The Leg Up’s UPC Showdown Roughie Report – Saturday, June 21
We’re a week removed from the Stradbroke, and while there’s no Group 1 action this Saturday, Showdown bragging rights don’t take a week off. Feature racing heads to Ipswich for Cup Day, with strong support cards at Flemington and Randwick.
Let’s roll through four plays at value across the card — all capable of blowing up the leaderboard.
Leg 2 – Flemington R5 – #9 Freak Of Nature
He’s better than his recent form reads. Last prep, he contested some sharp races without quite nailing one. Now first-up — where he’s 2 from 3 — and drawn to lead from barrier 3, he can control the race tempo and give a massive kick. His main threats get back, and he could pinch it if they’re left chasing too late.
Leg 5 – Flemington R6 – #14 Slane
This gelding bolted in at Sandown and now gets a massive weight relief, dropping from 61kg to just 53kg. If he can cross and take up the running, he’ll turn this into a genuine staying test — exactly what he wants. Backing the big weight drop and front-running profile to cause some pain for the chasers.
Leg 7 – Ipswich R7 – #7 Warp Speed
At eight years old, he’s not getting any younger — but he’s rock-solid and consistent, and looks ready to peak fourth-up. His past two have been full of excuses — caught wide, then stuck on a heavy deck against subsequent Brisbane Cup winner Campaldino. He gets a much better set up here and will be strong late.
Leg 10 – Ipswich R8 – #1 Rockribbed
Tony Gollan loves this race, winning it three times, and Rockribbed has been set for it. He was flying before missing the start badly in the BRC Sprint behind War Machine. Forgive that run — his form prior was bulletproof, and if he jumps cleanly, he’s the one they’ll all have to catch. Back on firmer footing, he’s well worth including at double-figure odds.
Final Word
It’s a perfect Showdown week for sharp form, sneaky speed maps and forgiving bad luck. These four runners all offer a decent mix of price, position and pattern.
Let’s keep the winter momentum rolling. 💰💪🐎