AU - Wangaratta - Race 4

DELA BELLA (5) has been building towards a maiden win and gets her chance after three placings this campaign, the latest a third at Seymour when beaten a length and a half after having difficulty getting clear approaching the 1 ½f. Her Bendigo second to Classic Gem also reads well for this, and three placings from five tries around this distance say a win is close. VOLESTAIN (12) is less exposed and his Flemington debut in Open grade gives him a stronger platform than the bare form shows, though he is still learning after beginning slowly at Bendigo. The one with upside. OPEN FIRE (8) has been close enough in two runs back and was steadied last start at Ballarat, while the Bendigo line through Dela Bella gives a clear measure. ASHEN KNIGHT (1) resumed with a sound Albury third as favourite and the first-time blinkers give him scope to sharpen, provided he handles this distance better than previous attempts.