Listed Bel Esprit Stakes – 2022

Track: Soft  Weather: Fine

A race over 1100 metres where the focus is on Extreme Warrior returning off some very impressive performances to date. Jamie Kah is booked and it will take plenty of beating on resumption. There are plenty of dangers including the classy General Beau, consistent Curran and even Romancer at any old price knows how to surprise them fresh. It will be a cracking race and a hot tempo ensured.

1. Romancer (4)

Can win this at odds, especially given it did suprise fresh. Not out of this by any means.

2. General Beau (10)

Classy runner and certainly has to be respected on its formlines. Does enjoy Caulfield and Damien Lane has a great bond with the horse. Top chance.

3. Not An Option (5)

Good win first up but this is a lot harder. Does drawn nicely so keep an eye on the market

4. Sword Of Mercy (7)

Went well last start so has to be respected, good chance to be in the finish but has to step up to win this. Ran 3rd in this race last year.

5. William Thomas (3)

Gets the run of the race and enjoys the track but has not won for quite some time. He won this race in 2020. I would like to see a market push before considering.

6. Pandemic (1)

Best when fresh although its running pattern from barrier 1 may require a few things to go right. Nevertheless, has a good chance and especially while fresh.

7. Bless Her (6)

Has been a little hit and miss but flies at Caulfield and really appreciates this track and distance. Must be kept safe returning to the track and looks the value bet of the race.

8. La Mexicana (11)

Honest and knows how to win. Kah off who does ride quite often and onto Extreme Warrior which is a fair statement on its chances. Classy and $12 is slightly over the odds, it will be rattling home late.

9. Extreme Warrior (9)

Star of a horse with Jamie Kah is booked for its return. This is a winnable race and flies fresh. Deserves to be favourite and if the market agrees, likely to be too good for this lot. Should be heading to the front and will be the one to run down.

10. Inn Keeper (2)

Can’t have.

11. It’sourtime (12)

Knows how to win although hasn’t yet at Caulfield which is the slight query. 1100 suits and looks the main danger to the favourite.

12. Curran (8)

Always around the mark and does race well at the track. Should be in the finish despite the tricky draw & looks a touch over the odds.

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

Bryce’s Tips	Jo’s Tips	Lewis’ Tips
9 Extreme Warrior	11 It’sourtime	9 Extreme Warrior
7 Bless Her	9 Extreme Warrior	11 It’sourtime
4 Sword Of Mercy	2 General Beau	12 Curran
2 General Beau	3 Not An Option	5 William Thomas