The Scone race meeting on October 31, 2023, features an eight-race card with several promising contenders. Analysts anticipate competitive performances across the board, particularly given the soft track conditions. Here are detailed previews and tips for each race, focusing on the horses’ recent performances and potential.
Race 1: Early Favorites
In the opening race, **Deel Me A Queen** stands out after securing two wins from four starts, the latest being an impressive victory at Muswellbrook. Her continued upward trajectory suggests she is well-positioned to claim another win. **Zizette**, despite recent unplaced finishes in provincial races, has the potential for improvement. **Final Impact**, after a solid performance at Dubbo, is also a contender, alongside **Toulon Factor**, who has been consistently competitive, finishing second at Armidale recently. The recommendation for this race is to back **Deel Me A Queen** for the win.
Race 2: Debutants Shine
The second race features **Truce**, who is making her debut after a successful trial, including a recent win at Scone with jockey **Reece Jones**. **Territory Style** showed promise in his debut and is expected to perform better in this easier field. **Storm Capital** is also making his first appearance for a new stable after a second in a trial. Another debutant to watch is **Gawking About**, who has had two trials and could make an impact. The suggested bet is on **Truce** to win.
Race 3: Consistent Performers
**Laizabout** has demonstrated consistency, placing in all three races since returning to the track and is anticipated to perform well again. **Mount Bona** has also shown solid form in her two recent runs. **Joika** debuted with a respectable fourth at Muswellbrook and is expected to improve, while **Superata** holds claims after placing in two of four starts. Backing **Laizabout** for the win appears to be a sound strategy.
Race 4: Newcomers and Promising Horses
Newcomer **Balmain Warrior** is set to make his debut following two trials this year, and expectations are high given his stable’s strong reputation. **Spicy Surprise** has shown good form with placements in both starts, while **Crathie Kirk** has delivered steady performances in her first two races. **Satin’s Legacy**, a last-start runner-up at Muswellbrook, is also a contender. Consider an each-way bet on **Balmain Warrior**.
Race 5: Debuting Talents
**Borderfall**, debuting for a leading stable, has had two trials and finished second in his first trial, showing promise for his first race. **Noble**, another debutant, benefits from barrier one. **Newy** has had three starts, finishing second at Newcastle, and returned with a solid fourth at Beaumont. **Avista**, a filly making her debut after two trials, is also worth noting. The recommendation is to back **Borderfall** for the win.
Race 6: Strong Contenders
**Margin Call** has performed well in trials and debuted with a strong win at Canberra. Following a solid fourth place at Hawkesbury, he looks set for another strong performance. **Shenandoah River** led to a convincing victory at Scone last time out and is expected to be a strong competitor. **Runrainrun** resumes after two good trials at Warwick Farm, while **Lily Bobtail** could make a mark after a promising second at Taree. Back **Margin Call** for the win.
Race 7: Seasoned Competitors
**Zucchero**, a well-bred gelding, resumes after a break and has won two of his seven starts. His previous victories at Muswellbrook position him favorably in this race. **Mellancamp** has shown form at Tamworth and Newcastle, while **African Diamond** broke through for a maiden win at Muswellbrook recently. **Gold Capital**, a last-start winner at Armidale, is also a horse to watch. The suggestion is to back **Zucchero** for the win.
Race 8: Final Showdown
In the final race, **Cresta Run** has been competitive with a couple of second-place finishes before winning at Moree. After a less favorable run in a Highway race at Randwick, she returned to form as a well-backed favorite at Coonabarabran. **Crimson Bonnet** has secured wins at Tamworth and Moree and is in solid form. **King Larry** is returning from a spell with a respectable record, while **Flying Argyle** has shown potential with a recent placement. Back **Cresta Run** for the win.
**Best Bets:**
– Race 2: (6) **Truce**
– Race 8: (3) **Cresta Run**
**Best Value:**
– Race 4: (3) **Balmain Warrior**
As the Scone meeting approaches, these insights aim to assist punters in making informed decisions. Each race offers a mix of seasoned competitors and promising newcomers, setting the stage for an exciting day of racing.
