Perth Summer Racing Carnival

With the Spring racing in Melbourne now in its final stages, our attention now swings firmly west for the commencement of the Perth Summer Carnival. Don't be caught out with the swift passing of time here. The $750,000 Group 1 Railway Stakes is only two weeks away, The $500,000 Group 1 Fruit n Veg Stakes is only three weeks away, and it's only 46 sleeps until the Perth Cup!

Tomorrow sees the running of two feature races, The WA Guineas and The Lee Steere Stakes, both races carrying $200,000 in prize-money. The WA Guineas for three year olds sees a very evenly matched field come together. There are no standouts in my opinion, and that's why I'm favouring the O'Reilly gelding, (Luv those O'Reillys!), Guyno, trained by Lou Luciani. He's third up from a spell today, and following an unlucky first up run in the Belgravia Stakes where he was beaten just 3 lengths, and then a fast finishing fourth to Vain Crusader two weeks ago, he should be absolutely cherry ripe for the 1600m of the Guineas. Jason Whiting rides and he'll be giving him every possible chance from barrier 6.

The Lee Steere Stakes is a time honoured classic sprint which serves as a vital lead up for Railway Stakes aspirants. It's 4/1 the field tomorrow and the main chances appear to be Daka's Gem, Mr Sandgroper, Belle Bizarre and Dr John. Look for the impressive Mr Sandgroper to be putting in his best work at the finish, with a view to being on him after he's had a run under his belt.
- Peter Morley