Sat, January 04, 2025

ARIANA RYE (5) is coming along nicely this prep. Finished fifth when fresh from a lay-off two starts back at this track (Dirt) then improved and scored over 6f at this track (Dirt) six-and-a-half weeks ago, getting home by 2.75 lengths after being prominent at the corner. Taking on a better line-up this time but she deserves plenty of thought. EVALUATION (4) resumes after a break of four-and-a-half months. Won on debut to launch the last campaign over 6f at Saratoga. Expect her to pose a serious challenge. GRANADILLA (8) was too good for a maiden field last start over 7f at this track (Dirt), scoring by 0.8 lengths. Harder here but should be involved in the finish. FABULOUS FOX (1) proved too strong two runs ago but was less impressive last time out when seventh over 6f at this track, beaten 9 lengths. One of the main hopes.