Mcewen Stakes
We’re back at the Valley this Saturday and while the Feehan Stakes is the highlight with a ticket to the Cox Plate on offer, we’re focussing on the Group 2 Mcewen Stakes. Only a small field but there’s plenty of quality.
Speed Map
This is going to be slick and finding the right spot for the two favs is the key. I have the early speed rating nearly in tune with barriers 1-7. I’d say Giga Kick will fold in behind them maybe taking a 3 wide lane but what Imperatriz does will be interesting. If she kicks forward she’s running the risk of running into the speed battle.
Key Runners
1:
Giga Kick
High-caliber sprinter Giga Kick is returning and he’s no slouch first-up. Doomben 10,000 was a good effort given his positioning running down was one of the strongest Doomben 1000 in recent history. His class should serve him well here, and he just may be too good.
2: 
Rothfire
Last year’s winner is back after a 13-week break and appears poised for action, especially after an impressive trial victory at Doomben, with a history of winning five times when returning from a spell. He’s likely to be a strong contender, if he can run up to last year’s level he should be a lot shorter than the current quote and probably second fav.
3: 
Zoustyle
Another that is very strong when resuming. Can certainly make a case, trialled very well with Rothfire argument could be made he looked a little better of the two, but it’s nothing new for him to trial well.
4: 
Acromantula
Has the ability to take this out led throughout and was a dominant win last start here at the Valley, will have a fitness edge. I’d say this is a little out of his depth with the class around and I can’t make a case at the current price.
5: 
Imperatriz
Super mare returning from a spell, took some big scalps in the William Reid defeating Manikato winner Bella Nipotina. Good first record in NZ, My only knock is she doesn’t map the greatest, but Like Giga if she were to run to her best she would be incredibly hard to beat.
6:
Seradess
Is strong fresh but does seem a little out of her depth.
7: 
How’s The Serenity
Likely a leader that is unlikely to threaten once the whips are cracking.
Betting Strategy
This should be a cracker. Giga Kick is the deserving favourite, but I’m not sure the Valley will suit and he could be a little vulnerable with much bigger targets, (a bit like I Wish I Win last week). Initially, I was keen to be on Imperatriz but I’m a little concerned she may have to do it a bit tougher than the rest. At the $5.50 I’m happy to be with the QLD raider and defending champ Rothfire (he may get out a little but I’d still take on a minor drift). Ticks the boxes for me at the price and happy to be in his corner.
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