Some exciting two-year-olds will step out in this year’s JJ Atkins field, and we’re set for an outstanding contest at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
Political Debate broke his maiden in The Phoenix last weekend and has opened a warm favourite JJ Atkins betting, but he’ll need to go to another level to record his first win at the highest level.
JJ Atkins Stakes – Winner
No. 10 Sharp ‘N’ Smart
I thought that Sharp ‘N’ Smart was very impressive when second in The Phoenix last weekend, and he can win the JJ Atkins.
The Redwood gelding has made just three appearances at the races so far, finishing second on debut at Ruakaka and winning the Listed Champagne Stakes in his native New Zealand before crossing the ditch last week.
He’ll take plenty of improvement into this contest and is drawn ideally under Hugh Bowman.
JJ Atkins Stakes – 2nd
No. 4 Political Debate
I think that The Phoenix form will hold up, but in the opposite order, and I have Political Debate finishing second in my JJ Atkins quinella.
The So You Think colt hasn’t returned a poor effort in three appearances previously, and he has improved noticeably with each.
He does look up to winning again this week, I just think that Sharp ‘N’ Smart has a little more upside and will enjoy a slightly sweeter run.
JJ Atkins Stakes – 3rd
No. 2 Twin Stars
Twin Stars takes his place on Saturday in peak order, and I think that he is the one that can deliver on long JJ Atkins odds ($19 at publish).
The Zoustar colt stamped himself as one to watch with an impressive win on debut in the Magic Millions race at Murray Bridge back in March, and he returned from a freshen-up to finish second behind See You In Heaven in the Group 3 Breeders’ Stakes.
He returned to winning form in the Group 3 SA Sires’ Produce and didn’t have the best of luck in the Group 2 BRC Sires’ Produce when arriving in Brisbane, but I think getting out to a mile this week will prove ideal.
JJ Atkins Stakes – 4th
No. 9 Owen County
I was actually pretty keen on the chances of Owen County, but he has drawn awfully into the JJ Atkins field out in barrier 17, and he’ll need plenty of luck.
The John Sargent-trained gelding hasn’t returned a poor effort since debuting, recording two wins and a placing from his three starts.
By Dundeel, he should absolutely love the mile, and he does look to have the ability, if everything goes right.
JJ Atkins Stakes Suggested Bets
- 4 Units straight out #2 Gypsy Goddess
- Boxed Trifecta of the selections below