Vilanova ($5) sprang a surprise by running away with the traditional Queensland Derby lead-up, the 2200m Grand Prix Stakes, at Doomben on May 24 when he circled the field from near last. Previously the Commands gelding finished stoutly for fourth behind Amexed ($17) in the 2000m Rough Habit Plate at Doomben on May 10.
Vilanova ($5) has only three wins from 22 starts but Chris Waller seems to have found the key to him. He is racing in the best form of his career and is in a winnable group 1.
Pinstripe Lane ($4.8) was no match for Vilanova ($5) when second in the Grand Prix Stakes but hit the line well and should be suited by the step up in distance again.
The filly Rock Diva ($9) ran home for fourth in the Queensland Oaks over this track and distance last Saturday and should be fitter again.
Elusive Runner ($5) is a nicely bred type that has had only five starts and is getting better with every outing.
Odds from Ladbrokes.com.au
Tips: In what looks to be a wide open race i am happy to bet around the favourite here and looks for some value. Telepathic has been ticking along nicely heading into the Derby and she gets a nice weight allowance on the males. I think we will see her at her best on Saturday and be hard to beat at good odds.
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