Benalla
Race 4 – Navajo Warrior
Jockey – John Allen
1606m – Barrier 4
Five-year-old gelding Navajo Warrior has just his second career start today – and his first for the Dwyer stable – when he tackles a mile first-up in race four. The son of Mettre En Jeu failed to beat a runner home on debut at Goulburn in February last year and, despite many jumpouts, is likely to need the run here today. This is a competitive maiden and any one of five runners could win this, so leave me out! The stable are keen to see their new runner hit the line today with a view to future runs this preparation.
Currently, Navajo Warrior os a $17 chance in the market.
Race 5 – Mortar
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
1606m – Barrier 2
Tarzino gelding Mortar nears peak fitness today as he steps out to a mile in race five. The four-year-old has been sound in two runs this preparation and the jump in trip is a suitable progression for this promising galloper. Mitch Aitken jumps back on board today and will drift back from an inside draw. He will be looking for room around the halfway point of the race to build momentum and inject his gelding into the race. There are a few dangers in the race, led by in-form mare Tiara Jewel who has won two of her past three starts. Though he will appreciate more ground next time out, Mortar is a strong winning hope in this open event.
Currently, Mortar is a $4 chance in the market.
Race 6 – Kyteler
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
1406 – Barrier 13
Four-year-old gelding Kyteler finds a moderate benchmark-58 contest today as he looks to record a first win for his new stable. The son of Shamus Award has drawn wide in the event and Mitch Aitken will have a job of finding a spot near the lead without burning too many tickets early. There looks to be plenty of speed on paper so camping behind the leaders may not be the worst option for this galloper. Antarctic Ocean and Perito Moreno could prove hard to beat but this is a race of limited abilities and Kyteler can make his presence felt in this grade.
Currently, Kyteler is a $27 chance in the market.