24:30 charles-town Thursday 8th January 2026

RUNNING RIO (5) showed good early dash and raced on the speed last start before fading to finish 8 lengths back in seventh over 6½f at this track (Dirt). Sure to give a great sight. FONTABELLE (9) ran below expectations last time at this track (Dirt) over 6½f, finishing fifth and beaten 3. 5 lengths. Should park just off the speed. Expected to be in the finish. GENUINE PERIL (1) led into the straight last start over 6½f at this track (Dirt) but could not sustain the pressure and finished sixth. Should be poised just off the lead. Will be in this for a long way. DON'T BLINK (8) had been in top form, scoring two consecutive wins before being sent out favourite last time and finishing fifth over 4½f at this track (Dirt). Has a good record here at this journey with two wins and two minor placings from five starts. Best figures stack up nicely.