A grey in the wet
Rosehill, Listed Lord Mayors Cup, $150,000 2000m
Polly Grey (NZ) (Azamour {Ire}) was superb when winning last start at Gosford over 2100 metres. She draws in barrier eight for this event and can settle down with cover under Tommy Berry. Expect her to get a lovely run in transit and produce with a strong run if the track sticks in the Soft range.
Parry Sound (Pierro) looks well-placed here with only 53kgs on his back in this event. The Bjorn Baker-trained 5-year-old hasn’t won for some time but is trending towards a well-deserved win. Leading hoop Rachel King has been engaged to ride and will no doubt give him the opportunity to flash home out wide.
Old marvel Grey Lion (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) is trending in the right direction ahead of this event. The Matthew Smith-trained 9-year-old has been most impressive in his two recent starts and has since trialled up well over 1200 metres at Randwick. Kathy O’Hara has plenty of options from barrier five and can give the grey every chance.
The talented Looks Like Elvis (All American) was beaten 0.5l in a high-rating edition of the Listed Scone Cup last start. He rises in trip from the mile and is yet to win from five starts at this trip.
Hartley strong chance
Awapuni, Listed James Bull Holdings Rangitikei Gold Cup, NZ$50,000, 1600m
Hartley (NZ) (Azamour {Ire}) won stylishly last time out in an open handicap at Hastings and he should be even better suited by this distance. He is a two-time winner over a mile and also has form on dry and wet ground.
Shadows Cast (NZ) (Per Incanto {USA}) missed out at his most recent appearance, but was a smart Listed winner on the course at his previous appearance and a strong chance on that effort while More Wonder (NZ) (Mossman) is in good touch and his chances have to be taken seriously.
Rosewood (NZ) (Redwood {GB}) is a talented mare on rain-affected ground and Quiz Kid (NZ) (Iffraaj {GB}) will be a hope if he can cross from a wide gate to take his favoured front-running role. Aquila Star (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) is a progressive mare and might be the best lightweight prospect.
