Sat, November 30, 2024

ARAPAHO (3) was allowed to drift back from an outside draw last time but found the line strongly to finish fifth, beaten 6 lengths, over 1m2f in the G1 Champions Stakes at Flemington. Suited here and expected to prove tough to stop. NAVAL COLLEGE (12) stuck on well last start to finish third over 1m3 1/2f in the LR Beauford Stakes at Newcastle after showing good early speed. Needs to be at his best to beat this field but he has the ability to mix it with them. BERKELEY SQUARE (6) is close to breaking through after three consecutive placings, the latest coming when third over 1m5f in the G3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington after being prominent from the outset. Meeting a tougher field but on his best form he is one of the chief contenders. STAR VEGA (13) is overdue after four straight minor placings, the latest when narrowly defeated over 1m5f in the G3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington. Best figures measure up and is sure to run well.