Blackmagicwoman. Photo / Trish Dunell
Each-way value rather than attacking the short prices looks the sensible way to tackle the tricky fields at Pukekohe today.
Race 1, a maiden 2200m, is hardly an inspiring event, but each way on Sienna Grace (No7) could produce a reasonably good result. The Ekraar mare can handle winter conditions,
but more important she looks like a typical wind-up staying type and they are admirably suited by the long Pukekohe home straight. The nice barrier and good rider won't hurt. Lothbrok (No1) deserves a turn.
Plenty of chances in Race 2. She's All Clang (No7) had her winning run halted last time but she was jumping from moderate grades to the Taumarunui Cup at Rotorua. She got back with the cap catchers and never emerged. Completely forget that run and with her dropping back to R72 grade today she rates highly with Sam Spratt aboard. Shaune Ritchie has a strong hand with Where Are You (No8) and Blackmagicwoman (No5) engaged. Both are capable mares in winter and should be included in all multiples. Wooden Edge (No1) is interesting. In four starts this preparation he has failed badly in three of them at Te Rapa, but taken to Te Aroha he finished a nice third two back. Away from Te Rapa again today he might do something decent, particularly with the 4kg claim. Not an easy race.
Call Me Bob (No3, R3) has looked very smart winning his only two starts since resuming. With Wiremu Pinn taking 3kg off his back he will get his chance on his home track to make it three straight. Midnight Runner (No6) gets 4kg off his back and comes right into contention in conditions that should be pretty testing.
A bit of value here. Suspense (No6, R4) didn't threaten on debut, but went a useful race for sixth. He is the type of Rip Van Winkle that should improve quickly and stepping from 1200m to 1400m will be ideal. He will have the benefit of Jason Waddell. The same case could be made for locally-trained Theonlyway (No4). He was beaten less than one length when fourth at Avondale last time and the 1400m is going to suit him as well. Ted Talks (No3) for value.
