3 minute read

The middle peg of the G1 races for the WA racing season comes up with the Winterbottom Stakes at Ascot.

It will be a fascinating race to watch with Elite Street chasing another win in the race off some brilliant form. As well, a grand horse in 12yo Rock Magic has one last crack at the big time. He was third last year and hoping he goes out safe and sound – what a warrior he's been.

The race prior has the JRA Trophy looking to head to a tried and tested combo with Midnight Blue a great hope.

Last year at this time he got all the way to placing in a Perth Cup and off a good break he's now looking for ground.

The Ascot Gold Cup win was a fairly natural and confident one. He sat back and worked into the race and now with another 300m, he'll be charging over the top.

We see the Pike/Williams/Peters flying as usual this time of year and this bloke can stake his claim for another crack at the New Year's Day test.

Onto the last where we are sticking with two-thirds of that team.

Bogart runs for Bob Peters with Willy Pike up but is trained by Adam Durrant.

This gelding goes so well resuming and is well placed in a race like this given the company he was taking on to end his last prep.

With two trials to prepare, he can let it all unfold in front of him and be the one having last crack at them.

There appears pace drawn inside and out and if it becomes a contest for the front, Pike can tack onto it then pounce.

The only trouble is last race Pike means the price is probably going to be unders by the time it is run.

BEST FROM THE WEST

BET OF THE DAY: Race 7 #4 Midnight Blue @ $2.10

EACH WAY PLAY: Race 9 #4 Bogart @ $6.50