Ascot r6 Rusty Dreams (Top 2) ; Was given one of the rides of 2023 last time to defeat the very smart Super Smink . She’s not here this time but nor is Jockey Damian Lane . 1800m might be her limit but her class will take her a very long way to winning. For those who have a tabtouch account the $2.50 to run top 2 looks a great way to start off the year .

Best Value Perth r8 Be Optimistic ; I’ve had the favourite Casino Seventeen marked as a Perth Cup horse all preparation. I understand his popular with Pike booked and the massive weight swings against nearly all rivals but I can’t get him that short. Be Optimistic meets him 5kgs worse off for beating him two starts ago but he’s also on the minimum and is $8.50 each way. I’m optimistic both will be in the finish so I’ll take the better odds.

Best Bet Ascot r9 Hanchi ; 3yo going places with brilliant form lines and the draw to dominate this race.

Please Gamble Responsibly