Best Bet

Race 1 - #2 PARAGON (Win)

He brings the best form into this, having only been beaten 2.6L behind Solidify and What You Wish For at Taupo last start. I think the return to a firmer surface will only be in Paragon’s favour, where he should settle handy to the speed in the small field. The strong support for Paragon first-up in a stronger field would suggest he has returned in good order as a 3yo, I am more than happy to play the $2.50, I had him marked $1.80 in this field.

Next Best Bet

Race 4 - #2 MAHRAJAAN (Win)

Ex-European galloper who has been with Shaune Ritchie since early 2023, having only been tried twice in NZ, at distances well short of his best. His best form in Europe came 2^nd up and beyond, once he got out to 2000m and beyond, which he strikes this Saturday at Ruakaka. The firmer track at Ruakaka will be far more suitable than the Heavy9 he struck last start, whilst the 4kg claim of Ngakau Hailey only aids his chances. Whether he can replicate his best European form is the big query, however, $9.00 looks a very nice price for him in this lineup.