3 minute read

We head to Caulfield on Saturday for a tricky little meeting.

No real feature racing in Melbourne this week but plenty of good betting affairs at least and two at big prices appeal.

Race 8 is the Anniversary Vase, won last year by Pride Of Jenni with 61kg, and this year looks a good little race with a few key chances coming through an open handicap at Flemington.

Al Duca won that leading throughout in pretty good overall time, well ridden by Craig Williams from a wide gate to score over Taken who got home strongly, but I thought the run of Golden Path was as good as either of them from a mile back.

Golden Path was first up there and had a 3kg claim down to 59kg, starting $6.50 and running the best sectionals home in an encouraging return.

He's already proven in the Spring he's pretty talented, third (albeit very well suited by the pace) in a Group 1 Underwood Stakes and gets in better here with Jamie Mott taking over.

I'd have loved a better draw but I think he can settle midfield this time while Al Duca and Taken have to work from the two outside gates as Astral Flame kicks up underneath and that can see Golden Path finish over the top at a good price.

The other race I'm keen to play in is Race 9 where the favourite Oliveanotherday looks very short off two dominant wins. He's won by an aggregate margin of 8.1 lengths in two wins this time in and has started $1.95 and $1.40, but he hasn't done anything overly special on the clock and looks well found.

The horse that appeals most if Regeneration who was an impressive winner fresh against the older horses at 1000m which was always going to be a query.

He has led over 1200m in the past and should be able to settle closer now – I think he'll continue to improve and can certainly upset the hot pot.

The Melbourne Mail

Bet of the day: Race 8 #2 Golden Path at $11
Also backing: Race 9 #5 Regeneration at $9.50