This is a little something I put together for one of the Ashes events. - Matt

What the Bookies are saying

Matt Rowston -
Defender of the ashes, proven runner in recent events, must rate highly with the punters.  Showed fantastic form at the last meet with a consistent run to the end can be prone to bad form patches and lack of concentration due to substance abuse.  A good solid performance will see history repeat itself, not an easy task as history shows.

Ash Reid -
Rated highly in recent events.  A good stayer, could prove a good outside bet, known to be erratic and unpredictable which more than likely works in his favour.  Has a successful and long track record and is one of the original breed of runners, will be hard to beat.

Paul Worland -
Ran well on the inside during the recent Barf Stakes a sprinter which is prone to burn out early in the race, great trifecta chance.  Money not wasted on this fast runner which could prove to be more than a handful for the other competitors.  The new conditions and start time will work to his favour.

Brad Clarke -
Beautifully groomed beast with an engine to complement this, has performed well but still lacks the trophy, this could prove a great encouragement.  Has shown form when needed during recent runs but needs to knuckle down and attain this difficult goal, one to watch.

Darren Fisher -
Excellent form shown off the track but tends to fall away in the heat of the moment looking to improve on his recent Floorboards Stakes effort which shouldn't prove difficult.  Problems in previous runs have been attributed to lack of training which has recently been reversed, could prove a good punt.

Grant McLeod -
Great performances in recent campaigns but is struggling with injury, lucky not to be put down recently.  This speedy galloper should trouble the field with his peculiar tactics.  A great runner on the outside and strength shown when needed, long odds.

Tim Beck -
Has come from behind in many externally funded events but tends to do so far too often, his trainer has been working on this aspect and expects good results.  Has recently over come a back injury and will be raring to show off his new form, good long odds must not be under estimated.

Late Scratchings -     Chris Butler             "Trip to Cairns!"
                                    Late inclusion in the Cairns Cup, large prize money and                                            conditions better suited to this power house.

                                    Dave Perry               "Not Available"
                                    Unknown reason, possible lack of form coming into the event.

                                    Damien Hutchens             "Working!"
                                    New trainer, is now touring the Rural Districts

                                    Daniel Hutchens            "Lack of funds!"
                                    Sad exclusion, good performer on and off the track.