Echuca
Race 6 – Rookery Nook
Jockey – John Allen
1600m – Barrier 5
Last start maiden winner Rookery Nook gets out to a mile when he heads to Echuca this afternoon. The gelded son of Bivouac proved too good on the Synthetic at Ballarat three weeks ago, stalking the speed throughout before taking over in the home straight and recording a soft victory on the line. Jockey John Allen sticks on and can let his galloper roll in the early parts, looking to land outside or just behind the speed on settling.
Speed has drawn the inside with Mickio and Tel Aviv to punch through and contest the early lead, while expect Azeola to roll across in search of a forward position on settling. Even affair. Tel Aviv was an easy Wangaratta winner three back before a sound placing at Sale next time out. Plain effort last start but back to this trip looks suitable. One of the main hopes. Pick Wisely has a strong finish on his day but does mix his form. Each way claims. So too Mickio, who may be looking for further now, and Azeola, who hits this third-up and fitter.
Rookery Nook won well last start but heavy ground today is the query. He draws for the right run throughout, no surprise to see him around the mark again. Each way claims.
Currently, Rookery Nook is a $6 chance in the market.