With Royal Ascot’s spectacular festival just days away, the global racing spotlight turns to Australia and Japan this weekend, where thrilling Group 1 racing takes centre stage.
JJ Atkins - Eagle Farm, Australia
The future stars of Australian racing step into the spotlight in the JJ Atkins, a $1 million Group 1 mile for two-year-olds. COOL ARCHIE has come back a different horse this campaign, stringing four consecutive wins together. The step-up to the mile journey looks ideal and he rates a top hope to add a valuable G1 win to his record.
HIDDEN ACHIEVEMENT brings southern (NSW) formlines to the table for the reliable Waller/McDonald combination. Blinkers go on and he looks the main danger. FARNICLE could be a good one to add to exotics. He should be able to sit up on speed for T Clark and will give backers a sight for a long way.
Stradbroke Handicap - Eagle Farm, Australia
Australia’s premier winter feature, the Stradbroke Handicap, promises a cracking contest over 1400m with $3 million on the line. The favourite WAR MACHINE has been impressive in all three runs since joining the Hayes barn and only needs some luck slotting in from the wide draw to be right in the finish.
On the second line of betting is GOLDEN MILE, who closed well to place in the Victory Stakes two runs back, then faced the breeze and gave his all in the Kingsford Smith last start.
Takarazuka Kinen - Hanshin, Japan
The 2025 Takarazuka Kinen, Japan’s premier mid-year Group 1 race, takes place this Sunday at Hanshin Racecourse. This 2,200-metre event marks the finale of the JRA’s spring G1 season and offers a “Win and You’re In” berth for both the Breeders’ Cup Turf in the U.S. and the Cox Plate in Australia.
Leading the betting is Bellagio Opera, chasing a third G1 crown following consecutive Osaka Hai triumphs. Boasting a perfect 4-for-4 record at Hanshin, he’s poised to be a formidable contender.
Expert Horse Racing Picks
Looking for some guidance at the track this week? Here are our expert selections that could bring you some wins:
Hanshin Race 11 (Takarazuka Kinen): Bellagio Opera
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