Moreton Hire (Bm70)

With the rail at +3m, the track should play fairly. This position is standard for Eagle Farm and typically doesn't produce a significant bias. The inside lanes may offer the shortest way home, but the track is wide enough for horses to make their runs from wider out in the straight. It slightly favours horses who can hold a forward position and kick off the turn, but given the long straight, it won't be a disadvantage for closers if the pace is on.

The track is rated a Good 4 with fine weather predicted. This is a perfect racing surface that will give every horse its chance and will not favour any particular running style based on ground condition. The fair surface ensures that race tempo and individual horse ability will be the primary determinants of the outcome. Backmarkers will not be disadvantaged by a rain-affected inside, and on-pacers will get a firm, fast surface to kick off.

The 1400m start at Eagle Farm provides a long run down the back straight before the sweeping home turn. This configuration gives horses drawn wide some opportunity to cross and find a position, but it often comes at the cost of burning early energy. The key feature of Eagle Farm is its long, demanding 434m home straight. Horses that over-race or do too much work early are often vulnerable to strong finishers. The predicted strong tempo will make this long straight feel even longer, favouring horses who have had an economical run and possess a strong finishing burst.

This is a Benchmark 70 Handicap, a competitive grade where horses are relatively evenly matched. The handicap nature of the race means weights are compressed, which can often lead to a bunched finish. In these types of races, tactical advantages gained from the speed map, such as an economical run, are often the deciding factor. Jockeys will be keen to find the right spot, contributing to the genuine tempo.