The Buffering – 2022

Track: Good Weather: Good

Very solid field engaged with a few of these coming out of the Razor Sharp Handicap on 10 December and the Lough Neagh Stakes on 17 December. Brigantine is the market favourite and should take some beating with the kind draw and James Mcdonald aboard. Ucalledit continues to win and must be respected in this field, albiet will need some luck from the wide barrier. Emerald Kingdom brings in some strong ratings and demands some respect. Taksu had no luck behind Brigantine when caught wide first up and the best version of Rubamos would give this a shake.

1. Taksu (4)

Luckless last run when caught wide. Should be able to get a nice run in transit here and comes out of a strong form race. Schofield is 2/3 aboard and this race is within reach.

2. Kiku (3)  – SCRATCHED

3. Emerald Kingdom (1)

Brings in strong ratings to this race and maps for the run of the race. If left alone up front Emerald Kingdom has every chance of pinching this race. Loy steers for the first time and $9.00 is over the odds.

4. Ucalledit (9)

Keeps winning and winning form is good form. Mallyon will need some luck from the wide draw and this is a rise up in grade. Short enough at the $4.00 mark but is a major player in this field.

5. Zethus (6)

Races well for Kah and should get a nice run in transit against this lot. Like that Jamie hops back aboard and comes out of a decent race last start behind the smart King Of Sparta. Keep safe in this.

6. Sea Raider (10)

Prefer in something easier.

7. Haunted (5)

This looks too tricky.

8. Brigantine (2)

On top with the nice draw, best jockey and arguably best horse in this race. Mac is 1/1 aboard and he rides here. Suited by the dry ground, it is the horse to beat but has to be short enough in this wide open affair.

9. King Of Hastings (8)

Due for another win and does find a suitable race but is a bit hard to trust on form. Byrne booked but he won’t be riding and no replacement jockey as of yet. Top 4 chance but needs to find its best to threaten these.

10. Rubamos (11)

Going along well this prep but has a running pattern that requires luck and a few things to fall into place. The fact that James Orman is back aboard and he is 2/2 is a massive tick for Rubamos, good enough to take this race out.

11. Zoukina (7)

Won well last start but finds a race with a stack more depth. Has to be respected agains this lot but would also need to be at its very best to be taking this out. Top 4 chance with the in form KWT retaining the ride.

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

Bryce’s Tips	Jo’s Tips
8 Brigantine	8 Brigantine
1 Taksu	4 Ucalledit
3 Emerald Kingdom	5 Zethus
4 Ucalledit	1 Taksu