Derby Day

The Big Day Has Arrived

It is work as usual for us in between the two biggest race days of the year. Owners of Influential Miss are off to an early start in the morning and are once again looking forward to a big performance from the mare as she defends her 2010 Cup Day win.

Our Derby Day tipster did fairly well - while the market supported his faith in the staying ability of Manawanui, it was the NZ bloodline of Sangster (pictured), purchased at a steal ($19K) by trainer Trent Busuttin, that held on to win the big race. But our tipster Craig did succeed with his best win bet of the day, Glass Harmonium, ridden to perfection by D.Oliver to snatch victory in the G1 Mackinnon S. as well as a berth in tomorrow's Melbourne Cup. And what of Stanzout? We think he's still running.

So,  now to the big one. The Melbourne Cup. As most Victorians have taken the liberty to stay at home, I called across the corridor and asked long-time Clanbrooke owner Geoff Best to do the honours. So Geoff, who will win the big one this year?
Geoff's tip for the Melbourne Cup: No. 2, Jukebox Jury
Best bet of the day: Race 2, No. 6
Best roughie: Melbourne Cup, No. 13, Hawk Island


Roll on Derby Day

Like many of you, we regard Derby Day as the best day on the Australian Racing calendar. Whilst we don't have a runner at Flemington tomorrow, we will be cheering MANAWANUI (by ORATORIO) home in the Derby. We have a 2YO colt by ORATORIO waiting in the wings and another G1 in his sires' cap would certainly help the confidence.

Our tipster for Derby Day is long-time Clanbrooke owner Craig Watson. Craig's first horse with Clanbrooke was Typical Blonde, a first start winner at 20-1 trained by Trent Pennuto back in 2005. A few (some good, others not so good) horses later, Craig is currently a part-owner of `Delegance' and 'Star of Pisa.'
Craig's tip for the Derby: Manawanui
and just because it's Derby Day...
Best win bet: Race 5, no.8, Glass Harmonium
Best place bet: Race 8, no.7, Stanzout

For those making the trip to Flemington on Tuesday, keep an eye out for fellow Clanbrooke owners in Race 2 when Influential Miss (pictured winning the same race last year) defends her title. Drawn beautifully in barrier 3 with Steven King again on board, we are hoping the sting will be out of the ground, giving her every possible chance. Good Luck to connections.
 

Derby Day