NZ - Phar Lap - Race 8

COGNOSCENTI (2) fought on gamely despite needing the run here fresh up just over a fortnight ago, finishing runner-up by a couple of lengths. He generally improves quickly with racing, and if he is not already wanting more ground than 1m, then he can turn the tables on the second pick in this. O'RIORDAN (3) was well-rated outside the pace when beating the top pick here last start off a brief freshen up. She is still nicely treated at the weights, and can repeat the dose. SMOOTH OPERATOR (1) is a top performer when fit, and he would have taken great benefit from his recent modest effort against the top 2 picks in the same race when resuming from a spell. Expect him to be more competitive this time. WAY OUT WEST (7) was third against most of these last start as the favourite, and she can set the record straight this time, so follow your money. VICTORIAN CHARM (5) has needed racing to get fit, and he is capable of a top 3 finish in this at value.