CELEBRATING DARRIN VOSS BENCHMARK 64 HANDICAP
AI Selections & Analysis (8 runners)
Lugarno boasts the best recent form, culminating in a strong win last start and a high place percentage. With an inside barrier and a good jockey, he is well-placed to handle the step up in distance and class. His consistency makes him the top pick.
Savvy Spy, from a top stable, has a high win and place percentage from limited starts and is stepping up to a more suitable distance. While the wide barrier is a slight concern, his potential for improvement and the strong stable/jockey combination make him a genuine threat. He's a strong contender with scope.
This horse has shown glimpses of ability with two wins from eight starts and a good win percentage. The Ciaron Maher stable and an inside barrier are positives, but the last start unplaced run and step up in distance are mild concerns. She is a strong each-way chance if she can find her best form.
From the Waller stable with Kerrin McEvoy aboard, Procean has a strong jockey/trainer combination and an ideal barrier. However, his form string is inconsistent, and he's yet to win at this distance, making him a place hope rather than a top winning chance. He could surprise with the right run.
Afloat showed some improvement with a third last start and has a good barrier. The step up to 2000m is a query given his limited career wins, but he could run into the placings if he handles the distance. He's an each-way chance at best.
Another runner from the Waterhouse/Bott stable, Fearn Trick has limited starts and is stepping up significantly in distance and class. While a last-start winner, his overall form and wide barrier suggest he's a roughie with a lot to prove at this level. This is a big ask for him.
Magicon has a high number of career starts but a low win and place percentage, with recent form being poor. While he has a good barrier, his current form string and lack of recent competitive runs make him a long shot. He needs to improve significantly to feature.
Whetu has a concerning recent form string with multiple unplaced runs and a low place percentage. Despite an inside barrier, his current performance suggests he is well out of form and facing a tough task against this field. He is a rank outsider.