New Plymouth hosts a seven-race card this Saturday, with the track rated a Heavy10 and the rail out 4 metres.
A typical mid-winter surface is expected, with runners likely steering off the fence as the day progresses.
Track: Heavy10
Rail: Out 4m
Selections for each of the seven races below:
This is superb placement by Robbie Patterson, with Freebelle (#2) very well treated at the weights following her impressive last-start R65 win.
Craig Grylls jumps back aboard at her home track, and the step up to 1800m poses no concerns.
Very hard to beat.
1 Unit Win Freebelle (#2)
Although Roydon Bergerson has been cautious with running her on heavy ground, Turn It Up (#4) has trialled well enough on Heavy tracks to suggest she’ll handle the conditions.
Her last-start second on the synthetic was solid and she maps for a perfect run just behind the speed from the low draw.
The one to beat for mine.
1 Unit Win Turn It Up (#4)
His two wins this prep have been extremely impressive, and now Ma Te Wa (#5) gets Craig Grylls back in the saddle.
Dropping back to 1200m shouldn’t pose an issue on his home track, especially with a strong tempo likely.
Progressive type who looks hard to stop.
1 Unit Win Ma Te Wa (#5)
While still a maiden, Boy (#4) has the right profile to measure up second-up. His fresh run was full of merit and the step up in trip looks ideal.
Blinkers go on for the first time, which is a big tick from this stable, and he carries just 53kg after the claim.
With the Patterson pair holding favouritism, Boy appeals as a great 1×3 each way play.
1 Unit Win Boy (#4)
Five Bells (#6) ran a mighty race for fourth last start after missing the kick and chasing throughout.
Now third-up and rising to 1600m, she looks well placed back in R65 grade.
Not the worst in a very open field.
1 Unit Win Five Bells (#6)
Beaten by Belardo Boy last start, but Belles Beau (#7) had excuses with the small field and slow tempo going against him.
He’s better suited to a genuine tempo here, carries just 53kg, and the wide draw may be an advantage later in the day.
Capable of bouncing back strongly.
1 Unit Win Belles Beau (#7)
Catherninez (#3) was never comfortable on the Trentham Heavy10 first-up but will strip fitter for that outing.
The wide draw will help her find better ground off the fence and Craig Grylls hopping on is a key positive.
Expecting sharp improvement in a wide-open race to close the card.
1 Unit Win Catherinenz (#3)