Manikato Stakes preview

On Friday Night Moonee Valley hosts the third Group 1 of the Spring: the Manikato Stakes over 1200m. Tonight's race pivots three year-old old sensation Sepoy (winner of 7/8) the older sprinters including Sydney's glamour mare More Joyous and Hong Kong Sprinter Happy Zero.

Here's how I rate the eight contenders for the $505,000 race.

1. Happy Zero

Outstanding Hong Kong Sprinter, but his form has tapered off lately. Closed very well on his Australian debut, but hard to see him troubling the favourites. Watch for him closing over the later stages of the race. Follow during the Flemington Carnival.

2. Buffering

Consistent sprinter without much success lately, although he did win last start at the Valley and has an excellent record over 1200 (11-4-3-2), I question his credentials over 1200m in elite company. Will burn the turf early, but will be setting it up for those behind him.

3. Atomic Force

Another consistent galloper but I question his class at weight-for-age over 1200m. 1100m is his pet distance, but will get the speed upfront to suit. Jockey Damien Oliver knows how to win a Manikato.

4. More Joyous

Outstanding sprinting mare who rivals the stature of Black Caviar as being Australia's best mare. Sprints well fresh and is four wins from five attempts first up. Top Pick.

5. Sister Madly

Mare who mixes up her form quite significantly (either wins or does nothing). Last start winner at Caulfield, but tough to see her figuring here.

6. Rue Maple

Good mare mixing it with the Group 3 and Listed type of horses. Out of her depth here.

7. Kulgrinda

Stable has a big opinion of her, but was knocked about last start in the McEwen. Yet to be tested beyond 1100m but will be burning speed from gate 8.

8. Sepoy

Outstanding three-year-old and last season's Golden Slipper and Blue Diamond winner. Won Danehill at Flemington last start in quick time (1min 8s over 1200m) but this is his first test in open company. A definite danger.

Top Pick - More Joyous
Next Best – Sepoy
Roughie – Happy Zero

Other features on the card

MR 5 JRA Plate Cup 2400m

This is an interesting race now that all the favourites have been scratched . Domesky is clearly the top pick, with Cosmonaut gathering confidence from his last start victory at Ballart.

MR 7 Stutt Stakes 1600m

Hard to line the form up for this one with horses coming out of different lead up races. I'm going for value in Zabeelionaire from the Corsten's Stable. Favourite Chase the Rainbow will be next top pick, then Whisper Downs next best.