Races CRB Darwin

Led throughout in a Benchmark 58 at this track last start, kicking strongly to beat Biden Time by a length after being near the top of betting. That was a sharp turnaround from his previous sixth, when he held a position to the turn but failed to finish off. Has the track-and-trip record, but must back it up.

Resumes after two months off following a plain sixth in Benchmark NT company at this track, beaten over 10 lengths after settling midfield and making no impression. His previous third in a Benchmark 58 was sound enough, and he has one win and four placings from nine starts at this track and distance. Last run was plain, but his track-and-distance record gives him a genuine place profile.

Returns off a five-week freshening after finishing sixth in a Benchmark 58 at this track, beaten five lengths, but that run is worth treating kindly after he was noted racing wide around the home turn. He had earlier worked into third over 1600m despite beginning slowly, and this is easier than the Saturday company he met last time. Previous placing was sound and this easier setup makes him the one to beat.

Continues to race honestly, finishing third in a Class 2 at this track last start after sitting just off the lead and staying on without improving. Two back he was beaten only half a length in a Benchmark 58, and he has placed at all three runs this campaign. Wide draw aside, he holds a strong winning chance.

Was below his best when sixth in a Benchmark 58 at this venue last week, beaten just over eight lengths after sitting handy and lacking the dash to challenge. That followed a Kununurra win in 3yo+ Benchmark 48+ grade, where he worked home over the top as favourite. Kununurra win two back keeps him in the place mix if he rebounds.

Has been close without winning, finishing third to Kessler in a Benchmark 58 at this track last start after being sent out favourite and picking up well late. She had charged home from a long way back for second the run prior, beaten a neck, so the recent form is genuine. Honest mare with place claims, but the win rate tempers confidence.

Second-up after finishing sixth in a Benchmark 58 over 1600m at this track, beaten over 11 lengths after beginning slowly and never getting into the contest. The run prior was another well-beaten sixth in Maiden grade, albeit after beginning awkwardly and racing wide throughout. Others bring far stronger credentials.

Was safely held in a Benchmark 58 over 1600m at this track last start, finishing fifth and beaten just over eight lengths after being unwanted in the market. His previous Katherine run was weaker again, beaten over 15 lengths in Benchmark 64 grade after conceding a big start. Has to lift sharply to trouble these.

Worked home well enough for fourth behind Kessler in a Benchmark 58 at this track last start after jumping awkwardly and settling rearward. That was better than his previous last over 1600m, when slow out and beaten over 12 lengths. Still hard to elevate off his broader recent pattern.