Ellerslie Race Track

SMOKESHOW in the money last start running second at Wanganui when fresh and draws to do no work, commands respect. CHAOURCE placed at Tauranga in only second-up attempt and finished strongly to end up midfield last start at Te Rapa when resuming, each-way claims. PERSIFLAGE placed when unwanted in the betting last start at Te Rapa and conditions suit very well, could threaten. OPPENHEIMER has placed in two attempts this campaign and only just missed last start, finishing a neck back from the winner at Tauranga, place only.

Looks a sit-and-sprint race with little tempo engaged. SIERRA LEONE yet to miss the placegetters in two runs, hard to go past. VEGA FOR LUCK has won or placed in all three races so far, in with a chance. BELLE DU MONDE placed at only start at Ellerslie, in with a chance. REMALA on debut, not the worst.

Hard to split the top two picks. IRISH LEGACY last start winner at Ellerslie when first up and likely to get a nice run behind the speed, a close top pick. MOVING MELODY has placed twice at Ellerslie before and has three placings from four runs this prep, expect to be right up there. MARENGO came on to finish midfield last start at Ellerslie when resuming and ran second at Pukekohe Park when last second-up, cannot be ruled out. MERCHANT QUEEN back after 13 week break and proven first-up runner winning in two of three attempts, don't treat lightly.