Traffic Warden @ Darley (Bm72)

With the rail in the True position, there is no inherent bias from its placement. It typically allows for fair racing across the track. However, given this is later in the program on a Soft 6, the inside section could be subject to wear and chop out. This may lead jockeys to scout for superior ground in the 3 to 5-wide line upon straightening, potentially disadvantaging horses locked away on the fence who cannot get clear running at the critical stage.

The official rating of a Soft 6 is a crucial factor. This surface will dull the acceleration of brilliant sprinters and bring genuine wet-track performers and horses with proven stamina to the fore. The genuine tempo combined with the soft ground will ensure a true test at 1300m. Any horse that is not fully fit or struggles on rain-affected going will be found out in the long home straight. Horses that can sustain a long run will be advantaged over those requiring a firm surface to produce a quick turn of foot.

The 1300m start at Warwick Farm is from a chute, providing a straight run of approximately 300m before the home turn. This is generally enough time for horses with speed drawn wide to cross over without being posted deep, though it still requires effort. The key feature is the long, testing home straight of nearly 400m. On a Soft 6 surface, this straight becomes a significant stamina test, especially for leaders who have worked hard to get there. It gives swoopers ample time to build momentum and run down the leaders.

As a Benchmark 72 Handicap, this is a competitive race for well-exposed horses. The handicap nature of the race is significant, particularly on a soft track where weight can anchor a horse. Lighter-weighted runners such as #11 Tartana (54.5kg) and #13 The Replicant (54.5kg) receive a tangible advantage over the top-weight #4 So Good So Cool (60.5kg), as every kilogram is tougher to carry through testing ground.