Ruakākā Race 1
4 Patricia
Expecting in this small field that Illicit Dreams will likely lead and walk them as she has previously. This should see Patricia land the trail from gate 1, where I think she can outsprint them again if it does develop into a sit-sprint affair.

Ruakākā Race 2
3 Nigella Lane
Comes into this off the back of a very easy victory Te Aroha back in June. The low draw (2) should see her position close to the speed, which should give her a key map advantage over the other key runners in the market.

Ruakākā Race 3
7 Richie's Dream
Tip of The Day
Very moderate maiden contest, where Richie's Dream looks best of them. She is drawn wide, however, I think this will force Kelly Myers' hand to roll forward and give them something to chase. A repeat of either of his last two placings would likely see him winning this.

Ruakākā Race 4
2 Dior Sauvage
Decent effort last start at Te Rapa to run 3rd against much better company than what he meets in this maiden. Looked to go too quickly in front that day, If Jasmine Fawcett can find the front from gate 12 without working overtime, he'll have every chance to get his maiden win.

Ruakākā Race 5
2 Shamus
I thought this race sets up well for him, given the majority of this field are stayers resuming. Expect to see him roll forward from the wider draw and lead or settle handy in what looks a race devoid of any tempo.

Ruakākā Race 6
7 Whiskey 'N' Roses
Tricky edition of the Gr.3 Cambridge Stud Northland Breeders Stakes, where I have sided with Whiskey 'N' Roses. He has an impressive win to his name at this course/distance, whilst he can also position handy to the speed from gate 1. He has had a nice hit-out at the trials since, should be right on song for this.

Ruakākā Race 7
9 Highly Anticipated
Nice run for 2nd last start at Tauranga, where she was strong through the line without having all favours in the home straight. She should get a nice economical run from gate 1 under Warren Kennedy, looks a very strong 1×3 each way chance in the race.

Ruakākā Race 8
5 Let Fly
Somewhat taking her on trust after performing well below par last start off the back of a great resuming run. Back to the mile now and back in R65 grade should help her chances. If she can settle a bit closer under Kelly Myers, her best would be hard to beat here.