Te Rapa hosts a nine-race card this Saturday, with the track rated a Heavy10 and the rail out 5 metres. Further rain is forecast in the lead-up, so the surface is expected to remain a genuine winter Heavy10 throughout. Wet-track form and recent race fitness will be vital as conditions deteriorate during the day.
Fierce Flight (#7) makes his jumps debut at his third run for the prep. His latest flat effort showed significant improvement and on raw flat ability, he would have this field covered. Taking him on trust over the hurdles but he’s sure to be well educated.
1 unit – Fierce Flight (#7)
Duke Of Plumpton (#3) resumes over the hurdles following two moderate runs on the flat. He has a solid jumping record from his three prior hurdle outings and finds an even, yet winnable race here. Looks well placed to make his first jumps run for Caley Myers a winning one.
1 unit – Duke Of Plumpton (#3)
Honey Badger (#4) scored stylishly last start at Tauranga on a very testing track. Expect Michael McNab to adopt similar tactics again, either leading or ensuring there’s a strong tempo by dictating from outside leader. This doesn’t look any tougher and a repeat sees her likely winning again.
3 units – Honey Badger (#4)
Leitrim Lad (#1) was brave last start after doing plenty of work in a prolonged speed battle a long way from home. A more economical ride this time should help him see out the extra trip. Well placed to make it two on the bounce.
1 unit – Leitrim Lad (#1)
Lotus (#9) did everything right here last start on a genuine Heavy10 and proved she could handle a testing track here at Te Rapa. She was strong through the line and the slight rise in distance poses no issue. Expecting another bold effort despite the class jump.
1 unit – Lotus (#9)
Indian Gold (#2) closed off strongly here first-up when rattling home from well back in the field. He’ll likely settle off the speed again from a wide gate, but that may not be a disadvantage later in the day. The extra 100m suits, can win with a similar effort here.
2 units – Indian Gold (#2)
Drop Of Something (#4) produced a much-improved performance last time when a close-up third over this track. Blinkers replace the visor blinkers for this, and Yuga Okubo’s 4kg claim is a major asset again. He looks as though he should get every chance to run well again, a great each way play.
1 unit each way – Drop Of Something (#4)
Little Bit Of Love (#6) brings in some decent form for this, with his recent efforts better than they read on paper. He profiles well for a strong 1200m on a tiring Heavy10. Expect him to drop back and storm late when others are wilting.
1 unit – Little Bit Of Love (#6)
What A Charma (#4) thrives in bottomless ground and has struck similar conditions in his past two starts. He will relish the true staying test expected in the last of the day. Ashlee Strawbridge retains the ride and claims 4kg again. Should be right in the finish with a repeat effort.
1 unit – What A Charma (#4)