Saturday racing at Randwick sees some of the biggest of the autumn carnival big guns firing their first shots, and hours after the fields were declared the markets were offering up an opinion, with plenty of love for Via Sistina in the Apollo Stakes.
The Ceolwulf vs Via Sistina is being touted as an autumn rivalry for Australia’s best horse after Ceolwulf’s spring campaign was ended after his win in the King Charles III Stakes, passing on a Cox Plate tilt where Via Sistina famously produced her historical eight length demolition.
The barrier trial leading into this weekend’s race, where both took part, only served to enhance the anticipation and importantly it also included Fangirl, another Apollo runner, who is hardly one to be dismissed lightly.
The early markets have seen Via Sistina pounced upon, opening $2.40 and firming to $2.10.
Ceolwulf opened $3.20 and sits at $3.60 after reaching $3.80.
Fangirl opened $4.00 and eased slightly to $4.20.
In other races Golden Slipper equal second favourite Pallaton is the flavour of the day in the Pierro Plate, opening $3.20 and quickly into a red-hot $2.30.
The Michael Freedman trained Wootton Bassett colt created a big impression winning easily over 1000m at Randwick on debut in December.
Another interesting runner in the Pierro Plate is first starter Skyhook.
The Ryan/Alexiou trained Written Tycoon colt created a big impression winning his only trial in fast time at Rosehill on Feb 3 and after opening $8.50 sits at $8.00.
The other feature race is the Light Fingers Stakes which sees the anticipated return of Flight Stakes winner Lady Shenandoah, taking on Lady Of Camelot and Manaal.
Lady Of Camelot opened $4.40 and has met with plenty of confidence, in to $3.20.
Lady Shenandoah opened $2.80, currently $3.10, while Manaal opened $6.00 and sits at $5.00.
Saturday is not the target day for any of these horses but it’s the first chance to shine a light on how they are really shaping for those targets.
Also have a listen to our Tara Talks Racing Podcast - Tara is having none of the Via, Ceolwulf rivarly, she's Team FannyG!
