Distance | 1800m |
Grade | Group 1 |
Track Rating | Soft 5 |
Prizemoney | $1,000,000 |
Class | WFA |
2020 winner | Russian Camelot ($1.55) |
All eyes will be on the exciting Zaaki in this year's edition of the Underwood Stakes, as he has his first look at a Melbourne racetrack.
It is very hard to see any other runner troubling the favourite and he looks to have this one on a platter.
Probabeel is likely to be charging at him late, however expect you can expect the new star to be far too strong.
The Sandown surface is currently rated a Soft 5, with the rail in the True postion for the entire circuit.
With the rail True and fine conditions predicted in Melbourne, the track should play fair.
As always a close watch is advised early, to determine any fast lanes.
Probabeel has been the best backed in this small field early, and is $7 into $5.
Whilst Zaaki is a slight drifter, $1.22 out to $1.28.
All other runners remain steady.
#1 Fifty Stars $31
Looks well below his best at both runs back this preparation, and even at his peak he would struggle to trouble these. No.
#2 Zaaki $1.28
Excitement machine! who is still largely untapped at this point of his racing career.
He was simply breathtaking last start at Randwick in the Tramway (1400m), when first-up over what should have been a most unsuitable distance.
Expect he has this race at his mercy as the price suggests, and it is very hard to see him being beaten. Should be far too good.
#3 The Chosen One $19
Came back in great order first-up in the Feehan at Moonee Valley, when placing 3 of 13 behind Superstorm.
He has a big run in him each prep and whilst you would not expect him threaten Zaaki, he should be strong through the line.
Trust gun rider Damien Lane will give him a good steer and every chance.
#4 Superstorm $11
Won the Feehan last start after given a peach of a ride by Olly!
He was blessed in run last time out after the "seas parted" and a perfect rails run presented.
I doubt there will be any cheap favours here and the big guns should have him well covered.
#5 Probabeel $7.00 > $5.00
Is a mare of the highest quality and it's unfortunate she bumps into the smart Zaaki in this one.
She won well first-up at Caulfield in the Cockram, then wasnt suited last start in the Sir Rupert Clarke when too far back in the run.
Due to the small field she will find herself closer to the speed than on most other occasions and this could help.
She should be rattling home when its all over and looks the clear quinella horse if your are playing the exotics.
1st Zaaki
2nd Probabeel
3rd The Chosen One
4th Superstorm