 day back-up but looks safely held.

11. Wakanjeja (11)

She has won all 3 starts this preparation. Comes from well back in the field with a huge sprint to win. One of 2 runners sired by Impending (the other is Walk Like An Angel). Top chance.

12. Anjopin (9)

in great form this campaign with 2 wins and a place from 5 starts. On a 7 day back-up and is a rough place chance.

13. Walk Like An Angel (6)

The only 3YO runner this year. She won by 4.3 lengths at this track and distance last start and has been in the trifecta at all 5 of her starts. Should be in the finish.

14. Nicajon (1)

Drawn the rails but has struggled so far this preparation. Prefer others.

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

Jo Jackson’s Tips
11 Wakanjeja
13 Walk Like An Angel
5 Validated
9 Grinzinger Prince

Result	Horse	Margin
1st	3. Struck By
2nd	4. Morvada	1.9  lengths
3rd	6. Starlite Valley	2.2  lengths
4th	11. Wakanjeja	3.5  lengths

The track was rated as Heavy 8.

Scratchings: 5. Validated, 8. Prairie Flower, 10. Mouse Almighty.