84

shafted

BY: attitude

OUT OF : humble pie

JOCKEY: John Quinlan

HANDICAP: 10  RANGE 15.6 - 9.8

GAMES: 34  STRIKE RATE: 2.47

WIN/PLACE: 5 - 21

The performance of this stallion has been almost without precedent. He has been very hard to match over several years and has a strong preference for running first, third or fifth. So, if you back him do not expect him to come second (or fifth for that matter). More into punting clubbers than clubbing punters.

Interest is likely to be strong so bid early and bid big.

Scratched

78

noodles

BY: flour'n'eggs

OUT OF : pasta machine

JOCKEY: Stephen Butterfield

HANDICAP: 12  RANGE 12.3 - 9.3

GAMES: 47  STRIKE RATE: 1.66

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 21

A new season resolution seems to have been adhered to and the benefits have shown. Has turned up for training more often than most but shows a strong tendency to run second with only a couple of first past the post. Starts off well but gets an attack of the if-onlys and tends to fade in the home straight. Has the form to win and with some support from the bleachers the bidding could be fierce.

Your pockets might need to be deep.

Nominated

73

the adman

BY: commercial

OUT OF : major event

JOCKEY: Simon Powell

HANDICAP: 12  RANGE 13.7 - 10.7

GAMES: 44  STRIKE RATE: 1.66

WIN/PLACE: 3 - 19

Trying to assess the form of this colt is more smoke than mirrors. Has been known to run out of puff but can usually find another nail for the coffin. As a result, the coughin has not improved much but the form has improved with some new tack putting a new grip on things. Has been overtly angling for points in a battle for supremacy with Captain P.

If he can see his way through the Busted Custard there is a very good chance of presenting to the judges.

Scratched

68

odds on

BY: the punter

OUT OF : two flies

JOCKEY: Gordon Hill

HANDICAP: 11  RANGE 13.6 - 9.8

GAMES: 35  STRIKE RATE: 1.94

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 17

Although recently put out to pasture this grey has been known to put in a marathon effort to run down the opposition in his class. Grandfatherly duties have robbed him of a few chances to hone his skills. Seems to favour seconds and fourths but a win could well be in the wind if he can one iron out the kinks. Successfully navigated the canals of France and could easily cap off a good start to the season with a burst to the line.

The bookies will be in shorts for this one.

Nominated

61

shakey isles

BY: all black

OUT OF : miss enz

JOCKEY: Brendon Mitchell

HANDICAP: 11  RANGE 11.8 - 7.1

GAMES: 30  STRIKE RATE: 2.03

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 15

The key to this wee horse might just be some dutch courage. Always checks the range even if he is out of. Not the most regular of trainers but despite this has a goodly strike rate and has shown he can win. Reluctant to run on a wet track so keep your eye on the weather forecasts.

Bound to be popular so the odds could be short.

Nominated

61

spiderman

BY: redback

OUT OF : dunny seat

JOCKEY: Dale Webb

HANDICAP: 17  RANGE 22.8 - 15.3

GAMES: 36  STRIKE RATE: 1.69

WIN/PLACE: 4 - 13

This stocky little brumby has been the big improver this year. Has been in the winners circle more than most and the handicap change reflects that success. The weight has lightened a bit from peak form so there is good potential for him to greet the judges once more.

With support from the extended family, you might need deep pockets to snag this one.

Scratched

60

hit it hard

BY: tienmen

OUT OF : stuff u

JOCKEY: Chris Priems

HANDICAP: 10  RANGE 12.5 - 8.6

GAMES: 39  STRIKE RATE: 1.54

WIN/PLACE: 3 - 14

This champion has been cruising this year and has missed a few chances to add to his impressive tally of podium finishes. A slump in form has seen the connections speaking of an extended period away from the track but the prospect of elevation into another class has helped to keep the interest alive even if it is a year or two down the track. If two is company trees are your friend. The punters have liked this one in the past and this year will be no exception.

Dig deep.

Nominated

58

smashup

BY: speedster

OUT OF : control

JOCKEY: Matt Hunt

HANDICAP: 10  RANGE 10.9 - 9.2

GAMES: 28  STRIKE RATE: 2.07

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 18

In the Hunt for Red October this stallion proved that he really could cut the mustard. Attendance at training has been intermittent but a crash through or crash attitude has resulted in a very handy strike rate.

You could need to smash your bank balance to get hold of this.

Nominated

56

the general

BY: lincolns nemesis

OUT OF : grey coat

JOCKEY: Damien Lee

HANDICAP: 6  RANGE 6.6 - 4.6

GAMES: 25  STRIKE RATE: 2.24

WIN/PLACE: 3 - 10

This big fella is as lightly weighted as he has been all year so the time is ripe for a stellar performance. Recently trained with some new tack and the connections were favourably impressed. Some extra runs leading up to the big day should stand him in good stead.

There will be a barrage of bidding so wear your body armour.

Nominated

55

fat boy slim

BY: mr squiggle

OUT OF : miss piggy

JOCKEY: Ryan Porker

HANDICAP: 11  RANGE 13.5 - 8.4

GAMES: 41  STRIKE RATE: 1.34

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 12

With all the pork-barrelling in recent times this horse could end up being corned. He is known to assault the course with gusto and regularly comes back for seconds. Those in the know think he is ready to take a slice of the action and serve up some apple sauce.

Get some pork on your fork.

Nominated

52

sometime

BY: if i can

OUT OF : maybe i will

JOCKEY: Andrew Petricola

HANDICAP: 5  RANGE 6.3 - 3.9

GAMES: 25  STRIKE RATE: 2.08

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 13

This runner is not backward in coming fourth but has also breasted the tape a couple of times. Not the most regular at training in recent times, he still has the ability to perform. Has won in this event in the past and should be well placed with a weighting on the light side of normal.

Good value to be had here.

Nominated

49

western union

BY: northern lights

OUT OF : southern aurora

JOCKEY: Bill Eastoe

HANDICAP: 7  RANGE 11.4 - 7.3

GAMES: 22  STRIKE RATE: 2.23

WIN/PLACE: 4 - 9

This venerable Beast has been known to do anything to shorten the course. He sometimes even keeps an ace up his sleeve. A recent run of form sees him carrying a bit more weight than earlier in the season and this could be telling though an earlier patch of poor form might now be well past.

Don't die wondering and live dangerously.

Nominated

49

waiting list

BY: hospital

OUT OF : beds

JOCKEY: Dennis Ward

HANDICAP: 17  RANGE 19.5 - 15.9

GAMES: 33  STRIKE RATE: 1.48

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 13

This grey ward horse has done weld this year and has tail-gated the winners on a number of occasions. This would suggest that a visit to the winners circle is well over-due but he might have to wait a little longer to harvest more laurels.

If he runs, give him a run.

Scratched

48

the hustler

BY: tienmen

OUT OF : stuff u

JOCKEY: Robert Priems

HANDICAP: 17  RANGE 17.2 - 15.0

GAMES: 32  STRIKE RATE: 1.5

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 15

Like a Christmas pudding this colt comes from The Basin and sometimes has a hidden charm. The pedigree is good but the winners circle has proved to be elusive in recent times. The weight is on the light side of the range and a win could very well be in the offing.

Good value to be found if the price is right.

Scratched

46

beer barrel

BY: two firkins

OUT OF : kilderkin

JOCKEY: Jason Hopkins

HANDICAP: 12  RANGE 13.5 - 10.9

GAMES: 27  STRIKE RATE: 1.7

WIN/PLACE: 3 - 11

This young colt has been away from the track quite a bit during the season but when he does show it is obvious that he can win. The minor placings have been a bit of a disappointment with a string of fifth places keeping the strike rate down. A win is on the cards if he shows.

Likely to be good value so play your cards carefully.

Scratched

45

crow eater

BY: raven

OUT OF : magpie lark

JOCKEY: Andrew Blight

HANDICAP: 23  RANGE 25.7 - 21.6

GAMES: 23  STRIKE RATE: 1.96

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 12

Slow but steady wins the race though the stars and the golf ball have to align. Not many wins this season but this waler has been knocking on the door trying to get his nose in front.

The weighting is about right so there could be good things to come.

Scratched

39

a touch of blarney

BY: irish eyes

OUT OF : sweet colleen

JOCKEY: Stephen O'Sullivan

HANDICAP: 14  RANGE 15.4 - 12.2

GAMES: 35  STRIKE RATE: 1.11

WIN/PLACE: 3 - 6

This little treasure is one that you can bank on. Although he does tend to go in the shanks from time to time. Wither he can keep on the straight and narrow will determine wither he gets out of jail or not. Has some runs if he can last the distance.

You might fined yourself in trouble if you exceed the limits with this one.

Nominated

36

woodchip

BY: strong bough

OUT OF : plantation forest

JOCKEY: Harry Boughen

HANDICAP: 20  RANGE 20.0 - 16.0

GAMES: 36  STRIKE RATE: 1

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 10

The pickings have been slim during the current season and an extended period away from the track has not helped the form. The handicap is as favourable as it has been all year and a Group 2 win early in the season offers some hope though a Group 1 win remains elusive. The connections are hopeful that a tweak of the running style will straighten things out.

Take a chance as there is a chance.

Nominated

33

off piste

BY: slippery slope

OUT OF : crosscountry

JOCKEY: Stefan Belevski

HANDICAP: 5  RANGE 5.8 - 3.8

GAMES: 15  STRIKE RATE: 2.2

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 7

The currency of form on this young horse is a bit cryptic as the attendance at training has been a little erratic. But when he does show, more often than not he presents to the judges at one level or another.

A propensity for nest raiding means that he has more balls than most.

Nominated

31

Burnt Offering

BY: Irish Chef

OUT OF : Frying Pan

JOCKEY: Daniel O'Rourke

HANDICAP: 26  RANGE 30.5 - 25.6

GAMES: 9  STRIKE RATE: 3.44

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 5

Another newcomer to the track so not a lot of form to go upon. Recently breasted the tape as a maiden to show that the obvious potential will shortly bear fruit. When he hits his stride he could very easily be cooking with gas. With a little more weight to carry you have to ask can a souffle rise twice?.

You'll be cooking with ghee if you get on this gee-gee.

Nominated

30

DaLow

BY: DaNoyse

OUT OF : DaCow

JOCKEY: Peter Damou

HANDICAP: 24  RANGE 27.7 - 23.3

GAMES: 16  STRIKE RATE: 1.88

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 5

This young colt is full of running and has racked up a couple of wins early in his career. Has been known to make a false start or two but has also shown that he can recover once the running settles down. The connections are keen about this dark horse.

Don't be afraid to back a maiden.

Nominated

30

armpits

BY: mcenroe's choice

OUT OF : perfect demeanour

JOCKEY: Bob McDonald

HANDICAP: 26  RANGE 26.9 - 22.4

GAMES: 27  STRIKE RATE: 1.11

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 9

Not too many wins this season but this horse does not like to come second. His style of running, although unusual, can be remarkably effective and harks back to a different track altogether. Does get a bit cranky from time to time but has a really big heart.

The bookies will be McHappy if there is a McFlurry on this one.

Nominated

29

bouncer

BY: hard one

OUT OF : the pitch

JOCKEY: Rodney White

HANDICAP: 18  RANGE 20.3 - 17.3

GAMES: 16  STRIKE RATE: 1.81

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 8

The stewards will be checking for sandpaper under the saddle on this stallion. His entirety is not in doubt as he mostly has the biggest balls in the field. Prefers his grass closely mowed and treated with a heavy roller at this time of year.

When he runs it is likely to be a maiden.

Scratched

27

technocrat

BY: correct swing

OUT OF : swivel hips

JOCKEY: Allan Davies

HANDICAP: 18  RANGE 23.7 - 17.8

GAMES: 18  STRIKE RATE: 1.5

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 5

An extended period under veterinary care has impacted on attendance at training and performance on the track but a good win has added some weight to his back. This old stager has shown form with this weight in the past and should not be passed off too lightly.

If you don't back him, don't be sorry.

Nominated

26

northern general

BY: general grant

OUT OF : miss ohio

JOCKEY: Rod Grant

HANDICAP: 24  RANGE 25.7 - 20.3

GAMES: 22  STRIKE RATE: 1.18

WIN/PLACE: 2 - 4

The connections have invested in some new tack for this fine old stayer and the running has been long and straight since he has become accustomed to the new equipment. A fine run was made for a win early in the season but the pickings have been slim since then.

Some ocular repairs are in the offing so watch out next season.

Scratched

26

mulligan

BY: another shot

OUT OF : miss hit

JOCKEY: David Mullenger

HANDICAP: 8  RANGE 7.8 - 7.4

GAMES: 8  STRIKE RATE: 3.25

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 8

This straight shooter has placed on every occasion that he has presented. Not the most regular horse in the field so perhaps needs more fibre in his diet. Something of an expert on the short part of the course and cleaned up big in a recent run on an out-of-town track.

Don't be a mulligan, there are no free shots.

Nominated

24

rough runner

BY: strate line

OUT OF : check the card

JOCKEY: Targe Mifsud

HANDICAP: 19  RANGE 19.5 - 16.1

GAMES: 28  STRIKE RATE: 0.86

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 5

The long and short of it is that this fine stallion has recently come down to earth. But he has brought himself back to the field in remarkably short time. The stride is still a bit restricted and this could be a telling point in this marathon event.

Reach for the sky if not your pockets.

Nominated

22

latin lover

BY: evil wink

OUT OF : balmy nights

JOCKEY: Keith Delzoppo

HANDICAP: 24  RANGE 23.9 - 22.1

GAMES: 14  STRIKE RATE: 1.57

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 7

A lack of training due to commitments back in the stable mean that this old beast has struggled to get too many runs on the board this season. When he does run he runs hard but the rewards have not amounted to much. If he runs he will certainly try his hardest.

Pick this one and not your nose.

Scratched

22

proper car

BY: daimler

OUT OF : mercedes

JOCKEY: Joe Wagenecht

HANDICAP: 12  RANGE 11.6 - 10.2

GAMES: 13  STRIKE RATE: 1.69

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 6

The connections have been having a hard time trying to yank this stallion away from the stable. The visits to the track have not been without result but the form has drifted a bit over the season so he might be well placed with the weight he is carrying. Could well be due for a win.

London to a brick will get you this one.

Nominated

20

mars bar

BY: turkish delight

OUT OF : sweet tooth

JOCKEY: Trevor Jackson

HANDICAP: 33  RANGE 33.1 - 30.5

GAMES: 16  STRIKE RATE: 1.25

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 6

These days, this horse is mostly on the cart rather than behind it. A bit like a riding school pony, it would often rather go home but usually perseveres unless he runs out of puff. Can put in a good run on his day.

Probably better value elsewhere.

Nominated

18

bagpipe chanter

BY: rocky peak

OUT OF : highland home

JOCKEY: Craig Cameron

HANDICAP: 9  RANGE 10.7 - 8.3

GAMES: 9  STRIKE RATE: 2

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 6

Another horse that really should be bringing a note. However, when he does answer the roll, he is right in the thick of it and shows one of the better strike rates in the field. Could very well be a force to be reckoned with.

Value to be had if you like a punt.

Nominated

18

bush ranger

BY: young ned

OUT OF : the clink

JOCKEY: Stephen Kelly

HANDICAP: 11  RANGE 12.3 - 11.0

GAMES: 8  STRIKE RATE: 2.25

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 5

Irregular attendance at the track makes this one hard to judge but has presented in the winners circle this season. The lack of training and a slightly greater weight to carry could make it difficult for this colt over the distance but certainly capable of surprising.

You can't try before you buy, but don't die wondering.

Nominated

18

cup winner

BY: king charles

OUT OF : red wine

JOCKEY: Brent Rowley

HANDICAP: 13  RANGE 12.9 - 11.1

GAMES: 17  STRIKE RATE: 1.06

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 7

With less weight to carry and a middle of the road strike rate suggests that this colt is struggling a bit with his form. Adjustment to life with his extended family and a new foal in the stable could be a contributing factor.Will need to snap out of it to present to the judges.

Snap him up as a long shot.

Nominated

16

licence 2 kill

BY: bond

OUT OF : pussy galore

JOCKEY: Malcolm Fleming

HANDICAP: 22  RANGE 25.2 - 19.8

GAMES: 17  STRIKE RATE: 0.94

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 5

A return to racing and a win and several placings and it seemed that this venerable old war-horse was well and truly back on track. However, a couple of misfortunes and a need for a ticker tocker have delayed a full come-back until next season. Definitely has ambitions to go weight-for-age.

Unlikely starter so save your money for next year.

Scratched

14

Grandags

BY: Fingertips

OUT OF : Scheherazade

JOCKEY: Ben Akdag

HANDICAP: 22  RANGE 22.5 - 20.6

GAMES: 8  STRIKE RATE: 1.75

WIN/PLACE: 1 - 2

After being out to pasture for a number of years this aygir has made a comeback. Noted for his false starts, he has defied the odds and made good with a win and a couple of placings and a good strike rate from very few starts.

The handicap is at the favourable end of his range and a win is a possibility.

Scratched

13

low marker

BY: good swing

OUT OF : talent

JOCKEY: Michael Gourlay

HANDICAP: 4  RANGE 3.7 - 2.1

GAMES: 9  STRIKE RATE: 1.44

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 5

This political animal is looking a bit green around the gills after volunteering to campaign for lost and other causes. Very few appearances at the track and, possibly, a hangover from last years gang-buster has resulted in paltry returns. Hopes to excel in his new weight-for-age category.

Could be a sleeper, so wake up to yourself.

Nominated

13

mild mannered reporter

BY: old crock

OUT OF : cape york

JOCKEY: Matt Nicholls

HANDICAP: 19  RANGE 19.4 - 16.3

GAMES: 16  STRIKE RATE: 0.81

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 3

This young bolter has returned to the long paddock and has only been seen on the track once since using borrowed tack. Is able to rabbit(oh) on more than usual in his new surroundings. If he runs, his form will be hard to pick.

Don't be a bunny when the bidding starts.

Scratched

8

dennis the menace

BY: david law

OUT OF : gloria henry

JOCKEY: Dennis Tiernan

HANDICAP: 18  RANGE 18.8 - 17.8

GAMES: 6  STRIKE RATE: 1.33

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 3

An occasional runner at best and best when things are going smoothly. Has been in the placings but irregular training could count against any chance here.

Better value elsewhere.

Scratched

6

dags

BY: golden ram

OUT OF : pretty ewe

JOCKEY: Mehmet Akdag

HANDICAP: 11  RANGE 11.3 - 10.3

GAMES: 6  STRIKE RATE: 1

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 2

The running style of this young beygir is a tad unusual but looks aren't everything. Seems to be besotted with a young filly at the home stable. Very few runs this year and it would be a brave punter who picks this one.

Save your money for 'ron.

Nominated

1

crewcut

BY: hairdresser

OUT OF : pinot noir

JOCKEY: Chris Vinecombe

HANDICAP: 9  RANGE 9.2 - 8.0

GAMES: 7  STRIKE RATE: 0.14

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 1

This young colt has been in double trouble all year and attendance at the track has suffered as a result. The handicap shows that there is talent aplenty and it just needs a chance to shine through. If he races the connections probably feel he has a chance.

It'll be bye-bye if you don't buy.

Scratched

0

krispy's kreme

BY: hit it hard

OUT OF : bounds

JOCKEY: Jake Priems

HANDICAP: 28  RANGE 28.1 - 27.5

GAMES: 3  STRIKE RATE: 0

WIN/PLACE: 0 - 0

The enthusiasm of this young colt for the sport will have to be open to question. The fruit might have fallen far from the tree in this respect. Definitely a maiden in this event and the chances would appear to be slim.

A sentimental buy at best.

Scratched