Chris Scholtz reviews racing around Australia on January 28.
THE STARS
DARREN WEIR: The win by Italian Derby winner Goldstream yet another example of the grip Weir now has on preparing imports.
CLARE LINDOP: Dare say she is riding in the best form of her career. Married life obviously agrees with the queen of Adelaide racing.MATT DUNN: What a strike rate he has going since he decided to target Sydney racing on a regular basis.
COREY BROWN: Perfect start to his return to Sydney racing. Welcome back.FRED KERSLEY/DIVINE CALLING: Great first-up win by a horse who had raced previously in Australia and Hong Kong for three different stables. The trainer who made Northerly a champion is still one of Perth’s best.
JOSH PARR: Copped a caning for his ride on the luckless Menari.
CHRIS WALLER: No other word for it - a black out in Sydney for the top stable.CRAIG WILLIAMS: Bet he won’t recall his effort on Divine Mr Artie as one of his best rides. Should have won.
RIDE OF THE DAYDamian Browne: Rides Caloundra better than most. His win on Sir Moments in the Sunshine Coast Cup was a beauty. Hugh Bowman gets an honourable mention for his ride on Madame De Ban. His strength made the difference.
TALKING POINTSPARIAH: Plenty of hype about this colt after his classy debut win. Is the form up to Blue Diamond/Golden Slipper standard?
TONY GOLLAN: Must hurt this achiever to be closing his Sydney stable after 12 months of very limited success.GEELONG SUNDAY: Another track farce in Victoria. What’s new?
MONEY TALKS
MADAME DE BAN: Backing Matt Dunn firmers in Sydney is gold.MUSIC MAGNATE: Big punters who love the shorts didn’t hesitate.
INVINCIBLE GEM: Double figures were taken early – and kept firming!PORTMAN: Labelled the best of the day at Flemington. Punters took the lead.
BLACKBOOKSWEET DEAL: Terrific effort from an inexperienced filly. Bright future.
CHANDANA: Nice teaser to start off a new campaign.DIVINE MR ARTIE: Lost it at the 400m when held up. Replay says it all.
LAND OF PLENTY: Eye catcher of the day. Just wait until he gets to 1400m and further.BLACK JACK BELLA: Huge run from last for second at Caloundra.