Horse Racing Tips for The Railway Stakes 2024

The Railway Stakes is shaping up as a must-watch race this Saturday at Ascot.

With a stacked field assembled, runners will compete for the first Group 1 glory of the WA Carnival.

As is normal for Perth racing, a red-hot pace is predicted which should give all horses their chance of success.

The 1600m trip on a Soft 5 track has attracted runners from all over Australia and we want to help you find the best value in a high-quality lineup.

Luke Hovhanesian has gone through the form and lined up his top plays in the feature of the day.

Track Conditions

The track is rated a Soft 5, with warm weather and scattered showers forecast into Saturday.

The rail is in the true position, and historically this setup at Ascot provides every horse a chance.

Leaders will need to save energy early, while off-pace runners can capitalise if they tire late.

The Map

The pace looks hot early, with Belclare (1), Comfort Me (6), Searchin' Roc's (7), and Socks Nation (17) all likely to contest the lead.

Off-pace runners like Light Infantry Man (2), Zipaway (12), and Port Lockroy (9) should get ideal runs just behind the speed.

Further back, midfield runners such as Super Smink (13) and Bustler (10) will be looking for cover.

While backmarkers like Democracy Manifest (4) and Mojo Rhythm (13) will aim to unleash a late charge.

The Favourite

# 5 Light Infantry Man – $4.40

This Ciaron Maher-trained galloper is the class act of the field, and with James McDonald aboard, he’ll attract significant attention.

He has drawn ideally in barrier 2 and should find himself in a perfect position just behind the leaders.

His overseas form stacks up well, and he has finally hit his straps in Australia with a great campaign to date.

If the tempo is fast, he has the turn of foot to pounce late.

At his current odds, he’s a strong winning chance but offers limited value for punters seeking an edge.

Tips

1st – #12 Zipaway $8.50

This Neville Parnham-trained gelding looks primed to deliver in this Group 1 feature.

His most recent start was eye-catching, running on strongly against a moderate tempo.

The predicted fast pace will suit his off-pace style, and he has a knack for staying out of trouble in big fields.

From barrier 12, Steven Parnham should have him positioned perfectly to strike late.

2nd – #5 Light Infantry Man $4.40

Light Infantry Man is the horse to beat but may face stiff competition if the fast pace takes its toll.

The speed map he has recieved and class make him a must-include for exotics, but he’s slightly under the odds for the win.

3rd – #13 Super Smink $10.00

This talented mare looks ready to peak here.

She has strong form this prep, including a brave effort in the Group 2 Lee Steere Stakes.

While drawn awkwardly in 18, her ability to handle pressure and finish strongly puts her in contention.

Chris Parnham’s experience at Ascot will be a big advantage.

4th – #4 Democracy Manifest $14.00

This Chris Waller-trained galloper is a value play for those looking for something to bomb rivals late.

From barrier 19, he’ll drop back early, but his electric turn of foot could see him storm home late if he finds clear running.

Head to TheGreatTipOff.com for thousands more tips, including free selections for today's racing!