Racing expert, RIC CHAPMAN, looks at today’s meetings and singles out his top three racing tips for the Grafton race meeting. Good luck, punters!Â
Grafton R5 – Cl 2 Hcp 1100m Â
Tough field, full of depth and barriers will play a huge role. I think LASTING KISS not only has a lovely name but also a bit of talent. She has raced four times and has yet to finish further back than 2nd. She just keeps stepping up when the grade increases. Last start, with her brand new trainer Stephen Lee, was a cracking 2nd when resuming over 1215m. That was a Cl 1 so this is harder but she is fitter too. Great show.
Tip: LASTING KISS @ $2.50
Grafton R6 – $80k Grafton Guineas 1600mÂ
A few of these are getting better with racing but none I suspect are on the same sort of fast-tracked trajectory as REMUS. He looks a potential star in the making even if his form suggests he’s beaten nothing yet. It is the way he runs away from them late that is appealing. Today is his 4th start. He has won his part two in fine style and looks like he will develop into a smart stayer.
 Tip: REMUS @ $4.50
Grafton R7 – $200k Ramornie Hcp 1200m Â
Interesting race. There will be, as there always is, lots of money for the lower weighted horses but this time around I think they are heading in the wrong direction. USMANOV and OUTBACK BARBIE have earned their weight and to be frank they don’t seem overly burdened. Usmanov won a stakes race with a big weight two starts back and is in sparkling form. Only beaten 2 lengths last start in a Group race. Looks to settle just behind the speed and his class should prevail. Outback Barbie has always had the ability to rattle home and this track suits runners like that. Sure fire quinella.
Tip: USMANOV @ $16.00