Frankel My Dear has continued to receive steady support in McKenzie Stakes betting markets leading up to jump at The Valley on Saturday afternoon.
Azazel has firmed in McKenzie Stakes betting markets. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos
One of the first progeny by outstanding galloper Frankel to step out in Australia, Frankel My Dear has only made one appearance at the races so far and struck on fairly to finish fifth behind fellow McKenzie Stakes runner Azazel in the VRC Members Pavilion Handicap (1000m) at Flemington on August 5th.
Drawn ideally in barrier 4 will last-start hoop Brandon Stockdale in the saddle, Frankel My Dear opened at long McKenzie Stakes odds of $26, but has continued to firm into a currently quote of $18.
Azazel has reportedly taken plenty of benefit from his first-up at Flemington and will only improve at 1200m in the McKenzie Stakes.
Debuting for a smart win in the Inglis Banner (1000m) in October last year, the Snitzel colt was sent to the paddock after finishing a credible fourth in the Group 3 Maribyrnong Plate (1000m).
Resuming in Listed Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Preview (1000m) on Australia Day, Azazel was again sent to the paddock following a tough run of fourth in the Group 3 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Prelude (1100m) in early February.
Drawn reasonably in barrier 7, Azazel will be ridden by regular hoop Luke Currie and should prove extremely difficult to beat in the McKenzie Stakes.
Godolphin colt Bandipur is yet to herald much interest in 2017 McKenzie Stakes betting markets and has drifted slightly, but remains sole occupant of the top line at $3.90 odds.
Resuming for a maiden win in the Gavin Lisk Memorial Maiden Plate (1100m) on June 24th, Bandipur placed second in a talent-rich Caulfield minor over 1200m on July 15th before returning to winning form via a dominant performance in the Listed Lightning Stakes (1050m) last time out on July 29th.
This is undoubtedly a step up in class, but the horse has drawn ideally into the McKenzie Staked field in barrier 5 and has the notable advantage of Craig Williams in the saddle.
Sirconni ($19) may need a run and more distance to find form, but has also firmed in McKenzie Stakes betting markets, while Lone Eagle ($6) Muraaqeb ($7) and Cao Cao ($13) all remain firm at Ladbrokes.com.au.
