Two of the three to follow from the past week's racing in New South Wales emerge from a three-year-old maiden at midweek Warwick Farm.
OUR MANTRA
I wouldn't normally include a last start winner in my three to follow but this was a performance of a horse much better than midweek company. Stepping out in a 1200m maiden at Warwick Farm, Our Mantra was ridden conservatively in what was only a moderately run contest. He was off the bit when the leader Readycatgo gave a kick in the straight but picked up strongly over the final 50m to claim victory. Think few would disagree that this horse is going to appreciate getting out to 1400m next start. Unfortunately, the handicappers haven't missed him, with an initial benchmark of 66. That said, he looks a progressive type so don't be surprised if he jumps a few classes this prep.
Career record (5:1-1-1).
Possible race to look for – BM 70 1400m at Warwick Farm September 20
IMPROVISE
This horse also came out of Our Mantra's race, finishing third. For a debutante, I thought it was a sound effort to finish only a length off the winner after racing in restricted room during the business end of the race. Keen to see what she can do over a bit further and a clear passage to the line. Her trials prior to racing were good enough to suggest she won't be a maiden for long.
Career record (1:0-0-1).
Possible race to look for – 3YO Maiden 1400m at Warwick Farm September 20
ORCYM SAM
This Gwenda Markwell-trained galloper is a little more exposed in terms of form than my other selections but think he's certainly knocking on the door for his third career win after finishing a game fourth in a Benchmark 65 event over 1600m at Kembla on Saturday. Had at least six lengths to make up turning for home in a slowly run affair as the two leaders shot clear to fight the race out. The gelding was brought to the outside by Koby Jennings and rattled home late to be beaten just over two lengths. Doubt he could have finished any closer considering it was a sprint home. Could be value at his next start.
Career record (20:3-2-2).
Possible race to look for – Class 2 1600m at Hawkesbury September 21
COMMENTS - Did you spot one to follow? Share it with the Racenet audience through the comments section below.
