MANIKATO STAKES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

HISTORY:

* First known as Freeway Stakes. Renamed in 1984 after champion Manikato who won the race 1979 and 1982. Manikato is buried at Moonee Valley. Run over 1200m

* Held first time in 1968 and won by Winfreux

NOTABLE WINNERS: Vain (1969), Century (1972), Manikato, Strawberry Road (1983), Rubiton (1987), Redoute's Choice (1999), Sunline (2000)

TALKING POINTS:

* Trainers Bob Hoysted and Bart Cummings won race four times each. Hoysted with Scamanda (1976), Manikato (1979 and 1982) and Touch Of Genius (1985). Cummings with Century (1972), Lord Dudley (1975), Never Undercharge (1993) and Dane Ripper (1998)

TRACK: Moonee Valley is a tight track with a circumference of 1805 metres. The home straight is 173 metres. Often suits leaders.

LANKAN RUPEE: Has been beaten at past two starts, both at Moonee Valley.

RACE PATTERN: Last year's winner Buffering a natural leader. Trainer Robert Heathcote says expect same tactics. Buffering got the better of Lankan Rupee and Rebel Dane in Moir Stakes.

THE FAVOURITE: Terravista yet to win Group One race. A record of eight wins in 11 starts suggests he's not far away. Has early speed but preferred style is to trail, sprint home. First time at Moonee Valley as well as racing anti-clockwise.