The traditional lead up to the Perth Cup is the Ted Van Heemst Stakes run at Ascot on Saturday.

Race History of the 2017 Ted Van Heemst Stakes at Ascot on Saturday shows it as the critical Perth Cup lead up.

Talented Victorian sprinter Lonhspresso will be staying close to home for her next start before she heads north in search of a Group One win at the Brisbane carnival.

Emerging chaser Phaze Action heads the betting for the $100,000 Brierly Steeplechase on the opening day of the huge Warrnambool Carnival on Tuesday.

Black And Bent made it eight straight victories over the hurdles and set himself up for his second Galleywood Hurdle, a race he won two years ago.