AU - Ascot - Race 8

WESTERN EMPIRE (1) comes here first-up on the back of two impressive trials. He's performed strongly first-up without winning since coming back to WA, though this looks a very suitable event. Likely to get back in the run, but he's a very classy customer and he can mow down his rivals. SUPER SMINK (9) ended up further back than anticipated first-up in the Crawford and while she didn't win, she was still very strong late. The inside draw may be a hindrance if she can't hold a position, but she's a classy customer and the fresh run said she's back as good as ever. Second-up record is good and she can go a couple better now. MAGNIFICENT ANDY (2) dipped second-up as he tends to do, though he's known to bounce back third-up. Still only 1.9L away in the Eurythmic however and a return to his best form will see him hard to mow down. YONGA LASS (11) was good late in the Golden Saddle and looks nailed on to win something this carnival. COMFORT ME (3) will give a bold sight from the front.