Racing enthusiasts are set for a thrilling ten-race card at Royal Randwick this Saturday, January 3, 2026. Our expert preview breaks down every contest, highlighting the leading chances and value bets for the metropolitan meeting.
Early Races: Debutants and Highway Hopefuls
The action kicks off with a two-year-old plate over 1000 metres. The well-bred colt Outspan, a relation to champion Lonhro, is tipped to show plenty of promise on debut following two solid trial performances. He faces competition from Knightsbridge, who led in the Maribyrnong Plate last start, and the trial winner Thyme To Go.
Race 2 is a TAB Highway Handicap for country-trained gallopers. Roses Imminente represents strong each-way value after an unlucky fourth in a similar event a fortnight ago. Mount Bona, a last-start Rosehill winner, and the front-running Navy Buoy, who scored easily two weeks back, are also major players.
Midway and Mid-Program Features
The Midway Handicap sees the promising Clancy marked as the one to beat. His form lines stack up well for this grade, and his recent trial pattern suggests he will be finishing powerfully. Zaragoza and the in-form Oakfield Badger pose significant threats.
Race 4 is a spelling at Coolmore handicap over the mile. Hereward comes off a dominant maiden win at Canterbury and is expected to race forward, giving him every opportunity. Willie Oppa, who won over this track and distance recently, and the fitter Steel Strike are leading contenders.
The feature Chandon Handicap is Race 5, where Alabama Fox gets the nod. She was just run down late first-up over 1400m and, with that fitness under her belt, looks perfectly placed with a light weight in a race lacking obvious speed. Rolling Magic and Pretty Powerful are key dangers.
Late Card: Sprinters and Stayers to Close
Race 6 looks ideal for Changing Colours, who charged home impressively when resuming. The step to 1400m second-up is ideal. Cinsault, who has won her last two starts, and the forgiven Yes Lulu are among her rivals.
The Precise Air Handicap presents a prime opportunity for Dollar Magic to break through for a win. She has been excellent in two runs back against strong company and can control the tempo from the front. Goodlucktome is a fascinating first-up prospect.
In Race 8, Cool Jakey is the standout after a brilliant first-up run behind King's Secret. His superb second-up record and the step to 1400m make him the horse to beat. Sunshineinmypocket and Step Aside are next best.
The penultimate event is a sprint where Monte Kate is selected on the strength of her eye-catching trial form. She faces a tough opponent in last-start winner Hawker Hall, who carries 60kg.
The meeting concludes with a 2000-metre handicap. Full Hao is in superb form, winning at 1800m and then excelling over a mile last start. The rise in trip and drop in weight make her exceptionally hard to beat. Bella Montagna and Deal N' Dash are leading each-way hopes.
Important Gambling Disclaimer
While the thrill of horse racing is a great entertainment, it is crucial to gamble responsibly. The tips and opinions in this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. If you or someone you know is affected by problem gambling, free and confidential support is available 24/7 from GambleAware NSW on 1800 858 858 or via Gambling Help Online.
