Blue Breakdown

Sydney has awoken to a moist morning, nonetheless today’s Rosehill surface promises to be firmer than the Randwick porridge of the past three Saturdays.

Rosehill’s customary post-carnival renovation, to loosen compacted ground, will give the firm going a shifty quality, which may aid those close to the pace. With the rail reverting to the true position, I anticipate the best ground to be away from the fence, and middle to wide draws are best placed to claim this advantage.

O’Shea stable runners perform best at Rosehill, and will be the focus of much betting attention this afternoon.

REINCARNATE has found a new lease of life as a gelding this preparation. He steps out in Race 1 armed with a fitness edge, and while the quality of his opposition last start was poor, he was untroubled to win easily and brings considerable momentum to today’s shorter assignment.

Lohnro debutant IMPENDING faces a variety of formlines in Race 2. His trainer’s choice of a Saturday race to commence his career signals connections hold him in high esteem.

MOHER flies the stable flag in Race 5. His performances this preparation have been trademarked by strong participation offset by dourness. His lack of turn-of-foot appears to marginalise his chances in a deep contest today.

FAROLITOS returns from a let-up in Race 7 having worked in the run first-up. His subsequent trial seems propitious to his prospects, complemented by the re-partnering with his gun rider.

MOGADOR carries the hopes of many in the nightcap, Race 9. His past three southern failures have all been over 1200m, and the switch to a sympathetically run shorter course should see him enjoy strong support.

Also of considerable interest in the programme set down for today will be the performances of last-start down-the-coursers from recent Randwick meetings. Look out for forthcoming analysis in the next instalment of Weekend Wisdom.