There is a field of 10 runners for the 2024 Ladbrokes Hobart Cup with 9 geldings and one mare. There are two 4YOs, one 5YO, five 6YOs and two 7YOs. Six runners had their last start in an Open Weight For Age over 2200m at Hobart on 21st January (won by Alhambra Lad), while the others came via different races.

The short-priced favourite is Alhambra Lad who won by 3.5 lengths at Hobart last start, beating many of his rivals in this race. Second favourite is Grand Pierro who finished 3rd in the Listed Bagot Handicap over 2800m at Fleminton last outing. Third favourite is Ashy Boy who was 2nd behind Alhambra Lad. Aurora’s Symphony won over 2000m at Flemington on 13th January and has 3 wins over 2400m, while Swoop Dog was 3rd behind Alhambra Lad and Ashy Boy. All other runners are currently $12 or longer.

1. Aurora’s Symphony (2)

Won over 2000m at Flemington on 13th January and has 3 wins over 2400m. Nicely drawn and is one of the chances.

2. Alhambra Lad (9)

Won by 3.5 lengths  in an Open Weight For Age over 2200m at Hobart on 21st January at Hobart last start, beating many of his rivals in this race. Has several wins at 2400m and looks a top chance.

3. Swoop Dog (8)

Ran 3rd behind Alhambra Lad and Ashy Boy last start. Should go well again.

4. Ashy Boy (6)

Was 2nd behind Alhambra Lad after beginning awkwardly, losing ground and being held up at the 600m. In the mix.

5. Grand Pierro (7)

Finished 3rd in the Listed Bagot Handicap over 2800m at Fleminton on New Year’s Day and has had a 5 week let-up. Won’t be far away.

6. Wyclif (1)

Perfectly drawn and would be no surprise to see him run well.

7. Assaranca (5)

The only mare in the race. Finished 4.2 lengths 4th behind Alhambra Lad. Prefer others.

8. Rising Light (10)

Hasn’t finished better than 5th in 7 runs this preparation. Looking to others.

9. Travelling Gigolo (4)

Ran home from the back half of the field for 5th behind Alhambra Lad. Place chance.

10. Metaverse (3)

Ran 0.6 length 4th over 2100m at Launceston on 4th February. Not the worst.

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

Jo Jackson’s Tips
2 Alhambra Lad
1 Aurora’s Symphony
4 Ashy Boy
9 Travelling Gigolo

Result	Horse	Margin
1st	1 Aurora’s Symphony
2nd	6 Wyclif	2.75 length
3rd	5 Grand Pierro	2.85 length
4th	4 Ashy Boy	4.35 length

The track was rated as Good 4.

There were no scratchings.