In this article we look at nominations for Saturday racing and see what the likely fields look like.
Group 1 racing is back
Group 1 racing returns this Saturday with the Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick, named after racing's greatest modern superstar — and we could be treated to a clash between arguably the two best mares since her.
There are 17 nominations, including a remarkable 11 from the Chris Waller stable, but Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi dominate the early betting at $1.50 and $3.40 respectively.
The Moody-Coleman stable is expected to make a decision on whether Sheza Alibi heads to Sydney after she gallops on Tuesday morning.
If she makes the trip up the highway, a race that has seemingly come from nowhere could turn into one of the clashes of the modern era.
Strong supporting card at Randwick
The Show County Quality (1200m) brings together the open sprinters, with the ultra-consistent Headwall heading the market at $2.50.
Now a three-year-old, Sires' Produce winner Campione D'Italia sits on the second line of betting at $4.40 as he begins his spring campaign.
In the Toy Show Quality for fillies and mares, Apocalyptic returns as a four-year-old following an outstanding three-year-old season and has been installed the $2.00 favourite.
The Silver Shadow Stakes also gives us an early look at some of the better three-year-old fillies, with Agrarian Girl, Cherry Bombshell and Golden Slipper favourite Pembrey all among the leading chances.
Sandown
It's a quieter day down at Sandown, where Hedged and Cavalry Girl head the early market for the Carlyon Stakes (1000m).
With Group 1 racing back and some serious spring horses beginning their campaigns, Saturday is another significant step towards the heart of the carnival.
Editorial at The Daily Punt, covering Australian racing and sport with an eye for where the value sits.
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