To the Mooney Valley staff and crew, I tip my hat to you. The Melbourne racecourse sees 18 races run in 48 hours, the most important of these being the Manikato Stakes. Join The Roar for a live blog from 9:30pm AEDT.
The 1200m sprint sees a field of hot sprinters clash for the one million dollar kitty.
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Who wins?
For me, it’s the clear favourite, Vega Magic, who will take the chocolates here. Jumping from barrier three, and with recent form that makes even the most steadfast of punters excited, she will take some beating.
Her race at the Everest was intriguing. Coming from nowhere to shade second behind Redzel, she showed a turn of speed that I don’t think anyone in this field can match. If Williams can ride her well, she should stomp this field.
Who can compete?
For me, it’s a three horse race (pardon the pun). And aside from Vega Magic, I can only really see Chautauqua or In Her Time really giving this race a shake up.
Chautauqua is a classy horse, and knows how to win this race. Her Everest race should cause as much concern as it does hope. She was poorly raced, but still looked slightly off the pace. If she can go with the leaders early, she’s a definite chance. Should definitely finish in the top three.
In Her Time is improving rapidly, and is a real smokey here. Her biggest asset is that she will race on speed, and go with whoever sets the pace. She’s no slouch in the finish, however, and if Vega Magic gives her too much of a headstart, In Her Time won’t be caught. Worth a few dollars each way.
My tips
1 – Vega Magic
2 – Chautuqua
3 – In Her Time
4 – English
Join the Roar for a live blog of the race, from 9:30pm AEDT
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