Noble Tess is trying the 1800m distance for the first time. After two races back, including a tough run at Kembla Grange where she struggled to recover from a wide position, she now seems ready to perform at her best with improved fitness. This race also looks easier, which should work in her favor.
Not Written Off has a strong second-up record, even though she hasn’t won in over a year. Cameron Crockett’s mare had a tough, wide run at Moree in her last race, but she performs well over longer distances, including a second-place finish at Armidale over 1100m last year. With a good draw in a simpler race, she’ll be hard to beat in the finish.
Exotic Dancer could dominate this race if she’s at her best. The daughter of Russian Revolution impressed on debut in Canberra, finishing strongly along the rail to win convincingly. Although she faced a tougher competitor second-up at Kembla Grange, she performed well, and the return to country level should suit her perfectly.
Too Much Caviar was impressive at Rosehill last start, using a powerful burst of speed at the 200m mark to take the lead and win convincingly. That confidence-boosting performance sets her up well for this race. Despite a tricky draw, if she shows that same late speed, she’ll be hard to beat, especially over a longer distance. A dry track will be crucial, and with plenty of potential, she looks like the one to watch.