Hollindale Stakes – 2022

Track: Soft Weather: Fine

All eyes on Zaaki who is out to defend its crown after winning this race last year. Challengers come from Ayrton who has certainly lived up to the boom around it and the Chris Waller stable with promising up and comer Huetor. Coventina Bay comes across from NZ to strike a challenge and Polly Grey won’t be far away if the rain arrives.

1. Zaaki (4)

All things even and this looks Zaaki’s race. Gets the right run, drawn well, maps well and just simply is the best horse in the race. Can defend the crown and should do so here.

2. Kolding (13)

Doubt he wins but wouldn’t shock running a placing given the drop in grade. Barrier 13 isn’t ideal but does look well placed to run out the minors at a very good price.

3. Ayrton (14)

The main danger to Zaaki and the market reflects this. Needs luck from the draw and probably has to find a few lengths to win but isn’t out of this.

4. Great House (6) – SCRATCHED

Brings in some handy form lines to this and can get a good run in transit. No jockey engaged yet is the query but looks well placed.

5. Kukeracha (12)

Great win last start and will be banking on a hot speed to win this race. Can swoop on them if the tempo is very strong.

6. Yonkers (9)

Knows how to bob up at odds so is always in the mix in these kinds of races. Could’t fit it in my numbers but wouldn’t completely shock.

7. Dashing Willoughby (1)

Can’t have.

8. Maximal (2)

On it’s UK form I would have it a huge chance but has been battling down under and needs to lift.

9. Huetor (7)

The market has this race well sorted out and Huetor does look the logical danger to Zaaki and Ayrton. I couldn’t back it to win but I wouldn’t be ruling it out by any means.

10. Hail Manhattan (11)

Prefer in something a bit easier.

11. Coventina Bay (2)

Always respecting when they come across the ditch. That being said, hard to line up the form. Gets a gun run from barrier 2 and respecting the placement but will need to be a star to beat Zaaki.

12. Polly Grey (10)

Racing well but looks very short unless the rain arrives.

13. Hungry Heart (8)

Back onto better ground should suit. Is due for a win and this looks a tricky assignment based off current form.

14. Zayydani (5)

Been a little disappointing this prep and this looks too tough.

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

Bryce’s Tips	Jo’s Tips
1 Zaaki	1 Zaaki
3 Ayrton	3 Ayrton
5 Kukeracha	9 Huetor
9 Huetor	11 Coventina Bay