IT IS 12 months exactly since he last won a race, yet seemingly everything points to DECEMBER DRAW (Race 7, No. 3) as being the horse to beat in tomorrow's group 1 Turnbull Stakes. From his barrier draw, to his condition, and to the course itself, December Draw appears to have all the bases covered.
The imported horse proved last start when third in the Underwood Stakes that he is fully recovered from the broken bone he suffered in last year's Caulfield Cup. But more than that, he has clearly strengthened since we saw him last spring.
For a few years, the Turnbull had become a race for fast finishers, with Littorio (2008), Efficient (2009) and Zipping (2010) all winning at big odds in that manner. But last year, December Draw sat third and held off all challengers in the straight. He has drawn gate three tomorrow and again looks likely to be in the box seat, especially as there appears to be very little pace. The Italian import VOILA ICI (No. 9) almost pinched the Underwood at his second start here when allowed to bowl along in front and jockey Vlad Duric may adopt similar tactics.
The lack of early pressure is likely to result in a sprint home and if that is the case, few will be able to surpass the finishing burst of December Draw.
Also drawn perfectly in a race of little speed is HAPPY TRAILS (No. 6). He camped just off the speed before taking out the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes at Moonee Valley and from barrier one seems certain to be following either December Draw or Voila Ici. Expect GREEN MOON (No. 11) to also take a forward role as he steps out to 2000 metres.
BETTING SUGGESTION
Anchor December Draw in quaddies and rove him in trifectas and quinellas with Nos. 6, 9 and 11.
