Tauranga hosts an eight-race card this Saturday, with the track currently rated a Heavy10. A mostly clear forecast could see conditions improve slightly by raceday, potentially into the Heavy8 or Heavy9 range. The rail is out 5 metres.
- Track: Heavy10 (possible upgrade to Heavy8–9)
- Rail: Out 5m
Selections for each of the eight races out of Tauranga below:
Big run for second at Te Rapa last start after settling a long way off them. Should be able to park a bit closer from the low draw under Sam Collett. Handles heavy ground well and looks the one they’ll all have to hold out late.
2 Units Bradley (1)
Disappointed as a short-priced favourite last time but gets a good chance to bounce back here. Maps to stalk a genuine tempo and the step back to 1200m looks ideal. Well placed to atone.
2 Units Honey Badger (3)
Both New Zealand runs have been full of merit, closing strongly each time. Heavy track suits and staying at 1200m looks spot on. Wide draw no issue, he’ll get back and be storming down the outer late. Hard to beat.
2 Units Mr Marigold (1)
Made all to win well at Te Rapa last start and maps to push forward again from the wide gate under 4kg claimer Gareth Lahoud. If he finds the front uncontested, he’ll be very hard to reel in again here.
1 Unit Cleat (1)
Dominant winner at Te Aroha last start, putting a space on them in similar conditions. Drawn wide but likely rolls forward again under Triston Moodley. If she repeats that figure here, she’ll be very tough to run down.
3 Units Quick Fire (1)
Can be hit or miss, but has the ability to figure if she turns up. Drops to 52.5kg after Rihaan Goyaram’s claim and should get a soft trip in behind. If she decides to put her best foot forward, she can definitely win this at a price.
1 Unit Matane (9)
Didn’t get all favours last time at Te Rapa but hit the line well. Suited under WFA conditions here and maps to land just behind the speed from the inside draw. Proven on wet tracks and looks the one to beat.
1 Unit Lux Libertas (1)
Third-up and ready to show more after two quiet runs this prep. Gets McNab aboard from a middle gate, giving him options depending on how the track is playing late. Won in similar conditions here last year, can win again.
1 Unit Papa Surf (6)