One of the most exciting Group One sprints on the thoroughbred racing calendar plays out on Friday night with the running of the Manikato Stakes. This race has seen Australia's top class sprinters go around in previous years and this year is no exception. Three runners back-up from the inaugural Everest race, with most of the remaining eight starters coming from the Moir, Gilgai and the Schillaci.
The all important Moonee Valley rail is in its true position. Many will debate where the favours will be in the running on Friday night but the Manikato results from the past couple of years suggest the winner can come from anywhere. Last year Rebel Dane stuck to the rails to claim a surprise victory at odds of $60. In 2015 Chautauqua was last at the 500m mark, hooked five wide and finished with a late burst to win by 2 lengths.
Everest runner-up Vega Magic is all the rage with punters early in the betting. He is currently showing $2.15 after opening at $2.40 earlier in the week. In Her Time is the only other runner getting early support. She is in half a point to $5.
#2 Vega Magic
Expect him to bounce back here after a poor ride in the Everest with the decision to drag back from the start costing him the race. Beautiful barrier draw here is a big plus and nine wins over the distance means he will be super hard to hold-out racing in front.
#9 In Her Time
Has put two good wins on the board and was unlucky not to run in the Everest, clocking a faster time on the day than the winner, Redzel. Another contender that will be up there mixing it with the front runners.
#1 Chautauqua
Loves this track and after a good effort in the Everest could be ready to strike here fourth up. Eight wins over the distance, so expect him to be flying at them late.
#8 English
Got back in the field in the Everest before making-up ground in the concluding stages. Probably should have won the G2 Premiere before that. Solid first-up when finishing 1.8 lengths behind Redzel racing wide without cover. Capable of giving this a shake.
#10 Vidora
Was brilliant in the Moir, just getting held up at the wrong stage. Once clear she absolutely flew to just miss. Has tremendous second-up form and may surprise a few here at juicy odds
#3 Malaguerra
Strong finish in the Moir from the rear to finish two lengths away from the winner. Drawn wide again but pace should work in his favour. Chance.
1st Vega Magic - better ride this time he will be hard to stop.
2nd Viddora
3rd Chautauqua