Winning post-1800 metres: We are on the Murray Bridge Gifford Hill course on Saturday Monday for the Christmas Eve meeting, with the rail in the true position. The track presents well and walks consistently, with minimal wear. At the time of walking on Tuesday, with warm conditions, it walked in the ‘Good 4’ range in this area. On Thursday morning the track was rated a ‘Good 4’.
1800m-1200m: As expected on this least used section, there is good coverage all the way around to the 1200 metres and the track walks consistently in the Good 4 range,. There will be no disadvantage to be away from the fence, in the two and three wide line, particularly with cover.
1200m-800m: This part of the track also presents well and the kikuyu that has been somewhat dormant has really started to take in the warmer weather. There is minimal signs of damage.
800m-400m: As horses commence their runs away from the fence, there may be some evidence of kick back closer to the rail and one or two off the fence, as the day goes on. The ground walks consistently well and is rated in the Good 4 range with excellent cover.
400m-Winning: The track walks consistently in the Good 4 range, with some further irrigation necessary over the weekend, to keep the track in the Good range for Saturday. The straight walks consistently from the fence out, with no evidence that any particular pattern should emerge here. It is expected that runners will also be able to make ground out wide, as well as up near the lead or on the pace and with the rail in the true, all horses will get their chance.
Verdict: A genuine Good track is expected for Christmas Eve, with the track looking in great shape, with the whole track to play with. It walks consistently throughout, including in the straight. The track should play evenly, although small fields earlier in the day will not give a great indication of any pattern emerging.
Stewards will further assess the track for a confirmation of the rating on Friday afternoon.
