Form analyst, RIC CHAPMAN, looks at every runner in Saturday’s Group 1  Sandown Underwood Stakes with horse racing tips for the first four. Read on to see how he maps – he has included the potential for rain in his thoughts. Good luck, punters!
Sandown  R7 – $1 million G1 Underwood Stakes 1800m
1. ZAAKI (5) 31x21213x1
T: Annabel Neasham /J: Jamie Kah (59kg)
The way this race will be run should suit him the most. He can lead or at the least from this gate sit on the outside of Alligator Blood up front. His class and ability to run this trip right out will kick in as they turn for the long run home. The back markers may not be able to catch him. Big show.
2. I’M THUNDERSTRUCK (6) 1x55226x21
T: Mick Price & Michael Kent – J: Mark Zahra (59kg)
Is dynamic and 3rd up here he looks the form horse. Won a Gr 1 last start running Alligator Blood down right on the wire over 1600m and is fitter now. Races as if this trip will suit. Super determined racehorse who will run home very hard late again.
3. ALLIGATOR BLOOD (2) 4x68x21x72
T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott / J: Tim Clark (59kg)
Probably takes up the running and if allowed to dictate will win. But Zaaki also likes to be on pace so there may be some chest-beating early to find the front. Is very good and strong and beaten a nose by I’m Thunderstuck last start over a mile at Gr 1 level. Doesn’t have to lead and is now very fit.
4. MR BRIGHTSIDE (4) 14x3441x11
T: Team Hayes / J: Craig Williams (59kg)
Is the forgotten star here. Is a Gr 1 winner over a mile beating I’m Thunderstruck and has won his past three starts on the bounce. Last start looked awesome being on speed and just racing away to score in the Gr 2 Feehan over a mile. This trip is furthest he has run but form is outstanding.
5. MO’UNGA (3) 2543x26x03
T: Annabel Neasham / J: Hugh Bowman (59kg)
Smart galloper from Sydney who may run a huge race. Stablemate of Zaaki’s and his 3rd to I’m Thunderstruck at Gr 1 level over a mile last start when 2nd up was a peach of a run. Has to find 3 lengths on that run but he is the one best suited to this journey and is now very, very fit. Rates highly.
6. NONCONFORMIST (1) 2x64122x87
T: Grahame Begg / J: Jordy Childs (59kg)
Interesting galloper. Placed in a Gr 1 Caulfield Cup over 2400m and is 3rd up here after a couple of handy WFA runs. May struggle when they turn on the jets with 400m to go but is tough and will keep coming.
