I love a sprint down the straight, particularly when it’s at Group 1 level and it boasts some of the country’s finest racehorses.
The Black Caviar Lightning Stakes has only drawn seven contestants, but names like Nature Strip, Redzel and Loving Gabby mean that there is no doubt it’s going to be a cracker.
Check out my 2020 Black Caviar Lightning Stakes tips below.
Suggested Bets
- 5 Units straight out #2 Nature Strip
- Boxed Trifecta of the selections below
Nature Strip went to another level in the spring and by all accounts, he is absolutely primed for a big first-up performance in the Lightning. The Nicconi gelding did need the run when he resumed for fourth in the Group 3 Concorde but progressed to impressive wins in both the Moir and the VRC Sprint; running a length fourth in The Everest in what was his only other start. He’s had a couple of lovely trials in the lead up to this and will take plenty of beating.
The old champion proved that he still has it during his spring preparation, particularly fresh, and I can’t find a reason why he won’t be in the finish of the Black Caviar Lightning. The Snitzel gelding’s resume is well known, but to refresh your memory is includes two Everests, two Group 1 races and plenty of other black type features. He beat Nature Strip at this point of his prep last time in and should be able to take up the running on Saturday from barrier 1. Kerrin McEvoy stays aboard and Redzel could prove over the odds.
The three-year-old stocks looked outstanding in the noms but Loving Gabby is the only acceptor. Thrilled that it’s her, though because she was the pick of the bunch and looks a Black Caviar Lightning Stakes winning chance. The I Am Invincible filly hasn’t run a bad race and is another that found career-best form to date in the spring; highlighted by her maiden Group 1 win (in open company) in the Manikato and her second placing to Nature Strip in the VRC Sprint. Her fresh form is excellent and has been charged with carrying only 53.5kgs.
This is obviously a big first-up task for I Am Excited, but I completely understand why David Pfieffer would be keen to have a throw at the stumps in this company, with a view towards more reasonable targets. The Snitzel mare has a competitive fresh record, albeit in weaker races and has returned plenty of pleasing efforts throughout a good racing career, highlighted by a couple of wins in Group 2 company. She certainly looks to be the best of the rest.