RACE 7 DRINKWISE ROUGH HABIT PLATE (2143M)

Going with the newcomers to the carnival. Verona ($5) was terrific winning at second Australian start in the Packer Plate, which is often a good guide to our three-year-old features. Pinarello ($6) looks a big improver out of New Zealand. Takes on tougher opposition here, but he beat them easily last time. Character ($3.30) and Dark Destroyer ($6.50) head the charge coming out of the Queensland Guineas. Both unproven at this trip and not convinced they will relish it. Southern Stock ($3.60) is the one that can take big strides forward from that race and he will relish the extra ground. Ashgrove ($3) is also going the right way and can appreciate the trip.

SELECTIONS

14 Verona, 5 Pinarello, 3 Dark Destroyer, 1 Character, 11 Ashgrove,

8 Southern Stock