WYONG LEAGUES GROUP CLASS 1 & MAIDEN PLATE
AI Selections & Analysis (6 runners)
Gran Caballo brings the best recent form into this race, with a win and multiple placings including a strong 2nd over 1900m recently. The inside draw and solid career place percentage suggest it's due for another strong performance at this distance. It looks to be the most reliable pick in a modest field.
This Irish import showed some promise with a win over 1900m last preparation and has drawn the coveted inside barrier. While recent form is mixed, the rise in distance to 2100m could be beneficial, making it a strong contender if it finds its best. Jockey Keagan Latham is a positive booking.
From the Chris Waller stable, Procean has shown glimpses of ability with a win and some placings, and his career earnings are the highest in the field. While recent form is inconsistent, the step up to 2100m might be what he needs to improve, making him a genuine chance with a top trainer. Lee Magorrian is a capable jockey.
With only one win from 20 starts and a low win/place percentage, Oakfield Echidna struggles to convert starts into wins. However, the horse has run over longer distances previously and has a good barrier, making it a potential each-way chance if the pace suits. Trainer Damien Lane can often improve these types.
Rita's Pearl broke her maiden recently but her overall form string is inconsistent and her win/place percentages are low. While she has a decent barrier, the step up to 2100m is a question mark, making her a roughie with some claims on her best day. She'll need to find significant improvement to challenge the top picks.
With no wins or placings from four starts and very limited prizemoney, Pharoah Queen is a rank outsider in this field. The horse is unproven at this distance and shows no recent form to suggest a competitive run. It would be a major surprise to see this one figure in the finish.