3 minute read

In a meeting that has a very winter-time look and feel about it West Africa stands out as the horse of most interest at Flemington.

West Africa went for a break on the back of what it must be said was a disappointing fourth at the Valley but his debut romp at Kilmore is still fresh in the memory, albeit against modest opposition.

It was so much the smashing up of his rivals but the smashing up of the clock that impressed at Kilmore.

The track deteriorated on the day, making time comparisons less straightforward, but relative to the time clocked by subsequent city winner Jessy Belle in the opener West Africa put up the performance of a future stakes-performer.

He was given a figure well (well) clear of that of a standard Kilmore maiden winner and if able to replicate that level of form today he will be winning, and winning well.

Miss Maggiebeel is not tipped to go as far as West Africa but she remains a filly of decent promise and a step up in trip today is in her favour.

She has improved with each run this campaign and if able to do so again she’s as good a chance as any in a big even handicap.

Tax Evader was a good winner for us last time but he had found the right race and was afforded all the favours in running to win there.

Again he looks to have found a winnable race today but his chances are perhaps overstated by the early market with things less likely to fall all his way this time.

Happy to be looking away from him at around $2.70.

THE MELBOURNE MAIL:

Banker: Race 7 #8 West Africa @ $3.00

Play Of The Day: Race 5 #4 Miss Maggiebeel @ $5.50

Lay Of The Day: Race 8 #2 Tax Evader