Stradbroke Handicap Preview: Stories to Watch

The $3 million Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) is right around the corner. We’re less than a week away from one of the most expensive races of the winter season. The final lineup is not set, but the betting market is already roaring.  
 
Read this piece to get up to date on all the latest developments before this weekend’s bid race at Eagle Farm Racecourse. 

Potential race lineup 

The Stradbroke Handicap is less than a week away, but we still don’t know who will be on the final race ballot. One name we thought would be a lock for the big race is  
Tony Gollan’s Freedom Rally.  
 
The four-year-old gelding was set to feature until this week. On Sunday morning, a deal to have Freedom Rally race fell through. The best Freedom Rally can hope for now is to be in the first emergency slot.  
 
Roots and Opal Ridge are also expected to miss out on the Stradbroke Handicap.  
 
Top racers I Wish I Win and Think About It pulled out last week and will also not be racing this weekend at Eagle Farm Racecourse. 

Will Price gets Roll On High spot 

As a reward for his strong form with Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman’s horses, jockey Will Price has been picked to ride Roll On High at the Stradbroke Handicap.  
 
Roll On High has rapidly progressed up the ranks from Group 3 to Group 1 level over the past two months. Many punters have picked the filly as a dark horse to watch this weekend. Peter Moody is confident that Will Price can handle the pressure.  
 
“Will does a bit of riding and a good bit of work at home for us,” Moody said.  
 
“He will ride the weight comfortably and can have a three-course meal. He won’t be lacking for anything when the ride comes around.” 

Early Stradbroke Handicap favourites 

It’s still early, but the Stradbroke Handicap betting odds look incredibly tight.  
 
Antino is the current favourite at the horse racing betting sites with $5.50 odds. Amenable is just behind at $6.  
 
Benedetta, who dominated The Goodwood (1200m) in May, comes into this one at $9. While the mare has never run in a 1400m race, many have her down as a smart bet to place in Saturday’s race.  
 
Stefi Magnetica ($9), Bella Nipotina ($9), and Magic Time ($11) are other names to watch heading into this weekend.