Sportsbet Jockey Watch (Bm70)

The rail is out 11m for the entire circuit. This is a significant move that can often favour horses racing on or near the speed. The track narrows, particularly around the home turn, making it more difficult for backmarkers to sweep around the field without covering considerable extra ground. Horses drawn low who can hold a position are at a distinct advantage, while those caught wide will have to do more work than usual.

The track is rated a Soft 6. This surface will place a premium on race fitness and proven ability on wet ground. The long, uphill straight becomes even more demanding, and it will sort out those who cannot handle the conditions or see out a strong mile. The going may blunt the acceleration of some runners, favouring those with sustained closing speed over those with a brilliant, short burst. A moderate tempo on this surface could make it very difficult for backmarkers to make up the required ground on tiring leaders.

The 1600m start at Sandown-Hillside provides a long, fair run down the back straight before the main turn. This allows horses drawn across the field time to find their position without a mad scramble for the first corner. The defining feature is the long, uphill home straight, which is a genuine test of stamina, particularly on rain-affected ground like a Soft 6. A moderate tempo could lead to a dash from the 600m, but horses will need to be strong to the line to sustain their run up the incline.

This is a Benchmark 70 Handicap for three-year-old fillies. At this time of year, form can be consistent, but fillies can also make sudden improvements. The handicap conditions mean weights are relatively compressed, but the top weight #1 All Business is conceding between 2.5kg and 5.5kg to the rest of the field, a notable impost on soft ground over a mile.