Doomben tips, best bets and quaddie selections | Jan 23 Preview

After what was a successful Magic Millions Carnival for all involved at the Gold Coast Turf Club, Queensland Metro racing heads back to Doomben this weekend for nine races on Saturday afternoon. The track is an improving Soft 7, and the rail is in the true position. Race 1 is set to jump at 12:23pm.

Best Bet – Race 5 #3 Batangas Entry

Kelly Schweida’s Batangas Entry looks beautifully placed here back in this grade. Coming off luckless Listed and Group 3 runs, he should be in this up to his ears in a QTIS 3YO Handicap. There is no Isotope, Away Game, Apache Chase or Gotta Kiss in this, so he is likely to be the one they have to beat. From barrier 2, he can settle closer than usual under Jim Byrne and should prove too good. He loves Doomben with a win and two runner-up performances from five starts here, and the sting out of the ground looks no issue. He’s nearly an each-way price, so he looks a fantastic bet at the half-way point on the card. Batangas is paying $5.50 with racing bookmakers.

Next Best – Race 1 #2 Jackson On Time

Sebring gelding Jackson On Time was a real eye catcher at the Gold Coast a fortnight ago when third to Finance Tycoon and Magic Millions 2YO Classic winner, Shaquero. He was outsprinted on debut that day at the top of the straight, before levelling out and hitting the line very strongly. Back slightly in trip to 1050m shouldn’t be too much of a concern as he will be better for the experience and be a touch fitter. There’s a bit of speed in the race which will suit given he will be jumping from the outside alley with Jim Byrne on, but he should be able to slot in about fifth or sixth and unleash with what looks to be a fair turn of foot.

Best Value – Race 9 #1 Desert Lord

Desert Lord is clearly the best horse in this race and despite the top weight, we are surprised to see him not favourite. He has some very good form around The Harrovian and last start was wide the trip, but stuck on okay to finish 6L off Soxagon who is racing superbly this campaign. Being drawn out in the cheap seats in barrier 19 is some query, but Steph Thornton is riding very well of late so we will put our trust in her again to find a decent spot on the talented High Chaparral gelding. He’s one from one at Doomben and races well off a freshen up. He’s the one to beat in the last race of the day and the $5.50 on offer with bookmakers looks tempting.

Doomben quaddie selections 23/1