Sky Racing (Bm70)

With the rail at +3m, the track should play fairly. This position doesn't typically create a significant bias on a Good 4 surface at Eagle Farm. It can slightly favour runners who are on-pace and can kick into the straight, but the long run home generally negates any major advantage. Runners drawn inside will save ground, which can be crucial, but they also risk being pocketed if the pace is on and they lack tactical speed.

Racing on a Good 4 surface ensures there will be no excuses related to the going. The track will provide a firm, even footing, allowing for genuine times and favouring no particular running style. The predicted strong tempo will not be dulled by a wet surface, meaning the leaders will get no respite. This setup is ideal for horses with a sharp turn of foot who can be produced in the clear at the top of the long straight.

The 1815m start at Eagle Farm provides a long run down the back straight before the first significant turn. This gives horses drawn wide, like #10 Enterprise Lassie, a fair opportunity to cross and find a position without being immediately disadvantaged. However, the long, sweeping home straight is the defining feature of the track. It is famously demanding and will test the stamina of any leader who has gone too hard early. This track profile, combined with the predicted strong pace, should give every runner their chance and will favour horses who can sustain a long run home.

As a Benchmark 70 Handicap, this is a competitive event where weights can play a role, especially in a genuinely run race over this distance. Horses like #10 Enterprise Lassie and #15 Lupine are racing on-pace with lighter weights, which could help them sustain their effort. Conversely, top weight #3 Merchant Flyer (61.0kg) may find the final 200m a challenge if the race is run at a true clip. The evenness of the field suggests tactical advantages gained from the speed map will be highly influential.