09:45 pakenham Thursday 5th February 2026

AXIOM (4) resumes after a break of five months. Trying to repeat his debut win over 6f at Moe to kick off last prep. Ran fourth in a trial at Caulfield Heath over 5f recently. Will be tough to beat. LES BRAVES (2) was safely held last start when eighth over 6½f at Seymour. May appreciate the shorter journey this time. Can do much better this time. ASTARI (3) is racing well and is close to a win, the latest effort a solid second at Geelong over 5f136yards after being in the firing line all the way. Going up a level this time but he deserves plenty of thought. SUSSEX DUCHESS (8) accounted for a maiden field over 5f122yards at Geelong last start when fresh from a break. John Allen was in the saddle on that occasion and retains the ride. Harder here but should be involved in the finish.