Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes race analysis and tips

25 September 2015 16:11 PM

Many chances in the second Group 1 event at Caulfield on Saturday. The 1400m now gives runners a short 200m dash to the first turn so inside barriers and speed maps play a significant role in the race.

Disposition looks to have a lot going for him here. Past runs rate very well including his first start back which says he's serious this preparation. Perfectly drawn with Damien Oliver on board. It's hard to see him not figuring in the finish.

Expect Under The Louvre to make his presence felt here. Two very good efforts for his two runs this preparation. The 1400m suits him well. Main danger to the favourite.

Stratum Star also makes strong claims too. Liked his run in the Memsie a head behind Boban. Barrier will make it harder though. Chances improve if there is rain.

Two things tell me that Lucky Hussler is a real contender in this race. Firstly, his run in the All Aged Stakes last autumn when he carried 59kg from barrier 13, was wide during the trip and put in a gutsy effort to finish 1.2 lengths behind Dissident. Secondly, his first-up effort in the Bobbie Lewis. He can sit handy enough here to have a good crack at them in the straight in what should be a fast tempo race.

1400m specialist Cosmic Endeavour makes appeal third run back from a spell. Good effort last start over the distance to miss by half a length in the Group 2 Let's Elope. May need this run before she is at her best but not ruling her out.

Charmed Harmony has won each of his last four runs and they have all been over the 1400m, with two of those run at Caulfield. He's won seven from 11 over the distance and rates well here. Expect a bit more pressure up front in this race but still a good chance of taking it out.

Of the others Ninth Legion and Amicus have claims.

Under The Louvre on top here. His two runs back from a spell rate very well and early betting, which has seen him shorten sharply in from $8 openers to $5.50, suggests the smart money is already onboard. Lucky Hussler in for second. Rates well also and looks ready to make a go of this. Charmed Harmony in for third.

Mike Steward.