3 minute read

The first ATC meeting post carnival produces a nine race program where some each way plays profile as the way to go.

The first is Special Missile who contests the Rygate Racecourse Design Benchmark 94 Handicap (1350m).

Special Missile has performed well in his two starts since dropping back from Group company.

Close up efforts behind the likes of Osborne Bulls and Tribal Wisdom read well for this contest which has Serene Miss as an even money favourite.

The four-year-old should be peaking at this stage of his prep, has drawn to get a cosy run and also has a 2kg claim of Blaike McDougall used to good effect.

Highly consistent through 14 career starts to date, Special Missile is yet to run out of the money at this course in three prior visits.

While Serene Miss is clearly talented, Kris Lees placed the mare extremely well in the Provincial Championships and is worth taking on.

The second each way play on the card comes in Race 5 where Valree contests the TAB Highway Plate (1500m).

Valree has proceeded to work through her grades this campaign and last start was finding the line impressively for a 2.2 length fourth at Newcastle.

It was a bold run produced after she copped a severe check at the start and lost substantial ground.

For anyone who has the time, watch a replay of the run and you’ll see what I mean.

Furthermore, runners contesting Highway Handicaps off lead up runs in provincial or metropolitan events generally perform well.

With a bit more luck than she received at Newcastle last start, the daughter of Ad Valorem could take holding out fourth run from a spell with Robert Thompson in the saddle.

Sydney Specials: Rosehill – May 5

Each Way Play #1: R7; #4 Special Missile @ $5.50