The highly anticipated Group 1 William Reid Stakes is set to captivate horse racing enthusiasts at Moonee Valley this weekend. Following thrilling races at Caulfield and Flemington, the spotlight now shifts to this prestigious event where Jimmysstar, fresh from a remarkable win in the Oakleigh Plate, aims to showcase his exceptional talent once again. The question on everyone’s mind is whether this star sprinter can maintain his winning streak or if a rival contender will emerge to steal the show.

As the racing world gears up for this grand event, attention is also drawn to the track conditions at Moonee Valley. Currently rated as a Soft 5, the track is expected to retain its softness due to anticipated rain leading up to the race day. While a dry forecast may potentially improve the track to a Good 4, the soft ground is likely to favor horses with expertise on such terrain. The positioning of the rail, set in the True position, typically benefits on-pace runners hugging the rail. However, the wet conditions could level the playing field, offering closers an opportunity to shine if the pace is maintained.

In the upcoming Group 1 William Reid Stakes over 1200m, the Speed Map predicts Schwarz to lead the pack, backed by Reserve Bank, Maharba, and Rey Magnerio in close pursuit. She’s Bulletproof is expected to trail from a wider draw, while Jimmysstar, known for his strong finishes, will bide his time towards the rear, hoping for a favorable position from his inside gate. The moderate tempo suggests that backmarkers need to make their move early to keep up with the leaders down the stretch.

Among the contenders, Jimmysstar emerges as the favorite, coming off a spectacular victory in the Oakleigh Plate. Despite facing challenges such as a new track, increased weight, and a potentially tricky position in the field, his exceptional acceleration gives him an edge. Stretan Angel, often underestimated in betting circles, poses a significant threat with her impressive track record, while Benedetta, hindered by traffic in previous races, remains a strong contender if she finds clear running space. She’s Bulletproof, a consistent performer, also stands as a formidable competitor in the mix.

In conclusion, while Jimmysstar leads the pack with promising prospects, Stretan Angel presents excellent value as a top contender. Benedetta’s potential, if unhindered, cannot be overlooked, and She’s Bulletproof, despite being slightly undervalued, remains a force to be reckoned with. As the excitement builds for the William Reid Stakes, fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling showdown among these top-class runners.