Queensland’s most famous race, the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap, headlines a big day of racing around Australia on Saturday, and our team of experts have got you covered.
Alex is joined by his ‘editorial overlord’ Dan Sankey to run through all 9 races from Eagle Farm this Saturday. With some short-priced favorites set to run on the day, watch to see how Alex and Dan navigate what is a brilliant card of racing to top off what has been a fantastic Queensland Racing Carnival.
It’s an even race with plenty of winning chances.
As I wrote in my weekly column with Ben Dorries, I’m strongly against the favourite, Vilana, in the Straddy.
I’ve got real doubts he can repeat such a strong performance seven days apart, and I’m leaning towards The Goodwood winner, Benedetta, on top.
Britt Taylor with Benedetta.
The 1400m shouldn’t be an issue for her, and she’s drawn the right gate to ensure she can get the trip.
She possesses a strong turn of foot, which will only be enhanced carrying 54kg.
Magic Time and Bella Nipotina will run well, while the best roughie in the race is Nugget.
With the Ciaron Maher polish, he’ll be primed to run a big race, and it’s very rare that Jason Collett gets down to ride at 53kg.
Broadsiding should win the JJ Atkins, but he’s short odds around $1.70.
At Sandown, Flying Fizz ($9) looks a nice each-way bet in Race 4 and the same applies for Cindy Falls ($13) in Race 5. Hard To Cross (Race 6) is my best bet of the day in Melbourne.
At Rosehill, Lyrical Gangster should run well in Race 4 at a decent price, and so should Amati in Race 6.
AUSTRALIA-WIDE
Tips from the Big Bookies: Stradbroke Day edition.
The Big Bets: Stradbroke roughie backed to win $300k.
Saturday market movers: $17 to $5.50 firmer at Sandown.
Laurie Sainsbury has found one at $19 that “wins on best form”.
EAGLE FARM
Expert panel’s tips for the two Group 1s at Eagle Farm.
Stradbroke Handicap Day race-by-race preview and tips.
Stradbroke Handicap runner-by-runner analysis.
ROSEHILL GARDENS
Ray and Duff’s Rosehill analysis, plus Brisbane Group 1s.
James Molony’s tips, analysis for Rosehill on Saturday.
SANDOWN
Aaron Mills’ preview and tips for Sandown Hillside Saturday.
Brad Waters’ Sandown Early Oil: Back Batrana to bounce back.
Cameron Happ’s Sandown tips for Saturday: $14 value bet.
MURRAY BRIDGE / BELMONT
Heath Pope Murray Bridge, Aaron Mills Belmont tips: $13 value play.