Punt like a Pro, without the know!
Tasmania · Wednesday 7 January 2026
Our top pick won 8 of 10 races at Devonport Synthetic. Every pick, our analysis and the full results are below.
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Thickskinned is showing clear improvement with each run, finishing 4th last start at this track and distance. With D. Ganderton aboard and a fast tempo likely to suit his racing pattern, he appears ready to break through.
Leo Davinci brings strong credentials with 2 seconds from 2 starts at this track and distance. His recent 2nd here on December 19 shows he handles the synthetic surface well. While he's yet to win from 16 starts, his consistency is admirable with 2 seconds and 1 third. The significant class drop is a major positive, and Dianne Parish knows this horse well.
While her recent form appears moderate, she has a second and two thirds from 18 starts and should appreciate the likely fast tempo. The David Pires/Amanda Jones combination adds further confidence.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 6 | Thickskinned | 2 | Daniel Ganderton | M A Ganderton | 58.5kg | $2.70 |
| 2nd | 1 | Arcade Boy | 3 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 55.5kg | $14.00 |
| 3rd | 2 | Leo Davinci | 8 | Dianne Parish | Trent Wells | 58.5kg | $11.00 |
| 4th | 10 | Smash 'n' Grab | 7 | David Pires | Amanda Jones | 56.5kg | $21.00 |
| 5th | 7 | Turfaction | 1 | Liam Riordan | Yassy Nishitani | 58.5kg | $26.00 |
| 6th | 8 | Alpine Woods | 9 | Chloe Wells | M A Ganderton | 54.5kg | $9.00 |
| 7th | 9 | Sh'bourne Rising | 5 | Craig Newitt | Shaun Nichols | 56.5kg | $2.10 |
| 8th | 3 | Messenger Of God | 4 | Bulent Muhcu | Jessie Bazan | 58.5kg | $81.00 |
| Scr | 4 | Oxy Bolt | 6 | J F Luttrell | 58.5kg | ||
| Scr | 5 | Sh'bourne Power | 5 | Shaun Nichols | 58.5kg |
The gelding has shown progressive improvement with a win two starts back and appears perfectly suited by the moderate-fast tempo. The inside barrier allows tactical options, while the gear changes (visors first time) suggest connections expect further improvement.
Bayside brings excellent track credentials with a 6: 1-3-0 record at Devonport Synthetic and 5: 1-2-0 at this track and distance. The inside draw (barrier 2) should allow him to secure a positive position in running.
Nikolsky brings winning momentum after scoring over this track and distance last start. The mare is clearly on an upward trajectory and while this represents a significant class rise, her progressive profile and the booking of Craig Newitt suggest connections are confident. The moderate-fast tempo should give her a chance to finish strongly.
The moderate-fast tempo should suit his racing pattern, and Chloe Wells knows him well.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 3 | Coal River | 1 | Anthony Darmanin | Angela Brakey | 59kg | $2.60 |
| 2nd | 4 | Hartman | 5 | Chloe Wells | Barry Campbell | 56.5kg | $3.00 |
| 3rd | 2 | Bayside | 2 | Lauryn Bingley | Barry Campbell | 57kg | $3.00 |
| 4th | 5 | Manhattan Nights | 6 | Jabez Johnstone | J K Blacker | 54kg | $26.00 |
| 5th | 6 | Who Can It Be Now | 7 | Shayleigh Ingelse | Rowan Hamer | 53.5kg | $61.00 |
| 6th | 7 | Nikolsky | 3 | Craig Newitt | M A Ganderton | 55kg | $11.00 |
| Scr | 1 | Alpine Fury | 4 | Codi Jordan | G J Stevenson | 59kg |
Impressive debut winner who dominated a maiden over this track and distance just 19 days ago. While stepping up in class, he showed natural tactical speed and a professional attitude that should translate well to this assignment. The Adam Trinder-trained gelding has drawn to get a perfect run and appears to have considerable upside as a lightly-raced 3YO.
Talented 3YO who should appreciate the significant drop in class after competing in Open company last start. Drawn perfectly in barrier 2 to utilize his tactical speed, and should be right in the finish with the class drop.
Consistent mare who rarely runs a bad race, particularly at this track and distance where she has a strong record of 4:0-1-2. Well-drawn and well-weighted on the minimum, she should be right in the finish again.
Veteran gelding who showed significant improvement last start when finishing a close second over this course and distance. Now second-up from a spell with a solid second-up record of 5:0-1-1.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2 | Ozonica | 8 | Erica Byrne Burke | Adam Trinder | 58kg | $2.60 |
| 2nd | 7 | Geegeeschaser | 3 | Jabez Johnstone | Amanda Jones | 51kg | $4.20 |
| 3rd | 3 | Stroak Of Art | 2 | Shayleigh Ingelse | Rowan Hamer | 55kg | $3.60 |
| 4th | 9 | Vanity Star | 4 | Dianne Parish | Trent Wells | 54kg | $8.00 |
| 5th | 5 | Olive Girl | 7 | Bulent Muhcu | Stephen Shaw | 57kg | $12.00 |
| 6th | 1 | Bellsprout | 1 | Codi Jordan | M A Ganderton | 58.5kg | $26.00 |
| 7th | 8 | Fillentina | 5 | Craig Newitt | J L Keys | 54kg | $21.00 |
| 8th | 4 | Chalong | 6 | Chloe Wells | Ms L Gaffney | 55.5kg | $51.00 |
| 9th | 6 | Celestial Glow | 9 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 51kg | $41.00 |
First-up but has been given time to acclimatize, and the visors replacing winkers is a positive gear change. Tactical versatility should allow him to settle midfield and finish strongly.
Draws the inside barrier which is crucial at Devonport Synthetic, especially with the likely fast tempo. David Pires is an experienced jockey who should give this horse every chance from the perfect draw.
The booking of Anthony Darmanin is significant, and the strategic gear changes suggest connections are addressing specific issues. The wide barrier is a concern, but with the likely fast tempo, she may be able to settle midfield and run on. First time on synthetic is a query, but her breeding suggests adaptability.
Finished a close second here last start carrying the same weight. The wide barrier is a concern, but his early speed should allow him to cross and find a position.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 5 | Gladding | 5 | Kelvin Sanderson | Trent Wells | 57kg | $2.80 |
| 2nd | 9 | Agadoo | 10 | Anthony Darmanin | Aiden Nunn | 55kg | $5.50 |
| 3rd | 8 | Una Paloma Blanca | 6 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 53.5kg | $51.00 |
| 4th | 1 | Guber | 9 | Lizzie Annells | Patrick Dargan | 58.5kg | $10.00 |
| 5th | 2 | Issima Louvre | 3 | Christopher Pang | M S Trinder | 55.5kg | $81.00 |
| 6th | 7 | Rebel's Girl | 4 | Chloe Wells | L A Wells | 54.5kg | $5.00 |
| 7th | 6 | Strato Ken | 1 | David Pires | Ms L Gaffney | 57kg | $4.00 |
| 8th | 4 | Out Of The Sphere | 8 | Shayleigh Ingelse | Adam Trinder | 55.5kg | $15.00 |
| 9th | 11 | Zoe Of Rome | 7 | Jabez Johnstone | J K Blacker | 52kg | $101.00 |
| 10th | 3 | Just Bobby | 2 | Erica Byrne Burke | Adam Trinder | 58.5kg | $26.00 |
| Scr | 10 | Redair | 10 | Adam Trinder | 55kg |
Vino Novello brings the strongest combination of track suitability and recent form to this race. His excellent record at Devonport (2-1-0 from 4 starts) and tactical speed make him perfectly suited to this track's characteristics.
Her excellent Devonport record (2-1-0 from 5) and consistent form make her a major player. The significant class drop from her recent racing is a big positive, though she'll need to overcome the top weight and limited experience at this distance.
Elegantly Written brings strong recent form with a win and two placings from her last four starts. The main concern is her limited synthetic track experience, having been unplaced in her only start on this surface.
While his first-up run was poor, he's a horse who typically improves second-up and has previously won over this course and distance.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 1 | Stone Cold Stunner | 1 | Kirra-Lee Lane | G J Stevenson | 58kg | $2.60 |
| 2nd | 5 | Alpine Blast | 6 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 52.5kg | $13.00 |
| 3rd | 2 | Vino Novello | 3 | Jabez Johnstone | J K Blacker | 57kg | $2.10 |
| 4th | 6 | Mightymaxi | 2 | Shayleigh Ingelse | Rowan Hamer | 52kg | $21.00 |
| 5th | 4 | Elegantly Written | 4 | Craig Newitt | G J Stevenson | 57kg | $4.60 |
| Scr | 3 | Royal Dispatch | 5 | Liam Riordan | Ashley Meaburn | 58kg | |
| Scr | 7 | Gee Gee Can Win | 7 | Erica Byrne Burke | Trent Wells | 54kg |
Judge Jenni brings the strongest recent form, finishing a close 2nd last start on this track over 1880m. With Craig Newitt aboard and a proven record at the distance (0-2-2 from 4 starts), she appears perfectly placed to break through in this Class 1 event.
Blooming Edge drops significantly in class after racing in stronger company. From barrier 1, he should take up the early lead on a track that favors leaders. The class drop is the key factor that makes him a genuine winning chance.
While her last start was disappointing, the class relief should see her competitive here. Her record of 1 win and 1 second from 8 starts suggests she has ability, and the booking of Chloe Wells is a positive.
Her recent form includes a 2nd three starts back, and she has proven she can handle the synthetic surface.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 4 | Judge Jenni | 2 | Craig Newitt | G J Stevenson | 57kg | $2.35 |
| 2nd | 2 | Blooming Edge | 1 | David Pires | Ms L Gaffney | 59kg | $4.20 |
| 3rd | 8 | Bright Night | 6 | Chloe Wells | Barry Campbell | 54.5kg | $8.50 |
| 4th | 6 | Tizsa Nice Drop | 3 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 54kg | $9.50 |
| 5th | 3 | Cool Conquest | 5 | Jabez Johnstone | J K Blacker | 54kg | $7.00 |
| 6th | 5 | Miss Terasita | 4 | Lizzie Annells | Patrick Dargan | 57kg | $26.00 |
| 7th | 7 | Arctic Attraction | 7 | Bulent Muhcu | Jessie Bazan | 56.5kg | $14.00 |
| 8th | 1 | Beau Warrior | 8 | Kelvin Sanderson | Andrew Moore | 59kg | $12.00 |
Progressive 3YO filly stepping up to Open company after an impressive win at this track/distance 19 days ago. While facing more experienced rivals, her perfect second-up record (2 from 2) and consistent form (never missed a place in 4 starts) suggest she's ready for this challenge. The inside draw, light weight, and Craig Newitt aboard are significant positives.
Seven-year-old gelding with an excellent record at this track and distance (3-1-1 from 5 starts). Second-up today with a reasonable second-up record. While his recent form has been patchy, his track/distance affinity and the booking of Anthony Darmanin make him a genuine contender.
Accomplished 7YO gelding with an impressive career record (14-5-6 from 36 starts). First-up from a spell with a solid fresh record (2-0-2 from 7). Has performed well at this track and distance previously (1-0-1 from 3). While carrying top weight, he's dropping in class from recent runs and can't be discounted despite the lengthy break.
Seven-year-old mare with an exceptional record at this track (7 wins from 12 starts) including 3 wins at this track/distance. The inside draw and light weight further enhance her appeal as a value option.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 5 | Sanniya | 3 | Craig Newitt | Barry Campbell | 54kg | $1.16 |
| 2nd | 4 | Alpine Wolf | 6 | Anthony Darmanin | M A Ganderton | 54kg | $5.50 |
| 3rd | 8 | Celtic Rose | 1 | Jabez Johnstone | Andrew Moore | 54kg | $81.00 |
| 4th | 1 | Turk Warrior | 5 | Codi Jordan | Rowan Hamer | 60kg | $21.00 |
| 5th | 6 | Seydoux | 2 | Erica Byrne Burke | Adam Trinder | 54kg | $16.00 |
| 6th | 7 | Bold Instinct | 4 | Chloe Wells | Dean Wells | 54kg | $41.00 |
| Scr | 2 | Tsunami Sam | 5 | David Pires | J L Keys | 57.5kg | |
| Scr | 3 | Galenus | 3 | Kelvin Sanderson | J L Keys | 56kg |
Progressive 3YO gelding with a perfect 2 from 2 record at this track and distance. Comes in with excellent form consistency (5 consecutive placings) and gets in with just 52.5kg. Has tactical versatility from barrier 4 and should get an ideal run in midfield. The class rise is offset by his weight advantage and proven affinity for this track.
Quality mare resuming with a strong overall record of 4 wins from 13 starts. Has placed at this track and distance previously and brings strong form from last preparation. The wide draw is a concern, but she has the class to overcome it. First-up record is a query (0-0-0 from 2), but her quality and consistency make her a major player despite the top weight.
Consistent 6YO gelding with excellent track statistics (1-3-1 from 6 starts) and particularly strong at this track and distance (1-3-1 from 4). Coming off an impressive win and has a solid second-up record. The wide draw is a concern in a race with likely fast tempo, but his strong finishing ability and affinity for this track make him a genuine contender.
Overlooked 4YO gelding with excellent credentials at this track and distance (2-0-1 from 4). Dropping significantly in class from recent metropolitan assignments and gets the services of Craig Newitt.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 3 | Prince Of Khatun | 4 | Christopher Pang | Adam Trinder | 52.5kg | $2.10 |
| 2nd | 4 | Zoete's Rock | 6 | Craig Newitt | J F Luttrell | 55.5kg | $14.00 |
| 3rd | 1 | Mastretta | 7 | Jabez Johnstone | Monica Ryan | 55kg | $4.20 |
| 4th | 6 | Get 'em Warrior | 2 | Chloe Wells | L A Wells | 53kg | $8.00 |
| 5th | 2 | Simply Deep | 5 | Lauryn Bingley | Barry Campbell | 54kg | $7.50 |
| 6th | 5 | Berserker | 9 | Bulent Muhcu | Stephen Shaw | 55kg | $9.00 |
| 7th | 7 | Volkanovski | 3 | Shayleigh Ingelse | J F Luttrell | 51kg | $26.00 |
| 8th | 8 | Naval Anthem | 1 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 51kg | $51.00 |
| Scr | 9 | Nazorian | 8 | M A Ganderton | 54kg |
Lightly-raced 5YO gelding with exceptional synthetic track credentials (5:3-0-0) including a win at this track and distance. Last start 4th in this grade was solid and the step up to 1880m looks ideal based on previous win at this trip. Craig Newitt booking a significant positive.
Has a strong record at Devonport (3:2-1-0) and draws perfectly in barrier 3 to utilize tactical speed. Codi Jordan maintains the ride after recent success together. The step up to 1880m is the query but has shown stamina in recent runs.
Talented 5YO mare with a perfect record at this track and distance (2:2-0-0). Has been racing consistently with strong recent form (8x521611513) including a 3rd last start at this track. Gets in with just 54kg and has tactical versatility to overcome the wide barrier. Erica Byrne Burke maintains the ride after recent success together. Class rise is the main query.
Consistent 6YO gelding with excellent credentials at this track (6:0-3-1) and on synthetic surfaces. Last start winner over 2020m at Hobart showing strong stamina that will be valuable here. Kelvin Sanderson knows the horse well.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 3 | Asva | 10 | Kelvin Sanderson | G J Stevenson | 56.5kg | $7.50 |
| 2nd | 7 | Ashy Boy | 11 | Liam Riordan | G J Stevenson | 54kg | $41.00 |
| 3rd | 1 | Sushi Express | 14 | Lauryn Bingley | Glenn Hodges | 58kg | $7.50 |
| 4th | 6 | Blonde Star | 13 | Erica Byrne Burke | Imogen Miller | 54kg | $5.50 |
| 5th | 12 | The Longest Yard | 3 | Codi Jordan | G J Stevenson | 54kg | $7.50 |
| 6th | 4 | Kaliuwaa Falls | 12 | Anthony Darmanin | Imogen Miller | 56.5kg | $9.50 |
| 7th | 9 | Ashfall | 15 | Stan Tsaikos | Ashley Meaburn | 54kg | $101.00 |
| 8th | 8 | Earendel | 7 | Craig Newitt | Barry Campbell | 54kg | $3.40 |
| 9th | 2 | Vega Magnifico | 4 | Cian Macredmond | N J Dyer | 58kg | $14.00 |
| 10th | 5 | General Assembly | 6 | Lauren Burke | Angela Brakey | 55kg | $101.00 |
| 11th | 14 | Garcon D'espoir | 8 | Noriyuki Masuda | Yassy Nishitani | 54kg | $41.00 |
| 12th | 11 | Spring Bean | 5 | Bulent Muhcu | G J Stevenson | 54kg | $14.00 |
| 13th | 10 | Original Glaze | 1 | Shayleigh Ingelse | K P Hamilton | 54kg | $81.00 |
| 14th | 13 | Zulu Angel | 9 | Jabez Johnstone | J K Blacker | 54kg | $151.00 |
| Scr | 15 | Chicane | 2 | Christopher Pang | M S Trinder | 54kg |
Tuskegee brings excellent Devonport Synthetic credentials (9: 3-3-3) and has placed in all three attempts at this track and distance. His tactical speed allows him to settle forward, which is advantageous given the track's leader bias. Last start 3rd at this track showed he's in good form, and the slight step up in distance should suit based on his strong 1650m win two starts prior.
She's a progressive mare who appears to be hitting form at the right time. The drop back from 2100m to 1880m should suit, and she gets in with a light weight (55.5kg). The main queries are her first attempt on the synthetic surface and the class rise, but her recent form suggests she's capable of handling both.
Chicane brings excellent credentials at this track (23: 4-6-5) and specifically at this track and distance (6: 1-3-0). The weight (59.5kg) is the main concern, but his consistency and track affinity make him a major player.
Thin Red Line comes off an impressive win at this track and distance last start, suggesting he's found his niche on the synthetic surface. The moderate-fast tempo should suit his running style.
| Finish | No. | Horse | Barrier | Jockey | Trainer | Weight | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2 | Tuskegee | 1 | Lauryn Bingley | Barry Campbell | 57.5kg | $3.50 |
| 2nd | 4 | Opensea | 6 | M S Trinder | 55.5kg | $8.50 | |
| 3rd | 6 | Thin Red Line | 5 | Lauren Burke | J K Blacker | 52.5kg | $9.00 |
| 4th | 5 | Sugoi Legend | 2 | Shayleigh Ingelse | Rowan Hamer | 52.5kg | $10.00 |
| 5th | 3 | Eaglefurther | 4 | Codi Jordan | G J Stevenson | 55.5kg | $4.80 |
| Scr | 1 | Chicane | 3 | M S Trinder | 59.5kg |
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