RACE COMMENT

OVERVIEW: RIPPING RONALDO (2) is a first starter for Alex Ashwood. He has mixed trial form, including a trial win at Bendigo in May and two other unplaced trial performances. A positive sign is that trainer-driver Alex Ashwood has opted to drive him ahead of classy stablemate MUSCLEM (3). MUSCLEM (3) has had three career starts, including a third placing in the $75,000 Nutrien Classic Series Final at Wagga two starts ago. She was again third in a strong two-year-old field last start, but now takes on older trotters. MISS KOMMUNICATION (5) has placed in four of her six starts, with her other two runs ending in breaks. She has ability and is a consistent type when she trots throughout. She does not look likely to remain a maiden for much longer. REVEREND BOB (7) is third up this preparation and should be nearing peak fitness. He was good last start when racing in the breeze in a similar field and was only narrowly beaten. The barrier is tricky, but he has claims with the right run.