All-Star Mile 2023
Distance: 1600m | Conditions: WFA | Rail Position: TBC | Track Condition: Good 4
A pretty good field here has been assembled for the All-Star Mile and it should be a great day on track as the race continues to grow into a fantastic event. Let’s try find a winner!
Speed Map
This is a really interesting speed-map, and there’s numerous different variations that could happen here. How I read it, there appears to be plenty of speed in this years All Star Mile which will make for an exciting race. Gentleman Roy, Alligator Blood and Keats will all fight for front position, as Mr Brightside, Nugget and Law of Indices will look to settle close with their favourable draws. I’m Thunderstruck you’d expect will settle in the pack behind them. This will leave Cascadian, Sheeza Belter and Alenquer to have last crack at them.
Key Runners
1.
I’m Thunderstruck
Settled a bit closer in the Futurity and had every chance, but was outsprinted by Alligator Blood and Mr Brightside. Up to 1600m is the key for this fella, but he still doesn’t seem to be going good enough for mine. Any sting out of the ground will help.
2.
Alligator Blood
Deserved favourite after his comprehensive win in the Futurity last start, where he was backed late. He got everything his way there but there’s going to be a target on his back and he’ll have to absorb plenty of pressure. Still, strong second-up record and does appear to be the one to beat. Voted in top spot so will have plenty in his corner.
3.
Cascadian
Had nothing go his way in the Canterbury Stakes after being stuck on the fence and ridden for luck. All things considered, he got home well. He’s the carpark and I don’t know if the Valley suits his style but the pace certainly will. Could be one for exotics.
4.
Mr Brightside
Set for this race and looks ready to peak third-up off a break. Drawn perfectly to stalk to the speed but has been no match for the Gator in their previous meetings at level weights. Was gallant in the Futurity but might be too big an ask to reverse the result.
5.
So Si Bon
Snagged the last spot on the back of some extraordinary luck, but not as much luck as he’d need to win it. Has been a great horse over the years but is here to fill the numbers.
6. 
Law of Indices
Thought he was really good in the Chipping Norton last start where the pace suited. Has shown he’s got plenty of ability and with a closer run in transit can have an impact. World class jockey goes aboard.
7. 
Aegon
His run in the CF Orr wasn’t bad, and then okay again in the Futurity but there’s nothing in either of those to suggest he can turn the tables on this lot. No wins from good ground to date.
8. 
Alenquer
Plenty of intrigue around the European making his Australian debut for Mike Moroney. Quality galloper who I assume we will see the best of beyond this sort of distance, but has a perfect first-up record. Nice price and could be one for the wider exotics.
9. 
The Inevitable
Is unbeaten in seven and is winning comprehensively in Tassie, but comes up against the best of them now. Would be a shock, but we’ve seen it all before when Mystic Journey dusted them in 2019. Could do worse at the price.
10. 
My Oberon
Didn’t show anything after settling last and didn’t see another home in the Futurity, but had an internal bleed so forgive that one. Has got ability but happy to leave out.
11. 
Gentleman Roy
Lost no admirers after being being striped of his CF Orr win in a protest. Will try take up the running from a wide draw and give them something to chase but you’d imagine will be ultimately outclassed.
12. 
Pounding
The best roughie in the race? This is a big class rise from his 2nd in the Blamey but he ticks plenty of boxes. Wide draw may cook him but is a mile specialist and loves the Valley. Nice price.
13. 
Nugget
Was tough in the CF Orr and then led in the Futurity before fading away to only beat home two. Has had a good prep but I just can’t see him having any impact here.
14. 
Keats
Was grabbed late in the Peter Young by the Steinem and Gold Trip after a tough, honest showing. If the Valley shows any on-speed bias, he can run a cheeky race at massive odds. Early drift is concerning however.
15. 
Sheeza Belter
Got a soft spot for this filly. Was brave in defeat only finishing 0.3L to Espiona in the Coolmore. Is a Group 1 winner at the mile but the wide draw could be her undoing, not to mention this is a sharp rise in class. Respect any market support.
Betting Strategy
Happy to bet on the two horses who look good value to win no matter how the race plays out.
Alligator Blood at $3+
Mr Brightside at $6+
