Racing: Waikato Guineas shapes as rugged contest

McQueen looks suited to the 2000m feature today. Photo / Trish Dunell

Can anyone remember a more even Waikato Guineas field?

We can't and today's $100,000 race should be a beaut.

Usually by this stage of the season a real star has emerged to stand above the others. That is no criticism of the current bunch - they are all very good.

Not necessarily in this order, McQueen, Palace Rock, Margin Trader, Mongolian Khan and Kolonel Kev will make this a memorable contest and failing to mention some other smart types.

Okay, to narrow it down to one, McQueen - he could not have been more stylish in winning at Ellerslie last time and looks suited to the 2000m. Palace Rock is the value runner. She was flattened in the Royal Stakes last start. The Derby picture should come more into focus after this.

The two-year-old, Race 3, is also not easy. Reminisce (No4) turned in a remarkable performance to come from last on the home bend to be swamping the leaders at Ellerslie last start. Rory Hutchings couldn't get her around the right-handed home bend and she didn't balance up until well into the home straight. Left handed this time could be different. Unsurpassed (No2) and Rocanto (No1) are dangers.

You might have to take short odds about Fiftyshadesofgrey (No2, R4), but she should be difficult to beat. She is due another win. Elusive Gold (No1) is a must for multiples.

Hillsborough (No6, R5) looks a stayer with a future. Neither of his last two wins were flukes and he will go close to a winning treble.

It's time for Show The World (No7, R6) to stand up. His form is not hopeless, but he's probably a touch away from where we thought he'd be at the start of his preparation. This race will tell a lot of stories.

Farm Boy (No7) is better than useful.

Victor Hugo (No1, R8) overcame a slow start to win at Trentham and if anything this field looks a little easier.

Dramatist (No9, R9) has been freshened and that should be the key.