OVERVIEW: This opening event is an even field with many winning chances. DALLASCOWBOY (9) was well beaten two starts ago, but it was a heat of the Vicbred Super Series won by the talented The Niteshift. Last start, he was only beaten 7.7 metres in a fast 1.51.9 mile rate at Wagga. He’s only lightly raced and he’s racing better than his numerical form suggests. CHAINSMOKE (6) returned a winner last start at Swan Hill after 10 months on the sidelines. He flashed home powerfully in the run. This race is harder, but he will have improved with fitness. ASSIGNED (3) was retired out of the race last start with a flat tyre. He was first up in two months on that occasion. He has ability and will likely map in the running line here before running home late. OWEN THE SAINTS (8) has a great turn of foot and will be flashing home with clear running late. An interesting runner to note here is TA KALCHE (5). He’s an eight-year-old gelding having his second career start and hasn’t raced in 792 days. BACK: DALLASCOWBOY (9) – 2 units (win)