AU - Kempsey - Race 8

NUGGET SMART (3) is the one to beat after a sound BM66 effort at Muswellbrook and a Class 2 win at Tamworth the start prior, where he beat Hinto by a length and a half. He has won twice at this distance range and the return of Aaron Bullock, who has a win and a placing from three rides on him, strengthens the case. CONTALDO (5) has not been in winning form, but he was making ground late at Port Macquarie last start, is third-up, draws barrier 1 and brings the strongest ratings profile across the past 12 months. OUTOFTHEOFFICE (7) comes through Class 2 form at Taree, where he was well back before charging home into fifth, and the class relief gives him a genuine chance if he handles the step back to around 7 ¼f better than his only prior attempt. COOL AZ ALETTA (17) had difficulty getting clear at the Beaumont last start and also struck trouble at Taree two back, so his recent margins read a little harsher than the runs themselves.