The first of the majors at Randwick this Saturday is the Flight Stakes (1600m) where Autumn Glow stifles the market.
Down below is a speed map, runner preview and $100 betting strategy for the 2024 Flight Stakes.
2024 Flight Stakes Speed Map
Nothing here looks the leader so I think J Mac may take luck out of the equation, leading on Autumn Glow. Declichy Boulevard with Nash could slide forward. Outside that, no idea re early tempo.
2024 Flight Stakes Runner Preview:
1. Autumn Glow: Autumn Glow just picks herself. Star filly that is 3/3 to start her career and each time she has been arrogant, the latest being two weeks ago in the Tea Rose when bad luck was taken out of the equation, ridden on speed and it was pretty much a barrier trial. All things being equal, she wins.
2. Snow In May: Snow In May is the one from the Tea Rose behind Autumn Glow that can be considered the main threat. She got back in the run and while she was never beating Autumn Glow, she worked to the line with purpose. Doubt she turns the tables but 1600m should be okay.
3. Lazzura: I think she’s a good filly, but she’s six months away IMO and from the Tea Rose, I can’t see her turning the tables on Autumn Glow hence why she’s unders for me.
4. Lady Shenandoah: Lady Shenandoah is the X Factor. Chris Waller trained filly that was off one soft trial leading into her return three weeks back in the Ming Dynasty where she was impressive, knuckling down with purpose late. Good test here and I think she’s there to pick up the pieces if the favourite is off her game.
5. Declichy Boulevard: Declichy Boulevard is a Chris Waller trained filly that has an engine under the hood and commands respect. Loomed to win the Jim Moloney a fortnight back at Caulfield but couldn’t quite get past Lilac in a driving go. 1600m, I think, is okay, and she’s in the right camp. First four contender.
6. Miss Busslinger: Not a great deal of luck here two weeks ago but in a much easier race. But, I will say 1600m is no issue, she has fresh legs and is different form. Can she win? No, but can I see her running top four? Yes I can.
7. Harlem Queen: I think she is a well above average filly that has been strong in two starts/wins this time in. But, I will say, why have they put Sam Clipperton on? There is a stacked Sydney Jockeys Room and they go with a rider who is now riding at the Provincials given he couldn’t ride a winner in town unless it was Think About It.
8. Wings Of Desire: Good filly but I have my doubts with her at the mile and not sure how strong her form is.
9. Powers Of Opal: This is the filly with the Oaks in mind. Should have won last time, tick over trial was good…yes she is still a maiden, and while she won’t break her maiden here, she is above average and is destined for good races.
2024 Flight Stakes $100 Betting Strategy:
Keeping it simple here. $100 Win Autumn Glow Top Fluc.
Group l Strategy Outlay: $700
Group l Strategy Return: $215