A country stable has a former Sydneysider high-flying whilst two other eye-catching performances have earned their way straight into my blackbook.
ALLUVION
I had something on Alluvion at the big odds on Saturday but was aware I may have been going off one run too soon and that's the way it turned out. Ridden negatively off the outside gate, Scott Singleton's filly was last on the fence until straightening – on a day where a good surface and slick times meant on pace was a distinct advantage. Jason Collett rode for luck and managed to find a narrow path through the field, hitting the line gamely in sixth place – beaten 2-1/2 lengths behind Suspenders. Came home her last 600m in 34.40 secs which was the second quickest of the race behind third-placed Faith's Encore (34.30 secs). That run was second-up (no trial) and she lumped 61kg. I am going to back-up next start, hopefully from a softer draw.
Career record (11:3-0-0).
Race to look for – Benchmark 77 Mares (1200m-1300m)
MOST EXALTED
Mudgee-based Mack Griffith has fired out of the blocks winning two from two since taking over the training of Most Exalted this campaign. Got the result in the stewards' room but it didn't take the stipes long to uphold the protest. Most Exalted was stopped in his tracks 200m from home before recovering to sizzle into second place. Despite the check managed to clock the fastest final 600m/200m splits at 33.65/11.04. The interference was caused by first past-the-post Wild 'N' Famous – hence the swift decision. This galloper has always promised plenty and the country environment, combined with a shorter course approach seems to have ignited that potential. With his turn of foot he'll be winning more races and should be well placed down in the weights in open handicap company.
Career record (20:4-4-4).
Race to look for – Open Handicap (1350m-1500m)
EMBLEY
Bjorn Baker's five-year-old is ready to win after two eye-catching runs back from a spell. Drifted back to last on Saturday before closing off strongly late – finishing seventh beaten 2-1/2 lengths. Was one of only three runners in the race to break 34 seconds for the final 600m. Has won over distances ranging from 1200m to 2000m, including a 2000m Rosehill win last campaign. Consistent, reliable, prefers good ground but handles everything and will be close to peaking third-up. Stick with him.
Career record (29:6-6-4).
Race to look for – Open Handicap (1500-2000m).
COMMENTS - Did you spot one to follow? Share it with the Racenet audience through the comments section below.
