Stradbroke Handicap 2024 Horse Racing Tips 15/6/24

The 41st Stradbroke Handicap is set to be a stunner with a lineup of star-studded contenders.

These horses are vying for a place in history alongside superstars like Alligator Blood, Dane Ripper and Think About It.

The track maintains its Good 4 rating, promising an excellent surface for all runners.

Who will triumph this year? QLD analyst John Steinmetz is backing a local favourite, eyeing a maiden victory for the trainer in this prestigious race.

 

 

Stradbroke Tips & Best Bets from John Steinmetz

Speed Map

In a lineup of 18, there will be a rush of finishers when they reach the expansive straight.

Mighty Ulysses (13) is expected to make a forward move again, with Prince of Boom (11) and Nugget (8) in pursuit.

Semana (14), Victorian contender Steparty (16), Here to Shock (7), and Magic Time (2) are likely to settle near the pace.

Iron Mare Bella Nipotina (1), recent winner Vilana (6), Goodwood victor Benedetta (4), and Cepheus (5) will vie to secure positions in the leading half of the pack, aiming for minimal effort in the straight.

Antino (3) is difficult to position, but a proactive race is anticipated considering his last start setback on the heavy track.

Stefi Magnetica (17), Amenable (10), Roll on High (18), Ospienko (12), The Inevitable (9), and Dream Hour (15) will round out the race's pace.

 

The Favourite

Vilana is the favourite ($5.50), with only Antino ($8) in single digits. Bella Nipotina, Magic Time and Benedetta are all quoted at $11.

Despite Vilana's strong win last start, I'm not convinced.

Out of the Godolphin yard, he boasts a good record but struggles to get it done in big races.

It is worth noting that he is yet to finish in the top 3 from 5 starts in Group 1 company.

Fitness will be the question here, as 7-day backups can be 50/50 bets.

I don’t see him in my finish, I think the middle barrier is a worry and the speed might over run him.

 

Watch Vilana win last weeks Moreton Cup 

 

Tips

Antino is the horse to back in this pivotal race, which could be a defining moment for both him and trainer Tony Gollan.

He holds an impressive record of five wins from seven starts at Eagle Farm, and has demonstrated a strong affinity for the track.

It will pay dividends to ignore his last start on a wet surface, Antino's strength lies in handicap races and the continued partnership with jockey Vlad Duric is a significant advantage.

Tony Gollan is yet to secure a Stradbroke victory and may struggle to find a better opportunity over the next few years.

With two victories at the 1400m distance, Antino is well-prepared for this step up in class.

He offers attractive odds for each-way betting and should not be overlooked for any exotic bets.

He appears to be in prime condition for this race and should be charging home when it matters most.

 

Stefi Magnetica is my next top pick.

As a standout 3YO she has made her mark in Group 1 races, securing a commendable fifth in the Doomben 10,000 and an impressive third in the Fred Best Classic.

Benefiting from a significant weight advantage, Zac Lloyd will lighten to 50kgs for the ride.

With her limited racing on good surfaces, I'm anticipating she will relish the firm track and leverage the extra fitness gained from her last race.

She's expected to be a strong contender in the finish and might become the first filly to ever win the Stradbroke.

 

Watch the last start effort of Stefi Magnetica 

 

Next, I’m going to go with Benedetta, the mare who got it done in the Goodwood.

A quiet trial at Doomben between runs will set her up for a strong finish.

With a group 1 under the belt, she will have all the confidence in the world coming into this race.

With Jamie Kah unavailable, Daniel Stackhouse takes the ride and should give her every chance to feature in the finish from a nice inside draw.

 

Finally, my outsider is Here To Shock

The Hayes stable has been excelling this season, securing two wins and consistent placements in all starts.

After a commanding victory at Doomben, the main concern might be the change of jockey.

Michael Dee continues on Magic Time, so Regan Bayliss takes the reins.

His best wins have come over this distance and it positions him as a serious contender at these odds.

Although Group One races haven't been his forte recently, this presents his best opportunity to secure a win for the team.

 

1^st Antino

2^nd Stefi Magnetica

3^rd Benedetta

4^th Here to Shock

Tip: Antino to WIN, Stefi Magnetica Each Way

 

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