Weekly Ladbrokes Charity Bets Horse Racing

Stakeholders received some excellent news earlier in the week with the announcement of increases to prizemoney for Queensland thoroughbred races.

The announcement was important in a number of ways.

Firstly, it ensures racing will go ahead on Melbourne Cup day in the Sunshine State after no nominations were lodged for Cox Plate day.

Most importantly, it goes some way to instilling confidence in the board of Racing Queensland that it can fight for what is right for participants.

The move will keep trainers above the border, instead of chasing bigger prizes in northern New South Wales, and puts vital funds back into the sport of racing.

The best race day of the year, in terms of quality, is upon us and the feature race, the Victoria Derby, isn't as clear cut as people make out.

Thinkin' Big is short at the $3 mark, after a dominant win in the Norman Robinson Stakes, but faces tough competition from the likes of Stars Of Carrum and Aramayo.

The favourite won't be able to lead as easily as he did a fortnight ago and, for that reason, the current quote looks a tad short.

Keep your eyes peeled for the Melbourne Cup form guide on Tuesday in the Daily News.

PETER SCHMIDT (SDSP) - JUST ORM (DOOMBEN, RACE 6, horse 13)

Couldn't match it with the lightly weighted Just Gotta Nel last start.

Stays at a favourable trip and gets in with just 51kg after the claim.

If he can get a sit just behind the pace, he has the ability run over the top of them with no weight.

NICK INMON (BUSHKIDS) - MYMMING (DOOMBEN, RACE 5, HORSE 9)

Absolutely slaughtered last start when slowly away in the Doomben Plate.

Start before had the run of the day at the Sunshine Coast.

Shorty but the stable is flying and should be just winning.