You would think a seven horse open handicap over 1600m would be an easy betting option - wrong.
The $32,000 First Sovereign Trust Handicap at the Tauranga meeting run at Matamata is a difficult one to pick.
The reason is that the two class horses in the field, Bazelle andKind Return, are dropping back in distance and are headed for other things.
Both mares have won at 1600m and you need to keep in mind that the second last time they faced off seriously, Bazelle beat Kind Return a neck in the group one $150,000 Zabeel Classic (2000m) at Ellerslie last Boxing Day. Significantly those beaten were Tusker, All's Well, Kerry O'Reilly, El Duce, Zabeat, Envoy and Distinctly Secret.
Kind Return and Bazelle later met in the group one Whakanui Stud International at Te Rapa, which was inconclusive because of an on-pace bias.
The pair sat back and finished seventh and fifth respectively with only half a length between them.
It's difficult to separate them this time, but one factor that may influence the outcome is the 2.5kg Kind Return receives off Bazelle.
Having to give the two mares weight will not be easy for British Banker, but he represents good class and is fresh.
Avaroadi was checked at Ellerslie last week and then ran up the inside, perhaps not the place to be. He fought hard for his third to Gaze and is still improving.
A firm track will suit Tadan and Kaapsise is putting together a good record..
