2026 Champions Mile Field, Barrier Draw & Form

It’s been a while since Tom Kitten last visited the winner’s circle, but he finished off strongly last start and looks a value chance at double-figure odds. He has plenty of natural ability and has shown he can compete at the highest level. We wouldn’t be dismissing him just because there’s a standout favourite in the field.

Expect him to push forward early and attempt to control the race from the front. Leading all the way at Flemington is never an easy task, although the tempo will play a big part in his chances. Damian Lane takes the ride in Melbourne, and if he can find a comfortable lead, Lindermann has the turn of foot to give them something to chase.

He bounced back with a second-place finish in the Crystal Mile behind Surfin’ Bird. However, that form took a hit last Saturday when Surfin’ Bird failed to produce her best, making it difficult to assess how strong the form really is heading into the Champions Mile. At $12.00, we’d prefer to see a little more value before getting involved.

Sepals has a respectable record of five wins from 15 starts, although his recent performances have been difficult to follow. He showed an impressive turn of foot when finishing second two starts ago, before disappointing in Sydney last time out. There’s no questioning his ability, but his inconsistency makes him a tricky runner to trust.

He has produced two encouraging runs this preparation, but this assignment is a significant step up in class. The concern is whether he has the speed to match these rivals over the distance, and we think there are better options in the Champions Mile market.

Ciaron Maher has enjoyed an outstanding season and is more than capable of getting the best out of his runners, but Another Wil needs to improve several lengths to be a genuine winning chance here. Jamie Melham has a favourable draw in barrier 4, and he could certainly sneak into the placings. The place market may be worth a look, but we’re struggling to see him beating the favourite.

It’s hard to make a strong case for El Soleado, who comes into this race after struggling against easier opposition. Connections are certainly entitled to have a crack at the Group 1 level, but he faces a very tough assignment. We’d be surprised if he managed to finish ahead of many of his rivals.

She is arguably the best horse in the country right now, with a near-perfect record that speaks for itself. Her only defeat came when stepping up to 2000m, and she looks far more comfortable back at this distance. Her ability to sustain a powerful speed should prove too much for this field, and we expect her to put them away convincingly. The price is short, making her better suited to multi bets, but we’re expecting another dominant performance.

She failed to make an impression last start, and it’s difficult to find much confidence in her chances heading into this race. She needs to produce a significant turnaround and improve considerably just to get into the placings.