Tue, January 21, 2025

MERCHANT EMPIRE (2) returns from a year break but will strip fitter for two trial placings. Looks set for a strong run. ZOUNAKA (8) registered her first win when resuming last start over 5f at Kembla Grange, getting home by 1.3 lengths. Is lightly raced and has plenty of scope for improvement. Re-unites with Keagan Latham who was on board last start. Nicely placed to double the win tally. CRYPTONIC (3) finished 3 lengths away in fourth last time out over 5f at Kembla Grange two-and-a-half weeks ago. Steps up in distance. Winning rider Lee Magorrian stays aboard. Sure to be competitive. NIGHTCAPPED (7) returned from a lay-off three-and-a-half weeks ago when she was beaten 2.25 lengths into fourth over 5½f at Port Macquarie. Fitter so can figure in the finish.