AraratThu, February 29, 2024

MAGIC SHANNON (9) went forward and gave a great sight before finishing second when resuming last time out over 5½f at Stawell. Drawn to stalk the leaders. Likely improver with strong prospects. PARISSIDENT (10) is a three-start maiden who finished sixth, beaten 4.5 lengths, when resuming from a lay-off last start over 5f at Ballarat. Will drift back but wind up late. Leading contender. MCCOY (3) returns after five months in the paddock. Closed the last campaign with a 13th over 6½f at Warrnambool. Rates highly on best figures and should be right in this. ELVIS (2) returned from a lay-off two weeks ago when he was prominent at the turn before being beaten 2.5 lengths into fourth over 5½f at Hamilton. Fitter so expect a better run this time.