I’ve noticed over time that many forumites shy away from backing / tipping horses running first-up after a spell. I think in general the uninformed punter does similar and as such backing specific ‘first-up’ horses can provide a nice return on investment.

I normally punt on a $4x$8 basis as often they will run a place (but not necessarily win) at big odds.

I select horses that are resuming from a spell of 6 months or less, with a previous good first-up record, that have been rated in my top 5 selections for the particular race.

Their race rating is based on the average of previous first-up performances max 3 most recent for 5YOs or older, or best of last 2 for 4YOs or younger.

I’ll often increase my outlay if they have performed well in recent barrier trial/s.

Bwuce, my experience is that most races of 1200m or LESS are won by 1st uppers, as you say often at big odds. This rule also quite often catches the "STAYER" resuming at short distance and jags it, there have been some beauts like this.

Today’s qualifiers are:-

Scone R6 1 Opal Chip
Scone R7 1 Diamond Ridge / 3 Endless Dream
Scone R8 4 Seven Stars / 7 Vernissage

All $4x$8

You’re probably right partypooper but I have been including races up to 1400 - thanks

Well done!

He had a GREAT first-up record and a pretty good record at the track and the distance. How could he be those odds???

Nice tip on the 6th bwuce, might tempt me to have a go at the next

R6/1 Nice job for a toppy with 59kg. in 'slow' cond't. I had Queen Jill [$2.30p] for 2nd.

R8 My money is on Seven Stars who should win, even if it goes to heavy. 4 or 5 scratchings though so odds will be down and probably no 3rd. divvy.

Forgot to mention 3 previous placings from 3 starts in the wet too.

Great start with Opal Chip winning - paid $11.30 & $2.80
Diamond Ridge & Endless Dream both unplaced
Vernissage late scratching
Seven Stars then finished things off on a good note winning the last - paid $1.70 & $1.10

Total outlay $48 Total return $83.20

Today’s qualifiers (early races) are:-

Randwick R1 4 Hadaaf
Randwick R2 4 Sharp Aunty

All $4x$8

Back with the rest later