Sleep Clinics (Bm58)

The rail is in the True position for the majority of the race. On a Soft 7 track, this means the inside section could become chopped up and potentially inferior ground as the meeting progresses. Jockeys on horses saving ground on the fence may look to angle off in the straight to find a better strip of turf. This could slightly negate the advantage of drawing an inside barrier if the going near the rail is significantly worse.

The official Soft 7 rating is a critical factor. This will make the 1590m a genuine test of stamina, feeling more like a mile on a dry track. Horses who have proven form on wet ground are at a distinct advantage. The genuine pace will stretch the field, and those who are not strong at the end of the trip will be found wanting. The soft surface makes it more difficult for horses to produce a sharp turn of foot, favouring those with sustained, grinding runs. Leaders who overdo it will be vulnerable late.

The 1590m start at Wodonga offers a reasonable run of about 400m to the first bend into the back straight. This provides an opportunity for horses with gate speed to cross, but those drawn very wide are still at a significant disadvantage. The track itself is known for its relatively short home straight of approximately 350m. This configuration typically favours horses positioned on-pace, as it can be challenging for backmarkers to reel in the leaders if they get an uncontested mid-race sectional. The genuine tempo will ensure a true test at the distance.

As a Benchmark 58 handicap, this race features a field of moderately-talented and often inconsistent horses. A trouble-free run in transit is paramount. Tactical nous from the jockey in securing an economical position from the barriers is often the difference between winning and losing at this level. The soft track and genuine pace will expose any fitness or class deficiencies.