Friday night racing returns to Cranbourne with an eight race program kicking off at 6:30pm with race one.
The track is currently rated as a Good 4 track with the weather fine and the rail in the true position, after previously being out 9m.
Race 3 Maiden Plate (1200m) @ 7:30pm
Bottmingen
He was left a bit flat-footed last start at Moonee Valley when back in the field and unable to chase when the sprint went on. The form out of that race has been particularly strong coupled with his debut run when he finished a narrow second to Miss Albania, who has won again at Caulfield since. Should get a good from the barrier and get every chance to bounce back and get his maiden victory.
Suggested Bet: Back Bottmingen to win ($2.80).
Race 5 Benchmark-64 Handicap (1300m) @ 8:30pm
Katsuma
Strikes a winnable race here and gets her chance to bounce back to form. Her last run was at this track was a top effort when she finished second to Denero over the 1400m. She has been around some strong races in her previous starts so she should appreciate the drop back to Benchmark-64 grade. While she has finished towards the rear of the field in her last few starts, she has not been far from the winner. Looks to get a good run in the race and looks a good chance at a good price.
Suggested Bet: Back Katsuma Each-Way ($9.50 win, $2.80 place).
Race 6 Benchmark-64 Handicap (1000m) @ 9:00pm
Backpedal
Very keen on this four-year-old daughter of Toronado returning to the track first-up here. Her last run was a disappointing run when she was a solid favourite at Ballarat on the synthetic track over 1000m. Her first preparation saw her debut run be a dominant eight length winner at Ballarat on debut before contesting Group 3 company behind the likes of Loving Gaby and California Zimbol. Her jumpout at Camperdown leading into this was very impressive, where she led all the way to win under a hold and beat the likes of Dee Keepa and Guizot with ease. The talent is there and she looks ready for a big first-up performance.
Suggested Bet: Back Backpedal to win ($3.30).
Race 8 Fillies & Mares Benchmark-64 Handicap (1600m) @ 10:00pm
Starring Role
Was very impressed with this four-year-old mares’ maiden victory at Mornington last start where she was able to hold out Dunvegan (who goes around in race 3). The former New Zealand galloper should not mind the step up in distance to the mile, a distance where she contested strong races at in her former country. Looks as though she should settle midfield and get a good cart into the race on the turn for home and get every opportunity to win again.
Suggested Bet: Back Starring Role Each-Way ($6.50 win, $2.10 place).
Is Gambling a problem for you? Call Gamblers Help on 1800 858 858 or your local state gambling helpline. Gamble responsibly.