Meeting Overview:

Going: Soft5

Rail: True

First use of the outside bend at Awapuni since 13^th June, and first meeting at Awapuni since 26^th August. I’m expecting the track will play evenly early in the day, however, the inclement weather expected throughout Saturday could see the track slip into the Heavy range, where runners may head towards the wider lanes as the day progresses.

Best Bet

Race 2 - #4 PEPEHA (Win)

He profiles very well for this 1400m R65 assignment. Big ticks being that he is stepping up to 1400m 4^th up, senior rider back aboard, as well as the inside barrier. The map also looks ideal for Pepeha, with McKhan and Spencer the likely leaders, he should be able to park right behind them early. He’s shown in his short career to date that he can handle almost any conditions (although arguably more effective on top of the ground), therefore I’m not too concerned about the potential downpour on Saturday. The $4.50 is a great price, I had Pepeha marked $3.00 in what looks a very winnable race for him.

Next Best Bet

Race 7 - #3 PENNYWEKA (Each Way)

The $15.00 on opening was a silly price for a mare of Pennyweka’s class back at this level. She now steps up to the mile 2^nd up, on a likely rain-effected surface, with less weight on her back than last start in the G1 Tarzino Trophy. The mile is still well short of Pennyweka’s best, however, the inclement weather will level the playing field and should bring her right into play against this field. Come Race 7, I am expecting the track to be heading into the Heavy range, where I would have her priced around the $5.00 mark, therefore $7.50 /$2.70 is still overs for mine.