Queensland Derby Racing Tips - Filly to upstage the boys in the Derby

The Queensland Derby is the first of two big Group 1 races at Eagle Farm on Saturday May 30 and this year’s edition has attracted a capacity field, with the Chris Waller stable coming in with a strong hand. 

Monopolostic just holds out Providence for favouritism, while the last start Rough Habit Plate (2000m) winner, Kilman, is also in the upper tiers of the market.

Providence was 3rd behind Kilman in the Doomben lead up and was back on a slow tempo before working home nicely. Kilman enjoyed the advantage up front and was able to lead all the way but it might be a different set of circumstances at Eagle Farm. 

A total of 13 of the 23-horse field (that includes five emergencies), were in action at Doomben and other notable performances came from the Kiwi filly, Solid Gold, who produced the fastest last 200m to place 5th, while Southern Prince (4th) and Accidental Bid (5th) stuck on well. 

Monopolistic brings strong form, having placed 6th at Randiwck during the Sydney carnival before chalking up an easy kill over the 2100m at Gosford and gives the impression that the 2400m will be right up his alley, while the former Perth galloper, Buthelizi, brings plenty of intrigue. Different Gravy and Amazake bring futher depth to the $1 million race for the three-year-old stayers, which is Race 7 on the day, preceding the Kingsford Smith Cup. 

Southern Prince and Accidental Bid appear the likely leaders in a race lacking obvious speed, while Providence should settle in an ideal stalking position just behind them. Valiant Sun and Monopolistic map midfield with cover, while Solid Gold faces a challenge from barrier 18 and may need to drift back before attempting to circle the field late. Buthelezi should settle midfield and conserve energy before looking to build into the race from the 600m.

Solid Gold

Going with Solid Gold in the Queensland Derby. The Kiwi galloper comes out of what has been the most reliable form references to this race over the years and does seem to be the one best suited by the rise to the 2400m, while Eagle Farm should also play into her hands. The daughter of Savabeel will appreciate plenty of sting out of the track with a deluge expected at Eagle Farm in the 48 hours prior to the race and should land in a nice spot in the early to middle stages. 

Buthelezi

The former Perth galloper has had two runs since coming to the eastern seaboard with those coming in Melbourne and has been doing his best work late in both of those. This has been his target since going to the Moody/Coleman stable and at his last prep he came form at this stage with two straight wins before closing off well at Group 2 level behind King Of Light in the WA Guineas (1600m). The son of Smart Missile has firmed since the barrier draw and represents value at the $14.