Races

Deane Lester’s Flemington Best Bets

RACE 1 NO.3 DESTINY DIAMOND

The TAB Trophy (1400m) looks a very even contest with a host of chances, however DESTINY DIAMOND is a progressive type from the Symon Wilde stable that seems well over the odds and appeals as the value bet of the day. The daughter of Raphael’s Cat scored a sharp win over 1200 metres at Geelong on December 1. She will be fitter for that run and the Wilde stable have elected to run in this race in preference for Moonee Valley on Friday night. She is drawn for a cheap run and will run another bold race at good odds.


RACE 2 NO.2 SQUID GAME

SQUID GAME created a good impression winning on debut and appears well placed to continue on his winning way when he tackles the 3YO Benchmark 70 Handicap (1200m). The Patrick Payne trained gelding had trialled well leading into his first start and maintained the good form by winning stylishly over 1200 metres at Sandown Lakeside on November 24. He ventured to the Mortlake jumpouts last Tuesday and was under a good hold during the gallop suggesting that he is ready to go back to the races. Michael Dee has been riding in fine form and can continue his winning association with SQUID GAME who represents the best bet of the day.


RACE 4 NO.7 ROSE QUARTZ

Lightly raced mare ROSE QUARTZ has won two of her four starts to date and looks ready to make the progression to Saturday grade when she runs in the Fillies and Mares Benchmark 70 Handicap (1200m). The four year old had trialled stylishly leading into her first-up win over 1140 metres at Geelong on November 23. This is her first test at 1200 metres but she gives every indication that she will run the slightly longer distance of this race and appears ideally graded to record another win.

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