Makybe Diva Stakes – 2022

Track: Soft Weather: Fine

I’m Thunderstruck looks an outstanding chance here with its last 2 runs over the mile including 2nd placings to Zaaki and Mr Brightside. If Zahra gets the gap from barrier 1 it looks the winner. Alligator Blood will be an improver with Tim Clark on and some more positive tactics while Western Empire should drastically improve off the run first up and should be suited by taking more of a sit this time around. Expecting Thunder to strike in this race.

1. I’m Thunderstruck (1)

Think it wins. Barrier 1 is a little concerning, Zahra will need to bullock into the clear at the right time so that is the query however at Flemington, there is a mountain of space, he should have enough time. I’m Thunderstruck’s past 2 runs over the mile include a 2nd to Zaaki and a 2nd to Mr Brightside. I think he will be winning this. Best bet of the week and I am expecting a drift because of the map. If the steer is right, he should be too good.

2. Cascadian (7)

Hard to catch but racing in outstanding form and probably career best form. Cascadian has always gone around at long odds so I think it is short enough here but on form hard to beat.

3. Regal Power (3)

Excellent return and is over the odds in this field. Wouldn’t have to improve much to take this out and didn’t have much luck last run.

4. Alligator Blood (2)

Was dubbed as luckless last start but I thought regardless it was still a little bit plain. Like Oliver off and Tim Clark. The tactics will be positive and Alligator Blood is in the mix from the nice draw.

5. Mo’unga (8)

Came 2nd in this race last year. Wasn’t overly interested first up but Berry said not much went right. Does have the scalp of Anamoe and Mo’unga on its best form can take this out. Risky off last run but wouldn’t shock.

6. Nonconformist (6)

Has a serious turn of foot and if they over do it up front, it can absolutely win this. Worth a speck at the big odds.

7. Western Empire (5)

Seeing plenty keen about the chances of Western Empire. Can argue it sat a bit too close to the speed and also needed the run after the break. Danger to I’m Thunderstruck and should improve sitting more off them, can win but I’m Thunderstruck breezed past it last run like it was standing still. I’m clearly with the favourite.

8. She’s Ideel (4)

Not hopeless given how good the stable are with their stayers. Has to lift on form but wouldn’t completely shock.

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

Bryce’s Tips	Jo’s Tips	Lewis’ Tips
1 I’m Thunderstruck	4 Alligator Blood	1 I’m Thunderstruck
7 Western Empire	1 I’m Thunderstruck	4 Alligator Blood
6 Nonconformist	2 Cascadian	2 Cascadian
5 Mo’unga	7 Western Empire	8 She’s Ideel

Result	Horse	Margin
1st	1 I’m Thunderstruck
2nd	4 Alligator Blood	0.1 length
3rd	5 Mo’unga	3.1 lengths
4th	2 Cascadian	4.85 lengths

The track was rated as Soft 7.

Scratchings: –