3 minute read
Just how wet Rosehill will be remains to be seen which doesn’t make it easy writing up your tips on a Wednesday (we analysts do love an excuse).
No filly has ever won the Golden Rose since the feature was upgraded to Group 1 status in 2009.
During that time 23 have tried with three finishing second, Champagne Cuddles (2017), Omei Sword (2016) and Speak Fondly (2015).
Nechita remains the only filly to start inside 2-1, finishing sixth in 2012 when sent out the $2.50 favourite.
A further five have started single figures, two of which finished second, Omei Sword ($4.50) and Speak Fondly ($4.50).
Zero from 23 doesn't make for good reading but the market only expected two wins during that period.
The James Cummings trained In Secret heads the market and will be out to become the sixth horse to complete the Run To The Rose-Golden Rose double.
Since 2009, 11 horses have attempted the feat with Bivouac the most recent victor in 2019.
Five from 11 made more impressive by the fact the market only anticipated four, also worth noting had Rothfire not broken down, it could easily be six from 11.
In Secret was dominant winning the Run To The Rose last start with Bivouac the only horse to win the feature by further.
McDonald links back aboard and is striking at 30% for the last 30 days (74 runners) - made more impressive by the fact he is beating the market during that period (22 against an exp.18).
Dig a little deeper and he's beating the market the last six months (304 rides: 84 wins against an exp.70) – he's next level.
Drawn to get every chance on the inside, she just needs to handle the likely heavy track.
One horse who won't be bothered by the wet track is the Bjorn Baker trained War Eternal.
An unlucky second behind stablemate Ita last weekend, he should be nearing his peak and looks very well treated down in the weights.
Third up last preparation he ran fourth in the Group 1 Randwick Guineas, form which leaves him as one of the hardest to beat.
Big odds ($16) have been bet early and he looks a great each-way bet.
Simon Dinopoulos' Tips:
Race 8 #16 In Secret @ $3.00
Race 9 #13 War Eternal @ $16
