3 minute read

The start of the Winter series for the classy Perth horses begins with the Roma Cup on Saturday.

We find a huge field for the 1200m contest so luck in running is necessary. The lead up Northam Stakes was very much that and horses at odds filled the placings.

Thought Windstorm was the best of the day but he's come out so we'll go for some value in that race now.

The Velvet King only had two runs last time in back in Melbourne and didn't come up in far harder races.

He's now back home, with his normal team in his normal environment.

This time last year he ran in that Winter series and was placed in every one of them including the Roma Cup first up behind a G1 horse in Vega Magic.

The trials seem to indicate he's back on track and if he can slot in early, he could well be a great value play.

Earlier Graceful Girl she kicks back off in an 1100m Handicap in Race 5 for the Peters/Williams/Pike combo.

The filly really hit her straps to end last campaign once she broke the maiden.

She came here over 1200m and picked up a field from last in a small line up but did it with some ease.

Much better for the break and off a trial win, you can see her sitting off the back of the leading division and Pike letting her go under the light weight.

The market has a few hopes in the race so we may get a last chance to back her at decent odds.

BEST FROM THE WEST

BET OF THE DAY: Race 5 #8 Graceful Girl @ $3.50

EACH WAY PLAY: Race 8 #5 The Velvet King @ $12.00