Spring racing / Kristen Manning / 29 October 2009 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Recognised as one of the world's great race days, this Saturday's meeting at Flemington attracts massive crowds and much of the attention is focused on the main race of the day, the $1.5 million Gr.1 Victoria Derby, writes Kristen Manning.

Favourite on the strength of his last two impressive victories at Flemington and Caulfield, Shamoline Warrior certainly has the breeding - being a half brother to last year's winner Rebel Raider.

The first attempt at 2500m is always a risk however and whilst he looks the one to beat, his odds are not generous so it may be worth playing around him.

So where to look? Firstly at the form from last Saturday's AAMI Vase, a race which over recent years has proven a very strong guide to the Derby .

Last weekend's winner Hanks does not take his place here and neither does runner up Spacecraft but the third placed Viking Legend does and his run was very good.

Not having a lot of room over the final stages, he just coming in the style of a horse looking for more ground. His sire Elvstroem was beaten in that same race but backed up to win this one a week later.

The form from the Geelong Classic is being respected this year - last year's hero Rebel Raider coming through that race, finishing third. All three placegetters from this year's edition take their place and each run contained merit.

And none of the trio had the perfect runs, winner Southern Skye held up till late, Our Heir Apparent wide and Rockferry striking interference but finishing on strongly.

Hard to split the trio. Southern Skye has the most experience but the other two, with just three runs each, possibly greater scope for improvement.

A different form line is that of Monaco Consul who has not raced since winning the Spring Champion Stakes at big odds.

The handsome Onemorenomore must also be conceded a chance on the strength of his consistent form but the concern with his is his tendency to pull - which makes the 2500m a definite query.

Gathering meanwhile looks a staying type and the exceptionally consistent colt is yet to run a bad race. With similar form lines to other more fancied rivals, he could be a bit of value.

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The Betfair tip of the weekend is Monaco Consul in the $1.5 million Gr.1 Victoria Derby.. To go to the market, click here.