I say it every year but this race is always intriguing. I feel there are 4-5 horses in this who could run top 10 in a Melbourne Cup without surprising.
To me SKYWARD, SAN HUBERTO and ASHRUN look similar types of horses with similar actions and all have a bit of quality and a bit of upside.
ASHRUN has glue on shoes and hoof filler on but I’m not sure if he usually has that or not which doesn’t help you out. That’s my little query but Williams rides and I’m sure the horse is in good shape or they wouldn’t be running.
SKYWARD was beaten just 2.8L by Anthony Van Dyke/Stradivarius last start, extremely good form for a race like this. Was a G3 winner in France before that. looks well placed and Pike to ride.
LE DON DE VIE hasn’t been racing against the top shelf group horses overseas but he’s the one that interests me the most. Has the ability to be up on speed and he looks to be a very progressive type. Once he is in contention he has a relentless gallop and has been very good through the line in recent runs.
Do not forget STEEL PRINCE, his last start effort was amazing. Three wide the entire trip at Flemington in a fast run race. He tried to slide in midrace which would have used more juice but it didn’t pan out. He’s a huge chance here if he gets a bit more luck.
*To be honest I’m not sure I’ve helped you out here at all! It looks a really even sort of race and I can’t wait to see what unfolds. The market seems about right and If I was to have a bet it may be a small e/w bet on LE DON DE VIE at $6.50/$2.40 but not overly confident.
Gibbo’s GEELONG CUP Selections 2020:
4-LE DON DE VIE
7-STEEL PRINCE
5-SKYWARD
2-ASHRUN
1-SAN HUBERTO
