Winterbottom Stakes Preview

The sprinting feature of the WA carnival. It’s Winterbottom day and what a contest we have ahead of us. Will the Darley raiders reign supreme in another Group 1 or will a local hope take the prize. Here’s my hopes for the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes

Rothfire has been racing well against the best around this preparation. Was super first up and since then has been as honest as they come. He was only 2 lengths away in the Champions Sprint and I believe he will appreciate returning to a bend. Loves 1200 metres and looks the class horse in the field. The one to beat for me.

Elite Street is back looking to regain his crown from 2020. Last start he ended up further back after slipping in the gates and then was keen when positioned awkwardly behind horses but did finish off well. He’s only missed the placings once second up and has never missed the placings over this track and trip. Will be in the finish and is a main danger.

Vilana won the hunter last start after having the run of the race defeating In The Congo. Faces a tougher task but has placed 4 times over 1200m. Will be rock hard fit and is as versatile as they come. Wide draw won’t help but if he can find a nice spot in behind the speed, he will be given every opportunity to show his hand. Place hope.

The Astrologist is my best each way hope. Another horse who has been racing in top company and finds a slightly weaker field than usual. Placed 16 times over the trip and will give his all. Barrier 2 allows him to find the front off minimal work when others outside will have to burn tickets in the early stages. William Pike takes the ride and will be searching for West Australian Group 1 success again. Will be in the finish.

Massimo was very tough when winning last start and is one of the better local hopes for me. Will most likely end up with the favourite from that wide draw and I like the drop to 1200 for him here. He will be rock hard fit and poised to run a massive race in his grand final today. Place value

On top hope for me is Rothfire with Elite Street in for second as the best of the local hopes. The Astrologist in for third to add to his ever consistent group 1 form and Vilana and Massimo fighting it out for fourth.

Punt on this here!