The Mackinnon Stakes always draws an outstanding field of gallopers to the final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, and there is no exception to the rule in 2021.
Zaaki was unlucky to be scratched on the morning of the Cox Plate with an elevated temperature, and he’ll take his place alongside another eight Group 1 winners in the Mackinnon Stakes field.
You can find my 2021 Mackinnon Stakes Tips below.
Mackinnon Stakes – Winner – No. 4 Zaaki
He is a cut above most other gallopers as his best, and I am going to put Zaaki on top of my 2021 Mackinnon Stakes Tips.
The classy import has been nothing short of outstanding since arriving in Australia; he gapped them in the Doomben Cup in May, and he added the Underwood Stakes to his CV most notably this time.
He has reportedly returned to full health following his Cox Plate scratching, Melbourne Cup winner James McDonald jumps back into the saddle and the horse can return to winning form.
Mackinnon Stakes – 2nd – No. 3 Superstorm
He’s on the short back-up from his maiden Group 1 victory in the Cantala Stakes and Superstorm is ready for the 2000m of the Mackinnon Stakes.
The Sebring gelding has been an above-average galloper since making his debut, and while he was a little flat last spring, a switch to Danny O’Brien’s stable this time has really brought his back.
His performance and win last weekend was incredible, Luke Currie can settle him in behind the pace from barrier 10 and with even luck, he can fight out the finish at a lovely quote ($13 at publish).
Mackinnon Stakes – 3rd – No. 7 Mo’unga
Mo’unga takes his place in the Mackinnon Stakes field following a smart run for fourth in the Cox Plate, and he can fight out the finish again.
The Savabeel entire won the Rosehill Guineas in the autumn most notably, and picked up where he left off with an impressive win over Verry Elleegant in the Winx Stakes.
He has returned three excellent performances at the top level since, and he is rock-hard fit for Saturday’s feature.
Mackinnon Stakes – 4th – No. 10 Hungry Heart
Hungry Heart kept all of her best work for late when third in the Empire Rose last weekend, and she will relish getting out to 2000m in the Mackinnon Stakes.
The Frankel mare went to another level in the autumn of this year and ended her prep with consecutive wins in the Vinery Stud Stakes and the Australian Oaks.
It has taken her a few to get going this time, but her performance last week was vastly improved, and she is a Group 1 winner over this trip.
Mackinnon Stakes Suggested Bets
- 4 Units straight out #4 Zaaki
- Boxed Trifecta of the selections below
