Track: Soft 6 Weather: Fine

There are only 6 runners in the $125,000 South West Cup with 4 geldings and 2 mares. There is one 4YO, two 5YOs, two 7YOs and an 8YO. Three of the runners had their last start in the Group 3 Strickland Stakes over 2000m at Belmont on the 15th of June (won by Let’s Galahvant), while the other 3 came via different races.

The early favourite is Strickland Stakes winner Let’s Galahvant who has won 12 of his 40 starts but has not raced at this track before. Second favourite is Be Optimistic who was 5th in that race. Third favourite is Marocchino who finished 4th in that race. Admiration Express has been improving with each run this preparation. Theother runners are currently $20 or more.

1. Marocchino (2)

Finished 1.3 lengths 4th in the Group 3 Strickland Stakes over 2000m at Belmont on the 15th of June. Has a great strike rate at this distance. Key player.

2. Let’s Galahvant (6)

Won the Strickland Stakes and looks well-suited here.

3. Come Right Back (1)

Has been disappointing in his 3 runs this campaign but has great form at this track.

4. Admiration Express (5)

Has been improving with each run this preparation. Place chance.

5. Be Optimistic (4)

Ran 5th in the Strickland. Chance.

6. Red Dwarf (3)

On a 4 day back-up after running 5th at Belmont on Wednesday. where he was held up several times.

The following are the top 4 selections for this years race.

The track was rated as Soft 5.

There were no scratchings.