Muirfield makes 3200m debut

A horse who has always shaped a stayer, Muirfield makes his 3200m debut in Saturday's Listed Queensland Cup at Eagle Farm.

Progressing nicely since his encouraging run in last Saturday's Caloundra Cup over 2400m, the bay has run well over 2800m in Melbourne and he is by Don Eduardo who sired Ballymore's classy staying mare Divine Rebel.

"He has come through his last good run very well," said Ballymore racing manager Anthony Feroce, "and we have always thought that two miles would suit him."

To be ridden by Eddie Wilkinson, Muirfield has drawn nicely in barrier six and any rain about will only help him.

Closer to home we saddle up two runners at the Flemington meeting - Spitfire Lady the first of those.

A winner of a heat of the Rivette series, she takes her place in the Rivette Final - the second event on the strong winter card.

"The 1600m may be a question mark," Feroce said, "but she deserves her chance."

Darren Gauci takes the ride on the daughter of Hussonet who has drawn barrier eight.

Bishops Castle is our second Flemington runner and he looks a strong chance in the Silver Bowl Series Final over 1600m.

"He has trained on extremely well since his good win at Bendigo," said Feroce.

"He has drawn a good gate (barrier one) and we expect him to run a forward race for Darren Gauci."

We also take Malan to Seymour on Saturday, the promising three-year-old due to have his first run since February.

Returning as a gelding, the son of Not A Single Doubt has pleased with his progress - "his work and his jump-outs have been good - he just needs a bit of luck from the barrier (11).