I believe there were similar thoughts regarding Typhoon Tracy in the Orr. The thing that will make it hard for the other horses to run her down is her sprint when she is on the pace. While there are other very talented horses in the race, she makes it hard to run her down by running quick time, especially with her sprint at the end.
Also, I am not 100% convinced at Nicconi's ability to run out 1200m, IMO his most disappointing runs have been 1200m+
Interesting I don't think there's much doubt he's shown himself to be better under 1600m [at this point] but I doubt the 1200m is a prob. Williams ride in the Manikato seemed to be straw that broke his trainers back - went close that night.
TJ Smith was ok for a 3YO. Darby Munro was luckless.
Would never claim a G1 race is a match race but this one must come close. Despite Wanted and Shellscape being very good last start and with a few things in their favours. IMO Shellscrape - any give in the surface. Wanted - could get a charmed run.
As much as I couldn't back a 3YO filly against open class G1 at that price - no probs agreeing she looks the goods. And really monstered them last start.
With her up front and Nicconi behind her it will make things tough for him given it's hard to see much pace [granted sometimes it can finish up quite the opposite].
I do think Oliver might spring something of a surprise and settle closer in the run - not close - but from B4 he gets the chance to be midfield or slightly better. Against that - Hayes might be supremely confident and happy to stick with the get back pattern which has served him well.
