Gee they have copped it in Sydney and let’s hope we get through the feature meeting because more rain is predicted.
Always one of the best races of the year, who doesn’t love a full field handicap?
Easy to make a case for half the field but there are a couple I’ve liked all the way through and no need for me to jump off them now.
I’M THUNDERSTRUCK is one of, if not the best horse in Australia in my mind. His prep has been timed perfectly for this. He was always going to improve off the first two runs into the All-star mile where he was exceptionally good and strong through the line. The genuine heavy is a little query but he is a kiwi bred and has raced well on it in easier company. Bowman rides from a middle gate and he should get his chance to show how good he is.
I’ve loved CONVERGE since he won the Atkins in brissy. He looked a very special horse when he raced up here and after a setback he has returned every bit as good as i thought he was. He has already won a G1 this prep and the run at 2000m will have him as fit as Gai can get him. King should be able to stalk the early leaders and if she can time his really good turn of foot he will be hard to run down.
They are the two main ones for me but obviously many other chances. FORBIDDEN LOVE comes here of back to back G1 wins and she’s an absolute swimmer. Highest rated horse in the race and carries 50kg. Not sure is BANKERS CHOICE gets a run here but he is ready to peak off the two runs back. Loomed last start and might have just needed that run. CASCADIAN is just a marvel. His run was nearly as good as I’M THUNDERSTRUCK in the All-star mile and he just has to lump the top weight against a very good bunch. Will go on all conditions and has JMac steering. He can win without surprising and $34 looks the wrong price. Blinkers back on PRIVATE EYE is interesting. He can improve sharply, just worried where he lands in the run. LIGHTHOUSE has the similar very wide gate and is a query for the same reason. She is one of the more consistent types around and can be around the money with any luck in running. KISSONALLFORCHEEKS is the one I don’t know what to do with. Limited wet track form in W.A but gee she looks to be on the way up and the Kingston Town classic run was really good.
*#2 my main bet, maybe smaller #20.
Gibbo’s 2022 Doncaster early selections: (may update closer)
2-I’M THUNDERSTRUCK $6
20-CONVERGE $9
1-CASCADIAN $26
16-FORBIDDEN LOVE $4.40
21-BANKERS CHOICE $18 (if runs) – if not> 5-LIGHTHOUSE $16
