Benalla
Race 5 – Pannier
Jockey – Madison Lloyd
2100m – Barrier 6
Tavistock gelding Pannier steps out to 2100-metres for the first time in his career at Benalla this afternoon. The four-year-old galloper has had three starts this preparation, running on soundly into third place at Warrnambool last start in a slowly-run race. Jockey Madison Lloyd leaves from barrier 6 today and can let her gelding roll in the early parts, finding cover midfield or worse throughout.
Speed looks just okay with Written Advice and Connecticut to roll forward from low draws, while Cheval Savant and Hallowed Ruby can come across and look for the top early on. Cheval Savant races best on top of the ground (7:2-1-2) and gets conditions to suit today. The last start win at Canberra was tough at 2000-metres and he should be able to find a forward position again here. Hardest to beat. Connecticut was sound from the back at Geelong last start where the leaders had the race/bias to suit. Out to this distance looks ideal and he can settle more forward off a steadier tempo. Strong claims. They look the main dangers, but concede an each way chance to Uniquely who has been racing in stronger company and gets in well after an apprentice claim.
Pannier races like the extra trip today will be to his liking, providing the race is run at a genuine gallop. He’s fitter for three runs this campaign, and with even luck from a tricky draw, he can be fighting out the finish. Each way chance.
Currently, Pannier is a $5.50 chance in the market.