RACE COMMENT

OVERVIEW: BITE THE EAR MIKE (6) is a first starter for South Australian trainer Peter Bain, which won a trial at Gawler in reasonable time and strikes a very suitable assignment. He is the first foal out of Jovial Julie (1.56.7), which won ten races and stems from a strong Queensland maternal family so he is worth thought on breeding alone. THE NINJA (1) has been placed at his past seven starts and deserves to break through for a win. He worked hard to find the lead and was run down by Itsallgee when second at Mildura last outing. THE FINAL DANCE (3) is resuming since November but has performed fairly well at the trials and was placed in a mile rate of 1.55.5 during his last preparation so he must be respected. BLISSFULL RED (7) and DON KATTERZ (12) are both minor place hopes. BACK: BITE THE EAR MIKE (6) – 2 units (win)