Best From The West - August 18

The Lindsey Smith trained Epic Grey did enough first up to suggest he can break through in the final event at Belmont on Saturday.

Only lightly raced the son of Wicked Style has never missed the money in 11 starts, including four victories.

Wanting to over-race during the middle stages in his return, he found the line well late to finish second behind Sharpbob.

Epic Grey has never won first up (placed 4/4), but is unbeaten second up (3/3).

The relatively quick back up (nine days) should suit and although drawn wide, he can press forward and adopt a fairly prominent position.

Apprentice rider Tayla Stone sticks aboard and as a result he appears very well placed at the weights.

Confident he is the best horse engaged and while he will need luck in-running, more than happy to side his way.

Early markets have him close to a 3-1 chance, which is a more than worthy gamble, as we have him priced $2.75 on Saturday.

Certainly respect front-runner and likely leader Dia De La Raza, but happy to side with the grey.

The Hector McLaren trained Patrocity was clearly no match for Crystal Spirit in his return, however clearly no knock on that form and he is sure to appreciate the drop back in grade.

Although yet to break through from 10 starts, he has placed on four occasions and contested races off far more depth to what he faces on Saturday.

Form through the likes of both Abdicator and Private Dancer make for good reading and with Pike legging aboard, he should prove very hard to beat.

Best From The West

BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 8 #2 Epic Grey @ $3.80

BET OF THE DAY (2): Race 2 #1 Patrocity @ $2.00