Star three-year-old Delicacy has dominated the female ranks and appears well placed to clinch the prestigious W.A. Oaks/W.A.T.C. Derby double on Saturday.
Unbeaten beyond a mile, the daughter of Al Maher has continued to raise the bar, culminating with her second Group success in the Oaks last start.
Historically Oaks winners possess a great record in the Derby, with five of the last eight winners proving successful in completing the double.
In the last 21 years, fillies have provided 25 per cent of the participants, while providing 38 per cent of the winners — easily winning more than their share.Favourites also possesses a great record in the Derby, having won seven of the past 20, with only two double figure winners recorded in that period.
Disposition and Rommel headed the male's division over the Summer and with both currently off the scene, there appears little opposition to Delicacy.Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings, she is the clear top pick, rated 10 pounds clear of her nearest rival.
Currently installed an even money chance appears a more than worthy gamble, as if priced aggressively, we have her marked closer to a $1.50 chance.From the rails draw, Delicacy should enjoy a great run in transit and prove very hard to beat with the in-form William Pike aboard.
An impressive winner first up, the daughter of Passenger went on to confirm that rating behind Sheidel, when finishing a close fourth.
She has placed in three of four attempts racing third up and has placed in nine of 11 attempts at this track.While let to salute over this trip, she has placed in five of eight attempts and was only narrowly beaten in the Listed Jungle Dawn Classic at this course and distance last preparation.
The Kenny stable possesses a remarkable record with favourites, striking at 44 per cent and strikes at just shy of 20 per cent at Ascot.With the key scratching of Wink And A Nod, she appears a very likely winner and is marked the even money favourite in our market.
Currently installed a 2-1 chance obviously presents a good overlay opportunity.From the middle draw, Need A Lift looks to get a charmed run in transit and should prove very hard to hold out.
BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 7 #9 Delicacy @ $2.00BET OF THE DAY (2): Race 4 #1 Need A Lift @ $3.00