Racing and Sports finds the best-backed runners in early betting on Thursday’s meeting at Rockhampton.

Murtasteel (Race 1) has closed the gap on the favourite at $2.90, 60 cents shorter than his opening price. The gelding looks a second-up improver and should find this easier than his resuming run at Sunshine Coast.

Craiglea Pistol (Race 2) has taken over as the favourite at $3 having shortened more than a half point early on. He has been racing well this campaign winning three of five runs including at this course last start.

Palace Tycoon (Race 3) opened well into each way odds but has firmed more than three points to $4. He drops back in class from an open grade run last start and did win at Toowoomba when resuming this campaign.

Wonder Boom (Race 4) has tightened his grip on favouritism at $2.30, more than a point shorter than his initial quote. He broke through for a win last start and Gatton and the punters believe he can go on with the job.

Hellaroo (Race 6) is second pick in the market at $3.90 having tightened up a point in early trading. The mare was a close second last start in her first attempt at this course and distance.

Land Office (Race 7) is now the favourite for the Rockhampton Newmarket having halved his opening price to $4.20. He won well at his first visit to this track last start and the punters are keen to stick with him in the day’s feature.

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