Punt like a Pro, without the know!
South Australia · Wednesday 1 October 2025
Our top pick won 3 of 7 races at Balaklava. Every pick, our analysis and the full results are below.
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Flaming Eyes looks primed for a breakthrough win. The mare's last start 2nd over this track and distance indicates she's well-suited to the conditions. She drops 2kg from that run and retains the services of top jockey Jason Holder. The spacious Balaklava track should suit her running style, and the 2200m distance looks ideal at this stage of her preparation.
Empress Of Soul has been knocking on the door with consistent place finishes. She drops 2kg from her last start 4th and gets a good draw in barrier 6, which should allow her to find a good position. The step up to 2200m is a query but she's been finishing off her races well. With in-form jockey Jacob Opperman aboard, she looks a strong place chance.
Cracken Good Time has been racing consistently without winning. He drops 2kg from his last start and has proven ability over this distance. The wide barrier is a concern, but experienced jockey Rochelle Milnes should be able to find a good position. While he's yet to break through for a win, his consistency makes him a solid each-way prospect in this field.
The Highlander is still learning his craft but has shown improvement with each run this preparation. He drops 1kg from his last start and gets a good draw in barrier 4. While he's yet to place in a race, the step up to 2200m could bring out the best in this son of Highland Reel.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 5 | Empress Of Soul | 6 | Jacob Opperman | P Stokes | 56kg | $3.10 |
| 2nd | 2 | Cracken Good Time | 8 | Rochelle Milnes | Peter Nolan | 58kg | $7.00 |
| 3rd | 6 | Flaming Eyes | 3 | Jason Holder | A J Clarken | 56kg | $3.00 |
| 4th | 3 | Rhinestone Rory | 1 | Connor Murtagh | J Dodgson | 58kg | $6.50 |
| 5th | 8 | The Highlander | 4 | Sairyn Fawke | Grant Young | 56kg | $15.00 |
| 6th | 7 | Foxy Eagle | 7 | Polly Brewster | T L Day | 53kg | $51.00 |
| 7th | 1 | Captain Love | 2 | Alana Livesey | Ms K Letts-Maund | 58kg | $6.00 |
| 8th | 4 | Barynya | 5 | Ms T Johnstone | Donald Green | 56kg | $101.00 |
The filly's light weight, advantageous barrier draw, and strong jockey booking further enhance her chances. While lacking extensive race experience, her form suggests she's primed for a breakthrough win in this maiden event.
The filly's form over similar distances and experienced jockey are positives.
Maldivica presents as an interesting prospect, coming off a spell and dropping significantly in class from her last Group 3 start. The filly's light weight and good barrier draw for Balaklava's 1050m start enhance her chances.
Simply Sid offers value with solid recent form and valuable track experience. His consistent performances, strong jockey booking, and proven ability on good tracks are positives. The main concerns are the top weight and wide barrier, which may hinder his chances.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 11 | Good Expectations | 4 | Kayla Crowther | M J Seyers | 54kg | $1.75 |
| 2nd | 2 | Simply Sid | 8 | Todd Pannell | M W Lewis | 58kg | $10.00 |
| 3rd | 9 | Artistic Angel | 7 | Ms T Johnstone | R & C Jolly | 54kg | $3.80 |
| 4th | 12 | Maldivica | 5 | Caitlin Tootell | Chris Bieg | 52kg | $5.50 |
| 5th | 3 | Vexatious Choice | 6 | Connor Murtagh | Ms N Irwin | 58kg | $81.00 |
| 6th | 6 | Southern Style | 1 | Brooke King | Ms R Day | 54kg | $31.00 |
| 7th | 10 | Cannes | 2 | Ben Price | Aaron Bain & Ned Taylor | 54kg | $21.00 |
| 8th | 5 | Babyface Is Wright | 10 | Sophie Potter | David Page | 53kg | $101.00 |
| 9th | 8 | Tonights The Night | 3 | S H Sit | T H Jolly | 53kg | $201.00 |
| Scr | 1 | Prince Of King | 9 | Polly Brewster | J Dunn & K Bishop | 55kg | |
| Scr | 4 | Villa Maria | 11 | Rochelle Milnes | John Hyam | 58kg | |
| Scr | 7 | Tenacious Zeus | 12 | Ms S Metcalfe | Stephen Theodore | 56kg |
Chartin presents as the top selection with consistent recent form and a strong record at Balaklava. The 1kg weight drop and inside barrier draw are significant advantages for the 2200m trip. While yet to win at this distance, his track record and current form suggest he's well-placed to break through. The slight class rise is offset by his other positives, making him a strong contender in this field.
Sandpiper enters this race in excellent form, having won just 5 days ago. Her consistent record and light weight are significant advantages. The quick backup suggests she's at peak fitness. While unproven at 2200m, her recent win and overall consistency make her a strong contender. The slight class rise is the main concern, but her current form could overcome this challenge.
Mandino brings a solid record at Balaklava over this distance and has been placing consistently in recent starts. However, he'll need to overcome the top weight and a slight class rise. His backmarker style could be challenging if the pace is moderate, but the long Balaklava straight gives him a chance.
Her improving form, including a recent 3rd place finish, and the light weight of 54kg are positives. The quick backup suggests fitness, but she's unproven at Balaklava and rising in class. Despite these challenges, her current form and conditions make her an intriguing value proposition in this field.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 4 | Sandpiper | 8 | Sairyn Fawke | Garret Lynch | 55kg | $4.40 |
| 2nd | 7 | Chartin | 1 | Alana Livesey | G Richards & D Moyle | 54.5kg | $3.60 |
| 3rd | 8 | Hostess Susie | 9 | Margaret Collett | Katherine Presland | 54.5kg | $18.00 |
| 4th | 3 | Rivoli View | 2 | Jason Holder | Byron Cozamanis | 58kg | $8.50 |
| 5th | 1 | Mandino | 7 | Alysha Warren | Stephen Theodore | 57kg | $11.00 |
| 6th | 2 | Cours Vite | 3 | Ben Price | Travis Doudle | 59.5kg | $8.00 |
| 7th | 9 | Wheels | 5 | Teagan Voorham | Alexander Justice | 54.5kg | $21.00 |
| 8th | 5 | Bellavardo | 6 | Rochelle Milnes | Simon Bates | 56.5kg | $9.00 |
| 9th | 6 | Greatestofease | 4 | Caitlin Tootell | Garret Lynch | 54kg | $6.00 |
Though yet to win, the mare has shown consistent form and is well-positioned from barrier 5 with experienced jockey Jason Holder. Being second-up from a spell suggests potential for improvement, making her a strong contender in this maiden field.
Oldpop brings consistent form into this race, including a recent top-3 finish. The significant class drop from previous starts is a major positive, and the gelding is well-drawn in barrier 10. With experienced jockey Sairyn Fawke in the saddle and recent racing fitness, Oldpop has a solid chance to feature prominently.
Prince Lucifer returns from a spell with a solid record of 1 placing from 2 starts. The gelding has shown promise when fresh and maintains consistent form at this class level. Despite the wide barrier, his first-up potential and the guidance of Jacob Opperman make him a strong contender for a place finish.
The gelding shows improving form with a recent top-6 finish and draws well in barrier 1. Racing again just seven days after his last start suggests good fitness levels. While yet to win, the combination of an inside draw and experienced jockey Matt Chadwick makes Master Charlie an intriguing value proposition in this maiden field.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 14 | Urbanise | 5 | Jason Holder | Jon O''Connor | 56kg | $2.70 |
| 2nd | 3 | Indiamo | 9 | Teagan Voorham | G & N Searle & B Callanan | 58kg | $11.00 |
| 3rd | 1 | Bad To The Bone | 11 | Todd Pannell | W A Bogarts | 58kg | $16.00 |
| 4th | 12 | Prince Lucifer | 15 | Jacob Opperman | Chris Bieg | 56kg | $6.00 |
| 5th | 10 | Oldpop | 10 | Sairyn Fawke | Justin Pickering | 56kg | $4.20 |
| 6th | 5 | Master Charlie | 1 | Matt Chadwick | Stephen Theodore | 56kg | $9.00 |
| 7th | 9 | Le Nez Crochu | 14 | Sophie Potter | T L Day | 53kg | $101.00 |
| 8th | 4 | Jakubik | 2 | D Caboche | Ms E Faust | 58kg | $26.00 |
| 9th | 15 | Valenzuela | 7 | Grant Young | 56kg | $151.00 | |
| 10th | 2 | Hi Ya Henry | 12 | Alana Livesey | T L Day | 58kg | $71.00 |
| 11th | 11 | Penny Bang Bang | 3 | Alyssa Webb | Jason Cannon | 53kg | $12.00 |
| 12th | 7 | Funny Feeling | 13 | S H Sit | T H Jolly | 53kg | $101.00 |
| 13th | 13 | Up To The Dedline | 6 | Brooke King | Ms R Day | 54kg | $31.00 |
| 14th | 6 | Sir Ruben | 4 | Zoe Lloyd | Ms L Treloar | 58kg | $151.00 |
| Scr | 8 | It''sabouttime | 8 | Alysha Warren | Justin Pickering | 53kg |
Omaha Dawn stands out as the top selection based on her strong recent form and consistent improvement. The likely fast tempo should suit her running style, and she's well-weighted at 57.5kg. While the wider barrier is a concern, her current form and the experienced Jason Holder in the saddle suggest she can overcome it to claim victory.
Swiftie Harriet is a strong contender with a perfect record at this track and distance. The significant class drop from Group 3 and Listed races is a big advantage. Her consistent placing ability and good first-up record are positives. However, the top weight of 61.5kg and wide barrier draw are concerns that may prevent her from winning, making her a solid place prospect.
Zoutrail is a promising contender with a solid win rate and consistent recent form. The favorable barrier draw and light weight are significant advantages. While rising in class and unproven at this distance, her overall profile suggests she can be competitive. Her recent performances indicate she's in good form, but may find the top two selections too strong.
While her win strike rate is low, she has a strong place record and good recent form. Being second-up suggests potential for improvement, and she should be suited by the likely fast tempo.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 7 | Omaha Dawn | 13 | Jason Holder | A J Gluyas | 57.5kg | $3.50 |
| 2nd | 1 | Swiftie Harriet | 7 | Alana Livesey | Travis Doudle | 61.5kg | $2.60 |
| 3rd | 3 | Fussy As | 2 | Sairyn Fawke | D B Aldridge | 60kg | $15.00 |
| 4th | 9 | Suenami Rose | 9 | Sophie Potter | Ms N Irwin | 53.5kg | $31.00 |
| 5th | 8 | Lady Of Savoy | 1 | Jacob Opperman | A J Clarken | 56.5kg | $9.00 |
| 6th | 2 | Embellisher | 5 | Ms T Johnstone | A J Gluyas | 60.5kg | $16.00 |
| 7th | 6 | Silver Chaos | 11 | Connor Murtagh | Ms R Day | 58kg | $7.50 |
| 8th | 12 | Hebrings Cash | 6 | Wesley Cave | Danny Penna | 55kg | $201.00 |
| 9th | 5 | Strasbeau | 8 | Margaret Collett | Garret Lynch | 59.5kg | $101.00 |
| 10th | 10 | Zoutrail | 4 | Ms C Munro | R & C Jolly | 54.5kg | $7.50 |
| Scr | 4 | Dampen | 12 | Rochelle Milnes | Byron Cozamanis | 59.5kg | |
| Scr | 11 | Flying Yank | 3 | D Caboche | John Hyam | 55kg | |
| Scr | 13 | Swissta | 10 | Alysha Warren | Garret Lynch | 52kg |
One Kind enters this race with impressive recent form, including a win in her last start. Her record at this distance is outstanding, and she's dropping significantly in class. The inside draw, while tricky, could be advantageous if she breaks well.
Broadway Lane comes off a win and a placing in his last two starts, showing good current form. His track and distance record is solid, and the quick backup suggests he's fit and ready.
Sioux Warrior brings consistent form into this race, with multiple recent placings. While yet to win at this track and drawn wide, the weight drop and Todd Pannell's experience make him a solid second pick with place potential.
Gusmao presents as a value option in this field. While yet to win at this track, the gelding has shown consistent form with multiple placings in recent starts.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 5 | Lastar | 3 | Sophie Potter | Ms N Irwin | 57kg | $8.50 |
| 2nd | 8 | One Kind | 1 | Ben Price | Travis Doudle | 59kg | $2.60 |
| 3rd | 12 | Avanzo | 4 | Teagan Voorham | Sarah Rutten | 55kg | $10.00 |
| 4th | 7 | Gusmao | 15 | Alana Livesey | Kylie McKerlie | 59kg | $26.00 |
| 5th | 13 | Broadway Lane | 10 | Rochelle Milnes | Alexander Justice | 56kg | $5.50 |
| 6th | 11 | Mood Killer | 9 | Connor Murtagh | Waylon Hornhardt | 58kg | $31.00 |
| 7th | 2 | Ambello | 6 | Alysha Warren | Justin Pickering | 58kg | $8.00 |
| 8th | 10 | Smokin'' Eyes | 5 | Kayla Crowther | Peter & Belinda Blanch | 58.5kg | $12.00 |
| 9th | 9 | Bonavena | 2 | D Caboche | Lewis & Eliza Grantham | 58.5kg | $20.00 |
| 10th | 4 | Bentley Brook | 8 | Jason Holder | Brett Campbell | 60.5kg | $10.00 |
| 11th | 14 | Strip Club | 7 | S H Sit | T H Jolly | 51kg | $151.00 |
| Scr | 1 | The Gov | 11 | Caitlin Tootell | Garret Lynch | 60kg | |
| Scr | 3 | Sioux Warrior | 12 | Todd Pannell | J F Macmillan | 61kg | |
| Scr | 6 | Royal Trapeze | 14 | Sairyn Fawke | Stephen Theodore | 60kg | |
| Scr | 15 | Linking | 16 | Matt Chadwick | W A Bogarts | 53.5kg | |
| Scr | 16 | Emmooki Magic | 13 | Scott Whittle | 54kg |
High Tor comes off a strong win at this track and distance, showing significant improvement. The mare is well-drawn and should get an ideal run just off the pace. While stepping up in class, the lightweight and recent form make her a strong contender.
Flambard brings solid consistent form into this race, with a strong record at the distance. Likely to be up on the pace, which should be advantageous given the predicted race shape. The experienced Jason Holder in the saddle is a plus, and the class drop from last start is significant. While the top weight is a concern, his overall profile makes him a strong contender.
Flaming Navy returns from a spell with a strong first-up record and drops in class from his last preparation. The addition of blinkers for the first time could see him sharper, and he's likely to be up on the pace in a race that should favor leaders. However, the long spell and top weight are concerns, especially if the track is heavy.
Our Goddess comes off a strong second-place finish at this track over a shorter distance. The mare carries a light weight and has drawn well for her running style. Her soft track form adds to her appeal if conditions deteriorate.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 5 | Thebigsosso | 5 | Ben Price | Luke O''Connor | 59.5kg | $15.00 |
| 2nd | 7 | High Tor | 7 | Caitlin Tootell | Garret Lynch | 56.5kg | $3.50 |
| 3rd | 3 | Flambard | 2 | Jason Holder | Byron Cozamanis | 60kg | $4.20 |
| 4th | 1 | Flaming Navy | 3 | Alysha Warren | Travis Doudle | 59kg | $4.00 |
| 5th | 8 | Snipers Nightmare | 9 | Ms S Metcalfe | W A Bogarts | 58kg | $10.00 |
| 6th | 6 | Fleurieu Flipper | 10 | Connor Murtagh | Ms R Day | 59kg | $7.50 |
| 7th | 14 | Our Goddess | 6 | Ms T Johnstone | B J Jones | 54.5kg | $16.00 |
| 8th | 10 | Artissi | 8 | Sophie Potter | Ms N Irwin | 54kg | $18.00 |
| 9th | 11 | Prince Reichweite | 12 | D Caboche | John Hyam | 56kg | $101.00 |
| 10th | 13 | Last War | 1 | Matt Chadwick | P Huserot | 53.5kg | $51.00 |
| 11th | 9 | Hit The Slopes | 13 | Polly Brewster | Mick Kluske | 54.5kg | $91.00 |
| 12th | 12 | Colonel Hathi | 4 | Wesley Cave | Danny Penna | 55.5kg | $151.00 |
| Scr | 2 | Copper Bullet | 14 | Jake Toeroek | R & C Jolly | 60kg | |
| Scr | 4 | Exonumia | 11 | Kim Talent | 59.5kg |
Before the races, not after
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