It's one of the biggest nights on the harness racing calendar, with five Group 1 races headlined by the $250,000 Victoria Cup.
We've worked through the form, barriers and likely race patterns to find our strongest betting opportunities. Two main bets and one to watch.
Melton Race 2 — Victoria Trotters Oaks
7:01pm
Forgive Hallebesofine's latest defeat when caught wide from an awkward barrier. Her previous second in the Vicbred Final was excellent, and she gets a much better opportunity from gate four. If she can push forward and find the lead, she'll take plenty of catching in a competitive Group 1.
Melton Race 4 — Victoria Derby Final
8:14pm
Palladium looks beautifully placed to add another Group 1 to his record. The Queensland Derby winner was outstanding winning his heat by 5.7 metres and looks to have returned an even better horse. Drawn favourably in gate four, he should be able to work forward and potentially control the race. Proven class, excellent form and a favourable map make him our standout selection.
BetBunkerProven class, excellent form and a favourable map make him our standout selection
Melton Race 5 — Bill Collins Trotters Sprint
8:54pm
I Am Wilma gets her chance from the perfect draw. She was enormous when runner-up to Gatesys Gem in the Vicbred Final after doing plenty of work from the back row. This time she draws the pole with Chris Alford driving. A recent trial victory adds confidence, and an economical run along the pegs could see her right in the finish.
BetBunkerA recent trial victory adds confidence, and an economical run along the pegs could see her right in the finish
Melton Race 6 — Group 1 Victoria Cup
9:26pm
The superstar mare is the headline act after her stunning Inter Dominion triumph over Leap To Fame. She returned with an impressive win at Menangle and draws perfectly to take control from gate three. The clear horse to beat, although she's not part of our main betting set.
BetBunkerThe clear horse to beat, although she's not part of our main betting set
Best bets
Best Bet – R4 #4 Palladium (8:14pm): Proven class, excellent form and a favourable map make him our standout selection.
Value Bet – R5 #1 I Am Wilma (8:54pm): Draws the pole with Chris Alford driving, and an economical run along the pegs could see her right in the finish.
One to Watch – R2 #4 Hallebesofine (7:01pm): A much better gate this time after an unlucky last start, and she'll take plenty of catching if she can find the lead.
Quality over quantity. Two main bets, one to watch and a massive night of Group 1 harness racing at Melton.
Good luck with the Victoria Cup card.
Editorial at The Daily Punt, covering Australian racing and sport with an eye for where the value sits.
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