Horse Racing Tips for the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes 2025

One of the most high-powered Group 1 sprint races of the season is set to unfold and as always, tempo and track pattern will be crucial factors.

At first glance, the colts look to have this race at their mercy, carrying just 55.5kg in a 3kg weight spread.

With all three resuming from the same race, Switzerland’s Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes win on November 2, we have a rare equal starting point that sets up an enthralling rematch.

In a likely bunched field, momentum from the 500m mark will be critical and this is where the 3YOs could hold the edge.

With Flemington’s straight track often favouring those tracking midfield and angling wider late, the big question remains... Who strikes first and why?

You can get my full set of tips for racing this Saturday via the link below.

Black Caviar Lightning Stakes 2025 Tips and Best Bets

Track Conditions & Setup

The track is currently rated Good 4, but with intermittent rain in the lead-up, there is a chance it edges into Soft 5 by race time.

The rail is in the True position which usually promotes an even pattern.

Given it’s late in the day I expect the field to travel in a bunch down the middle before gradually shifting wider in the final 400m.

Who do the All-In boys in the Lightning Stakes

Speed Map & Race Shape

The early pace will come from Way To The Stars, who will look to control the speed from a wide draw.

Joyful Fortune drawn inside should settle just in behind, with Philosopher and I Am Me sitting handy.

The key three-year-old contenders, Growing Empire and Switzerland, should park midfield with cover.

Further back, Traffic Warden and Mazu will likely settle in the final third but should be hitting the line strongly, especially if the race is run at a solid tempo.

The Favourite – Switzerland $2.80

Switzerland is a class act when fresh and maps well here behind two strong trials.

A previous winner down the Flemington straight over 1200m, he ticks plenty of boxes and will be charging late.

While he’s an obvious winning chance, his current odds look a touch short, considering the depth of talent in the field.

Neil’s Best Bet – Growing Empire $3.90

Growing Empire gets the nod as the top selection, primarily due to his tactical speed advantage over Switzerland.

He should settle in front of his key rival, allowing him to strike first in the home straight.

He has shown his class previously, finishing just 1.5 lengths behind Bella Nipotina in The Everest.

If the track softens, it will only enhance his chances, as he thrives on give in the ground.

The Key Dangers

Switzerland remains a major player, with Traffic Warden ($6.50) shaping as a serious late closer who could unleash the fastest final 200m of the race.

At a longer price, I Am Me ($7.00) is another to respect fresh, while Mornington Glory ($27.00) could surprise as the best roughie of the field.

Neil’s Final Selections:

1. Growing Empire
2. Switzerland
3. Traffic Warden
4. I Am Me
5. Mornington Glory

For thousands more tips including free selections for today's racing, head to Australia's best racing tips market at thegreattipoff.com.