Race 1 Kent Myers Progressive Livestock Steeplechase   4100m

A mixed field of experienced and maiden chaser set to line up here on Saturday and still no declared rider yet for GAME PERCY.  With the likelihood of a Good Track and some of the form could be tipped on its head so tread carefully.

Those with some form (admittedly on the flat) on better tracks include GAME PERCY, THE BIG OPAL, DELACROIX, ZARTAN and NO CHANGE. The first 3 have all won good Steeplechases with GAME PERCY, on recent runs probably the more likely of the 3 on a dry track if he starts; the other 2 are maiden chaser’s so that they face a huge challenge but the firmer ground could be the leveler required.

The chances don’t end there with both MANDALAY and COUNTRY BUMPKIN commanding a lot of respect.

SO what’s the oil?  For me COUNTRY BUMPKIN is on the up as a chaser and presents as a great each way chance and with a possible 6kgs pull on GAME PERCY. I see THE BIG OPAL leading for a long way but the Raetihi wonder maps to be right in the finish. He’s no certainty though and I have a lot of respect for the Paul NELSON & Corrina McDOUGAL runner NO CHANGE. Although this is his chasing debut has by far the best form on firmer footing and will be well schooled for his chasing debut.

Suggested Bet:  COUNTRY BUMPKIN  e/w

Multi: Play around but include the 1-5-9

Race 2 Rough Habits/Hub Catering Hurdles    2900m

Similar scenario in the hurdlers in terms of the track but a lot more ‘firm trackers’ here than the previous with arguably AVE MARIA the only one without any.

On form SENASSY and ALI BABA appear to be the strongest 2 on top of the ground although BAK DA MASTER was huge last weekend on the flat and AVE MARIA despite not form on the firm track will go around with a mere 62kgs on her back so neither can’t be underestimated.

HAMILTONIAN is 1 for 1 in the hurdling game and although his win was 12 months ago it was on a Dead track and we know he will stay all day.

Suggested Bet: Staying SENASSY