Sat, October 05, 2024

ATC Australian Derby winner MAJOR BEEL (12) finished 1.3 lengths behind the winner in fifth over 1m in the 7 Stakes at this track last start after lifting strongly to score when fresh from a lay-off two runs back. Record at this journey is strong with two wins and a placing from four runs and should prove tough to beat. CHRYSAOR (13) Group 2 winner. Settled towards the tail when resuming last start then wound up strongly to score by half a length over 7f at Flemington. Stiffer assignment here but he is a leading contender. Spring Champion Stakes winner TOM KITTEN (9) went back early from his wide draw over 7f in the G3 Bill Ritchie Handicap at this track last time but hit the line strongly to finish fifth. Solid top-three hope. FIRESTORM (19) Group 3 placegetter. Was a winner over 1m1 1/2f at Rosehill last time out, dropping out early before coming home with a powerful run to score by a head. Tougher assignment this time but cannot be underestimated.