Fine race day Flemington, may produce a nice trifecta or two late afternoon, Race 6 Emirates Stakes, and Race 9 Emirates Airline Handicap in particular.
The focus of the day is the Group1 Emirates Stakes at 3pm, featuring star spring runner Desert War who has really put in the strides this campaign. 2 wins, 3 places from 6 runs including last week’s convincing win in the Mackinnon Stakes, beating Growl and Aqua D’Amore in a driving finish to the line. Gets up and going well in front and never tires, he is the one to beat, currently favourite on NSW Fixed odds $4.40W $1.85P.
There are a few potential challengers here, but the one settled on as best chance to crack the favourite, or come close to, is Spirit Of Tara. Most recent rides have not suited, today’s conditions, weight, barrier however do suit, and loves 1600 metres to boot!
Read more on today’s G Network Racing selection:
Spirit Of Tara best suited challenger to Desert War in the Emirate Stakes
Top chances:
Desert War – Gets up and going well in front and never tires, the one to beat.
Spirit Of Tara – classy, suited in this, always seems to find the line well to 1600m.
Sassbee – lightly raced, only quality races, nice weight, loves 1600m.
Bentley Biscuit – lightly raced, only quality races, brilliant time in Doncaster Hcp 1600m.
Sea Change – always there, good times 1600m, wide barrier, runner up last week’s Myer Classic 1600m.
Spirit Of Tara not disgraced, ran on well with leaders up to 1400m, outgunned in finish. Desert War had his first disappointing run this season. Wider barriered runners have been coming home at Flemington, giving big results.
Divine Madonna won, nice wide wind up.
Niconero 2nd, always a chance when he keeps in touch, barrier 1 today helped.
Valedictum 3rd.
Trifecta: $4,328.80
First Four: $51,476.30