With a big weekend of racing ahead, Andrew Dale takes us through the horses that could shape the results for ADR across three meetings. With several in-form gallopers at generous odds, it could be the perfect time to snag a winner at value.
Saturday – Narrandera
A track that’s been kind to the team – Dale notched a treble here last year – and returns with a strong hand once again.
Jingu Express (Race 4, $2.50)
Finally ready to break through?
This honest filly has placed in four of her last six and now draws gate one with Nick Heywood aboard.
AD: “The time’s now for Jingu Express. She’s been racing really well and deserves to break through and repay the faith of her owners.”
Deploy and Destroy (Race 5, $13)
Should improve.
Solid first-up at Wodonga and usually improves into his prep.
AD: “He’s come through that run well and always gets better second and third-up.”
Chairman’s Choice (Race 7, $10)
Veteran with a second wind.
He’s enjoyed softer going of late, running fourth and third in stronger company. Barrier 14 is the challenge, but he drops in grade.
AD: “He’s found form again and this looks a nice race. He’s a live chance despite the draw.”
Sunday – Wangaratta
Back on home turf with a few runners flying under the radar. Plenty of value if you look close enough.
Rushford (Race 7, $17)
Last start winner defying his age.
Fresh off a smart win, this 9YO remains in BM58 grade and gets a good gate.
AD: “He’s racing as well as ever. Staying in this grade and at $17, he looks good value.”
Shooting For Stars (Race 8, $46)
Don’t let the odds fool you.
Better than her first-up finish reads and backed it up with a strong jump out.
AD: “She went super in the jump out and Ryan Hurdle has a good opinion of her. Incredible each-way value.”
Mojo Music (Race 9, $41)
Track and class specialist.
Won a BM74 at Wagga and brings that form back home from gate six.
AD: “He’s flying and loves this track. At $41, we’d better check he’s not missing a leg!”
Three Musketeers (Race 10, $12)
Déjà vu chance.
Returns to the same grade and track where he won last start. Good draw and solid each-way option.
AD: “He loves it here – two wins and two placings from four. Freshened and ready. Superb each-way chance at $12”
Monday – Albury
A strong team heads across the border, with several runners capable of making their presence felt.
Hells Son (Race 5, $7.50)
Honest and consistent.
In the money in all four recent runs and looks suited dropping back in trip.
AD: “He’s in great form. With tempo on, he’ll be hitting the line hard.”
Rockbarton Shout (Race 5, $9)
The knockout chance.
Won strongly at Corowa and gets a soft run from barrier two with a 3kg claim.
AD: “She’s flying. At $9 she has to be considered again until she says otherwise.”
Copperfield (Race 6, $10)
Forget last start.
Had no luck at Wagga and gets Heywood on board for a better steer.
AD: “Was stuck in the wrong spot at Wagga and you’re getting a price because of that. The decision for a change in pilot was easy.”
Eamonn’s Memory (Race 6, $20)
Due for a change of luck.
Nothing went right last start, but he’s won twice at Albury and draws well with a hoop that has a good record on the son of Per Incanto.
AD: “Everywhere Nick Heywood pointed him last time it all closed up on him. Nick said it was the best last place he’s ridden. Big improver.”
Bellman (Race 7, $5)
Knocking on the door.
Drops back to the mile after a strong second over 2000m. Targeting a longer race next week.
AD: “There was nothing for him at 2000m this week, so we freshen up at the mile with a return to Wagga next in sight. He’s ready to run a big race.”
Final Word from AD:
“We’ve got horses in great form across all three meetings and I’m quietly confident a few will stand up. There’s plenty of value around if you’re looking for one at a price.”
