3 minute read

The Cliff Brown trained Bluestone was very impressive in his maiden preparation and remains a big watch fresh in the third event at Kranji on Friday night.

A standout performance on debut, Bluestone proceeded to take a good step forward when far too good under Alysha Collett.

While only a Novice event, he wasn't short of opposition with Hotshots Slam and Ocean Crossing creating a fair bit of interest.

Although no match for Inferno in the Group 2 Golden Horseshoe [1200m], Hotshots Slam stuck on well to finish third, while Ocean Crossing was lining up off a handy maiden win.

In a stirring battle for favouritism, a strong move late saw Bluestone sent out the even money favourite (Hotshots Slam - $2.60) and he duly saluted.

Jumping away well in the centre, Bluestone pressed on to settle outside Hotshots Slam, with the two favourites eye-balling each other to the turn.

Travelling well into the straight, Bluestone ambled up to Hotshots Slam with the latter finding little under pressure.

Taking over inside the 300m, Bluestone quickly put the race to bed, ridden out to the line to score by 1.3L.

The Michael Clements trained Prime Time found the line well to finish second, but was no match.

Rated 82+ by Timeform on debut, Bluestone came off that figure last start, though no real surprise given how well weighted he was (51kg).

Beginning his career on the polytrack, he ticked two big boxes last start, winning on the turf and also stepping up to 1200m.

Never easy for horses to do this and he quickly confirmed the promise he showed from his debut win.

Returning off a short break (70 days), he has trialled very well in the lead up and is expected to press forward from the wide draw.

Leading rider Michael Rodd takes over and he is sure to be very hard to beat.

The Steven Burridge trained Autumn Assault looms as a major threat off the back of two handy performances last time in.

He finished second behind Revolution first up before not beaten far behind Top Knight prior to a break.

Off the scene for 222 days, he has had the three trials in the lead up and looks ready to rock'n'roll.

Last start winner Beer Garden steps up sharply in grade, but is trending the right way and has to be respected with the added aid of the claim.

Of the rest Performante appears the next in line.

Good luck and happy punting.