Best Bet

Race 3 - #2 BELLATRIX STAR (Win)

Ultra-impressive trial winner at Te Rapa on 1^st August, where she ran the fastest time of the four 2yo 650m trials on the day (which included race rival Take The Crown). The manner in which Bellatrix Star let down in her trial on the Heavy9 surface is a great guide for her debut here over 800m, where the track conditions should be very similar. She looks to be a 2yo with plenty of ability, Michael McNab opting to ride is another positive lead. I priced her as a $1.40 favourite in this small field, the $1.70 currently available is over the odds for mine.

Next Best Bet

Race 8 - #6 STRIDES (Each Way)

Very happy to have an each way play on Strides at the $5.50/$2.00 quote. There are plenty of positives for Strides heading into this race; Michael McNab hops on from a low gate, stepping up to the mile fourth-up with the blinkers going back on. The improved track conditions and senior rider going on look to also be big ticks for Strides here. In a race that looks devoid of any tempo, McNab should be able to position Strides handier than usual should the pair jump cleanly. It is a tidy R75 contest, however, I thought he should be much closer to Valley King in the market.