The biggest day of racing in Australia is upon us and unlike the bygone days where Flemington was the only venue worth looking at, V’Landys and co at Racing NSW have created a race meeting at Rosehill that sees the $10m Golden Eagle and the $3m Russell Balding on the card. Crazy given the Coolmore and VRC Derby carry $2m purses.
As always Racing Xtra panellist Luke Dittman, has his sights set on some nags lining up in the big features, with this week’s Contender v Pretender covering the VRC Derby and Golden Eagle.
CONTENDER V PRETENDER – VRC DERBY
Contender is King of Thunder $6: Run behind Red Aces was the perfect lead up; James stays on and could be two lengths closer in the run thanks to a better gate. O’Shea will have him perfectly primed for this historic race.
Pretender is Keeneland $10: Form has been good, but he looked a bit flat last start when he didn’t quicken like he usually does.
CONTENDER V PRETENDER – GOLDEN EAGLE
Contender is Ascoli Piceno $3.90: Japanese raider that’s a true miler and has insane form around Stellenbosh and Jantar Mantar. Barrier a worry so will need a Moreira special here but is dripping in talent.
Pretender is Tom Kitten $10: He’s very honest but this might be a little tough for him, despite his good run in the Epsom. Up in weight, tough competition, top 4 at best for mine.
Be sure to tune in to Episode 10 of Racing Xtra where Luke, Bella and UFC star Jack Jenkins dissect a bumper day of racing. https://www.youtube.com/@RacingX_au
