Betting tips / Paul Bugeja / 08 June 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

With conditions to suit, Brad Thompson believes Vatuvei to be the one to beat in the Queensland Derby (2800) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Prepared by leading trainer Peter Moody, Vatuevei performed gamely to chase home stablemate Brambles at his last start in the Group 1 Grand Prix Stakes at Doomben a fortnight ago.

Doomben was never going to be a track he was suited to, and he was also coming back sharply in journey from 2800m when he romped home to win the VRC ST Leger at Flemington on a heavy surface on April 25.

Following his impressive victory in Melbourne, Moody gave Vatuvei a month break before setting his sights on the Brisbane carnival. After the short break, the Grand Prix race was his opener in Brisbane, and simply a lead-up for his grand final, the derby.

Now, the son of Reset is in top condition for his derby assault.

Vatuvei drew the car-park in gate 19 at the barrier draw, but it might not hamper his chances too much. By the time the derby is run, the track is likely to be deteriorating and favouring horses closer to the centre of the track. From the wide gate, Luke Nolen will have no choice but to guide Vatuevi on a course towards the outside, where it's reasonable to assume the going is more suitable.

There's a lead in itself with Nolen aboard, with Moody's No. 1 rider ordered to take the ride on Vatuvei, ahead of race favourite Brambles.

Vatuevi has all the attributes of making the grade as a strong stayer, especially in rain-affected conditions.

Recommended Betfair Bet
Take the Betfair odds of (5.2) for Vatuvei and hope it rains!