I wanted to wait for the Australian Derby before preparing this version of the power rankings in the hope that there was not question over number one, despite a strong effort Silent Achiever ran a close up 6th. That looked like a two horse race heading in but Laser Hawk finished third. That may be the end of the season for the New Zealand Derby winner, she will have earned a rest whenever that comes and I look forward to seeing her again in the Spring.
Roger James would have been disappointed with that result. I am sure that he, like many others, thought she had what it took to win that race, however the day was not bad overall for Roger James as he uncovered a potential Oaks contender with Full of Spirit getting it done at Group 3 level with James McDonald on board in the 2000m Patinak Farm Adrian Knox Stakes. Full of Spirit is currently second favourite in a small field for this weekends Australian Oaks. The 3YO daughter of Flying Spur has come out of the woodwork recently, after winning on debut, she finished 7th in both the 1000 Guineas and the strong Eight Carat Classic, and continued to improve before winning her last start before the trip to Sydney.
The last edition of the Power Rankings came out following the Derby, but prior to the Oaks. Given the strength of that race it should have and effect on these rankings. We should also get a good sight of some of these runners over the Winter as it has been confirmed that at least Artistic, and Nashville will be heading to Queensland, and likely other top contenders too.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings:
Knights Tour (7), Antonio Lombardo (10)
Honourable Mention
Chicharita
(HM, I see she is in Australia, it will be interesting to see how she goes), Knight's Tour (7, hopefully he ends up in Australia, I know I read about that as a potential plan when he first injured himself),
Capital Diamond (HM), Xanadu, Duckworth Lewis (HM), Travolta (HM), Joy's Choice(HM), Nashville (HM, and another off to Australia), Shuka (HM,
always HM), St Yazin, Poste Restante, Glad (HM)
Number 10 - Quintessential (HM) - Toss up between this filly and Xanadu for this last spot. Both were third in a Group 1 last start, both races included impressive fields, but I think her performance in the Oaks and overall season is just stronger.
Number 9 - Burgundy (7) - Really looking forward to seeing him when he next races. I think he has now found his niche around the sprint distances. He has all the talent as we saw early in his career and hopefully he will continue to improve at age 4.
Number 8 - Full of Spirit (N/A) - A bit of hype around this runner, a Group 3 in Australia is an accomplishment, she will really climb these chats with a win in the Oaks.
Number 7 - Carrick (5) - I have not read what the plan is for this Derby place getter, I don't see him on the list of exported horses, so I assume he is having some time off in New Zealand at this point.
Number 6 - Planet Rock (3) - Still not sure the Jockey change for the Oaks was the wisest choice, however I do feel that she was somewhat unlucky in that race and had to expend all of that energy early.
Number 5 - Rock'n'Pop (2) - I look forward to seeing him continue at age four in Australia. He looks such a strong colt, I am not quite sure what his niche will be because he has shown so much talent over all distances so far.
Number 4 - Ocean Park (9) - Unlucky year, was the derby favourite until withdrawal because of track uncertainty. Backed up that decision with a bold second in Sydney only to strike more bad luck leading into the Australian Derby. He appears a very strong 3YO and will possibly continue to age four. Not sure what his targets might be but I imagine he can put on a show in a race like the Windsor Park Plate over 1600m if he ends up there.
Number 3 - Zurella (4) - Out performed my expectations in the Oaks, but combined with a strong derby she is well deserving of a position this high on this list.
Number 2 - Artistic (6) - What is a bigger accomplishment, winning the Oaks or running second in a Group 1 in Australia? I already had her ahead of Ocean Park so she deserves to stay here. She has really built well over the season, she has been super consistent, and she seems to be getting better over more distance, she will be a threat in Queensland.
Number 1 - Silent Achiever (1) - A strong third in the Rosehill Guineas where I feel she was actually a tad unlucky in the big field they assembled. Her 6th in the Australian Guineas is disappointing from the perspective that she was favourite, but ordinarily is still an achievement (didn't Jimmy Choux run 6th in that race last year?)
Showing posts with label Power Rankings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Power Rankings. Show all posts
Friday, 20 April 2012
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
Three Year Old Power Rankings March Edition
Many things have changed in the last month since the February Power Rankings,we have seen the running of the New Zealand Derby, the Sunline Vase, the Lowland Stakes, and the Mr Tiz Trophy. We have seen a possible return to prominence from Burgundy, and a surprising lack of prominence from Antonio Lombardo, as well as the retirement of Anabandana and Ocean Park heading off in search of his derby across the ditch.
Where does that put us in the Power Rankings?
The Anabandana situation is a mystery, she was second on this list last month, and although she would have dropped following her second, and ultimately final, start in Australia I didn't expect to see a retirement. I guess, much like Distil she will have to drop from the rankings, because if not racing I guess she doesn't qualify. What an outstanding career!
I have really loved this class of fillies, and we are looking at a great Oaks this weekend, we may see another filly on top of this list, but Ocean park has a chance to take a big step up this list as he taking on the Randwick Guineas this weekend.
Not sure what to make of Burgundy after the weekend, which is becoming like his nickname, he was probably never going to win a Derby, after watching the run on the weekend I am unsure if he was really ever going to win a guineas either, it was only a month ago when I wrote " I continue to think that if you raced all of these top 3YO's over 1200 or 1400m it would be a close race between him and Anabandana." It would have been awesome if I was writing about Burgundy, but I was actually talking about Antonio Lombardo. This really creates a puzzle. Burgundy looked very good, maybe he was always going to be a 1200m type horse. As it turns out this was the thinking from the connections as well. (although that article indicates it wont be in the thought process, do you think an Easter Handicap is too much of a stretch? we are still waiting on our first 3YO Group 1 winner at open level). Antonio Lombardo didn't really look as good as he did early in the Spring, maybe it was the dead track which had been raced on 24 times that week, or the extra weight he was carrying but he just didn't seem to have that same closing speed, did he do enough to remain in the top 10.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings:
Anabandana (2) Sangster (8) Capital Diamond (10)
Honourable Mention
Anabandana (2, for reasons discussed above), Sangster (8, hard to leave out, his starts this prep have been over 1400m and 1600m, I would expect to see him back in this list once we get closer to 2000m ), Chicharita (Very narrow miss, testament to the quality of the 3YO's we are seeing), Capital Diamond (10, Fought on well in the wet, still a possible Oaks contender, 2400m should not be an issue), Duckworth Lewis (HM), Quintessential (HM), Travolta, Joy's Choice, Nashville (HM), Shuka (HM, always HM), St Yazin, Glad (not currently Oak's nominated but Sleeper Alert!)
Number 10 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - Would have been hard to leave him off, I really expect to see him bounce back over his next start. He didn't look his best on the weekend, but I expect to see him back to it soon.
Number 9 - Ocean Park (9) - Big expectations around this Colt and what he can do in Sydney.
Number 8 - Knight's Tour (7) - What could have been? Not sure when he is coming back, hopefully he comes back as good has be looked before the injury.
Number 7 - Burgundy (HM) - Back up in the rankings following an impressive 1200m victory in a listed race the last day of Auckland Cup week.
Number 6 - Artistic (HM) - Was her win the Sunline Vase better than Capital Diamond's second in the Lowland Stakes. The conditions were certainly better, it will be interesting to find out this Saturday.
Number 5 - Carrick (N/A) - Close up and fighting third in the Derby, he is probably working with less talent wise than the first two on this list, but he showed a great effort and should continue to contend when the distance gets above 2000m.
Number 4 - Zurella (5) - Was good in the Derby for 5th in a race which probably wasn't ideal. She will want a dryer track in the Oaks, and although it feels (to me anyway) like there is still a question mark over 2400m she may challenge based on talent alone.
Number 3 - Planet Rock (6) - Back to her best when winning on Derby Day in the Hawkes Bay. She is an interesting one, I had to drop her down the list last time because she had two consecutive fourths, however I really felt that the Royal Stakes was justified because of the backing up from the week before and it was her first 2000m start. The following start in the Sir Tristram fillies I felt there were excuses, but it was maybe just not her day, she also finished behind three very good fillies. She is clearly class and can really prove it by beating a top Oak's field this weekend.
Number 2 - Rock'n'Pop (1) - Is it possible I have actually underrated him all year? How do you underrate a Group 1 winner? But he ran out a very strong Derby, prior to this the 3rd at Group 1 level was again excellent. The only time he didn't really fire was on a slow track in a meaningless race. I am still not even sure the distance or conditions for the Derby were really ideal, but he just showed his considerable talent.
Number 1 - Silent Achiever (4) - What more can I say? no, seriously, I have probably written about 5000+ words about her since December. She was amazing on the 3rd, it was a great win. It will be great to see what she can do in Australia. Is she as good as Jimmy Choux was last year? hard to say, I will need to think about that. I feel another breakdown coming on (although I was wrong about the last one I wrote). She is a different horse than Jimmy Choux, she was always going to get better as we got up to 2400m, but maybe we will see them against each other next year over 2000m, that could be interesting. My gut says that Jimmy is better, but even if she is only as good as King's Rose, we are still looking at what will be an interesting 4YO year.
Value Oaks Proposition: Odds not currently listed, although I can say I will be Glad to see them when they are.
Long shot Oaks Proposition: Odds not currently listed
Where does that put us in the Power Rankings?
The Anabandana situation is a mystery, she was second on this list last month, and although she would have dropped following her second, and ultimately final, start in Australia I didn't expect to see a retirement. I guess, much like Distil she will have to drop from the rankings, because if not racing I guess she doesn't qualify. What an outstanding career!
I have really loved this class of fillies, and we are looking at a great Oaks this weekend, we may see another filly on top of this list, but Ocean park has a chance to take a big step up this list as he taking on the Randwick Guineas this weekend.
Not sure what to make of Burgundy after the weekend, which is becoming like his nickname, he was probably never going to win a Derby, after watching the run on the weekend I am unsure if he was really ever going to win a guineas either, it was only a month ago when I wrote " I continue to think that if you raced all of these top 3YO's over 1200 or 1400m it would be a close race between him and Anabandana." It would have been awesome if I was writing about Burgundy, but I was actually talking about Antonio Lombardo. This really creates a puzzle. Burgundy looked very good, maybe he was always going to be a 1200m type horse. As it turns out this was the thinking from the connections as well. (although that article indicates it wont be in the thought process, do you think an Easter Handicap is too much of a stretch? we are still waiting on our first 3YO Group 1 winner at open level). Antonio Lombardo didn't really look as good as he did early in the Spring, maybe it was the dead track which had been raced on 24 times that week, or the extra weight he was carrying but he just didn't seem to have that same closing speed, did he do enough to remain in the top 10.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings:
Anabandana (2) Sangster (8) Capital Diamond (10)
Honourable Mention
Anabandana (2, for reasons discussed above), Sangster (8, hard to leave out, his starts this prep have been over 1400m and 1600m, I would expect to see him back in this list once we get closer to 2000m ), Chicharita (Very narrow miss, testament to the quality of the 3YO's we are seeing), Capital Diamond (10, Fought on well in the wet, still a possible Oaks contender, 2400m should not be an issue), Duckworth Lewis (HM), Quintessential (HM), Travolta, Joy's Choice, Nashville (HM), Shuka (HM, always HM), St Yazin, Glad (not currently Oak's nominated but Sleeper Alert!)
Number 10 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - Would have been hard to leave him off, I really expect to see him bounce back over his next start. He didn't look his best on the weekend, but I expect to see him back to it soon.
Number 9 - Ocean Park (9) - Big expectations around this Colt and what he can do in Sydney.
Number 8 - Knight's Tour (7) - What could have been? Not sure when he is coming back, hopefully he comes back as good has be looked before the injury.
Number 7 - Burgundy (HM) - Back up in the rankings following an impressive 1200m victory in a listed race the last day of Auckland Cup week.
Number 6 - Artistic (HM) - Was her win the Sunline Vase better than Capital Diamond's second in the Lowland Stakes. The conditions were certainly better, it will be interesting to find out this Saturday.
Number 5 - Carrick (N/A) - Close up and fighting third in the Derby, he is probably working with less talent wise than the first two on this list, but he showed a great effort and should continue to contend when the distance gets above 2000m.
Number 4 - Zurella (5) - Was good in the Derby for 5th in a race which probably wasn't ideal. She will want a dryer track in the Oaks, and although it feels (to me anyway) like there is still a question mark over 2400m she may challenge based on talent alone.
Number 3 - Planet Rock (6) - Back to her best when winning on Derby Day in the Hawkes Bay. She is an interesting one, I had to drop her down the list last time because she had two consecutive fourths, however I really felt that the Royal Stakes was justified because of the backing up from the week before and it was her first 2000m start. The following start in the Sir Tristram fillies I felt there were excuses, but it was maybe just not her day, she also finished behind three very good fillies. She is clearly class and can really prove it by beating a top Oak's field this weekend.
Number 2 - Rock'n'Pop (1) - Is it possible I have actually underrated him all year? How do you underrate a Group 1 winner? But he ran out a very strong Derby, prior to this the 3rd at Group 1 level was again excellent. The only time he didn't really fire was on a slow track in a meaningless race. I am still not even sure the distance or conditions for the Derby were really ideal, but he just showed his considerable talent.
Number 1 - Silent Achiever (4) - What more can I say? no, seriously, I have probably written about 5000+ words about her since December. She was amazing on the 3rd, it was a great win. It will be great to see what she can do in Australia. Is she as good as Jimmy Choux was last year? hard to say, I will need to think about that. I feel another breakdown coming on (although I was wrong about the last one I wrote). She is a different horse than Jimmy Choux, she was always going to get better as we got up to 2400m, but maybe we will see them against each other next year over 2000m, that could be interesting. My gut says that Jimmy is better, but even if she is only as good as King's Rose, we are still looking at what will be an interesting 4YO year.
Value Oaks Proposition: Odds not currently listed, although I can say I will be Glad to see them when they are.
Long shot Oaks Proposition: Odds not currently listed
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
Two Year Old Power Rankings the Pre Auckland Cup Week edition
This is the time of year when the 2YO's start racing for big stakes, taking on black type races and approaching that first of two Group One races in New Zealand for 2YO's. A lot has taken place on the track since my first edition of 2YO Power Rankings which was just after the Karaka Million.
The other significant change was off the track when the connections of Ockham's Razor decided to leave their colt in New Zealand to take on Group 1 races. It is significant because after winning the Karaka Million he clearly would have been number 1 on the first list. He was subsequently beaten by Choice Bro who was seventh on the initial list.
Without further ado, on to this weeks list
Dropped from Rankings: Hazel (6), Mai Guru (8), Hogwarts Express (9)
Honourable Mention: Hazel (hardest omission), Mai Guru, Hogwarts Express, Oasis Rose, Croatia (so impressive coming home), Lumiere Blue, Liberating
(10) Seleno (N/A) - Amazing finish at New Plymouth and was a very narrow third.Was racing consistently prior to Christmas. One to watch, particularly as the 2YO races increase to 1400m in distance.
(9) Travino (1) - He didn't seem to have the form he showed prior to Christmas. I would be willing to give him another chance as he was so strong early on in the season.
(8) Rollout the Carpet (N/A) - Looked a potential riser with the Matamata victory. Was handy and ran home well. Back to back wins, will be interesting to see how high she continues climb.
(7) Silk Pins (2) - Pretty good third on the weekend. The race was probably not as strong as the Karaka Million but she seemed to run home nicely once she got going. This is a big drop but it is a reflection of other performances.
(6) Irish Rebel (5) - Was chasing down Magic Shaft on the weekend in a strong race. I thought it was an interesting run in Matamata. He raced wide and uncovered early and was towards the back of the pack. Having been to that race day in the past I know they get a big crowd, the crowd stretches down the side of the track, as Irish Rebel rounded the turn and down the straight he kept looking to the right (the crowd side), I am wondering if he was unsettled or distracted? It might be interesting to see him in blinkers. Either way he finished off strongly which is testament to his natural ability.
(5) Pussy Willow (4) - Hasn't raced since the last rankings, continues to look like a very strong 2YO contender.
(4) Warhorse (3) - Hasn't raced since the Karaka Million, he remains one of the top 2YO's in the country.
(3) Magic Shaft (10) - He beat a very good field in Matamata and was convincing. He looked to have that won well before the turn and really took off and sprinted for home in a well judged Michael Coleman ride.
(2) Choice Bro (7) - The natural second, a big win at Taranaki at Group 3 level, beating Ockham's Razor. He looked great winning too, finished off strongly, not sure if he will run in the Diamond Stakes the Manawatu Sires Produce or both, but I can imagine he will go very well over the 1400m on offer in the latter.
(1) Ockham's Razor (N/A) - He still deserves to be here, but will probably need to produce at Group 1 level to remain here. He was beaten by Choice Bro at Taranaki with a brilliant run from Choice Bro, however Ockham's Razor was all over the place and still almost won. It is hard to know what might have happened had he run straight and balanced over the last 400m, he seemed to interfere with other horses who may or may not have beaten him, but the balanced finish he produced with Craig Williams riding on Karaka Million night would have probably won that race.
The other significant change was off the track when the connections of Ockham's Razor decided to leave their colt in New Zealand to take on Group 1 races. It is significant because after winning the Karaka Million he clearly would have been number 1 on the first list. He was subsequently beaten by Choice Bro who was seventh on the initial list.
Without further ado, on to this weeks list
Dropped from Rankings: Hazel (6), Mai Guru (8), Hogwarts Express (9)
Honourable Mention: Hazel (hardest omission), Mai Guru, Hogwarts Express, Oasis Rose, Croatia (so impressive coming home), Lumiere Blue, Liberating
(10) Seleno (N/A) - Amazing finish at New Plymouth and was a very narrow third.Was racing consistently prior to Christmas. One to watch, particularly as the 2YO races increase to 1400m in distance.
(9) Travino (1) - He didn't seem to have the form he showed prior to Christmas. I would be willing to give him another chance as he was so strong early on in the season.
(8) Rollout the Carpet (N/A) - Looked a potential riser with the Matamata victory. Was handy and ran home well. Back to back wins, will be interesting to see how high she continues climb.
(7) Silk Pins (2) - Pretty good third on the weekend. The race was probably not as strong as the Karaka Million but she seemed to run home nicely once she got going. This is a big drop but it is a reflection of other performances.
(6) Irish Rebel (5) - Was chasing down Magic Shaft on the weekend in a strong race. I thought it was an interesting run in Matamata. He raced wide and uncovered early and was towards the back of the pack. Having been to that race day in the past I know they get a big crowd, the crowd stretches down the side of the track, as Irish Rebel rounded the turn and down the straight he kept looking to the right (the crowd side), I am wondering if he was unsettled or distracted? It might be interesting to see him in blinkers. Either way he finished off strongly which is testament to his natural ability.
(5) Pussy Willow (4) - Hasn't raced since the last rankings, continues to look like a very strong 2YO contender.
(4) Warhorse (3) - Hasn't raced since the Karaka Million, he remains one of the top 2YO's in the country.
(3) Magic Shaft (10) - He beat a very good field in Matamata and was convincing. He looked to have that won well before the turn and really took off and sprinted for home in a well judged Michael Coleman ride.
(2) Choice Bro (7) - The natural second, a big win at Taranaki at Group 3 level, beating Ockham's Razor. He looked great winning too, finished off strongly, not sure if he will run in the Diamond Stakes the Manawatu Sires Produce or both, but I can imagine he will go very well over the 1400m on offer in the latter.
(1) Ockham's Razor (N/A) - He still deserves to be here, but will probably need to produce at Group 1 level to remain here. He was beaten by Choice Bro at Taranaki with a brilliant run from Choice Bro, however Ockham's Razor was all over the place and still almost won. It is hard to know what might have happened had he run straight and balanced over the last 400m, he seemed to interfere with other horses who may or may not have beaten him, but the balanced finish he produced with Craig Williams riding on Karaka Million night would have probably won that race.
Thursday, 16 February 2012
Three Year Old Power Rankings - The Mid February Edition
It has been about three weeks since my last edition of the Power Rankings of New Zealand Three Year Olds, and although I have been making this a once a month gimmick I wanted to roll it out this week so I can squeeze in another edition before the New Zealand Derby, which is really what this had been about all of this time. I have been a little caught up in Derby hype over the past couple of weeks (17 Sleeps), I have already written about the contenders this week, but there are a number of top 3YO's who have dropped out of the Derby.
The Big Up's
Who has stepped up and shown something since the last edition?
Quintessential - Crushed em (by centimetres) at Trentham in the Desert Gold Stakes at Group 3 Level beating a handful of runners familiar with this list, followed up with a solid third in the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic.
Capital Diamond - Solid since before the 1000 Guineas, put up back to back seconds in the afore mentioned races.
Rock'n'Pop - Karaka 3YO Mile winner followed that up with a strong third at Open Weight For Age Group 1 Level at Waikato.
Knight's Tour - Added another win to his record, worked hard for it but it was not as challenging a race.
Bangalore Bullet - Won a couple of listed Guineas Races in the past few weeks down south.
Silent Achiever - Continues her rise up the rankings.
Zurella - Winner of the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic to answer some questions.
Our Famous Eve - Second in the Royal Stakes, she did herself proud with her effort in stronger company at WFA level, her fifth was not far off second, but still a distance out of first.
Downer's
Who has not performed up to their ranking?
Testa Secret - After the solid Eight Carat Classic she was less than solid in her next two, she might be a bit tired after a busy few weeks.
Ocean Park - Not a major downer, still a lot of hype and Derby favouritism, but not flying as high as a month ago.
Planet Rock - Thought the forth in the Sir Tristram Fillies was good, so not a major downer, but a win there may have cemented first spot.
Chicharita - Was on the verge before her disappointing run in the Sir Tristram Fillies.
Abeautifulred - had been very solid before the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic.
Sangster - I am happy to forgive the run, after whatever the incident was at the 450m mark it looked like he was eased home. I would have liked to see more, but I expect he will continue to improve with distance.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings:
Distill (9), Duckworth Lewis (10)
Honourable Mention:
Distill (hardest omission, he is a Group 1 winner after all, but we will not see him again in New Zealand), Duckworth Lewis (will be great as a 4YO if we don't see him again at age 3), Burgundy (still unsure what to make of him), Artistic (continues to race in solid form), Quintessential (big riser), Nashville, Xanadu, Shuka (always seems to come up against Ocean Park and Silent Achiever), Our Famous Eve.
Rankings
Number 10 - Capital Diamond (N/A) - Has looked very strong over the last couple of starts with seconds in very strong fillies races. Is Oaks nominated where $10 looks good value if she continues her consistency and even shows some improvement.
Number 9 - Ocean Park (5) - Still a lot of hype and a great shot at the Derby. The loss to Silent Achiever was not that bad, he will be highly backed on Derby Day and should be ready for 2400m at that point.
Number 8 - Sangster (2) - A big drop, it is probably undeserved and is more of a reaction to the form of other runners on this list. Something went wrong on Saturday (in a race he was never really a winning chance in anyway) and I am sure he will improve with more distance and more racing and climb this list again.
Number 7 - Knight's Tour (6) - Was set for a rise in these rankings until the word of his injury spread. It is hard not to feel sorry for the connections who had a horse who looked like a potential Group 1 winner and are now faced with uncertainty as to when his career will resume. Obviously you just have to hope he comes back in the same form.
Number 6 - Planet Rock (1) - I can't penalise the 4th in the Sir Tristram Fillies too hard, that was a tough race and quality field.
Number 5 - Zurella (N/A) - Back up in the rankings after the Sir Tristram Fillies race victory which included the powerful, Planet Rock and Artistic, as well as up and coming Quintessential and Capital Diamond.
Number 4 - Silent Achiever (8) - Now we know she is headed for the New Zealand Derby (or maybe not), she has beaten her main rival over 2000m and continues to show a lot of finishing speed. We will probably get another look at her on Avondale Guineas Day before the Derby where she will be a major threat to take home the prize.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - I continue to think that if you raced all of these top 3YO's over 1200 or 1400m it would be a close race between him and Anabandana. It is hard to know when he will next race, couldn't see his name in nominations on either side of the Tasman or find any news stories.
Number 2 - Anabandana (4) - Back to Racing in Australia, wasn't a winner, but possibly lost to a very good Filly in Soft Sand. She looks like she will continue to be consistent and a threat to win in Australia this autumn.
Number 1 - Rock'n'Pop (7) - I agonised about who should really be number one on this list. Antonio Lombardo just hasn't raced for a while, an Aussie win may have seen Anabandana here, the resume of Silent Achiever is just not strong enough. Rock'n'Pop was dominant in the Karaka 3YO Mile and looked very good at Group 1 Level over 2000m.
Value Derby Proposition: Zurella ($6) - I just feel like she is closer to the Silent Achiever/Ocean Park ($3.80) level than this.
Long shot Derby Proposition: Joy's Choice ($51) (longest shot I can see winning at this point if all horses with odds were to start)
Value Oaks Proposition: Mosh Pit ($16) or possibly Quintessential ($12)- Lots of value this far out from the race, but at this point it is probably hard to separate this filly from Artistic ($10), Capital Diamond ($10), Chicharita ($6 - seems way too short), and Planet Rock ($8), Zurella and Silent Achiever are at $6, but who knows if they will run in this and the derby.
Long shot Oaks Proposition: Abeautifulred ($61) has been consistent enough to throw a spanner in the works.
The Big Up's
Who has stepped up and shown something since the last edition?
Quintessential - Crushed em (by centimetres) at Trentham in the Desert Gold Stakes at Group 3 Level beating a handful of runners familiar with this list, followed up with a solid third in the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic.
Capital Diamond - Solid since before the 1000 Guineas, put up back to back seconds in the afore mentioned races.
Rock'n'Pop - Karaka 3YO Mile winner followed that up with a strong third at Open Weight For Age Group 1 Level at Waikato.
Knight's Tour - Added another win to his record, worked hard for it but it was not as challenging a race.
Bangalore Bullet - Won a couple of listed Guineas Races in the past few weeks down south.
Silent Achiever - Continues her rise up the rankings.
Zurella - Winner of the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic to answer some questions.
Our Famous Eve - Second in the Royal Stakes, she did herself proud with her effort in stronger company at WFA level, her fifth was not far off second, but still a distance out of first.
Downer's
Who has not performed up to their ranking?
Testa Secret - After the solid Eight Carat Classic she was less than solid in her next two, she might be a bit tired after a busy few weeks.
Ocean Park - Not a major downer, still a lot of hype and Derby favouritism, but not flying as high as a month ago.
Planet Rock - Thought the forth in the Sir Tristram Fillies was good, so not a major downer, but a win there may have cemented first spot.
Chicharita - Was on the verge before her disappointing run in the Sir Tristram Fillies.
Abeautifulred - had been very solid before the Sir Tristram Fillies Classic.
Sangster - I am happy to forgive the run, after whatever the incident was at the 450m mark it looked like he was eased home. I would have liked to see more, but I expect he will continue to improve with distance.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings:
Distill (9), Duckworth Lewis (10)
Honourable Mention:
Distill (hardest omission, he is a Group 1 winner after all, but we will not see him again in New Zealand), Duckworth Lewis (will be great as a 4YO if we don't see him again at age 3), Burgundy (still unsure what to make of him), Artistic (continues to race in solid form), Quintessential (big riser), Nashville, Xanadu, Shuka (always seems to come up against Ocean Park and Silent Achiever), Our Famous Eve.
Rankings
Number 10 - Capital Diamond (N/A) - Has looked very strong over the last couple of starts with seconds in very strong fillies races. Is Oaks nominated where $10 looks good value if she continues her consistency and even shows some improvement.
Number 9 - Ocean Park (5) - Still a lot of hype and a great shot at the Derby. The loss to Silent Achiever was not that bad, he will be highly backed on Derby Day and should be ready for 2400m at that point.
Number 8 - Sangster (2) - A big drop, it is probably undeserved and is more of a reaction to the form of other runners on this list. Something went wrong on Saturday (in a race he was never really a winning chance in anyway) and I am sure he will improve with more distance and more racing and climb this list again.
Number 7 - Knight's Tour (6) - Was set for a rise in these rankings until the word of his injury spread. It is hard not to feel sorry for the connections who had a horse who looked like a potential Group 1 winner and are now faced with uncertainty as to when his career will resume. Obviously you just have to hope he comes back in the same form.
Number 6 - Planet Rock (1) - I can't penalise the 4th in the Sir Tristram Fillies too hard, that was a tough race and quality field.
Number 5 - Zurella (N/A) - Back up in the rankings after the Sir Tristram Fillies race victory which included the powerful, Planet Rock and Artistic, as well as up and coming Quintessential and Capital Diamond.
Number 4 - Silent Achiever (8) - Now we know she is headed for the New Zealand Derby (or maybe not), she has beaten her main rival over 2000m and continues to show a lot of finishing speed. We will probably get another look at her on Avondale Guineas Day before the Derby where she will be a major threat to take home the prize.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - I continue to think that if you raced all of these top 3YO's over 1200 or 1400m it would be a close race between him and Anabandana. It is hard to know when he will next race, couldn't see his name in nominations on either side of the Tasman or find any news stories.
Number 2 - Anabandana (4) - Back to Racing in Australia, wasn't a winner, but possibly lost to a very good Filly in Soft Sand. She looks like she will continue to be consistent and a threat to win in Australia this autumn.
Number 1 - Rock'n'Pop (7) - I agonised about who should really be number one on this list. Antonio Lombardo just hasn't raced for a while, an Aussie win may have seen Anabandana here, the resume of Silent Achiever is just not strong enough. Rock'n'Pop was dominant in the Karaka 3YO Mile and looked very good at Group 1 Level over 2000m.
Value Derby Proposition: Zurella ($6) - I just feel like she is closer to the Silent Achiever/Ocean Park ($3.80) level than this.
Long shot Derby Proposition: Joy's Choice ($51) (longest shot I can see winning at this point if all horses with odds were to start)
Value Oaks Proposition: Mosh Pit ($16) or possibly Quintessential ($12)- Lots of value this far out from the race, but at this point it is probably hard to separate this filly from Artistic ($10), Capital Diamond ($10), Chicharita ($6 - seems way too short), and Planet Rock ($8), Zurella and Silent Achiever are at $6, but who knows if they will run in this and the derby.
Long shot Oaks Proposition: Abeautifulred ($61) has been consistent enough to throw a spanner in the works.
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Two Year Old Power Rankings
What a great night the Karaka Million was. I was away for the weekend but luckily was able to find someone with Sky TV to watch the racing action. I started watching on Trackside (or TAB TV, I can never figure out which is which) and then switched over the Sky Sports to watch their coverage. I was very impressed with the coverage overall, it was excellent to follow one race meeting and really get a feel for what is happening on Track. I understand the economics of Trackside/TAB TV showing as many races as possible to give people a chance to bet, but when I generally bet from home I will watch one or two meetings and focus solely on one code so it was excellent to watch the racing all from one meeting and have detailed information about what was going on at the event.
The coverage on Sky was targeted towards people who were less experienced with the racing game which is fine to generate interest from these people; and given that it was the night for Karaka to shine they did focus on the sales trying to get people involved in racing which again is a good thing. My only complaint was the lack of graphics displaying information throughout the evening, but with my iPad in front of my this was not really a big deal (although it would be great to have an official TAB application).
The Karaka Million race was great, there was a lot happening throughout, the race probably didn't go to plan for a lot of the runners (including the winner from the sound of things), but the finish was excellent with Ockham's Razor chasing down Silk Pins wide on the track, surely it will give a positive lasting impression to those people tuning in who maybe don't spend a lot of time following racing.
I have been doing a Three Year Old Power Rankings for a few months now, but now I feel we have sufficient form to dust this gimmick off for the 2YO's in the first edition of my completely subjective 2YO Power Rankings. Some indication of the methodology is probably important, here is what I wrote in my second edition of the 3YO Power Rankings;
(10) Magic Shaft: Solid to date, debut was made at Group 3 level when he ran 3rd behind Warhorse and Irish Rebel, he followed this up with a second to Hogwarts Express, it is to early to say if that race will produce anything else of quality but the Group placing has a lot of merit at this point in the year.
(9) Hogwarts Express: Was 7th in the Karaka million, but this ranking is based on a body of work and performances up to this point, he was 3rd at Group 2 level, and consistently close prior to that.
(8) Mai Guru: 5th in the Karaka million, but together impressive performances prior to this he finds himself 8th in these rankings. He will continue to improve and should be more suited to 1200m next attempt.
(7) Choice Bro: Ran home well in the Karaka Million for 4th, was chasing Silk Pins before having Warhorse and Ockhams Razor knock him down to forth, had a very impressive victory earlier on in the year.
(6) Hazel: Makes the list on the back of a strong second at Group 2 level. He showed a lot of fight down the straight and was beaten by a flying Pussy Willow. Was 5th first start to Mai Guru and two others he went on to beat when he had a extra 100m in the race at Wellington.
(5) Irish Rebel: Was highly rated when he impressively won his first start. He has then put forward strong performances at Group level finishing second to Warhorse and forth to Pussy Willow.
(4) Pussy Willow: Undefeated in two starts including a win at Group 2 Level. She wound up brilliantly down the home straight to win against a big field.
(3) Warhorse: Despite having won only one of his four starts he has not been far away in the other starts. The 6th in the Wentwood Grange Stakes wasn't as bad as it looked and he was favourite for the Karaka Million up until the last few minutes.
(2) Silk Pins: She was half a length away from winning the Karaka million which should add to the hype, however the results before this add up to keep her this high on the list. She has beaten Warhorse twice now (in three meetings) and Travino once (in two meetings, and may have beaten him the second time with luck),. She was also able to overcome a lot of other good Two Year Olds on the weekend.
(1) Travino : He has to be number 1 at this point. He benefits from not facing a few of the other contenders over the last couple of months. He has won two at listed level and travelled to the Gold Coast for the Magic Millions, despite coming 12th in that event he has the results and hype to top this list.
It is still early in the year, 2YO's are still starting their campaigns, we have two Group 1's for this age group, it will be interesting to see who emerges over the rest of the summer and into the Autumn.
The coverage on Sky was targeted towards people who were less experienced with the racing game which is fine to generate interest from these people; and given that it was the night for Karaka to shine they did focus on the sales trying to get people involved in racing which again is a good thing. My only complaint was the lack of graphics displaying information throughout the evening, but with my iPad in front of my this was not really a big deal (although it would be great to have an official TAB application).
The Karaka Million race was great, there was a lot happening throughout, the race probably didn't go to plan for a lot of the runners (including the winner from the sound of things), but the finish was excellent with Ockham's Razor chasing down Silk Pins wide on the track, surely it will give a positive lasting impression to those people tuning in who maybe don't spend a lot of time following racing.
I have been doing a Three Year Old Power Rankings for a few months now, but now I feel we have sufficient form to dust this gimmick off for the 2YO's in the first edition of my completely subjective 2YO Power Rankings. Some indication of the methodology is probably important, here is what I wrote in my second edition of the 3YO Power Rankings;
"I guess what is required is a definition of 'Power' for the purpose of the power rankings, another thing I didn't do properly when I first attempted this. There is no formula, it is not the highest rated, nor are they a genuine indication of which 3YO would beat each other 3YO (all things been equal). I am applying an incredibly loose and very subjective definition of Power for these rankings will be an indication of my impression of a number of factors including
- Overall Record
- Recent Form
- Dominance of victories
- Form in 'big' races
- Form against other top 3YO (and older) talent
- Buzz (Media and Bookie)"
(10) Magic Shaft: Solid to date, debut was made at Group 3 level when he ran 3rd behind Warhorse and Irish Rebel, he followed this up with a second to Hogwarts Express, it is to early to say if that race will produce anything else of quality but the Group placing has a lot of merit at this point in the year.
(9) Hogwarts Express: Was 7th in the Karaka million, but this ranking is based on a body of work and performances up to this point, he was 3rd at Group 2 level, and consistently close prior to that.
(8) Mai Guru: 5th in the Karaka million, but together impressive performances prior to this he finds himself 8th in these rankings. He will continue to improve and should be more suited to 1200m next attempt.
(7) Choice Bro: Ran home well in the Karaka Million for 4th, was chasing Silk Pins before having Warhorse and Ockhams Razor knock him down to forth, had a very impressive victory earlier on in the year.
(6) Hazel: Makes the list on the back of a strong second at Group 2 level. He showed a lot of fight down the straight and was beaten by a flying Pussy Willow. Was 5th first start to Mai Guru and two others he went on to beat when he had a extra 100m in the race at Wellington.
(5) Irish Rebel: Was highly rated when he impressively won his first start. He has then put forward strong performances at Group level finishing second to Warhorse and forth to Pussy Willow.
(4) Pussy Willow: Undefeated in two starts including a win at Group 2 Level. She wound up brilliantly down the home straight to win against a big field.
(3) Warhorse: Despite having won only one of his four starts he has not been far away in the other starts. The 6th in the Wentwood Grange Stakes wasn't as bad as it looked and he was favourite for the Karaka Million up until the last few minutes.
(2) Silk Pins: She was half a length away from winning the Karaka million which should add to the hype, however the results before this add up to keep her this high on the list. She has beaten Warhorse twice now (in three meetings) and Travino once (in two meetings, and may have beaten him the second time with luck),. She was also able to overcome a lot of other good Two Year Olds on the weekend.
(1) Travino : He has to be number 1 at this point. He benefits from not facing a few of the other contenders over the last couple of months. He has won two at listed level and travelled to the Gold Coast for the Magic Millions, despite coming 12th in that event he has the results and hype to top this list.
It is still early in the year, 2YO's are still starting their campaigns, we have two Group 1's for this age group, it will be interesting to see who emerges over the rest of the summer and into the Autumn.
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
January 3YO Power Rankings
This week might be the week for the 2YO's to shine with the Karaka Millions coming up over Auckland Anniversary weekend at Ellerslie. I will cover that race and the 2YO's in general later in the week, but today I will have a look at the 3YO's with another rendition of my completely subjective 3YO Power Rankings. There have been a lot of events for the 3YO's over the Christmas period since my last rankings, there have been six races above listed level (including the Gore Guineas, which for the purposes of this list we wont include) and we are well into our build up for the New Zealand Derby (39 Sleeps!).
The big 3YO stories over the past month include;
Story: Planet Rock's impressive Boxing Day win, and then following up with a pretty close forth on New Years day over 2000m.
Conclusion: She looked great on Boxing day, and looked good New Years day as well getting caught in the last 100m, it might have just been the wear and tear of two runs in seven days combined with the first 2000m effort, but I would still consider her one to watch over that distance.
Story: Burgundy's question marks. Looked to have a great position on Boxing day, just couldn't finish. Had a disaster last Saturday at Wellington, started poorly, raced wide and back, moved forward and was blocked at about 600m, then showed a good finish for third.
Conclusion: Ocean Park looked fantastic in that race on the weekend and is the story to focus on. Burgundy still seems to have the talent but just cannot put it together in these big races.
Story: Emerging Derby Contenders
Conclusion: Knights Tour was amazing on boxing day, it was a great finish and showed the ability to go over more distance, particularly given he caught and passed Burgundy and fought hard against Ocean Park. Ocean Park looks to have gone to another level in Wellington smashing them in a good Group 3 field. I am certain other contenders will come to light as we approach March 3.
Story: My man-crush (?) on Silent Achiever
Conclusion: I figure if I mention this horse in everything I write over the next couple of months good things will happen. She is now the Oaks favourite and why not with that explosive finish. She was great on Boxing day in a race which where she was screaming for a bit more distance, then took on the fellas over 2100m which had the advantage of having an extra 100m over the 3YOF race that day. She was basically last on the turn and really smoked them. Looking at those Oak's odds $5 seems short to take this far out, $9 for Planet Rock is still tempting.
Onwards to the 3YO rankings.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings: Dowager Queen (8), Zurella (9)
Honourable Mention: Testa Secret (hardest omission) Burgundy (what to expect?), Artistic (on a series of 4ths against good opposition), Shuka (always solid), Nashville, Xanadu (not sure I agree but I know she would be discussed before any big race).
Number 10 - Duckworth Lewis (8) - Just found the Zabeel Classic slightly too hard, but he was far from the worst with a strong 7th, he will show a lot more against his own age group.
Number 9 - Distil (6) - We wont see him again in New Zealand so is slowly drifting down this list.
Number 8 - Silent Achiever (HM) - Moved up from honourable mention with her impressive finishes since the last rankings.
Number 7 - Rock'n'Pop (2) - he is a Group 1 winner. He resumed with a last in a small field over 1600m and will look to improve from that if he is to contend in the Derby.
Number 6 - Knight's Tour (N/A) - his fortune is now closely linked to the fortune of number 5 on this list, he is the only horse to have beaten him. Then why is he not higher? he is not getting the same buzz.
Number 5 - Ocean Park (N/A) - Almost by definition he needs to be this high on the list. If everyone is talking about your amazing performance and you have improved to derby favourite then you have the Power.
Number 4 - Anabandana (4) - Now has not raced since the Guineas, it is not evident when we will next get a look at this classy filly.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - I still see him as a Group 1 winner in waiting, less than impressive last start but should bounce back fresh when we next see him.
Number 2 - Sangster (1) - Diminishing in these rankings because he is not in the forefront of our minds, can't see any nominations for him so he might be looking at an extended spell before the Queensland winter. I would still consider him a Derby favourite (if he was nominated) even after the impressive Kinght's Tour and Ocean Park performances.
Number 1 - Planet Rock (5) - The big Group 2 win pushes her up, you can excuse the following week, she still has the power.
Value Derby Proposition: Shuka ($31)
Long shot Derby Proposition: Shanghai Bund ($51) (longest shot I can see winning at this point)
The big 3YO stories over the past month include;
Story: Planet Rock's impressive Boxing Day win, and then following up with a pretty close forth on New Years day over 2000m.
Conclusion: She looked great on Boxing day, and looked good New Years day as well getting caught in the last 100m, it might have just been the wear and tear of two runs in seven days combined with the first 2000m effort, but I would still consider her one to watch over that distance.
Story: Burgundy's question marks. Looked to have a great position on Boxing day, just couldn't finish. Had a disaster last Saturday at Wellington, started poorly, raced wide and back, moved forward and was blocked at about 600m, then showed a good finish for third.
Conclusion: Ocean Park looked fantastic in that race on the weekend and is the story to focus on. Burgundy still seems to have the talent but just cannot put it together in these big races.
Story: Emerging Derby Contenders
Conclusion: Knights Tour was amazing on boxing day, it was a great finish and showed the ability to go over more distance, particularly given he caught and passed Burgundy and fought hard against Ocean Park. Ocean Park looks to have gone to another level in Wellington smashing them in a good Group 3 field. I am certain other contenders will come to light as we approach March 3.
Story: My man-crush (?) on Silent Achiever
Conclusion: I figure if I mention this horse in everything I write over the next couple of months good things will happen. She is now the Oaks favourite and why not with that explosive finish. She was great on Boxing day in a race which where she was screaming for a bit more distance, then took on the fellas over 2100m which had the advantage of having an extra 100m over the 3YOF race that day. She was basically last on the turn and really smoked them. Looking at those Oak's odds $5 seems short to take this far out, $9 for Planet Rock is still tempting.
Onwards to the 3YO rankings.
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings: Dowager Queen (8), Zurella (9)
Honourable Mention: Testa Secret (hardest omission) Burgundy (what to expect?), Artistic (on a series of 4ths against good opposition), Shuka (always solid), Nashville, Xanadu (not sure I agree but I know she would be discussed before any big race).
Number 10 - Duckworth Lewis (8) - Just found the Zabeel Classic slightly too hard, but he was far from the worst with a strong 7th, he will show a lot more against his own age group.
Number 9 - Distil (6) - We wont see him again in New Zealand so is slowly drifting down this list.
Number 8 - Silent Achiever (HM) - Moved up from honourable mention with her impressive finishes since the last rankings.
Number 7 - Rock'n'Pop (2) - he is a Group 1 winner. He resumed with a last in a small field over 1600m and will look to improve from that if he is to contend in the Derby.
Number 6 - Knight's Tour (N/A) - his fortune is now closely linked to the fortune of number 5 on this list, he is the only horse to have beaten him. Then why is he not higher? he is not getting the same buzz.
Number 5 - Ocean Park (N/A) - Almost by definition he needs to be this high on the list. If everyone is talking about your amazing performance and you have improved to derby favourite then you have the Power.
Number 4 - Anabandana (4) - Now has not raced since the Guineas, it is not evident when we will next get a look at this classy filly.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (3) - I still see him as a Group 1 winner in waiting, less than impressive last start but should bounce back fresh when we next see him.
Number 2 - Sangster (1) - Diminishing in these rankings because he is not in the forefront of our minds, can't see any nominations for him so he might be looking at an extended spell before the Queensland winter. I would still consider him a Derby favourite (if he was nominated) even after the impressive Kinght's Tour and Ocean Park performances.
Number 1 - Planet Rock (5) - The big Group 2 win pushes her up, you can excuse the following week, she still has the power.
Value Derby Proposition: Shuka ($31)
Long shot Derby Proposition: Shanghai Bund ($51) (longest shot I can see winning at this point)
Thursday, 22 December 2011
3YO Power Rankings for December
There have not been a lot of changes since the last of the 3YO Power Rankings, however once we hit the new year things should change rapidly with more big races. There has been a Group 1 win from distil, and Antonio Lombardo has lost his last couple, Duckworth Lewis continues his improvement as a 3YO, I have also spied what may be an emerging Oaks contender for later in the season.
Firstly the Levin Classic, an excellent win from Distil, and a performance from a wide barrier draw from Randall to beat the hot favourite Antonio Lombardo, on the back of that they should make an appearance in this list, however it most likely wont be for long because I have read they are both likely heading out of the country (Distil and Randall articles).
I am not too worried about Andonio Lombardo, I still think that Levin Classic run was unlucky because of the effort required to get into that leadership role. He has then followed up with a run for fifth in the WFA challenge stakes over the weekend behind some very good horses again when favourite, definitely worth giving him more chances because he is definitely talented but the bloom is slightly off the rose.
Duckworth Lewis was very good for fifth from a wide barrier at Group 1 Level when he looked to have a tough race, he followed this up with another victory over more than 2000m against 3YO's at listed level. He is continuing to look at home over more distance and particularly seems to like racing at Ellerslie.
I was at Ellerslie's last Twlight racing meeting a couple of weeks ago and I saw one of the more impressive finishes I have seen in person. In race 6 a seemingly meaningless 1600m maiden Silent Achiever was probably a good two lengths back with 100m to go and won by a length an a half. It was very impressive for an Oaks nominated horse who should continue to get better.
Onto the Rankings...
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings: Dollario (9), Burgundy (10) through no fault of their own.
Honourable Mention: Dollario, Burgundy (Might move up on Boxing day), Randall (Hardest omission), Artistic (In Eight Carat Boxing day), Shanghai Bund (Should win at rating 85 Boxing day), Testa Secret (very hard to follow), Silent Achiever, Abeautifulred, Shuka
Number 10 - President Lincoln (8) - Only dropping because of the impressive performances from higher ranked horses on this list.
Number 9 - Zurella (NA) - Climbing the rankings with her first Group win beating a strong field.
Number 8 - Dowager Queen (3) - Ran fifth in a pretty good field of fillies, however Zurella is definitely the improving 3YO Filly. The distance was probably a little short for what she has been racing over recently, so look for improvement as the distance increases.
Number 7 - Duckworth Lewis (8) - Moving up and continuing to win.
Number 6 - Distil (N/A) - On the strength of a Group 1 win. He will continue to fall in this list if it is not in NZ.
Number 5 - Planet Rock (6) - On Boxing day the Eight Carat Classic should sort out a few of these rankings, it is looking like an excellent race, including numbers five and eight on this list, as well as Artistic, Holy Moly, Silent Achiever, Abeautifulred, and Testa Secret as well as undefeated Xanadu.
Number 4 - Anabandana (5) - Since her second in the Guineas she has not raced, there are going to be some great 3YO fillies races later in the year.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (2) - Not quite as powerful following two losses, but has to stay ahead of some of these because of the quality of those fields.
Number 2 - Rock'n'Pop (4) - Moves up because both Antonio Lombardo move down the rankings, still a Group 1 winner in its own right.
Number 1 - Sangster (1) - Can't fault something that has not raced since the last rankings, and nothing has really stepped up to take his place.
Firstly the Levin Classic, an excellent win from Distil, and a performance from a wide barrier draw from Randall to beat the hot favourite Antonio Lombardo, on the back of that they should make an appearance in this list, however it most likely wont be for long because I have read they are both likely heading out of the country (Distil and Randall articles).
I am not too worried about Andonio Lombardo, I still think that Levin Classic run was unlucky because of the effort required to get into that leadership role. He has then followed up with a run for fifth in the WFA challenge stakes over the weekend behind some very good horses again when favourite, definitely worth giving him more chances because he is definitely talented but the bloom is slightly off the rose.
Duckworth Lewis was very good for fifth from a wide barrier at Group 1 Level when he looked to have a tough race, he followed this up with another victory over more than 2000m against 3YO's at listed level. He is continuing to look at home over more distance and particularly seems to like racing at Ellerslie.
I was at Ellerslie's last Twlight racing meeting a couple of weeks ago and I saw one of the more impressive finishes I have seen in person. In race 6 a seemingly meaningless 1600m maiden Silent Achiever was probably a good two lengths back with 100m to go and won by a length an a half. It was very impressive for an Oaks nominated horse who should continue to get better.
Onto the Rankings...
Power Rankings
Dropped from Rankings: Dollario (9), Burgundy (10) through no fault of their own.
Honourable Mention: Dollario, Burgundy (Might move up on Boxing day), Randall (Hardest omission), Artistic (In Eight Carat Boxing day), Shanghai Bund (Should win at rating 85 Boxing day), Testa Secret (very hard to follow), Silent Achiever, Abeautifulred, Shuka
Number 10 - President Lincoln (8) - Only dropping because of the impressive performances from higher ranked horses on this list.
Number 9 - Zurella (NA) - Climbing the rankings with her first Group win beating a strong field.
Number 8 - Dowager Queen (3) - Ran fifth in a pretty good field of fillies, however Zurella is definitely the improving 3YO Filly. The distance was probably a little short for what she has been racing over recently, so look for improvement as the distance increases.
Number 7 - Duckworth Lewis (8) - Moving up and continuing to win.
Number 6 - Distil (N/A) - On the strength of a Group 1 win. He will continue to fall in this list if it is not in NZ.
Number 5 - Planet Rock (6) - On Boxing day the Eight Carat Classic should sort out a few of these rankings, it is looking like an excellent race, including numbers five and eight on this list, as well as Artistic, Holy Moly, Silent Achiever, Abeautifulred, and Testa Secret as well as undefeated Xanadu.
Number 4 - Anabandana (5) - Since her second in the Guineas she has not raced, there are going to be some great 3YO fillies races later in the year.
Number 3 - Antonio Lombardo (2) - Not quite as powerful following two losses, but has to stay ahead of some of these because of the quality of those fields.
Number 2 - Rock'n'Pop (4) - Moves up because both Antonio Lombardo move down the rankings, still a Group 1 winner in its own right.
Number 1 - Sangster (1) - Can't fault something that has not raced since the last rankings, and nothing has really stepped up to take his place.
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