The king of the Casterton fences looks an outstanding bet to win his sixth race over the famous course in the Two Rivers Steeplechase.
As usual with Casterton, expect ground on the firmer side with on pace runners favoured in the hurdles.
Race 1 – Maiden Hurdle, 3500m
Not the strongest maiden hurdle run this season. If you attribute Field of Lights failure over jumps earlier this season to the heavy ground, he looks the one to beat, but he’s a good thing’s price. Probably a race I’ll stay away from.
Strategy: No Bet.
Race 2 – WC & AC Miller Maiden Hurdle, 3500m
Dashing Willoughby was a one time Melbourne Cup hope and he has taken to the jumping caper well, placing at two of three over obstacles. How he copes with firmer ground is the unknown, but suspect it won’t be an issue. The other one with a good chance here is Praise The Power. He was gutsy last time out against The Rattlin’ Bog and that horse won last week. Ima Dozer has shown talent in trials but suspect he will be better for the run.
Strategy: Back Dashing Willoughby.
Race 3 – Moredun Hill Casterton Hurdle, 3500m
Very even race. King’s Charisma looks under the odds. Interesting that Aaron Kuru has jumped off Count Zero to stick with last week’s maiden winner, That’s Incranibull. The best bet in the race looks to be Frankenstar. He easily beat King’s Charisma when they met and I like him off the quick back up from a good run last weekend.
Strategy: Back Frankenstar.
Race 4 – Ecycle Two Rivers Steeplechase, 3800m
Elvison is a true specialist at what is a specialist’s course. Forget his last start failure, he’s won five of seven around this course and simply grows a leg here. Mighty Oasis was gutsy as hell running down Rockstar Ronnie last start, but he’s yet to show he can do it around this track. $4.60 in early markets is a fantastic price, he’s a genuine 5/4 chance.
Strategy: Back Elvison.
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