Punters who can’t keep their powder dry until tomorrow’s Melbourne Cup can build a bank at the big 10 race program at Ballarat today.  The David Hayes trained Shiraki (Race 1 at 1.03pm ESDT) looks the best chance of securing a result this afternoon.

Shiraki (3f Red Ransom-Shizu by Manntari) was a $260,000 purchase from the Vinery draft at the 2008 Inglis Easter Sale.  She is the fifth foal for G1 VATC Thousand Guineas winner Shizu, making her a younger half sister to G2 SAJC Spring Stakes winner Zupaone (Flying Spur).

Last Wednesday at Strathalbyn, Shiraki overcame early trouble from her wide gate to finish third.  She is drawn to get a lovely run from gate two today and, with reliable country hoop Matt Pumpa in the saddle, looks a solid chance at each way odds.