By Nick Berney
An exciting clash looms in the final race at Warwick Farm on Wednesday, where numerous improving types continue their quest to progress through the grades.
The early betting market suggests the race is wide open, and opinions are sure to be divided in the benchmark 64 Furphy Handicap (1300m).
The final event of a seven-race card looks set to be the highlight at Warwick Farm on Wednesday.Credit:Brendan Esposito
Provincial-trained Marillier brings a solid profile to this event and is set to break through for her first metropolitan win.
The lightly raced filly was 25 days between runs last start at the same track/distance, and she was outstanding in defeat.
Her run was full of merit after sitting outside the leader at a very fast pace and trying hard to the line only to be beaten by a small margin.
Further, that race rated highly relative to the day, and other on-pace runners faded, which gave her effort an extra tick.
The Tracey Bartley-trained runner is coming out of time/sectional merit races this prep and is in career-best form.
In addition, she is rock-hard fit, maps to be able to cross from the tricky draw and will take some catching.
It’s worth noting that the jockey/trainer combination has teamed up 18 times for 4 winners and has a positive 8.6 per cent profit on turnover.
One of the main dangers is the Michael Freedman-trained Ponca, who won her maiden in style at Gosford last start.
The three-year-old savaged the line and clocked one of the fastest final 400m splits of the entire meeting, and all key indicators suggest she can improve again. She is at optimal fitness, and the extra distance suits her.
Just A Jedi is ready to win this preparation after an honest campaign, and he gets his chance down in grade in the benchmark 72 New TAB App Handicap (2400m).
The gelding had excuses last start where he wasn’t suited to the race shape and was blocked at key stages throughout the straight, halting his momentum.
He can bounce back returning to Warwick Farm, where he has a strong record, and his usual jockey Brenton Avdulla jumps back on.
Mist Of Battle is a knockout chance who has improved with race experience this preparation.
Best Bet: Marillier (R7 No.11)
Next best: Silentsar (R2 No.4)
Best value: Just a Jedi and Mist of Battle (R5 Nos. 4 and 14)
Supplied by Racing NSW
Full form and race replays available at racingnsw.com.au.
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