The top selections in the Manikato

The Group 1 Manikato Stakes will be run over 1200m at Moonee Valley this Friday night.

Southport Tycoon won last year’s edition in sensational fashion, nosing out Growing Empire on the post.

Imperatriz won in 2023, Bella Nipotina in 2022, Jonker in 2021 and Hey Doc in 2020.

Read our analysis of the race below:

The horse to beat is clearly LADY SHENANDOAH.

From a class perspective she might just be way too classy for these, but a wide draw in a sprint race at The Valley can bring plenty of good gallopers undone.

If everything pans out well for James McDonald and the gun mare then it could be curtains for everybody else. But taking $2.30ish around a tight track is fraught with danger.

ALABAMA LASS represents decent value at around $6.

She is effective over 1200m, is drawn to get a lovely run from the middle gate and Craig Williams knows the horse well.

The Kelso-trained Kiwi mare was only touched off late by BARAQIEL in the Group 1 Moir Stakes so that galloper must be considered.

He can win again.

MAGIC TIME is also a massive chance but gate 1 for a get-back, run-on horse is not ideal.

Selections

9 - Alabama Lass
6 - Lady Shenandoah
2 - Baraqiel
5 - Magic Time

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