Best Bets – Wednesday 4 Feb

The thing I most like about this race, is the fact there will be abundant speed on early and through. This then gives the noted back marker, BELLO CAVALLO, a helping hand. He can rattle home. Last start he was 17th on the bend in a strong maiden at the Gold Coast, this trip, yet finished 6th. Small field here helps. Quinella with Kokatahi, who is consistent. Good race.

I am suspecting there will be a BIG move for this bloke HAY STREET close to start time. He resumes here in the outside gate but do not let that concern you. He is better than these. Get on.

On weights and measures, Chris Waller’s VANESSI looks the play. Siena Grima’s claim makes her, now she is 3rd up, a very attractive bet as she placed this grade last start. Stablemate, Useapin, drops in grade and has Jay Mac on top so let’s quinella them.

Gee, this topweight FORBIDDEN RIFF is racing in career-best form and as such, even though he’s been up a fair while, I just think he’s a major player here. Won 3 easier provincial races on the bounce, then straight to a hard Saturday grade test last start, where he was unwanted in the betting, yet he charged home to run 2nd. This race is easier.

I just love horses coming back in grade, even ones out of form like this well-bred but unreliable KADALL is. He is 4th up here and will appreciate this grade and the long straight.