The Lightning Stakes (1000m, WFA) is a fair dinkum Group One. Look at the roll call – Takeover Target, Todman, Sky High, Storm Queen, Schillaci, Special, Mahogany, Miss Andretti, Choisir and Citius…there’s speed, power and class.
This year’s edition (Flemington, R6) has generated profile with the return of the breathtaking Black Caviar. The little paper has trotted out the Vain reminiscences as race lovers prepare for Moody’s mare to tackle a succession of Group Ones. She’s unbeaten from 8 but with only the one win at the very top level so far. That awesome triumph was the day Haylist, her main opponent tomorrow, simply did not deliver. The WA beast also looked a world-beater until that forgivable setback and he, perhaps, might get to stupid odds. Black Caviar does, though, appear bomb proof, but with a deluge predicted, I’ll just hope for these wonderful horses to bring back some real zing to our Autumn.
Naturally the rest of the card fades by comparison but it is, nevertheless, a quality meeting.
The C.S.Hayes Stakes (R5, 1400m, Gr3, 3yo C+G) will prove a Guineas guide and is, arguably, the day’s most competitive race. EnjinNumberNine has stormed to favouritism on the back of a slashing Sandown win – it was indeed authoritative but he came down the best part of the track and, despite an undeniably top claim, looks “unders”. Dusty Star will ensure a solid tempo and Mr Chard will race on pace and present at the distance. Bullbars’ bad gate hurts but other live hopes include Hollowlea and Spirited Eagle. But, for mine at the recent quotes, the toppy Anacheeva looks E/W to nothing. Excellent race.
The spectre of rain means some thought must go in to finding some wet roughies for the final Quaddy legs.
I suggest including bolter Miles Above in R7 and, funnily, Mount Everest in the last!
Don’t be put off by the forecast…come out to HQ to see some fantastic horses and to keep me occupied on the Turfbet bag. Look to go “around the grounds” with a good Sydney meeting featuring the Apollo Stakes – Hot Danish, Melito, Love Conquers All + co – and Triscay Stakes, in which last week’s scratched selection, More Strawberries, faces a weight and barrier challenge to her excellence.
Good luck!
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