NEXT UP

One horse which looked to show nice ability last campaign resumes in Race 5 as Western Knight goes first up this time at 1400m.

In that first prep for Adam Durrant, the son of Iffraaj managed to win over the sharp course at Northam but very much doubt that will be him long term.

Breeding says as much but also he won nicely at the mile back in September and that appears the right progress.

His relations are mostly winners including the full brother Western Empire with G1 credentials on his best form as we've seen previously.

He has to be better for having had that spell, will benefit from two trials and love that he gets a chance to balance up at this journey not be hustled all the way.

The following race sees Blazing Tycoon ready to win now.

This 7yo has raced over distances too short for him until last time when he came from a long way off them to just miss over this course and distance.

There is also a very significant jockey change this time with the string of apprentices who've been on him being replaced by some bloke called W Pike.

You would suspect William won't do much different in terms of the way this horse has been ridden but happy to have him on now.

We haven't lost much price in the end so each way for him.

BEST FROM THE WEST

BET OF THE DAY: Race 5 #7 Western Knight @ $2.15

EACH WAY PLAY: Race 6 #4 Blazing Tycoon @ $8.50