Ōtaki Race 1
1 Perfect Pete
Perfect Pete (#1) stuck on well enough for 4th last start after doing a mountain of work early. From a better draw and with Jonathan Riddell taking the reins, an improved showing wouldn't surprise in what looks an even maiden field on paper.

Ōtaki Race 2
4 De Armas
De Armas (#4), a 2yo Ardrossan filly on debut for Johno Benner, trialled superbly earlier this month when scooting away in the Heavy conditions. She looks the likely leader from gate two and should take plenty of running down over the 800m dash.

Ōtaki Race 3
4 Swingit Our Way
Swingit Our Way (#4) did well to finish 3rd in stronger company at New Plymouth last start. While she isn't a sharp beginner, she maps to settle handier than usual from the inside gate in a small field that lacks tempo. She's rock hard fit and will relish another Heavy10, making her the horse to beat.

Ōtaki Race 4
5 Our Lady Brooke
Our Lady Brooke (#5) has been a model of consistency since winning in this grade five starts back, finishing in the placings each time since. She retains Craig Grylls in the saddle and maps to get a soft run just off an even tempo. She looks the one they'll all have to beat again.

Ōtaki Race 5
5 Honey Badger
TIP OF THE DAY
Honey Badger (#5) comes here with a string of consistent Heavy10 runs of late. She thrives on fast-run races on testing surfaces, which is the setup she looks to get here. She'll carry just 54.5kg after Sam McNab's claim and should take plenty of beating.

Ōtaki Race 6
8 Lady Performer
Lady Performer (#8) has continued to race consistently on testing tracks this campaign. While she may lack the upside of a few rivals, her fitness and ability to handle a testing Heavy10 make her a genuine contender. Liam Kauri's 3kg claim aids her cause, and she shapes as a strong each way chance at odds.

Ōtaki Race 7
8 Enrico
Enrico (#8) looks well suited in a race with an abundance of early speed. He can settle off the pace and be steered to the better ground wider on the track late in the day. Expect him to be charging home over the top.

Ōtaki Race 8
5 Cocobill
Cocobill (#5) never looked comfortable at Wanganui in his NZ debut, but he has previously handled Heavy conditions in Australia. Back on his home track and with George Rooke taking over in the saddle, an improved effort wouldn't surprise.