The Flemington Carnival has come and gone but there’s plenty of opportunity to line the pockets at Sandown, with a stacked 10-race program on offer for punters.
Let’s take an early look at some of the better betting opportunities on the day…
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Race 1 – Merson Cooper Stakes – 1000m
Some exciting two-year-olds going around here, notably trial star Brazen Boy ($2.50) and Forbes ($2.80), a $750,000 son of Capitalist.
Brazen Boy was obviously outstanding in his 14-length trial romp, but was unpressured throughout which is a lot different to raceday conditions
Happy to take him on at the short quote and side with Forbes, who has some serious heavy hitters as connections and is very well bred, and we’re getting a better price about him.
Verdict: Backing Forbes at $2.80 if you’re keen to play in a 2YO race.
Race 5 – Sandown Stakes – 1500m
Another short priced favourite to take on here, with Kenya ($2.50) very skinny especially coming off a low-rating win at Mornington where he beat nothing of note.
He’s taking on some Group 1 quality horses here, led by Buffalo River ($3.10) who has been speeding out to lead at ridiculous tempos, and nearly snagged the Group 1 Toorak Handicap doing so. This is a big drop in grade and the 1500m should suit.
An easy save in the race is Iconoclasm ($11) at the double figures, who has a flawless 3 from 3 record at the distance, will enjoy the firm track, and is in-form this preparation.
Verdict: Backing Buffalo River at $3.10 and saving on Iconoclasm $11.
Race 6 – Sandown Guineas – 1600m
The favourite Aysar ($1.75) looks tough to beat after taking on the best three-year-olds in the Caulfield Guineas and just going down to Crosshaven last start in the Carbine Club Stakes.
It’s an unattractive price, with Allibor ($11) at double figures looking far more attractive as an each way play after he motored home at Flemington last start behind Shelby Cobra, and hits this on the short backup.
Verdict: Backing Allibor each way at $11.
Race 7 – Zipping Classic – 2400m
He’s a polarising figure but this may be his best chance to win all preparation. Avilius ($3.90) has taken on the best of the best all campaign and finds himself a level down here in this field.
He ran home really well in the Chelmsford and the Caulfield Cup where he was held up for space, but was obviously well beaten last start in the Melbourne Cup. If you forgive that run, he’s clearly the best horse in the race, and has beaten home some very handy types this prep.
Verdict: Backing Avilius at $3.90.