Taree hosts a challenging eight race card on Friday, which will give punters plenty to ponder.
The track is currently rated a Soft 7, with mostly fine weather forecast for the mid-north NSW coastal town.
The rail is in the 4m position from the 1000m to the winning post and true for the remainder of the circuit. On-pace runners typically hold an advantage at this track.
From the stewards
The horse that stands out in the pre-steward's report is Saquon, who lines up in race 1.
The No Nay Never gelding has had just over a month off after being a late scratching at the gates at Newcastle a fortnight ago.
He finished off last prep at Scone where he finished 0.5-lengths behind Outburst, in what was a very good run considering the bad luck he encountered.
Passing the 1200m mark, he was checked and lost his spot in the run before racing erratically for some distance after. He was then held up rounding the home turn and then hung out badly near the 200m.
Following that clash, the gelding was sent back to the trials where he demonstrated improved barrier manners, after jumping with them and producing a solid hit out behind the talented Star Boy.
If he's on his best behaviour, he should break his maiden today.
Josh tipped two winners and a placing from 3 selections at Gosford yesterday!
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Jockey to follow
Aaron Bullock has the best riding stats out of the jockeys engaged at Taree today.
Over the past 12 months, Bullock has had 39 mounts for 10 wins, at a 26% strike rate.
He has 3 rides today, with his best chance coming in race 4 on Boom Queen.
I've identified 2-races on today's card that represent good betting opportunities.
Below is my best bet and quaddie numbers. For my full tip package and runner comments, click here.
The Sizzling gelding broke through for his maiden victory last start at Quirindi and looks set to make it back-to-back victories today.
He relished the Soft 5 over 1400m on that occasion and produced a strong finish from off the pace, performing like a well backed favourite should.
He steps back to the 1300m on a Heavy track for this assignment, which should work in his favour given his performance last start.
From barrier 8, he's likely to sit three pairs back in the running line and should get a nice cart into the race.
Look for jockey Amelia Denby to peel out early and attack for the lead as they straighten.
Race 4: 3, 6, 7
Race 5: 7, 8, 13
Race 6: 1, 2, 3, 4
Race 7: 5, 6