Often the G3 Aurie’s Star Handicap down the straight has been a kick off point for many a good horse for the Melbourne Spring.
Bart Cummings would use it as his starting point for many a Cups or Cox Plate contender. Even just look back to Fields Of Omagh winning in 2002.
In 2023, Benedetta ($3) is a very promising mare who loves the straight and Cause For Concern ($4.50) who has been flying this prep.
But others at odds who are ones to watch include Maximillius ($26) off his fall in the Australian Guineas, Much Much Better ($51) if heading south and Here To Shock ($26) who had a lovely confidence building end to last prep.
A couple of good BM100 handicaps over 1400m and 2500m bring in good horses.
The 1400m race includes Berkeley Square back for his first outing since the Derby, Blaze A Trail taken back south after two Brisbane wins and a couple of ex-Perth group horses in Windstorm and Regal Power.
Over the staying 2500m, Alhambra Lad chases five on the bounce but there will be strong opposition from Bedford, Claidheamh Mor, Teewaters and the Deane Lester Flemington Cup quinella of Mimi’s Award and Mostly Cloudy.