Each- way could be rewarding at Ellerslie
Good each- way value, rather than any good things looks the order of proceedings at Ellerslie today.
It's a fair wait, but Preetha Varma ( No 8, R8) in the last shapes up as one of the better prospects.
She is a mare on the way through and her first- up second was stylish.
She has drawn awkwardly wide at the 1400m, but Leith Innes may be able to work a touch of magic to get her the right run. With that she can go close. Armaguard had drawn even wider, but similarly he rates if he gets a little luck.
The six babies in Race 2 are all unraced. Gilhoolie ( No 1) has won both his barrier trials and on that basis rates on top. Even though it's a small field barrier draws can be important and the No 2 gate he has should be ideal. Star Treasure ( No 2) won his last barrier trial.
Maid Of Steel ( No 1, R3) has not won in three starts this preparation, but her efforts have been pretty good. She should be fully fit for this assignment and will take beating. El Luchador ( No 3) has been in great form.
Race 4 i s a great betting affair. Marciano ( No 3) is a horse with a future and his first- up win was excellent. He has drawn a bit wide, but the 1600m start allows a little latitude. Our King Sway ( No 8), Cheeky Boy ( No 5) and Zambezi Warrior ( No 7) are all chances in a great contest.
Emily Monk ( No 8, R5) is a classy mare who could run a bold race fresh from a break. Have something on her and stay on the train. Arrow In The Sand ( No 10) is another worth staying with as is Eletist ( No 5).
Mystery Show ( No 1, R7) is a decent chance in the Soliloquy Stakes.
She is speedy, very adaptable and can win this, despite a wide barrier.
Astara ( No 4) is the improver and Veearma ( No 12) looked promising winning on debut.
All eyes will be on the Cox Plate. This column has tipped Hartnell to really test the champion mare Winx, but is it really a betting race?
This could well be the race of the season - would you really ruin that by having a decent punt.
One you can back is former New Zealand mare Lady Le Fay ( No 1, R5) at Moonee Valley, now to be ridden by Winx's rider Hugh Bowman with Joao Moreira being refused permission to travel from Hong Kong.
And La Luna Rossa ( No 2, R6) will be a winning chance, despite finishing out of a place in the 1000 Guineas. This is a bit easier.