Four-way battle at the top of Paws Of Thunder betting markets

THE market is having a hard time splitting the top four contenders ahead of next month's Group 1 Paws Of Thunder (520m) at Wentworth Park.

The 2018 Melbourne Cup winner My Reedeemer and the nine wins from ten starts Black Opium are both locked together at the $10 quote via online bookmaker Sportsbet alongside Miss Splendamiro and the undefeated Dolly Mac.

Black Opium is sure to draw a lot of attention following her second placing in the Melbourne Cup behind My Redeemer, narrowly missing out on a tenth-straight success and a Group 1 win at just 19 months of age.

Trainer Seona Thompson said prior to the Cup that she knew Black Opium had the potential to be a star.

“Dogs can't race until they are 18 months old and I knew she was special immediately but I probably didn't realise how special.

“Most dogs – even the really good ones – take 10 or 20 race starts to work out what it is all about.

“Even though she is a bit like that too, it is all fun for her and she doesn't realise what she is doing, she has exceptional ability.

“She is getting better week by week, I've noticed the changes in her and she knows the routine now.”

The eight heats of the Group 1 Paws Of Thunder are set to be held on Saturday January 12 at Wentworth Park, with the final to be conducted on January 29.

WATCH BELOW: My Redeemer wins the 2018 Melbourne Cup