TOP TIPS: WEEKEND BEST BETS

RANDWICK

Track: Good (4); Weather: Mostly sunny, 24C

RACE 5: JHB CARR STAKES (1400m)

3YOF G3, 2.20pm

In the run: Problem Solver, Ridicule handy, So Far Sokool not far away.

Take note: So Far Sokool brings a different formline to the table and it looks a good one. Gave a hiding to male rivals when winning in Listed grade at Bendigo in fast time. A similar rating will take her a long way here.

Did you know: Six of them come out of Houtzen’s PJ Bell Plate, where only 3.5 lengths separated five of them. Frolic never really got into the race that day. First-up run was a cracker before not figuring next two. This is a very suitable race for her and might be closer at this trip.

Early money: Great betting race. So Far Sokool is in from $4.80 with Ladbrokes, but Manicure ($5.50), Moss Trip ($6) and Problem Solver ($5) all have fans.

NATHAN’S TIP: FROLIC $16

NATHAN’S DANGER: So Far Sokool $4.20

RACE 6: CHAMPAGNE STAKES (1600m)

2YO G1, 2.55pm

In the run: Pace looks modest. Bondi can take it up and Encryption should get across easily. Guerrier and Irukandji handy.

Take note: Nine of them come through the Sires, where there was only 3.4 lengths between them. A line through Spin from that race suggests Irukandji should be in the game here. Relished 1400m and being by Dundeel, the mile should pose no problems either.

Did you know: Encryption’s dam Guelph won this race in 2013. He had to work a bit from the gate last time. Was headed soon after turning, but liked the way he kept going all the way to the line. With a soft run up front for Hugh Bowman, can see him giving a big kick here.

Early money: Seabrook very easy ($4.60-$6.50). Outrageous ($7.50-$4.80) easily the best backed.

NATHAN’S TIP: ENCRYPTION $15

NATHAN’S DANGER: Irukandji $11

RACE 7: ALL AGED STAKES (1400m)

WFA G1, 3.35pm

In the run: It’s Somewhat, The Mission and Tom Melbourne handy enough from good draws. Showtime may cross them all to lead. Not sure whether they will press forward on Hartnell or try different tactics further back in the field?

Take note: Brave Smash was awful in the T.J, totally against his usual consistent pattern. May have been ridden too close there? 1400m should suit better now and tipping he can bounce back with a nice midfield run on the cards here.

Did you know: Trapeze Artist is attempting to join Bentley Biscuit (2005) and Shamekha (2007) as the only horses to complete the TJ/All Aged double. If he runs anywhere near that rating, he will be winning again. Trainer Gerald Ryan last won this race in 1995 with Hurricane Sky.

Early money: Trapeze Artist is in from $2.65. Brave Smash in from $8. Hartnell ($9) and Tom Melbourne ($10) also have admirers.

NATHAN’S TIP: TRAPEZE ARTIST $2.25

NATHAN’S DANGER: Brave Smash $6.50

DOOMBEN

Track: Soft (7); Weather: Possible Shower, 26C

RACE 7: ASCOT HANDICAP (1200m)

Listed, 3.07pm

In the run: Messy map. Pace looks non-existent. Maybe Tisani Tomso takes it up. Hopfgarten, Rhyme Nor Rhythm and Amanaat can be handy.

Take note: Amanaat won the Weetwood with a leg in the air over what looked a handy field. May not be as formidable away from his home deck, but have to respect the form he’s in. Could be getting it easy up front while the danger is seeking luck back in the field.

Did you know: Mr Sneaky was G1 placed early in the season and measured up to WFA company during the autumn. Usually goes like a bomb fresh. Just needs some luck and if he’s within striking distance, can prove too classy.

Early money: Amanaat opened $2.50 and Mr Sneaky $4.20. Outside that pair, there’s been little interest in any other runner.

NATHAN’S TIP: MR SNEAKY $3.60

NATHAN’S DANGER: Amanaat $2.25