Well-credentialled visitor
G3 Bet365 Geelong Cup, $400,000, 2400m
Ashrun (Fr) (Authorized {Ire}) finished runner-up last time out in the G2 Prix Kergorlay and that Deauville race has proved a sound form guide in the past. He is a lightly-tried 5-year-old and prepared by G1 Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Andreas Wohler.
Anthony and Sam Freedman look to have a strong hand here with Steel Prince (Ire) (Nathaniel {Ire}) and Le Don De Vie (GB) (Leroidesanimaux {Brz}).
The former has performed well to post consecutive Group 3 placings this preparation while his stablemate hasn’t raced since he won a Listed distance event in England in August and his fresh form is very good.
Steel Prince (Ire)
King Of Leogrance (Fr) (Camelot {GB}) wasn’t sighted when resuming, but is more than capable of a quick turnaround and Skyward (Fr) (Camelot {GB}) has raced well in strong European company and he adds to the puzzle in an open race.
The recent efforts of Sound (Ger) (Lando {Ger}) are hard to fault and we know he isn’t short on stamina. Entente (Dundeel {NZ}) has won his last two in typical Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott front-running style and if left alone at the head of affairs could prove troublesome.
Distance to suit
Listed Roderick Insurance Geelong Classic, $140,000, 2200m
Alycone (Teofilo {Ire}) hinted at his staying ability last term when he was successful over 1800 metres at Flemington. He looked a touch one-paced when eighth last time out in the Listed Super Impose S. and looks sure to be more comfortable over this distance.
Rousseau (So You Think {NZ}) has been quite genuine in his career and the way he has made late ground in his last two appearances suggests he can be more effective at 2200 metres.
Confrontational (Redoute’s Choice) is another consistent customer and a decent hope while Kenzan (Adelaide {Ire}) was a middle distance placegetter at his most recent appearance so deserves respect.
Ultimate Edition (Helmet) won his maiden well enough to suggest he can be competitive and Volatile Stock (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) has already placed over ground so there’s no doubt he won’t be found out by the trip.
Group 1 form
Listed Bennett Racing Black Pearl S., $140,000, 1200m
Xilong (Deep Field) showed her quality last term when placed in the G1 Surround S. and resumed when fifth in the G3 Northwood Plume S. She wilted late after making the pace and she has twice been a second-up winner.
Music Bay (Choisir) hasn’t raced since she won the Leilani Final at Flemington during the winter, but has a more than handy first-up record with a win and three placings from five attempts.
Wild Vixen (Foxwedge) is another who has proved herself to be handy off a break and was a stakes winner last preparation while Wayupinthesky (Snitzel) has two runs under her belt and on her best form is a genuine chance. She ran second to Rubisaki (Rubick) in the G2 PJ Bell S. in the autumn.
There is plenty of scope for an upset and Algadon Miss (Equiano {Fr}) is worth more than a passing look. She wasn’t far away in the G3 Northwood Plume S. following a strong resuming third on this course.
