Kerrin McEvoy has opted to ride Benfica in the BRC Sires Produce Stakes at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Kerrin McEvoy

McEvoy had the choice between Peter Snowden pair Benfica and Free Wheeling, and ended up siding with Benfica because he believes the colt has a better racing style.

“Benfica’s a horse that does everything right and Free Wheeling still does a bit wrong.

“They are both very nice colts and have very good talent.” McEvoy said.

Both Darley runners have been solidly backed for the BRC Sires Produce, with Benfica a $2.90 favourite, while Free Wheeling is second elect at $4.40.

Both horses have been nominated for the Group One TJ Smith Stakes seven days later, where McEvoy and Snowden will be chasing a clean sweep of the season’s two year old Group One races.

McEvoy has been in the wars of late. He was sidelined for a month after falling in the Sydney Cup, and then his trip to Brisbane for the winter carnival was delayed because of a bout of the flu.

However his spirits are sure to be lifted by the great book of rides he has pencilled in for Saturday.

McEvoy will have a host of chances on Saturday including Divorces (Group 1 Queensland Oaks), Kanzan (Group 2 Dane Ripper Stakes) and Skilled (Listed Daybreak Lover Stakes).

“If Divorces relaxes and gets the right run I wouldn’t rule her out. And Pete says Kanzan has improved since her last win so I’ll be expecting her to be around the mark. And if Skilled can get some cover his class will carry him a long way.” McEvoy said.