18:09 aqueduct Thursday 1st January 2026

BRAVE BUCK (1) is in great form, lifting strongly to score last start over 6f at this track (Dirt) to make it two in succession. Should camp just off the leaders. Best figures should see him run well. DORMELLO (5) won his maiden over this course and distance last start, getting the verdict by 6 lengths. Is lightly raced and has plenty of scope for improvement. Shaping up nicely and he looks sure to be in the mix. LIBERTY RISING (3) recorded his first win last start over 6f at this track (Dirt), getting home by half a length. Re-unites with Moreno Omar Hernandez who was on board last start. This is tougher but he cannot be underestimated. E Z BOURBON (6) is a progressive three-year-old gelding who hasn't raced since finishing third over 7f at this track (Dirt) on June 19 which was the only run of that prep. This looks a nice way to kick off the prep.