FIVE CHANCES AT FLEMINGTON ON SATURDAY

We are aiming to improve our season tally of winners with five runners at Flemington today.

Last start winner Chapada (pictured) is the first to go in race six, the George Watson Quality Handicap over 2450m with Daniel Stackhouse again in the saddle.

Chapada rises 2kg for his win over 2520m here however, Mike Moroney reasons that the horse has earned it.

“He’s a more mature horse now and stronger all round so I think he will be fine with the weight,” Moroney said.

“He’s thrived since the win and his work on Tuesday was terrific. It would be nice to think he will get a similar ride as last start and if he does than I think he will be hard to beat again.

Two runners in the Listed Creswick Stakes for three-year-olds over 1200m in Hawker Hurricane and Alburq. Jordan Childs is aboard Hawker Hurricane from barrier 11 with Daniel Stackhouse riding Alburq from barrier 13.

“They are both in good order and I honestly couldn’t split them,” Moroney said. “They’ve drawn out together as well so there is not much between them.

“Alburq has had no luck this preparation and I think should have won by now and that applies to Hawker Hurricane as well.

“The rail is right out today which might make this interesting. King Of Hastings is the obvious one to beat but I think our pair as as good a chance as any with ordinary luck.”

Mr Marathon Man runs in race eight. the Brian Beattie Quality Handicap over 1420m with Daniel Stackhouse riding from barrier seven.

It is the fifth run this preparation for the import who continues to frustrate his trainer.

“He’s got the ability but he just makes his life harder by refusing to relax,” Moroney said.

“He was better last start and ran according for fourth at Flemington. He’s drawn to get some cover today and if he decided to do his best than he can definitely win but it’s all in his head I’m afraid.”

Milwaukee rounds out the day in the last race, the Adam Lindsay Gordon Quality Handicap over his preferred straight 1100m with Jye McNeil riding from barrier six.

“He disappointed last start but we put it down to the track - it was a heavy (8) and he doesn’t like it,” Moroney said.

“The firmer track today will be better for him and he loves this straight track. He’s in there just over the minimum so he gets his chance and I’m confident he will be in the finish.”