Riccarton Park

SERENDIPITOUS (7) ran them into the ground off the front at Ashburton 12 days ago and will be rock-hard fit for this tougher assignment. Sometimes, early on in the day, they can be hard to peg back over 1000m on this course. Go again. BAKHITA (3) will be backing up from the Lightning Stakes on Saturday and will be much better suited to this company. Hard to beat if she lines up. LADY GEORGIANA (11) fought hard in her first start in the South Island 18 days ago when finishing fifth, needing the hit-out. She drops 2kg and is good enough to take this out, especially from a superior gate. CHARM MANHATTAN (1) has yet to fire on this course, but has been a lot stronger this season away from this circuit. He was third at Ashburton as the favourite last time out, and with the aid of the pole position, he can figure in the top 3 again. GROVE STREET (10) will be making his South Island debut for a new stable, which has had plenty of success with similar types in the past. Don't risk him.