Later, Kiwi trainer Tony Pike has already made his presence felt in these parts having prepared both Sacred Elixir and Provocative to eye-catching Group 1 wins and he saddles up a likely challenger for the Glasshouse Handicap (Race 6) in Sacred Star.
The six-year-old galloper ran a creditable fifth behind Under the Louvre in the Stradbroke and will surely appreciate the drop in grade here with regular rider Vinnie Colgan in the saddle.
Having drawn the rails we’re taking no chances with him and expect plenty of money to force his price in even further come race day.
Topweight Stratum Star won at Group 1 level over the 1400m in the Rupert Clarke Stakes during last year’s Melbourne spring carnival but we’re not entirely convinced that the chestnut is travelling all that great at the moment and will be looking to lay him.
Browne also takes the ride on Ninth Legion, who will look to follow in the footsteps of Alma’s Fury (2014) in completing the Eye Liner-Glasshouse double.
Having rediscovered his best form out at Ipswich, our traders will be keenly anticipating any market moves for him on Saturday.
Of the others, Saluter is on the seven-day back-up having narrowly gone down to Into the Red in the WJ Healy at Eagle Farm, expect him to hunt forward and give a good sight in front while we’re also expecting a decent showing from the in-form Irish Constabulary.
