On October 7, 2023, Randwick will host a thrilling day of racing featuring an array of competitive fields across ten races. The first event starts at 12:35 PM with the Midway Handicap, showcasing promising contenders and established competitors eager to make their mark. Here is a breakdown of the key races and standout horses to watch.
Race 1: 12:35 PM – Midway Handicap (1400M)
The first race of the day sees Oui Oui Oui as a strong contender after scoring a decisive victory at 1200m just two weeks prior. With a favorable draw, she is well-positioned to excel at this longer distance. Another noteworthy entry is Kyeema, who returns to Midway grade following a narrow defeat at Kensington earlier this month, where he was caught just before the finish. Fitter from that run, he is expected to perform well over this distance.
Danish Prince also enters this race with confidence following a strong first-up win at Newcastle. With a good draw, he is likely to be in the mix. Apache Breeze, who finished third in the same race as Oui Oui Oui, could find himself closer to the pace this time and poses an each-way chance.
How to play it: Oui Oui Oui WIN.
Race 2: 1:10 PM – TAB Highway Handicap (1200M)
The TAB Highway Handicap presents another competitive field. Navy Steel, coming off a six-week break, impressed in his last race despite a challenging draw. With a more favorable setup this time, he is a strong each-way prospect. Cougars, who showed promising form in the same race, is also worth consideration, especially with a significant weight drop due to a recent claim.
Look out for Antilocapra, who has performed well at this level previously, and Fingers Hunter, returning to class after a successful run in March. Both could be ready to challenge for top spots.
How to play it: Navy Steel EACH-WAY.
Race 3: 1:45 PM – Spelling at Coolmore Mt White Handicap (1100M)
In the Spelling at Coolmore Mt White Handicap, Tigroni stands out after a commendable debut, where he showed the potential to improve significantly. By Choice, demonstrating impressive speed in her recent trial, is another notable entrant, although she may face challenges early on. Masvingo is expected to benefit from an inside draw, while Tornado Valley hopes to build on his previous success at a similar distance.
How to play it: Tigroni WIN.
Race 4: 2:20 PM – Racing and Sports Handicap (1600M)
Race four features Just Party, who comes off a solid fourth-place finish last week. With a drop in class and a good form, he is a leading contender. Sun God, returning from longer distances, is another to watch closely, having performed well recently. Collect Your Cash, despite a disappointing second-up run, is capable of bouncing back, while Pippie Beach may shine in this smaller field.
How to play it: Just Party WIN.
Race 5: 2:55 PM – Petaluma Handicap (1100M)
In the Petaluma Handicap, Ice Kool is generating buzz after a dominant debut win at Warwick Farm. With a rise in grade, he remains a horse to watch. Columbia Blue, from the Pride stable, is also on the rise, while Big Red Tequila and Petticoat are both expected to make strong showings based on recent performances.
How to play it: Ice Kool WIN.
Race 6: 3:30 PM – Schweppes Handicap (1600M)
Looking at the Schweppes Handicap, Charleroi is expected to perform well after showing promise in his recent efforts despite some challenges. Sly Boots and Hyperbolic are both in good form, with the latter boasting two strong wins this season. Hurstville Zagreb returns after some disappointing performances, but his previous form suggests he should not be underestimated.
How to play it: Charleroi WIN.
Race 7: 4:05 PM – The Agency Real Estate Handicap (1200M)
This race is shaping up to be unpredictable, with Unique Ambition returning after a successful first-up performance last time. Wooloowin is also back in class, aiming to capitalize on her previous strong showings. Rubi’s Serve is another contender, looking to bounce back after a solid performance last month. Brutalina, returning after a break, could surprise after a series of strong finishes.
How to play it: Unique Ambition EACH-WAY.
Race 8: 4:45 PM – Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation Handicap (1200M)
Snack Bar is looking for redemption after a near miss in his last outing. He is expected to perform well now that he is peaking in form. Livin’ Thing showed promise in his last race and could improve, while Althoff aims to build on a notable performance in a previous race. Stardeel, known for consistent performances, adds depth to this competitive field.
How to play it: Snack Bar WIN.
Race 9: 5:20 PM – TAB Handicap (2000M)
In the final races, Kind Words has been in excellent form, securing an easy victory in her last outing. If she can transfer that performance to Randwick, she is a strong candidate for a win. Inquiring Minds and Rotagilla are also worth monitoring, especially with their recent promising runs at similar distances.
How to play it: Kind Words WIN.
Race 10: 5:55 PM – Catanach’s Jewellers Handicap (1400M)
Rounding out the day, Althoff may gain a start and is well positioned after an eye-catching run earlier. Bartolf is another contender with solid form, while Duvana is coming off a notable win. Applaud also enters with good previous form and is expected to run competitively.
How to play it: Althoff WIN.
Fans and punters can look forward to an exciting day at Randwick, with a mix of established competitors and emerging talent across all races. For full form and race replays, visit Racing NSW at racingnsw.com.au.