What a sensational night of racing we had last night, highlighted by the win of outstanding West Australian sprinter Tommy Shelby in the Hobart Thousand. Beginning very well from his wide draw, the race was as good as over at the first corner when he found comfortably found the lead, and then race away for a 5 length win. Congratulations to trainer Steve Withers who has kept this dog firing during a tough Sydney and Melbourne campaign before venturing south to Tasmania. Tiggerlong Tonk finished hard for second after having no luck in the early stages of the race.
Then at Sandown the Group 2 Laurels was won in fine fashion by Aston Gwen, leading throughout after a speedy beginning. Her win provided 20 year old trainer Ben Magri with his first group race success, but it is unlikely to be his last.
Tonight’s racing is relatively mundane in comparison to what we have been lucky enough to witness in recent weeks, but we still think we have identified some winners for the punters.
The Gardens Race 10 No 8 Cursed $3.10 at PlayUp – This Jason MacKay trained sprinter has been racing in great form over the shorter courses around the state. Stepping back up to the 515m tonight looks ideal and the wide box also suits. Well certainly give them something to chase. Selections: 8-7-5-1.
Wagga Race 4 No 8 Crown Ellie $2.50 at PlayUp– Was second up from a break last when a unlucky second at this track and second. Was circling field towards the lead when he was stopped in his tracks. This draw appears ideal and can lead all the way in this. Selections: 8-1-5-2.
Sale Race 4 No 5 Zambora Smokey $3.10 at PlayUp – Form on paper is nothing startling but he has been finding plenty of bother in his runs of late. Extremely talented speedster who won the Group 2 Warrnambool Cup mid year. Empty box on his outside is a plus. Can run the hands off the clock when on the lure. Nice value. Selections: 5-1-7-2.
Sale Race 7 No 7 Midnight Monarch $2.15 at PlayUp – Been racing in outstanding form up the straight at Healesville in recent months, and is now maybe the best straight tracker in the country. Back around a bend tonight but this is his home track and he has won here in fast time. Very good dog. Selections: 7-6-8-2.
Richmond Race 10 No 2 Titan Mae $2.50 at PlayUp – Form of late has been very consistent, always there about despite some poor draws. Inside alley here will really assist. Speed to lead throughout. Selections: 2-6-8-3.
