GROUP 1 RUNNERS AT RANDWICK

Runners in feature races at Randwick and Sandown today with winning chances at both venues.

Alenquer and Nerve Not Verve (pictured) both run in Group 1 races in Sydney with Nerve Not Verve in the Sydney Cup over 3200 metres and Alenquer in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

“Nerve not Verve has done terrifically and I think she’s done as well as any horse I’ve had going into a 3200 metre race,” Mike said.

“All things being equal she’ll put herself in the first four and she can maintain a gallop. The going will not be an issue and I’m confident she will run a big race, I really do think she can win it.”

Alenquer has his second Australian start and will be better suited by the softer conditions.

“I’m aware he has to improve on the Moonee Valley run but he’s got a few things in his favour here, particularly the softer ground,” Mike said.

“The track will suit him better, the trip will suit him better and going right-handed will not be a problem.

“He’s travelled up well, has eaten up well and I’m hopeful of a forward showing if he puts his best hoof forward.”

At Sandown we have three runners, starting with General Firepower in race four and staying at 1400 metres.

“I thought his last start win was impressive and he’s trained on well since,” Mike said.

“He’s set to be able to race on speed which is an asset on the Lakeside and I do like his chances.”

Buffalo River and Not An Option both start in the Group 3 Victoria Handicap over 1400 metres with Patrick Moloney continuing his partnership with Not An Option and Daniel Stackhouse aboard Buffalo River.

“Not An Option has drawn terrific and he’s done well since his good last start win,” Mike said.

“Patrick knows the horse, I just hope the track doesn’t deteriorate and if it doesn’t I’m expecting him to run well.

“Buffalo River is back and he’s prepped up well, his jumpouts have been good,” Mike said.

“To the eye he looks a bit burly but the scale tells us he’s at his racing weight. He’s got a pretty good first-up record and he should be able to cross and race on pace.

“He gets a nice opportunity here and if he can get across and relax than I expect him to be hard to beat.”