The Insider – New Zealand Analysis April 2nd Edition

Tonight sees the running of two Group 2 Flying Mile races at Cambridge. Used by some as key lead-ups to next week’s slot races, this year’s editions have attracted particularly strong fields, headlined by proven open class performers and emerging stars looking to test themselves at the elite level. With high tempo miles expected and depth across both races, it shapes as a compelling night of racing.

Race 7 – Trotters Flying Mile (Group Feature)

The Trotters Flying Mile shapes as a fascinating contest with a strong historical pattern, the winning time over the past six years consistently landing in the 1:55.0–1:55.9 range, pointing to a genuinely run, high-pressure mile.

All eyes will be on Oscar Bonavena, who is chasing a remarkable fourth win in the race after victories in the past two years and back in 2019. Few horses dominate a feature like this, and his record alone demands respect.

The key challenger looks to be Gus, the Australian visitor using this as a lead-up to the $530,000 TAB Trot. He brings elite form, is unbeaten in New Zealand, and has already proven himself at Addington during Cup Week. If he runs to that level, he sets a serious standard.

Hillbilly Blues is the early favourite and profiles perfectly for this race. A proven performer at Cambridge with a strong mile rating of 1:56.2, he maps to get every chance from a good draw and will be hard to hold out with the right run.

Ya Rite Darl adds depth after finishing ahead of Hillbilly Blues last start. She’s a progressive trotter with upside and while this is a step up, she has the talent to measure up.

Selections – Race 7

• Gus (7) – Top-class trotter with elite form, very hard to beat
• Oscar Bonavena (6) – Chasing another win in this race, must respect
• Hillbilly Blues (2) – In form runner and public elect, right in the finish

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Race 8 – Group 2 Waikato Pacers Flying Mile

A small but high-quality field, with the preferential draw adding another layer of intrigue. Chase A Dream won this race last year in a sizzling 1:51.4

This year the class runner is clearly The Janitor, the Australian raider who brings elite mile form, including a strong second in the Miracle Mile. Despite the wide draw, he has the versatility to either press forward or sit parked and still prove too strong.

Sooner The Bettor looks the likely leader with his brilliant gate speed. Around Cambridge, that’s a major asset, and if left alone in front he’ll take catching.

Doo You Want Me is the intriguing runner. Drawn the ace, he gets the perfect opportunity to test himself at this level. If the tempo is genuine, he could be the one finishing into the placings at value.

Merlin and Republican Party both bring genuine class and can’t be dismissed. Race shape and positioning will be crucial to their chances.

Selections – Race 8

• The Janitor (6) – Miracle Mile runner-up, elite form, top pick
• Doo You Want Me (1) – Perfect draw, value chance
• Sooner The Bettor (3) – Likely leader, gives a big sight

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Addington – Saturday 4 April (Premier Meeting)

Addington hosts a premier meeting on Saturday night with strong stake support across the entire card, adding further depth to an already quality weekend of racing. The meeting presents solid betting opportunities, particularly through the later races.

Selections – Race 8

• Walkinonsunshine (9) – High-class trotter who will be powering home late
• Nellie Doyle (6) – Drops in grade and looks very well placed. Each way
• Helloveamoment (4) – Needs manners but capable of improving into placings

Selections – Race 9

• Double Jeopardy (9) – Better suited back to mobile, can bounce back
• Sacetas (1) – Ideal draw, should get every chance. Hard to beat
• Arma Hunter (3) – Progressive type, can measure up in this grade

 

by Harness Analyst