WARWICK STAKES

$250,000, Group 2 WFA, 1400m

HISTORY

The race was originally held at Warwick Farm but in recent years has been shared with Randwick.

THE BIGGEST NAMES TO WIN IT

Bernborough (1946), Tulloch (1957), Sky High (1961/62), Kingston Town (1980/81/82), Super Impose (1990/91), Sunline 1999, Lonhro (2001/03).

THIS YEAR'S FIELD

Choc full of Group One winners, the Gai Waterhouse-trained Pornichet carries the No. 1 saddlecloth but it's popular mare First Seal who has opened as favourite.

With Zaratone among the acceptors there should be good speed in the race which should benefit those horses with a solid turn of foot at the finish.

Eleven of the 14 starters are first-up. The exceptions being Zaratone, Burbero and Messene.

KEY COMMENTS

"He's the horse I'm most excited about riding this carnival" - jockey Blake Shinn on Pornichet

"She'll improve off the run, but you'd expect her to be running first three" - trainer John Thompson expects a lot from First Seal.

"I think Kermadec and Royal Descent are our main two on Saturday" - Sydney's premier trainer Chris Waller picks his best.

THE EARLY MONEY

First Seal is the only real firmer coming in from $3 since the opening of markets to $2.80.

Pornichet, It's Somewhat, Royal Descent and Kermadec have all been solid, while Burbero and Messene have been early drifters.

RECENT HISTORY TELLS US

It's a race for the fresh horses. Five of the past nine winners have been first-up, while three have been second-up.

Older horses usually win. Seven-year-olds have won three of the past nine, with those at six and five winning two apiece.