Racing: Quinella betting looks safest route

By MIKE DILLON

Balmuse will probably come up at unbackable odds at Awapuni today. But don't let that put you off.

The best approach will be multiple betting with perhaps the quinella being the safest route.

There could be a bit of value in the Balmuse-King Of Them All quinella. Trainer Bruce Marsh is adamant King Of Them All will be a much improved horse than in the Mudgeway Stakes two weeks ago.

Others to include in the quinella with Balmuse are Floydeboy and Elendil.

At Ruakaka today in Race 6 Cog Hill (No. 2) looks the best bet. He looked exceptional racing through summer and has a good record fresh from a break. For multiples, include River Chief (No. 1) and Rushanwin (No.3).

In Race 3, Takanini filly Justa Tad (No. 8) appeals as an each-way prospect. She showed plenty of potential in only two starts as a juvenile.

You may have to take skinny odds but Burglar (No. 2) looks a great bet in Race 9. His 8th placing behind Starcraft last start was considerably better than it looks on paper.

* Australian jockey Rhys McLeod is riding Dowry in the $120,000 Stoney Bridge Stakes at Hastings next Saturday. He is looking for additional rides and can be contacted on (61) 41-255-4155.