Race 1

Linguist (14) is The ‘Cock’s clear standout in this field, ahead of Groovin (3), Sworn Evidence (16) & So Splendid (10) as next best.

The ‘Cock was looking forward to cashing in on Linguist at big odds on Cup Day had she started there, but connections have opted for this one and who can blame them, as she could hardly be better suited and opting for this route is an encouraging sign for punters. She only needs to replicate the level of performance that saw her win by five lengths at Ballarat last start, and fourth up today The ‘Cock expects that as a minimum, given we should really see her go even better again if her history is anything to go by. Rates close to a $2.90 top chance for The ‘Cock and a great bet at $5.50.

Recommended Bet:

• Linguist (14) – Rated: $2.90, Current Price: $5.50

Race 3

Urban Ruler (5), Silvera (6), Valac (12), Tribal Wisdom (8), Chalk (10), Harbour Grey (9), Time To Torque (3), Pay Up Bro (7).

This race is a great spectacle each year, but unfortunately, there are too many grey areas for The ‘Cock to be investing confidently in it today.

Urban Ruler rates on top after a strong win at Geelong last start on return and while his second up record isn’t as strong, his career peak rating came at this track and trip back in June which is higher than anything his rivals have ever been able to produce and he is the $4 top chance for The ‘Cock.

Harbour Grey is a rough chance to monitor after producing a strong rating on resumption at Geelong last start, and who is almost certain to improve second up with this step up in distance. Even that might still leave him short of the top raters but The ‘Cock expects it will at least put him at the top end of proceedings.

Race 8

Aloisia (1) is unsurprisingly The ‘Cock’s clear top runner in the Oaks and The ‘Cock can’t make a case for anything to come near her, with this looking like a genuine six-length job if Nolen decides to let her go.

Her win in the Thousand Guineas four weeks ago and then again last start in the Moonee Valley Vase have been flawless, with The ‘Cock fully expecting her to take it to another level again today with an Oaks run that will have everyone sitting up and taking notice. The $1.50 top quote is certainly better than bank interest.