VIDEO: Simon Marshall – Blue Diamond Stakes

Posted on February 24, 2017March 2, 2017 | Posted by Simon Marshall

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The Blue Diamond Stakes is Victoria’s richest two-year-old race and this year’s edition looks to be very even.

All the talk in the lead-up to the race has surrounded jockey Craig Williams and which horse he’d choose to ride having ridden five of the most fancied runners in recent weeks.

Williams has settled on Catchy (#11), one of six from the Hayes-Dabernig camp and a filly who is unbeaten in three starts. Her latest victory came in the Blue Diamond Fillies Prelude where she ran faster time than the Colts Prelude, won by the Robert Smerdon-trained Property (#1), who Williams also steered to victory and another of the main chances.

Despite the fanfare and Williams’ choice, I’m actually leaning towards undefeated colt Jukebox (#3) who is trained by Ciaron Maher and will be ridden by Luke Nolen.

If you’re looking for a roughie in the race, I’d throw Taking Aim (#8) in your multiples. He is backing up from an unlucky second at Flemington last weekend.

Saturday also sees the running of the Group One Oakleigh Plate for the sprinters. As with most editions of this race it is a very open affair. Despite drawing the car park I’m keen on I Am A Star (#15) whose most recent run was a gallant second to Super Cash in the Rubiton Stakes a fortnight ago. I believe Faatinah (#7) provides great value for punters and could land apprentice Ben Allen’s first Group One win.

In Sydney, the champion mare Winx is back in action and I firmly believe she’ll extend her winning streak to 15 and in the process claim her tenth Group One victory. Keep an eye on last year’s AJC Derby winner Tavago (#6) who should be primed for a bold first-up effort.

Enjoy a great day of thoroughbred racing!

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