25/5/20 Best horse racing tips today

Taree is the venue for racing in northern NSW on Monday, with a seven race card attracting some decent gallopers in the home of "The Big Oyster". 

The track is currently rated a Soft 7 and rain is expected throughout the day. 

The rail is in the true position, which should ensure a fair day of racing.

Josh has identified three races on today's card that represent good betting opportunities. 

For today's full tip package and runner comments, click here.

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From the stewards

There are several runners who have featured heavily in the pre-steward's report for this meeting. 

One of note is Mister Maker in Race 5. He was held up rounding the home turn last start and then had some difficulty obtaining clear running until the 200m mark, before finishing well into fourth.

He will need a touch of luck from the draw in barrier 14, but the drop back to 2000m is ideal. He's proven on a rain affected surface and holds a great record at this track and distance (3:2-0-1), so he ticks plenty of boxes today. 

Jockey to follow

Of the jockeys riding in the Northern zone, Andrew Gibbons and Christian Reith have the best strike rate at the meeting. 

'Gibbo' has had 95 rides here in the past 12 months, winning 16 at a strike rate of 17%. On the other hand, Reith has had a mere 19 rides but has claimed victory on 4 occasions at 21%. 

The two go head-to-head in Race 4, with Gibbons on second-favourite Devan and Reith set to ride the favourite Cool Missile. 

 Taree Race 3 Tip #2 Montana Thunder $1.90

This Redoute's Choice gelding is resuming after a lengthy lay-off but looks well placed here.

He looked good at his recent trial and appears well suited stepping back to Country racing. 

Despite being almost 18 months ago, his first preparation was encouraging. He kicked off his career with a 0.2 length second behind regular city performer McCormack, and a repeat of that run has him winning this race.

He is drawn nicely off the inside and with no speed in this race, look for Jake Hull to roll forward and dictate terms to his rivals. 

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