Best From The West - February 2

The Roy Rogers trained Captain Stirling gave his rivals a galloping lesson at Pinjarra last start and appears well placed to take that next step at Ascot on Saturday.

An impressive winner first up at Narrogin, Captain Stirling took that form to Pinjarra and spaced his rivals, running slick time in the process.

Never in doubt under Staeck, Captain Stirling now faces his stiffest test, but at the weights he is very well placed.

From the inside draw he is sure to be prominent and with further improvement expected third up, he is sure to be in this for a long way.

When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, he possesses a distinct edge over his rivals and is clearly a 4YO heading the right way.

He chases his fourth straight win on Saturday and with even luck he should take a power of beating.

The only knock on Saturday is the early price, as it's never easy to suggest there is a big edge with an odds-on pop.

In saying that, do have him marked $1.80 and happy to bet up.

The Darren McAuliffe trained Abdicator creates plenty of interest in his return, when due to contest the Listed Scenic Blast Stakes.

Yet to miss the money in 13 starts, Abdicator will obviously be better over further, but certainly gets his chance down in the weights and the booking of Pike is a decent push.

Clearly no knock on the flying Misty Metal, however at the price happy to side with Abdicator as from the wide draw, he should press forward and be in this for a long way.

Best From The West

BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 5 #7 Captain Stirling @ $2.00

BET OF THE DAY (2): Race 7 #9 Abdicator @ $5.00