Racing is back at magnificent Casterton Racecourse for the first time this year where the highlight is the $100,000 Twin Rivers Steeplechase.
Race 1 – Bet365 Maiden Hurdle, 3500m
There is only one way to bet this race and this is on Dubai Moon. He has finished second to Affluential and Alakahan in both of his maidens thus far and that is exceptional form, especially the latter race which was run in exceptionally fast time. He races on speed which is ideal around here. Looks a moral to my eye.
Strategy: Back Dubai Moon.
Race 2 – Ecycle Maiden Hurdle, 3500m
The deeper of the two maiden hurdles with three main chances in Oceanic Flash, Pressfal and Wilewink. I think Wilewink is the bet. Oceanic Flash has been trialling really well but race experience is a big advantage around here and Wilewink has that, as well as the ability to race on speed.
Strategy: Back Wilewink.
Race 3 – Ecycle Hurdle, 3500m
Tricky race this one. If Teofilo Star finds his form out of last season then he should win, but there are some promising types here including Bazini and the underrated Cleaver. Happy to look on here.
Strategy: No bet.
Race 4 – Ecycle Two Rivers Steeplechase, 3800m
What a race this is. Until he shows that he hasn’t come back then the local icon Elvison is the one they have to beat. He’s had eight starts around here and won six. He is the ultimate specialist on a specialist’s track. Tom Foolery coming back from the Grand Annual is the major danger, it’s a big ask to back up just over a fortnight from that race but if anyone can do it, it’s the genius John Leek.
Strategy: Back Elvison.
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