{"id":86017,"date":"2026-05-14T15:06:31","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T05:06:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/?p=86017"},"modified":"2026-05-14T17:55:48","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T07:55:48","slug":"2026-dark-jewel-classic-day-tips-preview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/2026\/05\/2026-dark-jewel-classic-day-tips-preview\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 Dark Jewel\u00a0Classic\u00a0Day Tips & Preview\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Saturday\u2019s Dark Jewel Classic Day meeting at Scone shapes as a fitting finale to a big two-day showcase of country racing, with quality fields and competitive betting races across the program. Following Friday\u2019s opener, attention turns to what should be another outstanding day, with the track expected to land in the Good 4 to Soft 5 range, ideal conditions for punters and participants alike. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The headline act is the Group 3 Dark Jewel Classic<\/a>, where Melody Again returns looking to defend her crown after a dominant performance last year. She\u2019ll face a deep and talented field, ensuring the feature lives up to its billing as one of the highlights of the Scone carnival. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Support races add further depth to the meeting, including the Listed Denise\u2019s Joy Stakes, the Listed Luskin Star Stakes, the Listed Ortensia Stakes, and the Listed Woodlands Stakes. Each race brings together emerging talent and proven performers, creating a strong card from top to bottom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With plenty to look forward to across the program, it\u2019s a terrific day to dive into our official 2026 Dark Jewel Classic Day preview <\/strong>and hopefully find a few winners. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 1 – SCONE RSL MIDWAY BENCHMARK 72 HANDICAP (1700 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 6 Viewpoint <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

VIEWPOINT (6)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0had a few things against him\u00a0last start at Hawkesbury\u00a0such as the outside barrier and racing in the inferior going\u00a0so there was merit in his 2.03 length fifth.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The son of Wootton Bassett returned in great order\u00a0two starts ago over\u00a01400m\u00a0at Hawkesbury\u00a0where he settled worse than midfield before letting down powerfully to win\u00a0comfortably\u00a0by 2.46 lengths.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019ll\u00a0strip fitter\u00a0and\u00a0won\u00a0his only\u00a0previous\u00a0third-up race which was\u00a0over a similar distance.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The draw is a touch sticky, but he has the speed to find a prominent position.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R1 – Scone Rsl Midway Benchmark 72 Hcp<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
14th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
6. Viewpoint (10)<\/span>
J: Kerrin Mcevoy<\/span> 57kg<\/span><\/div>
21×15<\/span> T: Nacim Dilmi<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
4.60<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
2.00<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 25\/09\/2026 11:00:05 PM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 1<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 2 – HIGHWAY CLASS 3 HANDICAP (1600 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 6 Solitario <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
Each Way<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

SOLITARIO (6)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0was restrained from the outside barrier last start at Newcastle before charging home to finish a neck second.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Messara & Gavranich-trained gelding will appreciate returning to this class given the last time he competed in a Class 3 Handicap; he proved too strong over 1450m at Muswellbrook just three starts ago.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s\u00a0rock hard fit and races particularly well at Scone having won two of three races.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Blinkers go back\u00a0on\u00a0and\u00a0I\u2019d\u00a0suggest that should see him settle closer in the run.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R2 – Tab Highway Class 3 Hcp<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
6th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
6. Solitario (6)<\/span>
J: Ashley Morgan<\/span> 59.5kg<\/span><\/div>
04142<\/span> T: Paul Messara & Leah Gavranich<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
12.00<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
3.50<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:20 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 2<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 3 \u2013 LISTED YARRAMAN PARK WOODLANDS STAKES (1100 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 3 Moscatel <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

MOSCATEL (3)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0could not have been more impressive on debut over\u00a01100m\u00a0on the Kensington track.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Waterhouse & Bott-trained filly showed good speed to lead before putting a gap on her rivals in the final furlong to win by 4.43 lengths.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The third horse, Quarterback,\u00a0subsequently\u00a0ran well for second at Gosford\u2019s\u00a0The\u00a0Coast<\/a> meeting last Saturday.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, she draws out in the boondocks but as mentioned she is armed with good early speed which she can use to counter.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R3 – Yarraman Park Woodlands Stakes (L)<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
6th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
3. Moscatel (14)<\/span>
J: Rachel King<\/span> 57.5kg<\/span><\/div>
1<\/span> T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
2.40<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
1.30<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:21 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 3<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 4 – KIA ORA 3&4YO BENCHMARK 72 HANDICAP (1300 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 11 Nitro <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

NITRO (11)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0returns to the races for the first time since putting up a tremendous fight to finish a nose second to Plaintiff over\u00a01200m\u00a0at Rosehill in December.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That proved to be excellent form with Plaintiff going on to win four of five career\u00a0starts\u00a0including the Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes<\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Peter Snowden-trained gelding finished like he was shot out of a cannon to come from many lengths off the leader to win on debut at Warwick Farm.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s\u00a0only had three starts\u00a0so\u00a0has an abundance of upside and two trials will have him ready to fire fresh.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R4 – Kia Ora 3&4Yo Benchmark 72 Hcp<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
2nd<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
11. Nitro (10)<\/span>
J: Tom Sherry<\/span> 58kg<\/span><\/div>
132x<\/span> T: Peter Snowden<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
3.10<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
1.55<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:22 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 4<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 5 – MAGIC MILLIONS BENCHMARK 78 HANDICAP (1700 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 4 Man Of Worth <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

MAN OF WORTH (4)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0kicked off this preparation in fine style over\u00a01250m\u00a0Canterbury\u00a0where he raced on speed before letting down powerfully to win by 1.42 lengths.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Chris Waller-trained\u00a0former import\u00a0will appreciate the rise in distance\u00a0given he won over a mile in back-to-back races to end last preparation and raced over much further in\u00a0Ireland.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s\u00a0been back to the trials since his first-up win and produced an excellent piece of work where he was climbing over their backs late.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Siena Grima, who claims 3kg, can stalk what\u00a0looks\u00a0a decent speed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R5 – Magic Millions Benchmark 78 Hcp<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
6th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
4. Man Of Worth (10)<\/span>
J: Siena Grima<\/span> 60kg<\/span><\/div>
311×1<\/span> T: Chris Waller<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
3.60<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
1.65<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:23 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 5<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 6 – SCONE EQUINE HOSPITAL BENCHMARK 78 HANDICAP (1100 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 2 Let\u2019sfacethemusic <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
Each Way<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

LET\u2019SFACETHEMUSIC (2)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0can be forgiven for weakening to finish 2.49 lengths fourth over\u00a01200m\u00a0at Eagle Farm after being involved in a speed battle\u00a0in front.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Corey & Kylie Geran-trained gelding had been in awesome form prior to that with back-to-back\u00a0wins at Toowoomba and\u00a0Doomben\u00a0where she saluted both times by just over three lengths.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s\u00a0at peak fitness and regular rider Gary \u20185G\u2019 Geran makes the trip from Toowoomba with the\u00a0horse\u00a0which is a plus.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

From barrier 4, Geran should be able to comfortably find a forward\u00a0position.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R6 – Scone Equine Hospital Benchmark 78 Hcp<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
5th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
2. Let’Sfacethemusic (4)<\/span>
J: Gary Geran<\/span> 59.5kg<\/span><\/div>
3×114<\/span> T: Corey & Kylie Geran<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
13.00<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
3.40<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:23 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 6<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 7 \u2013 LISTED COOLMORE DENISE’S JOY STAKES (1100 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 3 Agarwood <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

AGARWOOD (3)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0should have finished a lot closer\u00a0last\u00a0start in the\u00a0Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes than her 2.46 lengths seventh.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Tom Charlton-trained filly was\u00a0fully of\u00a0running but was held up on multiple occasions with the last roadblock with\u00a0150m\u00a0to go\u00a0seeing\u00a0her jockey stop riding.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She was\u00a0stiff\u00a0the start prior in the Darby Munro Stakes when the winner\u00a0Beskar\u00a0came on her late seeing her finish three-quarters of a length third. She did beat Beadman and Caffe\u00a0Florian\u00a0which is\u00a0excellent\u00a0company.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She\u2019s\u00a0drawn well for Zac Lloyd and gets blinkers for the first time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R7 – Coolmore Denise’s Joy Stakes (L)<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
8th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
3. Agarwood (7)<\/span>
J: Zac Lloyd<\/span> 58.5kg<\/span><\/div>
x2427<\/span> T: Tom Charlton<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
4.40<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
1.95<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:24 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 7<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 8 – LISTED EMIRATES PARK ORTENSIA STAKES (1100 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 2 The Instructor <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
Each Way<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

THE INSTRUCTOR (2)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0returns to the races for the first time since failing in the Group 3 Liverpool City Cup<\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Waterhouse & Bott-trained gelding races\u00a0particularly\u00a0well fresh having won two of five first-up races.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He\u2019s\u00a0had two trials leading into this and produced a super effort to win his most recent piece of work.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Last year\u2019s Luskin Star Stakes winner should enjoy a nice run on speed for Regan Bayliss.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R8 – Emirates Park Ortensia Stakes (L)<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
16th<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
2. The Instructor (6)<\/span>
J: Regan Bayliss<\/span> 59kg<\/span><\/div>
7240x<\/span> T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
9.00<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
3.00<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 28\/09\/2026 01:35:25 AM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 8<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 9 \u2013 GROUP 3 ARROWFIELD DARK JEWEL CLASSIC (1400 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 3 Luvnwar <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
Each Way<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

LUVNWAR (3)<\/strong> produced a good effort when\u00a0resuming for\u00a0new trainer John Leek\u00a0last start in the Group 3 Hawkesbury Crown.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The daughter of War Decree drew wide and never got on the track, racing three-wide the trip but still\u00a0fought on\u00a0well to finish 1.41 lengths fourth.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She\u2019ll\u00a0strip\u00a0fitter\u00a0and boasts an impressive second-up record of three wins from five starts.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Josh Parr should land not too far from the action.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R9 – Arrowfield Dark Jewel Classic (G3)<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
2nd<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
3. Luvnwar (9)<\/span>
J: Josh Parr<\/span> 58kg<\/span><\/div>
331×4<\/span> T: Andrea Leek<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
11.00<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
3.40<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 20\/09\/2026 01:24:42 PM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 9<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/use><\/svg><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
Race 10 \u2013 LISTED DARLEY LUSKIN STAR STAKES (1300 METRES) <\/div>\n
No. 2 Linebacker <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
Tip of The Day<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n
\n

LINEBACKER (2)<\/span><\/b>\u00a0looks well placed to send us home from Scone with a win given he drops massively in class.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Tom Charlton-trained gelding has competed in Group 1 races his past three starts where he has lined up against the likes of Sheza Alibi, Autumn Glow and Joliestar.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He ended last preparation with a win in the Group 3 Silver Eagle<\/a> and last year he won the Group 1 Randwick Guineas<\/a>, so he oozes class.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A recent trial where he worked home nicely to win and defeat the likes of Another Wil will have him in fine fettle for this first-up assignment.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Give his best results have come when he has settled\u00a0forward,\u00a0Zac Lloyd will\u00a0likely adopt\u00a0similar tactics here.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scone R10 – Darley Luskin Star Stakes (L)<\/span> <\/div>
Final<\/span> Race time: <\/span> <\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
<\/colgroup>
3rd<\/span><\/div>
<\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
2. Linebacker (7)<\/span>
J: Zac Lloyd<\/span> 59kg<\/span><\/div>
7×776<\/span> T: Tom Charlton<\/span> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td>
2.25<\/span>WIN<\/span><\/div> <\/div>
1.28<\/span>PLACE<\/span><\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div>
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.neds.com.au\/racing<\/span><\/a>. Data retrieved: 26\/09\/2026 12:26:21 PM (Australia\/Brisbane) <\/div> <\/div> <\/section>
\n View Results: Scone Race 10<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div> \n <\/div> \n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Saturday\u2019s Dark Jewel Classic Day meeting at Scone shapes as a fitting finale to a big two-day showcase of country racing, with quality fields and competitive betting races across the program. Following Friday\u2019s opener, attention turns to what should be another outstanding day, with the track expected to land in the Good 4 to Soft 5 range, ideal conditions for punters and participants alike.  The headline act is the Group 3 Dark Jewel Classic, where Melody Again returns looking to defend her crown after a dominant performance last year. She\u2019ll face a deep and talented field, ensuring the feature lives up to…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":68332,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[861],"hub_post_cat":[8162],"class_list":["post-86017","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-horse-racing","tag-racing-tips"],"acf":{"md_tip_date":"","md_tip_date_end":"","md_market_url":"","tip_date":"14\/05\/2026","event_country":"Australia","race_card_tips":[{"author_id":"33","race_id":"e138c198-3ac6-426b-aa01-4e390dfb1025","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"d2076cde-8d77-4348-822f-bcc99843dd7d"}],"summary":"VIEWPOINT (6)\u00a0had a few things against him\u00a0last start at Hawkesbury\u00a0such as the outside barrier and racing in the inferior going\u00a0so there was merit in his 2.03 length fifth.\u00a0 The son of Wootton Bassett returned in great order\u00a0two starts ago over\u00a01400m\u00a0at Hawkesbury\u00a0where he settled worse than midfield before letting down powerfully to win\u00a0comfortably\u00a0by 2.46 lengths.\u00a0\u00a0 He\u2019ll\u00a0strip fitter\u00a0and\u00a0won\u00a0his only\u00a0previous\u00a0third-up race which was\u00a0over a similar distance.\u00a0 The draw is a touch sticky, but he has the speed to find a prominent position.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"b8d571d0-0e25-43b4-93f6-5b64469b2ec1","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"2253ed7b-b60f-45fe-9b80-4e754a889ace"}],"summary":"SOLITARIO (6)\u00a0was restrained from the outside barrier last start at Newcastle before charging home to finish a neck second.\u00a0 The Messara & Gavranich-trained gelding will appreciate returning to this class given the last time he competed in a Class 3 Handicap; he proved too strong over 1450m at Muswellbrook just three starts ago.\u00a0 He\u2019s\u00a0rock hard fit and races particularly well at Scone having won two of three races.\u00a0 Blinkers go back\u00a0on\u00a0and\u00a0I\u2019d\u00a0suggest that should see him settle closer in the run.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"aed1fb28-4292-48a1-98d0-b1a0bb062fae","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"ee1180b6-5c67-4ebd-a7da-f9a715226542"}],"summary":"MOSCATEL (3)\u00a0could not have been more impressive on debut over\u00a01100m\u00a0on the Kensington track.\u00a0 The Waterhouse & Bott-trained filly showed good speed to lead before putting a gap on her rivals in the final furlong to win by 4.43 lengths.\u00a0 The third horse, Quarterback,\u00a0subsequently\u00a0ran well for second at Gosford\u2019s\u00a0The\u00a0Coast meeting last Saturday.\u00a0 Unfortunately, she draws out in the boondocks but as mentioned she is armed with good early speed which she can use to counter.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"8a4c6fcc-ed8d-479f-abd1-2c043b0bea3e","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"a5f15795-032c-4386-9c0e-7768cb9b7acb"}],"summary":"NITRO (11)\u00a0returns to the races for the first time since putting up a tremendous fight to finish a nose second to Plaintiff over\u00a01200m\u00a0at Rosehill in December.\u00a0 That proved to be excellent form with Plaintiff going on to win four of five career\u00a0starts\u00a0including the Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes.\u00a0 The Peter Snowden-trained gelding finished like he was shot out of a cannon to come from many lengths off the leader to win on debut at Warwick Farm.\u00a0 He\u2019s\u00a0only had three starts\u00a0so\u00a0has an abundance of upside and two trials will have him ready to fire fresh.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"ad84060f-4789-4d30-b169-436e64c62c0a","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"3437201a-159e-4cd3-84a9-4265469d7405"}],"summary":"MAN OF WORTH (4)\u00a0kicked off this preparation in fine style over\u00a01250m\u00a0Canterbury\u00a0where he raced on speed before letting down powerfully to win by 1.42 lengths.\u00a0\u00a0 The Chris Waller-trained\u00a0former import\u00a0will appreciate the rise in distance\u00a0given he won over a mile in back-to-back races to end last preparation and raced over much further in\u00a0Ireland.\u00a0 He\u2019s\u00a0been back to the trials since his first-up win and produced an excellent piece of work where he was climbing over their backs late.\u00a0 Siena Grima, who claims 3kg, can stalk what\u00a0looks\u00a0a decent speed.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"6cf15904-c524-44f4-94d1-e79221c26734","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"537c1af7-0a2d-40dd-acc1-650141d8bc54"}],"summary":"LET\u2019SFACETHEMUSIC (2)\u00a0can be forgiven for weakening to finish 2.49 lengths fourth over\u00a01200m\u00a0at Eagle Farm after being involved in a speed battle\u00a0in front.\u00a0 The Corey & Kylie Geran-trained gelding had been in awesome form prior to that with back-to-back\u00a0wins at Toowoomba and\u00a0Doomben\u00a0where she saluted both times by just over three lengths.\u00a0 He\u2019s\u00a0at peak fitness and regular rider Gary \u20185G\u2019 Geran makes the trip from Toowoomba with the\u00a0horse\u00a0which is a plus.\u00a0 From barrier 4, Geran should be able to comfortably find a forward\u00a0position.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"d4e68257-61cf-4ec3-a5f9-9de81bbbd68b","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"7a856f22-f329-4d02-a610-bd952474a161"}],"summary":"AGARWOOD (3)\u00a0should have finished a lot closer\u00a0last\u00a0start in the\u00a0Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes than her 2.46 lengths seventh.\u00a0 The Tom Charlton-trained filly was\u00a0fully of\u00a0running but was held up on multiple occasions with the last roadblock with\u00a0150m\u00a0to go\u00a0seeing\u00a0her jockey stop riding.\u00a0 She was\u00a0stiff\u00a0the start prior in the Darby Munro Stakes when the winner\u00a0Beskar\u00a0came on her late seeing her finish three-quarters of a length third. She did beat Beadman and Caffe\u00a0Florian\u00a0which is\u00a0excellent\u00a0company.\u00a0\u00a0 She\u2019s\u00a0drawn well for Zac Lloyd and gets blinkers for the first time.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"59a03697-f3d6-46ea-a939-e624c1f6cc17","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"29862436-8942-4f64-adca-6f13df2364dd"}],"summary":"THE INSTRUCTOR (2)\u00a0returns to the races for the first time since failing in the Group 3 Liverpool City Cup.\u00a0 The Waterhouse & Bott-trained gelding races\u00a0particularly\u00a0well fresh having won two of five first-up races.\u00a0 He\u2019s\u00a0had two trials leading into this and produced a super effort to win his most recent piece of work.\u00a0\u00a0 Last year\u2019s Luskin Star Stakes winner should enjoy a nice run on speed for Regan Bayliss.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"d24fa96c-39c5-41d3-806c-bac91dacb59e","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"dd825e8b-7389-4538-b62c-fb9ac2ec0e04"}],"summary":"LUVNWAR (3) produced a good effort when\u00a0resuming for\u00a0new trainer John Leek\u00a0last start in the Group 3 Hawkesbury Crown.\u00a0 The daughter of War Decree drew wide and never got on the track, racing three-wide the trip but still\u00a0fought on\u00a0well to finish 1.41 lengths fourth.\u00a0 She\u2019ll\u00a0strip\u00a0fitter\u00a0and boasts an impressive second-up record of three wins from five starts.\u00a0 Josh Parr should land not too far from the action.\u00a0"}]},{"author_id":"33","race_id":"a6b8aa00-932c-4f5b-b623-f507356b4c15","racing_tip":[{"entrants":[{"entrant_id":"9a7ca8a7-a079-4fc9-ba92-1f0e570882a0"}],"summary":"LINEBACKER (2)\u00a0looks well placed to send us home from Scone with a win given he drops massively in class.\u00a0 The Tom Charlton-trained gelding has competed in Group 1 races his past three starts where he has lined up against the likes of Sheza Alibi, Autumn Glow and Joliestar.\u00a0 He ended last preparation with a win in the Group 3 Silver Eagle and last year he won the Group 1 Randwick Guineas, so he oozes class.\u00a0 A recent trial where he worked home nicely to win and defeat the likes of Another Wil will have him in fine fettle for this first-up assignment.\u00a0 Give his best results have come when he has settled\u00a0forward,\u00a0Zac Lloyd will\u00a0likely adopt\u00a0similar tactics here.\u00a0"}]}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86017","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=86017"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86017\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/68332"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=86017"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=86017"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=86017"},{"taxonomy":"hub_post_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neds.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hub_post_cat?post=86017"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}