Midweek racing selections from Sandown and Kensington, check them out below.
Sandown Hillside R1 #3 Barb Raider $2.60 at PlayUp – Interesting race here, and although keen on Barb Raider I wouldn’t necessarily be launching in at the current quote. The debut run was a huge eye catcher, settling last and was continuously pushed along struggling to keep up with the field. On the turn she got her act together, and flew home through the line, and probably should’ve won with a clear run. It was the fastest last 200m split of the race by almost 3L, and with the benefit of race experience she should be able to go one better. There looks to be very low speed on paper here, so i’m hoping she begins better and holds a closer position from the low draw.
Sandown Hillside R2 #5 Sandy Prince $2.70 at PlayUp – Very keen on this Ben & JD Hayes runner who comes into this third up, looking for two wins on the trot. The last start victory at Moe on a heavy 10, albeit in a small field, was super impressive. He showed a push button turn-of-foot to win comfortably, with his last 600 and 400m sectionals rating near highest of the meeting, and the overall time being 4L quicker than BM70 grade on the same day. He looks as though he can control this small field from the front and prove too classy again.
Sandown Hillside R3 #10 Montana Flash $9.50 at PlayUp – Have to tip this 3yo on top at the current quote, as we have been desperate for him to get to a longer trip. All his runs last prep screamed for something more than a sprint trip, as did his first up run at The Valley. He got back slightly in running and was not suited by the shape of the race as the leader won. He was very strong through the line, and now second up out to 1300m looks ideal. His best could be even further, but off his last start rating there is no way he is a double figure chance, great each way bet.
Kensington R2 #2 Devil’s Throat $5.50 at PlayUp – Still not sure how this horse was beaten last start, looked all over a winner until the actual winner flew late and got it in a photo. It was a tough beaten run, Devil’s Throat was wide with no cover on a windy day here over 1100m, and all things considered it was very good still to run 2nd. Third up now, and has a perfect low draw with no excuses this time. Has the fitness edge over a number of key rivals, keen to stick with it.
Kensington R4 #9 Billiondollarbaby $2.20 at PlayUp – This unbeaten Snowden filly is a huge chance to remain undefeated as she lines up for the first run of her Spring prep. Her two 2yo wins included a victory of Port Louis who went on to be G1 competitive, and another strong Warwick Farm victory before spelling. Two lead in trials have been very encouraging, having sat off the track on both occasions and finished off nicely. Gets a suitable low draw here, and arguably strikes a pretty weak BM72 on paper that she should be winning.
