RACE COMMENT

OVERVIEW: ISTANBUL (9) is having his first start for the new stable and has trialled quite well into this. In that hit-out he scored up and trotted well, and the opposition has produced an easy winner at this track last week. If those manners are on display, he’s the one to beat. SAMBEZIA (1) has a strong SP profile but is his own worst enemy, breaking in the majority of his four runs this preparation, resulting in him being stood down to trial. His manners were good in winning that trial so if he brings that attitude he can atone. DALAHASTEN (6) has been racing in stronger company in NSW, where he was placed in the heat of a Listed series. Albeit from a soft draw, he needs to be kept safe for the new stable. RHAPSODY REIGN (7) was beaten a distance on debut, but in fairness she never really got clear to the top of the straight. Her trial form was sound prior to that. BACK: ISTANBUL (9) – 1 unit (win)