Four to Follow
Past Selections

The current Four To Follow selections can be found here.

Saturday, 23rd of February 2008

The Four To Follow for Blue Diamond Stakes day:

Reaan (Caulfield R7 N2)

This ultra-smart Hussonet colt is the big value in the Blue Diamond with a nice double figure price currently on offer. After a nice two-run first preparation that concluded with a ¾ length second to Exceedingly Good in the Maribrynong Plate, Reaan bolted in fresh by five lengths. That was a classy effort and suggests his time away from the track improved him immensely. Jockey Dwayne Dunn has won this race in the past which means he will not be overawed by the occasion. Back him each-way.

Typhoon Zed (Caulfield R6 N12)

This consistent Tim Martin prepared four-year-old looks the main contender to down boom horse Weekend Hussler. Never far away, Typhoon Zed tends to be at his best first-up, which he is this weekend. With no weight on his back, he will absolutely scorch the turf. He showed his class last preparation with a very good placing in the Salinger. The favourite looks a decent lay at the price this week and Typhoon Zed looks the pick to beat him. Another each-way proposition.

Bentley Biscuit (Canterbury R7 N3)

Bentley Biscuit is the selection in a crack Expressway Stakes with the $4 on offer looking a touch of overs. Back from a European campaign where he did no damage to his reputation, Bentley Biscuit will be primed for this. The Gai Waterhouse prepared steed absolutely flies fresh, winning four of five. He also goes very well at Canterbury, unbeaten from two starts. Paratroopers is his main rival but may find the muddling tempo unsuitable. Bentley Biscuit gets all the ticks here. Take anything above $3.25.

My Lady’s Chamber (Canterbury R8 N4)

The significant drop in grade will prove the key explanation for a much improved effort by non-winner My Lady’s Chamber. Despite her appalling strike rate, she tends to be around the mark and those efforts have tended to be in black type races. This Saturday she races in a fairly ordinary restricted class race. To further improve her hopes, she will only carry ½ kilogram over the minimum with the claim. She looks a fine bet and should be backed each-way.

Saturday, 16th of February 2008

The Four To Follow for Australia Stakes Day:

Apache Cat (Moonee Valley R7 N2)

With the baldy face and the white socks and the huge heart, Apache Cat is rightly one of Australia’s most popular racehorses. He never turns in a bad run and never offers anything short of his best. Trainer Greg Eurell should be most proud of his steed. Apache Cat once again showed his durability with a smart fresh win over 1000 metres in the Lightning. It was a stunning win. With the good draw and the trip more suitable, he is going to be very difficult to hold out. Take any black odds.

Saddler’s Story (Moonee Valley R2 N2)

Saddler’s Story is in winning form and certainly has the runs on the board to suggest he can win this weak staying affair. He bolted in at a Valley night meeting two starts back before winning well over Nine Wives at Flemington last start. He loves this trip and goes well here at the Valley and seems to have a clear edge in terms of winning chance. He can be bet with confidence.

Posadas (Randwick R9 N1)

This smart son of Commands looks superbly placed in this open handicap and should be right around the mark when the whips are cracking. He went well first-up on a slow track, running a good second to Keen Commander. He meets no horse of that quality this Saturday. Posadas has a tremendous overall record and has never finished outside the placings both at Randwick and over the 1200 metre journey. He is going to be very hard to hold out. $2.75 is a most reasonable price.

Short Pause (Cheltenham R7 N3)

Short Pause may be a nine year old but he is lightly raced and is still capable of turning in a winning run. He won well last start at Kyneton under the hefty impost of 59 kilograms, an impressive effort. He will be even more suited by the extra journey, having won at 2600 metres. Jarrod McLean has come across from Warnambool to win in town with Short Pause and he has bought Craig Robertson, whose only other ride is on the useless stablemate. Short Pause is a good each-way proposition.

Saturday, 9th of February 2008

The Four To Follow for C.F Orr Stakes Day:

Maldivian (Caulfield R7 N8)

Maldivian is the stand-out selection in the Orr Stakes and betting certainly confirms that. $2.25 is the price currently on offer with the second favourite, Masked Assassin, double figures. In spite of his short price, Maldivian is still a bet and can be bet down to even money. He was absolutely sensational in his return to the track, running a quality second to Let’s Go Thommo at the Valley. Maldivian has so much ability and is going to be very difficult to hold out.

Jukebox Johnny (Caulfield R1 N4)

Mick Price has taken the interesting path of giving Jukebox Johnny his first run since November 17 over the mile-and-a-quarter journey. This kind of preparation should suit Jukebox Johnny, who tends to go very well first-up and is certainly at his best over a longer trip. He has won before first-up and he has a genuine affection for Caulfield. This is not a wonderful field and a win by Jukebox Johnny would not surprise. Anything over $7 is a bet.

My Lady’s Chamber (Rosehill R6 N11)

This bonny mare has always had plenty of ability despite her appalling strike rate that has seen her only win one race from seventeen starts. She has, however, placed on six other occasions and has raced in quality company. Her best effort last time in was a close-up second in the Doomben Roses where she just missed out to Lasoron. She tends to race well fresh and she has missed a drum only once from four starts at Rosehill. The heavy track will also do her no harm. An each-way wager on her at big odds is a good investment.

Tornado Alley (Doomben R7 N3)

Tornado Alley was a certainty beaten last start and can atone on Saturday. Traveling like the winner on the turn, young Palmer could not get his mount out. Tornado Alley failed to see daylight until it was all over. It was a sensational effort and suggests he has his foot on the till. The fact he is being aimed at the Newmarket further enhances his standing as a betting proposition. He flies over this trip and the good draw will be of invaluable assistance. With any luck, he should defeat this handy field. Take $3.50 or better.

Saturday, 2nd of February 2008

The Four To Follow for Lightning Stakes Day:

Gold Edition (Flemington R6 N7)

Our old favourite, Gold Edition, returns to the track this weekend and is once more, the best bet of the day. The ever-consistent grey mare is placed to perfection this Saturday and if her race-day performance is anything like her work, she will be unstoppable. Gold Edition gets all the ticks in this one. She loves the straight, she flies fresh, the good track is her go and this trip suits her more than her rivals. She has some quality rivals but most would prefer it longer. She will bounce to the front and it is doubtful her opposition will get a sight. The $2 on offer is overs.

North of Havana (Flemington R3 N7)

North of Havana turned in a cracking effort last start and looks to be a winning hope in this 1800 metre affair. He ran a close second behind Correct Amoondo, taking that steed to a ½ head. He meets Correct Amoondo two kilograms better at the weights. North of Havana has a touch of class and will certainly improve getting to the nine furlong journey. His price is $5 and he can be bet if that can be attained.

Posadas (Rosehill R6 N2)

Peter Snowden has a trio of top class sprinters in the listed Starlight Stakes and Posadas is the pick of the lot. With eight wins and eight places from eighteen starts, there is no doubting his class. He absolutely motors first up, winning three of five and he will appreciate the expected rain affected ground. He has a tremendous record at this distance and he has won at Rosehill. $3.50 is his right price and he can be bet at anything greater than that.

Merlot Now (Morphettville R7 N2)

Merlot Now is a quality racehorse and when he is in form he can be bet with confidence. He is currently racing in very good form. He was exceptional in downing Exalted Ego last start, charging home at the death. That victory was at Morphettville, a track he loves and the track he will enjoy this Saturday. Combined with a good draw and a nice record at the journey, he is going to be very hard to hold out. Bookies will likely bet around the $5 mark and this is well over the odds.

Saturday, 19th of January 2008

This weekend’s Four To Follow:

Newport (Randwick R5 N2)

Last season’s Brisbane Cup winner looks tremendously placed here in the Randwick version of the Australia Day Cup and is going to be tough to hold out in the concluding stages. He has worked through the early stages of his preparation well this time in, with a ¾ length third in the Underwood Cup last start his best run to date. This 2000 metre trip is ideal at this stage, as are the good track conditions (he can be bet on dead or better). Newport will be charging late and in spite of his poor record at the track, Randwick should suit. He looks a $4.50 chance.

El Mandon (Caulfield R5 N7)

This gifted son of El Moxie looked a very keen horse in his first preparation and is sure to be better for the experience and the subsequent rest. He progressed last preparation from a big maiden win to stakes placed in a stint that lasted only four runs. He finished second to Royal Asscher before just missing out to Distant Melody, finishing his prep with a solid effort in the Sandown Guineas. He will be flying fresh and a win appears to be on the cards. He has performed well on top of the ground and being by El Moxie, should handle any rain (expected). He looks the best of the day. $3.25 is his price.

Dyna Mita (Caulfield R8 N1)

Dyna Mita is a consistent type who is always at her best early in her preparations and should be primed for a big race fresh. She goes very well first-up, winning twice and placing once from five fresh efforts. This trip is ideal (she has never missed a place over 1200 metres) and Caulfield usually brings out the best in Dyna Mita. There is a concern over the claiming apprentice and that needs to be factored in. She handles all conditions. Try her each-way at better than $7.50.

Get Up (Murray Bridge R7 N2)

On face value, this appears an odd selection. A nine-year old renowned for his middle distance efforts resuming after fourteen months is not usually an ideal bet. Get Up, however, has the abilities to surprise and at the expected large price is a sound each-way proposition. Get Up has always had plenty of talent with some very sound wins on his resume. He also has the added characteristic of rarely running a poor race (and that isn’t to say that regular jockey Holly McKechnie hasn’t butchered him on more than one occasion). He enjoys the spacious Murray Bridge course and he should be on the scene late. Get Up is used to much stronger fields than this, so don’t be surprised to see him come up at odds. The dry track suits.

Saturday, 19th of January 2008

The Four To Follow for a reasonable day of racing:

Alverta (Randwick R6 N4)

Paul Messara seems to have a handy one on his plate with Alverta and she looks placed to win the Festival Stakes. She burst into consciousness fresh with a super second to the mighty Takeover Target, taking the champion to a nose. It was a sensational effort by a horse given no hope. Last start she ran well, placing in the Villiers when the race was taken off Takeover Target. She was heavily bet that day, suggesting the stable is very happy with how she is going. She looks well suited in this and will be mighty hard to stop late.

Tails of Triomphe (Flemington R5 N2)

This SA Derby winner is no racetrack superstar but he looks well enough placed this Saturday to record his fifth career win. Being a son of Archway, it comes as no surprise that Tails of Triomphe requires a staying trip to be in anyway effective and that is exactly what he gets this weekend, where he is as suited as any of the runners by the 2530 metre journey. After some fair runs over unsuitable trips this time in, he turned in an eyecatcher with a quality second to Gallopin in the Bagot. If he runs to that performance, he will be hard to hold out. Try him each-way as betting will most likely allow this.

Royal Ida (Flemington R6 N2)

It is best to forget the first-up effort of Royal Ida as he did not appear to have the greatest of luck and at his age, he is less likely to be as effective first-up as he once was. He is too good to be discarded in this and furthermore, looks a real winning hope. Michael O’Leary rarely makes the trip to Melbourne without the intention of being around the cash and after missing out last time, he is sure to have put the work into the legs to ensure Royal Ida is in the finish. The wide draw is of some concern but everything else appears to suit. Royal Ida is another each-way proposition with anything shorter than $6 not acceptable.

Bel Mer (Flemington R7 N7)

Bel Mer has plenty of talent and she appears set for a most profitable campaign for connections. This daughter of Bel Esprit has been to the racetrack on five occasions and while only winning once, has never been out of the placings. Last preparation she stuck to racing in her age group, winning the Quezette before a very nice second in the Champagne. Her final run, however, was her best effort, running a nice second to Weekend Hussler. There is a query with her racing the older horses but she is certainly the one on the up. She is a $3.50 shot.

Saturday, 12th of January 2008

Itsamonty (Caulfield R4 N4)

This Dean Lawson gelding has plenty of ability and combined with his consistency makes him a very good bet in the John Dillon Stakes. He has been racing in great heart of late, winning at Flemington two runs back before a sound third on the first day of 2008. He is perfectly suited by the small field as he will get back and be charging late. He will not be forced to get miles back and when ready to pounce, will be in striking distance. He loves this trip and has never missed a place from two starts at Caulfield. Itsamonty can be bet with confidence. The $6 on offer currently looks well and truly overs.

Here De Angels (Caulfield R5 N3)

Lee Freedman has a talented one here and he knows it. On face value, Here De Angels was a touch disappointing last preparation. But delving deeper, Here De Angels actually performed very well against some quality horses. He finished only 2 ¾ lengths from Bon Hoffa at group one level over the unsuitable 1400 metres before quality fifths in the Gilgai and Salinger. He flies first up and he goes well at Caulfield. He will be tough to hold out. Evens is his price.

Royal Player (Morphettville R1 N1)

Royal Player is a more than handy Adelaide stayer who should notch up his twelfth career victory on Saturday. Up at these trips, he is always around the mark. Two starts back he won over 2400 metres at Cheltenham (he meets Epona Miss, whom he defeated by a nose, ½ a kilogram better at the weights) before a decent second over a shorter journey. At 2600 metres, he is suited to perfection. He enjoys this track and with Paul Gatt on board, he will remain focused for the entire journey. Royal Player is the one to beat.

Merlot Now (Morphettville R6 N3)

Merlot Now has always had plenty of ability and at his best, he would put pay to this lot. His problem, however, has been consistency. Saying that, he has hit form in recent times and looks a solid each-way proposition in this listed affair over a mile. He flies at the ‘Ville and he is usually at his best over a mile. He went reasonably off a let-up on Boxing Day and should be getting home in this. Back him both ways.

Saturday, 5th of January 2008

Ring out the old, ring in the new…2008 is upon us. Happy New Year folks and may 2008 bring prosperity and wisdom.

The first Four to Follow of 2008:

Takeover Target (Randwick R6 N1)

The Villiers is Takeover Target’s for the claiming. The usually even race has been gutted by the presence of the mighty sprinter and most would imagine Takeover Target just has to be near his best to win another stakes race. He has shown courage in his two wins this time in and will be better suited by the 1400 metre trip these days. Last start he fought off the challenge of smokie Alverta after breaking the heart of Dance Hero. The weight is of no concern and neither is the alley. Bookies are betting a touch of black and this can be snaffled with confidence.

Les Roses (Randwick R5 N2)

Gai and Nash have this daughter of Redoute’s Choice absolutely flying and she can complete the hat-trick with a big win over a mile this Saturday. She held off Bedtime Secrets fresh before decimating rivals second-up. She is looking for the mile now, where she has won two of three, and Randwick should suit more than Rosehill. The barrier draw is the biggest worry. Nevertheless, she appears as if she should be favourite.

Omnitrader (Gold Coast R7 N4)

The one thing certain about betting Omnitrader is that you will be given a sight and at the turn, your heart will be pumping. As the post looms, however, there will be a touch of nervousness as the strides shorten and the gap closes. Omnitrader is a bold front running sprinter who never leaves anything on the track. He gives his all and looks a real chance of upsetting Mitanni in the Gold Coast Goldmarket. Mitanni will have to carry a lot of weight and may not have it in him to get over the top of the dashing grey. Omnitrader loves this trip, has a great record here, is in winning form and is weighted well. Do not be surprised to see Omnitrader amongst the placegetters at his 115th start.

Idalou (Morphettville R5 N1)

This horse was once renowned as a squib. That notion was squashed last start when this Northern Drake gelding sustained a long run to win over 1200 metres against a handy field. It was a fine effort and has shown that age has made him more tractable for longer journeys. With the same weight and a better draw, he can make it two on end. Take $3 or greater.

Saturday, 22nd of December

We can all be grateful for the Razor Sharp Quality at Randwick as it is the only race being staged this Saturday afternoon that strikes as even remotely interesting. Takeover Target will line up for a rematch against Dance Hero and King Rex in what should be another interesting affair.

Takeover Target (Randwick R4 N1)

There are not nearly enough superlatives in the English language for this one-time crock that has beaten the best around Australia and the world. There is no better sprinter in Australia and there is no better fairytale either. He just added to the romance of his career with a captivatingly gutsy win first-up, running down multiple group one winner Dance Hero in a display of pure willpower. Takeover Target is a winner because he desires victory. It is in his instinct. That first-up run saw punters jump all over King Rex, for some reason. They may do the same again tomorrow but it is doubtful. Takeover Target is a champion and can be backed to win, despite the ½ kilo weight relief for Dance Hero. $1.75 can be taken.

Dismissal (Sandown R6 N2)

Darren Weir has a consistent one in Dismissal and while he does struggle to break through, he is usually classy enough to be around the mark. He has never finished further back than second on this course and has only missed out once from eight starts over this trip. He has been racing well of late, placing behind Sharkbite (subsequent winner) on Melbourne Cup day before finishing a ½ length and a ½ head from the winner at his last two. His foot is on the till. Try him each-way if betting allows.

Rubiton Raider (Morphettville R6 N3)

Peter Moody has this handy Rubiton gelding nominated for both Adelaide and Melbourne. He looks well suited by the Adelaide affair and can definitely break through for a win if Moody decides to travel the seven-year-old. He will line up against a field that isn’t particularly strong and he loves the six furlong journey, winning four times and placing a further seven times from fifteen starts. He looks a 5/2-shot. Avoid him if he stays in Melbourne.

Legendary Man (Eagle Farm R7 N2)

Legendary Man turned in a super effort first-up when chasing bold frontrunner Omnitrader and running on into second. It was a better performance than it looked on paper as he was forced to lead them up to the tearaway speed. He will be better suited in this more evenly run affair and Eagle Farm is sure to suit. He looks a handy bet, particularly from the good draw.

Saturday, 15th of December

Aside from Natural Destiny running second-up in Brisbane, it looks a very uninspiring days racing on Saturday. Nevertheless, there are plenty of winners to be found and hopefully we have four of them.

The Four To Follow:

Natural Destiny (Eagle Farm R7 N3)

Natural Destiny is, without doubt, the classiest horse racing this Saturday and should atone for his first-up defeat. Natural Destiny was good in running a very close second fresh to Mitanni. Natural Destiny sat just off a very fast pace and grinded home without his usual zip and just got bloused on the line. On face value he was most disappointing at the shorts but upon review, the effort was solid enough for a horse off a long break in a hot tempo race. This potential superstar is better off in this with a smaller field, a longer trip and less paper speed. He should turn the tables on Mitanni today. $1.70 is his price.

El Maze (Cheltenham R6 N1)

El Maze is nearly always around the mark in these Adelaide affairs and now he has hit winning form, he is going to be extremely difficult to roll on Saturday. Despite being burdened with 61 kilograms he looks very well in and should be right around the mark. His last two starts have been very good with his last win over St. Trinians a real eyecatcher. He is suited back to this short journey and he has a very good record at this track. Allstar is the prime danger.

Expunge (Flemington R5 N2)

Chris Hyland has a handy one in Expunge and in this ordinary distance affair, he can record another city win next to his name. He has been racing well in some quality country cups, running a good fifth at Kyneton before a fair seventh at Ballarat. At Kyneton, Expunge finished less than two lengths behind Saliente. This long trip should suit at this stage of his career and he has placed at Flemington. Try him each-way.

Itsamonty (Flemington R6 N7)

Itsamonty has been good since returning off a break and looks ready to step up and win third-up. Fresh, over the unsuitable 1000 metre journey, he ran a close fourth to City of Ruins before just missing out to the well performed Cocinero last start. He has a brilliant record over this trip, only missing a drum on one occasion from eight runs. He has his foot on the till and can be bet with confidence.

Saturday, 8th of December

The Four To Follow:

Can Lago (Caulfield R5 N2)

Can Lago is a well performed horse from the Robbie Griffiths stables who looks wonderfully placed in this average affair. Can Lago has a solid record and is racing over his ideal trip in this. Last preparation he was considered to be going so well that he was tried in the group one Goodwood, running a sound race to finish only 5 ¼ lengths from the winner. He returned to the track in good form this time in, just missing out over five furlongs first-up. On that effort, he would be right around the mark in this. The two-kilo claim further assists his hopes.

Lectrice (Caulfield R1 N2)

This Mick Price daughter of Encosta De Lago turned in a real eye-catcher in the Summoned Stakes at Sandown mid-November and looks the one to beat in this small field. She finished less than a length behind winner Zip Baby Zip in what was a very nice performance. That race was over 1500 metres. Today, she races over 1800 metres and her breeding suggests that is definitely in her favour. She has a win on this track, adding further confidence to the selection. This isn’t a crack hot field and many are struggling for form. Lectrice should get the chocolates here. Manna Miss is the primary danger and may be worth a saver.

Muzdaher (Cheltenham R7 N4)

Muzdaher has a very good November, placing twice in decent Melbourne affairs, and will be hoping to break through in an even affair at Cheltenham. This race has no stars but there are some good horses who most people would like to own. Muzdaher is one of them. His second two starts back was fantastic, pinching a break and just getting nutted on the line. Last start, he was just beaten by a better horse. He will appreciate the drop to Adelaide grade and the addition of Paul Gatt is sure to assist. Take him each-way if the books will allow it.

Royal Player (Cheltenham R4 N1)

Heather Frew has an out-and-out stayer in Royal Player and knows for sure and certain that he will have no problem getting the long journey in this. Royal Player just missed out to Epona Miss over this journey two starts back before having a fitness fun over a mile last Sunday. The claim certainly assists and he does have a big class edge in this. Expect him to turn the tables on Epona Miss, gaining a 1 kilogram weight advantage on the last time they met.

The Return, 1st of December

Racing returns to Sydney and Brisbane this week after the EI outbreak has put both towns into a racing hiatus for the last three to four months. Punters from both cities will be champing at the bit to get back into it and with reasonable cards at both Randwick and Doomben. Moonee Valley and Cheltenham Park also have decent cards for this time of year.

The Four To Follow:

Takeover Target (Randwick R5 N1)

As all and sundry know, Takeover Target is a freak, a sprinter of grand capabilities. He has traveled the world and come up trumps and will be primed for his return to Australian racing. Unfortunately, the EI breakout has prevented Takeover Target from scorching the turf more often this spring but now he is back, he will be ready to rack up another win. Despite the 61 kilograms, he looks very well weighted against an ordinary field. Particularly when he carried 59 kilograms at Ascot and in both efforts ran second and fourth. He flies fresh, this trip is his best and his class cannot be questioned. $1.60 is his right price.

Mt. Billy (Cheltenham R4 N1)

Mt. Billy has plenty of ability and looks nicely placed in the small field. He finally ran into fitness and form last start, running a sound second to Youth’s Edge. Prior to that he raced at WFA and was not disgraced. He drops back a furlong today and that suits as he is better off over the six furlong journey. His biggest tick today, however, is the addition of Paul Gatt, who will keep Mt. Billy focused the entire trip. Expect a big effort.

Snort (Moonee Valley R6 N6)

Snort does not have the greatest record in the world but he does have a touch of class and can break through in this. He has raced twice this time in, turning in a very good first up effort before only an ordinary run in the Sandown Stakes. He will appreciate the drop in grade and can certainly run into a drum. Back him each-way.

Molly’s Folly (Moonee Valley R4 N2)

This well performed daughter of Encosta De Lago has turned in two very good efforts this time in and appears ready to win. She went okay fresh before a super two length fourth to Juste Momente at Flemington on Cup Day. She steps up to a more preferred trip in this and she has shown a liking for the Valley in the past. With the 1 ½ kilogram claim from the talented apprentice, she is going to be hard to hold out. Take her each-way.

Eclipse Stakes Day, 24th of November

We hit reality with a hard thump this weekend with the good steeds back in the paddock and the excitement levels well and truly down. But we push on because the winners are out there and there is money to be made. This week the highlights are the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown and two listed affairs at Morphettville.

The Four to Follow:

Merlot Now (Morphettville R6 N3)

Darryl Hewitt has this talented seven-year-old flying right now and he is perfectly placed to add to his $300,000 plus winnings. He has been right around the mark in his last handful of races, winning the Lee and Murray Bridge Cups at his third last and second last runs before a quality second in the Elder Stakes. He has won eight of his ten races at this track and the 1800 metre trip is his best. He meets Exalted Ego 1 ½ kilograms better at the weights. Merlot Now looks the best of the day.

Lord Braemar (Morphettville R7 N6)

This son of Danzig is a handy type and is never far away in these types of Adelaide races. He went well two runs back when winning at Gawler before a close-up fifth here on Melbourne Cup day. He likes it here and loves the trip. It must also be noted he is from a classy stable. This is a very even affair so take him each-way.

Flash Trick (Sandown R6 N1)

Flash Trick showed a lot of courage to win the Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes and can go on with it in the Eclipse. His last win was super, holding out Éclair Passion and Fire In The Night. This race is over the same trip and he has a wonderful record here at Sandown. He looks well weighted and is drawn well. Any rain will enhance his chances. Bet him with confidence.

Okay Oky (Sandown R8 N5)

Okay Oky was very good last start when placing behind Montechoro and Muzdaher on a red hot leaders track on Emirates Stakes Day. It was an eyecatcher and screamed “back me next start”. Prior to that he had run sixth in stakes company in what was a sound effort. The extra trip assists as does the bigger track. He looks the one to beat on paper.

Sandown Classic Day 17th of November

Sandown's day-of-days is an underrated card of racing often forgotten by those who pack up camp after Cup week. The Guineas and Classic are always interesting affairs while the Heffernan is usually a race of quality. Expect nothing less on Saturday.

The Four to Follow:

Let Go Thommo (Sandown R5 N1)

This well traveled Michael Ryan steed is as honest as the day is long and deserves to break through in the Heffernan. This former Goodwood winner has been racing in great heart this preparation just missing out three runs back before a solid effort behind Miss Andretti and Gold Edition two runs ago. Last start he placed down the straight. He looks thrown in here at WFA and with his ability over the six furlongs, he looks very hard to hold out. He looks a genuine 2-1 shot. Back him and be comforted by the fact you know he will give you a good show.

Zipping (Sandown R6 N1)

It is not sound practice to bet horses after they have run their grand final but we will be making an exception in this case. Zipping is wonderfully consistent and turned in another honest effort in the Melbourne Cup when running on for fourth. He is much better suited in this grade and back to this trip as he didn’t seem to really finish off the two miles. He certainly has a class edge on these and with a strong pace expected, he will be charging late. Try him at 5-2 or better.

El Mandon (Sandown R6 N5)

El Mandon is a most talented gelding with a very bright future and his natural ability can get him home in the Guineas. After a dominant debut win at Kilmore on October 14, El Mandon has ran second in town at his next two runs. His effort last weekend was a real eyecatcher when he ran second to Distant Melody. He ran on down the middle of the track when most of the winners were on the fence. He will appreciate the expanses of Sandown and looks a very good bet.

Juste Momente (Sandown R9 N3)

After doing us all well on Cup day, Juste Momente can further ingratiate herself with another win, this time in the get out. She was in winning last start, appreciating the rise in distance by sticking on like a champion. The extra 100 metres suits her more than any of her competitors, as does the Sandown course. The wide alley is some concern but she just seems too classy. Try her each-way if betting allows.

10th of November - Emirates Stakes Day

We are on the downside now. But this is far from over. After a profitable and enjoyable Cup week, we have hit the final day of the carnival and we are looking to parlay our winnings into something big. Stakes Day, while lacking the class of the first three days of the Flemington carnival, still has plenty to offer with quality horseflesh running around for some very handy purses. While the Emirates Stakes is a most interesting proposition, it is Miss Andretti-Gold Edition II in the Age Classic that is the real highlight of the card. The two best sprinting mares in the country and possibly the world will go at it in a ding-dong battle for supremacy. Racing fans are salivating at the prospect.

The Four to Follow:

Weekend Hussler (Flemington R6 N11)

Ross McDonald has a smart one here and he knows it. Weekend Hussler has been dominant this spring, winning five on end including the Caulfield Guineas and Ascot Vale. His Ascot Vale win was sensational. He dropped back two furlongs and showed tremendous zip when a well supported proposition to win by 2 ½ lengths. He is better back at a mile and the shorts should be taken. He is superbly in at the weights and there are few superstars to roll here.

Gold Edition (Flemington R5 N3)

If this race was around a bend, we would be on Miss Andretti. She was sensational in downing Gold Edition last start. She swept past her on the bend and put paid to her in a half-furlong when winning over this distance last start. The straight, however, favours Gold Edition. Two of Gold Edition’s finest efforts were winning down the straight here last spring while Miss Andretti has won only one of three here. Gold Edition can use her tactical speed to greater advantage in this and looks the bet.

Reggie (Flemington R8 N8)

Reggie was a tragedy beaten last start after a less than impressive ride by Peter Mertens in the Moonee Valley Cup. While beaten 6 ¼ lengths by Gallic, Reggie looked to be going like the winner 800 metres out before being caught up in traffic. Hopefully Mertens has learned a few lessons from that ride. Reggie will relish this trip and is likely to benefit from the more spacious surroundings of Flemington. The drop in class also suits. Try her each-way if odds allow and hope that Mertens doesn’t butcher her again.

Red For Lou (Flemington R7 N8)

This Peter Moody mare has been racing in great heart of late and is placed to perfection in this group two event. A daughter of Testa Rossa, she absolutely loves Flemington. She won here three runs back and then ran an absolute bolter here in the Myer Classic behind Divine Madonna last Saturday when third, beaten only 3 ¼ lengths. Those runs were split by a sound effort at Seymour. This trip is ideal at this stage. She will be very hard to hold out.

Four to Follow: Melbourne Cup Day Special

The Melbourne Cup day Four to Follow:

Master O’Reilly (Flemington R7 N11)

Despite being pre-post favourite, Master O’Reilly is the best value in the Melbourne Cup. Caulfield Cup form is always the most recommended formline for the Melbourne Cup and there have been few horses more dominant in the Caulfield Cup than Master O’Reilly. He was completely dominant in winning by 2 ¼ lengths and leaving a capable field in his wake. What is more impressive is the fact he has been set for this race by in-form trainer Danny O’Brien. He has won up to 2600 metres so the distance should not be a problem for him. Nor should the track, where he is one from one at Flemington and three from three on dead and slow tracks. He gets all the ticks. The only concern is the jockey. He is rated an 11/4 shot so the 4/1 on offer looks good.

Flash Trick (Flemington R8 N2)

This consistent Colin Alderson steed looks the value in the HKJC Stakes and should be tried each-way. Flash Trick has been a model of reliability this time in, turning in his best effort two runs back when the track was dead. He got home late to finish less than two lengths from Arbitration. He meets that horse 1 ½ kilograms better at the weights. He will appreciate the anticipated soft going and the distance is most suitable at this stage. Expect another honest effort. Each-way.

Juste Momente (Flemington R4 N4)

This smart daughter of Giant’s Causeway has a ton of ability and should win this listed race. Her recent form has been sound with a solid effort behind Devil Moon (subsequent group one winner) three runs back before a game second at group three level two runs ago. Last start she was good but Caulfield did not appear to suit. She will be better off at the wider expanses of Flemington. The added furlong is also well in her favour. Any softness in the track further improves her chances. Take 7/2.

Completion (Flemington R3 N7)

In a race full of old crocks and chaff bandits, the Lloyd Williams owned and prepared Completion is the one with a future and the one to beat in this poor substitute for the Cup Day hurdle. He has won four from six and has been unfortunate in his two defeats with a slow tempo. He looks far too talented for this ordinary lot. He should get the pace from Dane Empire and Red Lord. His price is 6/4.

2nd of November

Derby day is a day beloved by racing purists. It is quality from beginning to end with stakes racing all day and the best horses competing against the best horses. There is a sense of history combined with a feeling of hope for tomorrow. Derby day is the crossroads of the racing season, a grand farewell for some and the blooming of optimism for others.

The Derby is the grand final for the three year old stayers. The MacKinnon is a Melbourne Cup trial for some and a group one event for others. The Saab will make and break the Cup dreams of some. What a day.

The Four to Follow:

Marching (Flemington R7 N1)

Marching has the right form for the Derby and looks set to win the first Vic Derby for the Hawkes camp since Arena in 1998. Norman Robinson and Geelong Classic form can be scratched. The only form that matters these days is the AAMI Vase with all five of the last Derby winners placing in the lead-up with three actually winning the Vase. Marching won this year’s Vase and won it with ease. He was super impressive in winning and will be better suited over the longer trip. The gun draw suits and any rains will not hurt. Take $3.75 or better and avoid the Norman Robinson and Geelong Classic form.

Miss Finland (Flemington R6 N12)

Miss Finland was somewhat disappointing in the Cox Plate but that was to be expected. She is just not as good as El Segundo. While her critics have come out of the wood work over the last month, there can be no doubt that she is a quality mare. She looks well suited here and is the most genuine WFA star in the field. She will appreciate a return to Flemington and the wet going shouldn’t cause too many problems. She looks a 5/2 shot.

Divine Madonna (Flemington R8 N1)

Divine Madonna is an amazing mare and she is suited to perfection over a mile against her own sex. She won the Toorak two starts back before turning in a very good effort in the Cox Plate. Despite being beaten nearly six lengths, she was ridden too far forward at a questionable journey and showed great heart to fight on for seventh. Flemington suits her and she goes well on rain affected going. Even money is still a bet for her this week.

Sculptor (Flemington R3 N4)

This talented New Zealand stayer will most likely need a penalty from this to make the Melbourne Cup field so will be primed for a big effort on Saturday. He was impressive in winning fifth-up last start in New Zealand, beating a handy field by 1 ½ lengths and more. That effort was in the slow so any rain on Saturday will suit him more than any other contender. The distance is another thing in his favour. Try him each-way.

27th of October

Those in the racing game call the Cox Plate the Grand Final and that analogy seems apt. This is when the real champions are called upon to produce their best, when the best of the best from across the country gather and race at the cauldron of Moonee Valley in order to win the right to the title of Weight-for-Age Champion of Australia. The Melbourne Cup is the people’s race. The Cox Plate is the championship for the purists.

Despite the fact the Cox Plate will be without Sydney and Brisbane horses this season, a top class field has still been assembled and would rank with any of the great races of years gone by. Miss Finland is the easing favourite and has a lot to prove with critics labeling her a powder puff champion. A Cox Plate win would put an end to that. Haradasun is in a similar position. His Doncaster victory was amazing but he has failed to kick on this spring. El Segundo is hoping to go one better than last year, when he was nutted on the line by the mighty Fields of Omagh. And there is Devil Moon and Marasco and Efficient and Divine Madonna and plenty of other contenders. This is the race and the final field does not disappoint.

The Four to Follow:

El Segundo (Moonee Valley R8 N1)

El Segundo was less than a nose from equine immortality last year and is good enough to go one better this time around. His champion qualities have been espoused ad nauseum in this column and he has constantly mixed it with the best in Australia. The big key to him in this race is his preparation. Big El was less wound up fresh in his preparation than in the past and seems to have been genuinely set for this race. In previous preparations, he seems to have been wound up for every event. His form has been good this time in (scratch his last run-the track was appallingly off) with a win in the Feehan a highlight. He will get the speed he requires and the seven draw is perfect as it will allow him to get going earlier. He should be the favourite. Expect 2007 to be the year for Big El.

Royal Asscher (Moonee Valley R3 N9)

This Stravinsky filly was outstanding last start, running Gold Edition to ¾ of a length over 1000 metres. It was a sensational effort behind a genuine group one horse and she drops back to group three level against her own age in this. This trip will be more ideal for her and she has a good record at the Valley. With a slight weight edge on the boys she will be very hard to hold out. Back her and save on El Mandon, the unknown quality of the race who has won his only start, a Kilmore maiden, by six lengths.

Miss Andretti (Moonee Valley R4 N4)

Lee Freedman took Miss Andretti to the world this winter and he game back with a fatter wallet and more silverware. She was simply sensational in winning the King’s Stand and confirmed her status as one of the top three sprinters in Australia. Her race in this, her first since returning to these shores, will be a virtual match race against her arch rival Gold Edition. And Miss Andretti does seem a little better suited than column favourite Gold Edition. She has won 6 of 7 fresh, she is unbeaten at the Valley in four runs and has a tremendous record over this distance. And she meets Gold Edition three kilograms better at the weights for beating her a nose in the Newmarket. She should be marginal favourite.

Reggie (Moonee Valley R7 N13)

The Cathay Pacific Airways Cup is an open affair this year and the best bet appears to be Reggie each way. Reggie has improved at every run this time in running a good third in the Ansett before a distant third last start. That run was not bad when you consider the winner of the race was Caulfield Cup winner Master O’Reilly and the second placed Zavite just missed out in the Geelong Cup. This trip suits perfectly. A value bet.

19th of October

The Melbourne Racing Club hosts its most prestigious race this Saturday as the Caulfield Cup is run for its 136th year. The race shapes as a fine affair despite the lack of foreign raiders and Sydney and Brisbane runners with a quality field to face the starter. Betting is headed by Yalumba Stakes winner Maldivian. Maldivian looked like Tulloch in downing Miss Finland last week in a performance praised by all. He will go around the shortest priced favourite in nearly four decades but the race is not in his possession yet with the number one alley making his task just a touch more difficult. Eskimo Queen has the ability to run him down, Maybe Better looks to be right on song and Master O’Reilly won well last weekend. There will be plenty of challengers. And plenty of cheering for one of Australia’s greatest races.

The Four to Follow:

Douro Valley (Caulfield R8 N14)

This Encosta De Lago gelding has never raced better and looks the each-way bet of the day in the Caulfield Cup. Two runs back he won the Naturalism over Cup favourite Maldivian and subsequent winner Dolphin Jo. He then ran fourth in the Turnbull on a track that was certainly playing against him. He has a real liking for Caulfield and this distance is ideal right now. He looks a real runner and can be bet with confidence and worked with Maldivian in exotics. James Winks is the only concern but he is capable enough to get Douro Valley around. The double figure odds are silly, particularly relative to the price of the favourite.

Vormista (Caulfield R5 N2)

Mark Minervini has a real good one on his hands here. Vormista has a ton of ability and she is really starting to channel it all on the racetrack. She was never in danger when winning over seven furlongs last start and her long neck second behind Gold Edition at group one level at her previous effort showed how much talent she actually has. It is tough to see her getting beaten here against her own sex. Take the shorts.

Undue (Caulfield R6 N1)

You have to love Undue. He is rarely mentioned but he is always there or thereabouts at all levels, having won on racing’s biggest stage. He was racing well before a last start failure but there were plenty of excuses that day and he is much better suited at this trip, where he has won five of six. Caulfield is also to his liking. Expect him on the scene when it counts. Bet him at $4.

Gunfire Messiah (Caulfield R9 N8)

Since joining the Peter Morgan stable, Gunfire Messiah has been firing on all cylinders and looks a tremendous prospect in this group three event. He won here three runs back before consecutive placings at Moonee Valley.  Expect him to be at his best at this trip. He is ready. Take him each-way if odds allow.

12th of October

Some days in racing are not ones for specials. This one is not one of those days. There will be plenty of short priced favourites on the boards at Caulfield on Saturday and most look good-things for what will be a tremendous day of racing, headed by the Caulfield Guineas. This is the real start of the action and hopefully it will be the start of a successful campaign for us all.

The Four to Follow:

Gold Edition (Caulfield R4 N6)

As expected, Gold Edition is again one of the Four to Follow. She is a champion and she rarely lets any of us down. She is the premier weight-for-age sprinter in Australia and she should have another $120,000 and another group two race in the kitty come around 2:01pm on Saturday. She looks near unbeatable in this very average group two and $1.35 is her right price. Her last run was very good and the form was franked by Vormista’s easy victory last start. Stathi on board is a bonus. He will be singularly focused on her success. $1.60 is available and can be bet with confidence.

Miss Finland (Caulfield R5 N7)

Miss Finland copped a Dandy Andy last start at the hooves of Rubiscent but that won’t happen this time around. There is no chance Craig Williams and David Hayes will get mugged in the Yalumba. The small field suits and the decision to avoid the Turnbull is also proving the right move. She will sit just off the pace and should go straight past them in the stretch. It is hard to see her losing but if she does, it will be on her merits. With a liking for Caulfield, she looks another obvious winner.

Divine Madonna (Caulfield R6 N5)

Divine Madonna is a showy mare with top class ability and a habit for consistency. The Toorak looks ideal at this stage of her preparation and a Cox Plate run is not beyond the realms of possibility. She has been good in two runs to date and should be ready to fire in this. Her last start was particularly impressive when charging home from well back in a big field. The smaller field suits perfectly. The concerns are the track and a lack of pace on paper. Those races have a tendency to end in speed battles, however. Take $3.50 or better.

Marching (Caulfield R7 N7)

Weekend Hussler is clearly the horse to beat with current prices as short as you are likely to see in a Guineas. He has been super over his last three starts, winning by a total of 15 ½ lengths. $1.80 does, however, seem a tad short for a horse without a Saturday win. The value in the race appears to be the John Hawkes prepared Marching. His close up third in the McNeil was a very nice effort while his Guineas placing was superb. The mile is perfect. Try him each-way.