Riccarton hosts a 10-race program this Saturday, with the track rated a Heavy10 and the rail in the true position. A genuine winter surface is expected, with conditions likely deteriorating as the day progresses.
Track: Heavy10
Rail: True
Tips for each of the 10 races below:
Hidalgo (#7) makes his jumps debut here for Niall Quinn and looks well placed to strike first-up over the hurdles. He won a hurdle trial prior to his most recent flat runs and now carries just 66kg after Ellie Callwood’s claim. A winnable starting point for his jumping career.
Dictation (#4) gets back over the hurdles here after a moderate flat run last start. He’ll likely roll forward and attempt to make all from the front end. With 66kg and a return to his preferred discipline, he’ll be hard to run down if he reproduces his win two back.
Rubirosa (#4) debuts for the Kevin Myers stable and profiles well for this type of race. His trial win was full of merit, and he appeared to handle the testing conditions with ease. From a favourable draw and with Tina Comignaghi aboard, he should get every chance.
Express Coup (#4) had little luck last time at Oamaru, a track that can be tricky to navigate. She draws far better here and gains the services of Tina Comignaghi. Expecting a much improved showing with more favours in transit.
Jesko (#3) ran a bold second on the flat last time out after his Wellington Steeplechase win prior. He gets in with 66kg once again and looks very well placed in this field. If he maintains his recent form, he’ll be hard to beat.
Cypress (#1) ran second to a progressive sort last start and has since trialled brilliantly. The wide draw shouldn’t be a negative by this point in the day and he looks ready to strike. Clearly the one to beat in what doesn’t look the strongest field.
Lady Bankside (#6) stuck on bravely for third last start after doing some work early to find the front. She maps to sit outside the leader here, where I expect she can coast forward and sit handy on a moderate tempo. She’ll be in the finish if that expected map eventuates.
Fablue (#10) ran a solid fourth last start when ridden cold, and she may be forced to adopt similar tactics here from the wide draw. By this stage of the card, being wide on the track could be an advantage in those wider lanes. Capable of surprising at odds.
He’s Tunza Grunt (#14) continues to find the line well in his races and will again get back from the wide draw. A genuinely run race will suit, and if the inside deteriorates as expected, he’ll be hitting the better part of the track late. A knockout chance at long odds.
Proserve (#2) is trending the right way after two improved efforts of late. With the track likely very tired by the last, his staying ability will be an asset. A tough and open race to finish the day, but he appeals as a strong winning hope.