Bendigo
Race 4 – Navajo Warrior
Jockey – John Allen
1600m – Barrier 1
Improving galloper Navajo Warrior has an excellent chance to break his maiden today in his fourth start for the Dwyer stable. The five-year-old son of Mettre En Jeu has placed in two of his three runs since joining the Ballarat operation, his latest run full of merit when third ;at Kilmore over 1450-metres. He made an early move from the back on that occasion, taking off at the 600-metre mark and tracking wide from there on. Jockey John Allen will get a softer trip today from an inside draw and will settle better than midfield in the run. Team Hawkes runner Miss Uchitel has been installed as a short-priced elect here on the back of an impressive debut at this track two starts back. She finished within half-a-length of the winner that day over 1300-metres but has since disappointed as favourite at this trip last time out. She no doubt has talent but can’t have her at the price. The race really thins out from there, these two look to have the prize between them. Concede a place hope to Reel Bonnie Lass who was sound on debut but she will appreciate getting over more ground. Navajo Warrior will enjoy getting back to a mile here and is drawn to get all the favours throughout the event. With even luck he can win this without surprising.
Currently, Navajo Warrior is a $6.50 chance in the market.
Race 8 – Elmore Lad
Jockey – Ryan Houston
1300m – Barrier 5
Veteran galloper Elmore Lad returns to his favourite track this afternoon after running soundly in metropolitan company last start. The eight-year-old drops significantly in class for this, his big weight offset by apprentice Ryan Houston’s 3kg claim. The young hoop can enjoy a good run from a favourable draw, settling one or two pairs back in the running line. Mitch Freedman’s Vagrant has upside and shapes as hardest to beat here. This filly was competitive in Group company during her debut preparation and was very good first-up at Geelong. She’s drawn well and will be strong late. Hillcrest Moses has been racing consistently in this grade without winning. He’s drawn awkwardly and while this race is within his means, another placing looks on the cards. Peshwa will be better over further but will go forward and give a sight from gate two. Elmore Lad should get every opportunity fight out the finish here. If he can get off heels in the home straight he’s looks great value at an each way price.
Currently, Elmore Lad is an $18 chance in the market.