THE WEEKEND WRAP – Cox Plate – Ben Clifton

Weekend Wrap

G1 Review

Cox Plate Moonee Valley Race 9 – won by Via Sistina

Date: 28/10/24

Race Overview – Very strong early tempo but they still ran home well. This race has rated through the roof. Smashed the track record.

Horse Summary:

• Via Sistina – Did the highest rating ever recorded on my database. I do not know how to explain this performance as there had been no indication in her prior form that she was capable of doing this. Maybe Chris Waller can do some explaining? If she goes to the Cup, she will win.
• Prognosis – Great run, couldn’t  have gone any better. Ran into a horse who produced a ridiculous run.
• Broadsiding – Nice effort. Would have won if they went to the Derby.

Spring Champion Stakes Randwick Race 7 – won by El Castello.

Date: 28/10/24

Race Overview – Early tempo only moderate. Didn’t break standard time and not great margins. I’m worried about this race as a form reference.

Horse Summary:

• El Castello – Solid win but is currently $3 favourite for the Derby. I couldn’t back him.
• Henlein – Solid effort. Don’t think he is backing up in the Derby.

Highlight Races from the Weekend

Moonee Valley Race 7 – won by Baraqiel

Date: 28/10/24

Race Overview – Out at a decent tempo but the impressive part of the race was the last 600m/400m/200m sectionals. This will be a good form race.

Horse Summary:

• Baraqiel – Has always shown ability and now it looks like he is destined for G1 level.
• I Am Unstoppable- too far back but ran well. Ready to win.

Maiden Winner/s of the Week:

Date: 23/10/24

Eagle Farm Race 3 – won by Give Me Space.

Why: They went out slower than the other 1200m races on the day but really good late for the class.

Horses to follow from the race:

• Give Me Space – This is a really, really good horse.
• The Rest – follow the rest of the horses in the race.
  
  

Other Notable Horses/Jockeys:

Onesmoothoperator – Soft win in the Geelong Cup. One of very few winning chances in the Cup.

Red Aces – Another leading Derby hope who hasn’t been able to put any decent ratings down. Back up will suit him but can’t back him out of this race.

James McDonald – peerless.

She’s Bulletproof – Very impressive on Friday night at the Valley. Stakes horse.