FEATURE RACE RUNNERS AT CAULFIELD ON SATURDAY

Two feature race runners for us at Caulfield on Saturday with Star Surprise and Mr Marathon Man in action.

Star Surprise is the first to go in race five, the Vain Stakes (Gr 3) over 1100m with Kerrin McEvoy to ride. Scratchings have reduced the opposition to five and Star Surprise will now jump from barrier five.

The son of Sidereus is already a winner around Caulfield, having won last time out over 1200m on July 13 and Mike Moroney fells deserves a shot at Group level.

“The track is given as soft which will not be a problem for him,” Moroney said. “It’s obviously a big step up in class for him and brings a lot of different form lines.

“I’m really happy with our horse and I’m not too concerned about being one from the outside - there does not appear to be a lot of speed in the race so he should be able to find his own place.

“He’a a real trier and goes into this off a nice gallop on Tuesday and I’m sure he’ll let them know he’s in the race.”

Mr Marathon Man runs in race eight, the feature race of the day in the P B Lawrence Stakes (Gr 2) over 1400m with Damien Oliver to ride from barrier seven in the field of 11.

Moroney feels the import has track conditions in his favour.

“The little bit of ease in the track will suit him and is one of the main reasons we’re happy to run as the conditions should make him competitive,” Moroney said.

“The trip might be on the short side for him but he’s freshened up well and we’re happy with him.

“His last jumpout was encouraging and I’m sure he will run well.”