Author: John Burke

Hi all,

The Group 3 Desmond Stakes (6.30) is the highlight of a seven-race good card at Leopardstown. There is also Group 3 action at Salisbury and the Sovereign Stakes (4.05). For those with an interest, It’s also round three of the Racing League at Lingfield this evening.

I have had a look at both Group 3 races and I also have a selection in the last at Leopardstown.

Salisbury

4:05 – D & N Construction Sovereign Stakes (Group 3) (Colts & Geldings) – 1m

Magellan runner-up to Hurricane Lane in the Dante before running below par in the French Derby. Drops in class here and will be tough to beat if not inconvenienced by the return to a mile. Fairly lightly raced. The 3-year-old takes on some useful but exposed older horses here and looks a worthy favourite to get back on track.

Solid Stone is a useful performer at Listed level and won at Windsor in May. Placed on his last two starts over 1m 2f he will be suited by the drop back to a stiff mile.

Sir Busker goes very well on Ascot’s straight course and put in a career best on RPR’s when a 2 ½ length 3^rd of 11 to Palace Pier in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot two starts back. His style of racing means he’s vulnerable in steadily tun races. However, if they go a decent gallop, he’s got the form to be firmly in the mix.

King Vega is having her first start since a gelding operation. The 3-year-old’s best juvenile form came when runner-up in the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown 12 months ago. Well beaten on testing ground in the Group 1 Futurity at Doncaster. He was well below par on his seasonal reappearance in a novice race at Newcastle. Needs to improve to beat the principals but he’s just had the four career starts and if the gelding operation has worked could be capable of rating higher.

Verdict: Magellan looks a worthy favourite but at the prices it may pay to go with Sir Busker and the unexposed King Vega on his first start since a gelding operation.

1pt win – Sir Busker – 7/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – King Vega – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Leopardstown

6:30 – Invesco Pension Consultants Desmond Stakes (Group 3) – 1m

Create Belief put in a Group 1 level performance on the figures when powering clear of 20 rivals in the Sandringham Handicap at Royal Ascot last time. She’ll be a short-priced favourite to make a winning first start in Group company. However, this will likely be the quickest ground she’s run on in her career and the tempo of the race will be different to a big field handicap.

Military Style made all to win a Group 3 here last August before finishing 9^th of 10 in the Group 1 National Stakes over 7f. Hasn’t been seen since so a slight concern as to why he’s been off the track for so long.

A bigger threat to the favourite looks to be the Jessica Harrington trained Real Appeal. The 4-year-old made a successful transition from handicap company to win a Group 3 here in June. He’s been steadily progressive on his three starts this season and has won two of this three starts at Leopardstown. First run beyond a mile but shapes like he will stay.

Verdict: Hard to go against Create Belief after her Royal Ascot win but if the going has good in the going description Real Appeal won’t be far away.  

1pt win – Real Appeal – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

7:30 – Annexation, a useful dual-purpose performer for Henry De Bromhead, won a good ground handicap hurdle at Kilbeggan before finishing down the field in the Galway Hurdle last time. Shaped with promise on his sole start on the flat this year when 6^th of 11 at the Curragh in May. Form figures on the flat last season were 122 and he looks nicely treated on his ½ length 2^nd of 17 behind Sirjack Thomas at Galway last year. Stays a mile well and 1m 1f could prove the optimum for the 5-year-old on the flat.

1pt win – Annexation – 6/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The quality of action starts to ratchet up from today. We have the start of Salisbury’s two-day August meeting with the Listed Upavon Fillies’ Stakes (4.15) the feature race of a six-race card.

There is more Listed action across the Irish Sea with the Hurry Harriet Stakes (5.35) at Gowran Park. It’s a race that has been dominated by Aidan O’Brien and Dermot Weld. The former has saddled the winner 5 times since 2011 and the latter 3 times.

Salisbury

4:15 – British Stallion Studs EBF Upavon Fillies’ Stakes (Listed Race) – 1m 2f

Technique ran Zeyaadah to a head in a Group 3 at Newcastle two starts back and then as well as could be expected when a 4 ½ 4^th of 6 behind Lady Bowthorpe in the Group 1 Nassau Stakes last time. Looks up to winning a pattern race against her own sex.

Gloria Mundi a winner at Newbury on her racecourse debut in April. She improved again when running Eshaada to a neck at the same venue in a Listed race on her next start. Far to keen to do herself justice when only 7^th of 13 in the Group 2 Ribblesdale Stakes when last seen in action. Remains capable of better and yard won this in 2015 & 2019.

1pt win – Gloria Mundi – 9/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Gowran Park

5:35 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF Hurry Harriet Stakes (Listed Race) – 1m 1f ½ f

I mentioned earlier, the dominance of Aidan O’Brien and Dermot Weld trained runners in this contest. Both trainers are double handed here and all four runners are contenders. The best of them could be Emaniya who looked up to Listed class when runner-up to Mehnah at Killarney two starts back. Granted she was well beaten at Galway 15-days ago but she may not have handled the very soft ground and/or the track that day.  Preference though for the improving filly So I Told You. A three-time winner this year, including C&D two starts back. The 4-year-old put in a career best effort when a 1 ¾ length 3^rd of 9 at Sligo 7-days ago. Looks worth a try at this level and is one of three Joseph O’Brien trained runners.

1pt win – So I Told You – 9/2 – Gen

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Well, I’m glad I got involved in this year’s Shergar Cup. After the first two races I had my doubts but Graphite, not sure how he was allowed to go off at 18/1 and Dashing Roger made the day a highly profitable one.

Sunday’s racing is more interesting than Saturday’s. We have the second Sky Bet Sunday Series at Haydock.  I didn’t look at the first one at Musselburgh due to the proximity of Goodwood & Galway. However, I’m getting involved in a few of the competitive races on a seven-race card at Haydock.

Across the Irish Sea we have the juveniles taking centre stage with the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (4:10) the feature race of an eight-race card at the Curragh. You can watch that race plus all seven races from Haydock on ITV later this afternoon.

There’s also another Group 1 race at Deauville the Prix Maurice de Gheest (2:50). Of the 12 declared runners eight are trained in Britain or Ireland. Add in the Wesley Ward trained Campanelle and its almost complete domination for the overseas raiders.

I have previewed both Group 1’s and I have a few selections from Haydock and the Curragh.

Deauville: Prix Maurice de Gheest

The going description at Deauville is very soft which isn’t likely to suit July Cup winner Starman who wouldn’t want it any worse than good to soft.  Campanelle won the Commonwealth Cup in the steward’s room at Royal Ascot. Lightly raced she won the Group 1 Prix Morny (6f) here last August. Goes well on soft ground and shouldn’t have an issue with today’s extra half furlong.

Glen Shiel was 2 ½ lengths behind Starman in 6^th in the July Cup. That was a good run on ground that would have been plenty quick for the 7-year-old. If the ground is soft, he should get much closer to Starman.

Rohaan who won the Wokingham Handicap on soft ground at Royal Ascot. He finished 10^th, 4 ½ lengths behind Starman in the July Cup but softer ground will suit him better.

Kinross has won both starts since a gelding operation, a Group 3 at Haydock and the Group 2 Lennox Stakes at Goodwood 12-days ago. Both wins have come over 7f and this is the 4-year-old’s first start at less than 7f. Looks worth a try in Group 1 company and is well suited by give in the ground.

Law Of Indices & Thunder Moon were separated by a head when first and second in the Group 1 Prix Jean Prat here last month. That was over 7f and Law Of Indices made all that day and is more likely to be suited by the slight drop in distance. Thunder Moon reproduced his high-class juvenile for the first time this season. There shouldn’t be much between the pair again and both horses seemed well suited by the soft ground last time.

Curragh: Keeneland Phoenix Stakes

The best juvenile race either side of the Irish Sea so far this season was the Group 2 Railway Stakes over C&D on Irish Derby Day. Four of the first five home that day, including the winner Go Bears Go, run here.

I think Go Bears Go is the best juvenile colt we have seen so far this season. Prominently ridden that day he was too professional than his rivals that day and saw out the 6f well. The one they all must beat.

Runner-up Castle Star wasn’t the best away but ran on well to finish within 1 ½ lengths of the winner. Could get closer today if he breaks on level terms.

Dr Zemph was the least experienced of the field but that didn’t stop him being sent off the 15/8 favourite. His inexperienced showed as he the runner-up snatched a gap a furlong out as that one-edged right. To his credit he ran on into 4^th 2 ¾ behind the winner.

Twilight Jet wasn’t quick away and was held up from his wide draw. He made good headway between the final two furlongs to finish 5^th. He finished 4 lengths behind Go Bears Go but would have finished closer with a better start.

Prettiest is one of two runners from the Aidan O’Brien stable and the sole filly in the field. The last filly to win the race was La Collina in 2011. Prettiest looked useful when winning on her racecourse debut at Navan and then improved again when a 2-length 4^th of 15 in the Group 3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. A line can be drawn through her latest run as she was found to be in season after the race. The Albany form is strong, the winner Sandrine has since gone to win a Group 2, which makes Prettiest an interesting runner.

There’s a decent supporting card at the Curragh.

3:05 – Rathasker Stud Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Group 3) – 6f

William Haggas sends over Light Refrain. The 3-year-old won a Group 3 at York last time and must be respected here. It was good ground at York but she’s also effective on softer ground.

Gustavus Weston won a Group 2 over C&D (soft to heavy) two starts back and ran well when dropped back to 5f here last time. The return to 6f is a positive and he won’t be inconvenienced if the ground eases further.

Romantic Proposal was 2 ¾ length behind Gustavus Weston over 5f last time. Prior to that she had won a Listed race over C&D (good). The return to 6f is a plus and she does get 5lb from Gustavus Weston which should help her get closer today.

Power Under Me is the least experienced runner in the field. He’s placed in Group company on his last two starts. Finished a respectable third behind Order Of Australia here over 7f in a Group 2 last time. Might be capable of better back at 6f and won on soft ground on his juvenile debut last autumn.

A couple of tricky big field handicaps conclude the Curragh card.

4:40 – Bopedro wins more than his fair share of races. A previous C&D winner, he finished an excellent 2 length 3^rd of 17 to Sirjack Thomas over C&D last time. A hold up horse he needs luck in the run but should be there or thereabouts if he gets it.

Comfort Line was a 1 length 3^rd of 24 in the Irish Lincolnshire over C&D in March. Now 2lb lower but is recent form has been a bit disappointing.  Probably needs softer ground than likely today but will pop up in a handicap sooner rather than later.

5:10 – Goodnight Girl is on a long losing run but must be respected on her ½ length 2^nd of 17 over C&D three starts back. Dylan Browne McMonagle takes off a handy 3lb but the mare probably wouldn’t want the ground to ease too much.

Independent Missy a winner over an extended 5f at Navan back in April, followed that performance with an even better effort when a head 2^nd of 16 over 6f at Fairyhouse.  Not in the same form when 3 ½ lengths behind Goodnight Girl here last time.

Tresorier hasn’t been in great form so far this season but did pop up in a C&D handicap last August off 3lb higher.  It was heavy that day so if the ground was to ease further, he’s handicapped to go close.

Miss Molly T’s best form has come over 7f but she was only ½ length behind Independent Missy at Navan on her seasonal return. Has run well in two 7f handicaps since and was a 1 ½ length 5^th of 15 here last time.

1pt win – Miss Molly T – 8/1 @ Bet365 or 15/2 @ Paddy Power

Haydock

The going is heavy for the second Sky Bet Sunday Series. Given the ground not a card to get to heavily involved in.

4:25 – Illusionist took advantage of a good mark when winning at Hamilton (good to soft) in May. Hasn’t been in the same form on quicker ground since but the 4-year-old’s best form has come on soft ground and he’s got a good chance here off 1lb higher than at Hamilton.

1pt win – Illusionist – 9/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

5:45 – Deep Sigh relished the heavy ground when beating three rivals at Doncaster last month. She’s only 2lb higher here and Saffie Osborne takes off 5lb. The one to beat if in the same form as last time.

6:15 – Mascat ran Brentford Hope to ¾ length here over a mile on heavy last October. Mostly disappointing since but did run Zabeel Champion to ¾ length at Ripon in April.

Just Hiss hasn’t been in great form on his last few starts but is well handicapped when he does bounce back. Handled heavy ground early in his career. Stall 17 isn’t great but he could run well at price.

6:40 – Eagle Court has yet to fire this season but he was an improver on soft ground last autumn winning at Redcar & Nottingham and has dropped to 1lb below his last winning mark. Wasn’t disgraced when a 1 ½ length 4^th of 8 at York over 2m 15-days ago. It was good to firm that day and he seemed to be feeling the ground. A return to soft ground and a drop back to 1m 4f makes him interesting.

Vis A Vis could be a well handicapped horse on the flat but I’m not sure he will want the ground as heavy as its likely to be today.

1pt win – Eagle Court – 8/1 @ Bet365 or 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Makanah got within a short head of a a very much back to form Mokaatil and the market certainly knew that the latter was coming back to his best.

It’s Shergar Cup Day at Ascot. The period between Goodwood and York Ebor Meeting has always been about low-grade racing. Hence the invention of the Shergar Cup to fill in on a Saturday.

ITV are covering all six races from the Shergar Cup plus two races from Haydock and one from Newmarket this afternoon.

Punters need to be on weather watch again tomorrow. It looks like light rain showers for both Ascot and Newmarket but potentially very heavy thundery showers for Haydock. 

Haydock’s going description went from good to firm to soft on Friday so if the forecast rain does arrive it could be heavy on Saturday.

The going at Newmarket on Friday evening was good and it will probably be the same tomorrow. 

Ascot is also being officially described as good. I would expect that be the same on Saturday although more rain than forecast and we’ll see easier ground.

I’m going to work on the assumption that the going at both latter tracks stays broadly the same.

The forecast weather for Haydock means for the for the very first time I have looked at the Shergar Cup card. I have also looked at the three other races on ITV this afternoon.

Ascot

12:50 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Dash (Handicap) (Class 2) – 5f

Stone Of Destiny loves to come off a strong pace and is well suited to a stiff 5f.  He won this race 12 months ago off 6lb lower. He hasn’t won this season but has been running well, finishing a 1 ¾ length 3^rd of 16 in the Epsom Dash and has been running with credit in Group company on his last three starts. Top-weight but has a touch of class and Andrew Balding has saddled the winner of this race three times since 2011.

1pt win – Stone Of Destiny – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1:25 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers (Handicap) (Class 2) – 2m

Uber Cool made a winning return to action over 1m 5 ½ f at Chester in May. The 7-year-old has been off the track for 32 months so in the circumstances it was a fine training performance. Has been given a 70-day break and is up 5lb for his Chester win.  Could more to come returned to 2m.

Call My Bluff won three times last season and has improved again this season and comes into the race having won his last two at Nottinghan & Chester. The 4-year-old has been raised 3lb for his last win but seems certain to run his race again.

Indiananpolis is a on a losing run that goes back to October 2019. He’s run several good races this season and he stays 2m well enough as he showed last August when a 2 ¾ length 4^th of 17 at York and is now 11lb lower. Won the 1m 4f handicap at the Shergar Cup for his previous trainer.

1pt win – Indiananpolis – 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:00 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Challenge (Handicap) (Class 3) – 1m 4f

Sam Cooke isn’t the most reliable of handicappers but he was beaten a nose, off 2lb higher, over C&D last July. Plenty of encouragement from his 4^th of 12 at Chester last time.

Spanish Kiss a winner at York and Newmarket this season. Wasn’t ideally placed on his hat trick bid when a 2 ½ length 5^th of 9 here over 1m 6f last time. Handles good to soft ground and maybe suited by a drop back to a decently run 1m 4f. Has only had three starts on the grass so remains capable of better.

Graphite has fared better on both his starts since stepping up to 1m 4f. Last time out was he finished runner up to Duke Of Condicote at Newmarket. Up 2lb but remains on a competitive looking mark and did win on easy ground when trained in France.

1pt win – Graphite – 10/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

2:35 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Mile (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m

Dance Fever put in a career best effort when a ½ length 3^rd of 19 in the valuable International Handicap here over 7f two weeks ago. Stays a mile and will be tough to beat but the ground won’t be as quick as last time.

Dashing Roger had looked as good as ever when winning at Sandown two starts back and improved again when a 1 ½ length 3^rd of 12 to Johan at Salisbury, with recent easy Goodwood winner Migration back in 4^tt. Up another 1lb for that effort but won’t far away here.

One of the reserves, Power Of Darkness is a previous C&D winner. He’s dropped down to a competitive mark but he may need quicker ground to exploit it.

Revich was back to his best when a ½ length 2^nd of 8 at Chester on Sunday. Can race off the same mark here.

Raising Sand love’s Ascot’s straight track. The 9-year-old hasn’t won since landing the 2019 International Stakes Handicap here over 7f.  He’s now 6lb below his last winning mark and wasn’t disgraced from a moderate draw when a 4 ½ length 8^th of 19 in that race two weeks ago.  The more rain the better and he’s become temptingly handicapped.

Bear Force One returned from 3 month lay off to finish a respectable 4^th of 8 at Doncaster 7-days ago. Didn’t seem to stay 1m 3f there and will be better suited by a strongly run mile. Yard among the winners and the 5-year-old won on good to soft at Newbury last summer.

1pt win – Dashing Roger – 9/2 @ Coral & BetVictor

3:10 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Classic (Handicap) (Class 3) – 1m 4f

There was just a short head between Possible Man and State Of Blisswhen the pair were first and second at Nottingham (1m 2f) last month.

Possible Man looked an improver that day and could well stay today’s extra two furlongs. It was good to firm that day so softer ground be a bit of an unknown for him.

State Of Bliss has improved again since to finish a neck behind Wink Of An Eye at Goodwood 8-days ago. He’s now finished runner-up on his three starts and shouldn’t be far away again.

Star Calibar went off too hard here over 2m last time Drop back to 1m 4f might be a positive but he faces competition for the lead here from the likes of State Of Bliss. Likely remains on a good mark if he settles and the trainer won this in 2018.

The likely strong pace could suit Contact who won at Pontefract (good to soft) two starts back and wasn’t disgraced when upped in class and distance at Haydock last time. Seemed to handle soft ground at Haydock and is one to be interested in with the race likely to be run to suit.

1pt win – Contact – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:45 – Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Sprint (Handicap) (Class 2) – 6f

Royal Scimitar an eyecatcher when a strong finishing ½ length 4^th of 17 at Newmarket (good to firm) 30-days ago.  He appreciated the return to sprinting that day and has a big chance here of 2lb higher. The key to his chance though will be the ground. He withdrawn from the Stewards Cup on account of the soft ground last Saturday and needs good or quicker ground to be at his best.

Popmaster finally got his head in front when winning at Doncaster last Saturday. Seemed fine on the good to soft ground there. Up 5lb but he’s an inform sprinter going the right way.

Shark One Two put in a seasonal best when a 2-length 3^rd of 9 at Goodwood 7-days ago. The drop back to 6f should suit. He’s on a winnable mark but probably wouldn’t want the ground worse than good to soft.

Dream Composer, a 6f winner at Kempton two starts back put in a career best effort when a length 4^th of 19 here over 5f at Royal Ascot. The way he was finishing his race off last time suggests he will be suited by a return to 6f. He’s only been raised 1lb and remains progressive.

1pt win – Dream Composer – 3/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Haydock

3:35 – British Stallion Studs EBF Dick Hern Stakes (Listed Race) (Fillies & Mares) – 1m

Three non-runners already on account of the changed going. It’s hard to say which of these fillies will be suited by the testing ground. Passionova made a winning turf debut at Newmarket (good to firm) 44-days ago.  Lightly raced she’s steps up to mile for the first time here, should stay, and if she goes on the ground can go close.

4:10 – MansionBet Rose Of Lancaster Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 2f

All nine still stand their ground for arguably the best race of the day. Real World winner of the Royal Hunt Cup at Royal Ascot before following up in Listed company at Newbury last time. Suited by the step up to 1m 2f at Newbury and looks a Group 1 horse in the making. Both wins have come on quick ground but his pedigree offers hope that he will handle softer.

Extra Elusive got a good ride from Hollie Doyle to win this 12 months ago and followed up in a Group 3 at Windsor on his next start. Handled heavy ground at Windsor so underfoot conditions shouldn’t hold any terrors for the 6-year-old.  Hasn’t been at his very best on either start so far this season but this has likely been the plan and the trainer Roger Charlton has his horses in much better form than when he was last in action.

Euchen Glen is in the form of his career and looks likely to get the strong pace that suits him so well. Came from behind to finish a neck second in a Group 3 at Goodwood 8-days ago. Goes well on testing ground and his stamina is assured, stays 2m.

Foxes Tales seemed to relish soft ground when winning a 1m 2f handicap at Royal Ascot and improved again when a head 2^nd of 10 at Newmarket (good to firm) last time. He finished nicely clear of the third that day and looks worth his place back in pattern company.

Stormy Antarctic is another well suited by soft ground. A winner of a Listed race at Goodwood when last seen in action 77-days ago.  The rain has come at the right time for the 8-year-old and he hails from the very much in form Ed Walker stable.

1pt win – Extra Elusive – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Newmarket

2:50 – 100% Racingtv Profits Back To Racing Sweet Solera Stakes (Group 3) – 7f

Wild Beauty was no match for Inspiral, arguably the best juvenile filly we have seen so far this season, at Sandown last time. Still, she was a clear second best that day. Best form on offer and could be capable of more improvement. Both her career wins have come on soft ground.

Mark Johnson has won this race three times since 2014. He saddles Value Theory who won a C&D novice three weeks ago. She’s open to further progress and must be respected given her trainers record in the race.

Majestic Glory, seems to be coming along nicely. The daughter of Frankel made all to win over 6f here 8-days ago. The step up to 7f can bring out further improvement given her dam won over 1m 2f.

Victoria Grove shaped with promise when a 3 ½ lengths 4^th of 8 behind Inspiral on her racecourse debut over C&D in June. Ran green when asked for her effort two furlongs out but once she hit the rising ground she stayed on nicely. Big ask to win this on just her second career start but is open to improvement and could get into the money.

1pt each way – Victoria Grove – 20/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook (both paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

Cheers

John

Hi all,

There are a couple of interesting Class 2 handicaps on offer today. One is a five runner 1m 4f handicap at Newmarket (6:38) where last time out winners Makram and Boss Power take on course winner Zabeel Champion. Boss Power’s best form has come on the all-weather but he seems fine on quick turf ground. Makram has been steadily progressive this season and won at Sandown last time. It was good to soft that day but he’s also run well on a sound surface. Up 6lb for his Sandown win but is going the right way and looks worth a try over today’s longer trip.

The other Class 2 handicap is on a decent seven race Musselburgh card. This one is for the speedsters over 5f and has attracted a small but very competitive field.

Musselburgh

3:45 – Lord Riddiford showed he could be as good on turf as the all-weather with a decisive win at Goodwood 10-days ago. A fast pace suits as he came off a strong gallop to win last time. Any rain is welcome and he will be tough nut to crack under a 5lb penalty, if in the same form as last week.

Sunday Sovereign is another who will appreciate any rain but he was 3 ½ lengths behind Lord Riddiford at Goodwood and will need to improve plenty to finish in front of that one here.

Mokaatil won the Epsom ‘Dash’, off 4lb lower in June a reproduction of that effort would see him go close here. Another who like a strong pace but he’s not the one consistent of sprinters and he’s run well below his Epsom form on his last three starts.

Jabbarockie made it 2-2 over C&D when making all to win a valuable handicap in April before going in again at Chester the following month. He’s a real speedy horse who might get an uncontested lead with Ornate now a non-runner. However, he wouldn’t want the ground to ease much before post time.

Makanah won a Conditions race over C&D last October and shaped well enough when a 1 ¾ length 4^th of 12 at York in May. Finished last at Ascot in the first time cheekpieces, discarded today, at Ascot last time. Needs to bounce back here but is competitively weighted and the yard had a welcome winner on Sunday.

Verdict:  The inform Lord Riddiford will be tough to beat under his penalty. With Ornate now a non-runner Jabbarockie could now get an uncontested lead and if he does will be hard to pass. The ground versatile Makanah is on a competitive mark and if he bounces back from a poor run at Ascot can win this.

1pt win – Makanah – 9/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

3:10 – Bodyline a useful middle-distance handicapper makes a belated seasonal reappearance. His best form has come on quick ground so the forecast rain isn’t a positive. He needs to win this to have any chance of getting into the Ebor Handicap.

The seemingly ground versatile Dark Jedi who bounced back from a poor run in the Old Newton Cup to beat five rivals at Ripon 20-days ago. He won cosily enough that day and a 3lb shouldn’t be enough to prevent the 5-year-old from following up here.

2pts win – Dark Jedi – 3/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Two selections today one from Leopardstown and one from Sandown.

Leopardstown

6:55 – Reverberation won here over a mile last June. He’s been running well this season, and a put in seasonal personal best when ½ length 2nd of 23 over today’s 1m 1f trip at the Curragh two starts back. Give his hold up style he wasn’t seen to best effect in a small field handicap at Navan last month. Needs to be produced as late as possible which means he needs luck in the run. When he gets it, he’s capable of winning one of these.

1pt win – Reverberation – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Sandown

7:37 – Dark Spec was returning from mammoth 47-month absence when an encouraging 3 ¾ 4^th of 10 at Beverley (good to firm) 17-days ago. He wasn’t given a hard race that day so the dreaded ‘bounce’ shouldn’t be a factor. The 6-year-old’s best juvenile form came with ease in the ground, although really testing ground would be a bit of an unknown.  His Beverley run showed he retains plenty of ability. If he’s over what kept him off the track for so long then he’s nicely treated and can win a race or two.

1pt win – Dark Spec – 17/2 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Monday was almost a cracking day. Treacherous went agonisingly close to winning the valuable Fitzdares Sprint Series Final at Windsor on Monday evening.  He was just denied by a short head at the finish and the other race selection Chairmanoftheboard ran on to take 3rd. Bosh finished runner-up in the big sales race at Naas but was just touched off by a smart filly in Sacred Bridge.

As I said on Monday there may be the odd selection this week. Well, I have a couple of fancies from Pontefract today and one from Sligo.

Pontefract

I think trainer Tom Tate could have a good day at Pontefract. He sends three to the track for this afternoon’s meeting and they all have chances. The two I like are previous C&D winners who are back down to winnable marks and will like the quick ground. Both could run well at decent prices.

4:20 – Destroyer a winner at Leicester last June from 1lb higher returned from a 9-month absence to finish 6^th of 9 at Newmarket 11-days ago. The 8-year-old was likely in the need of the run and did win second up last season. A former C&D winner who is well suited to quick ground he’s a got a chance if he can overcome his wide draw in stall 10.

1pt win – Destroyer – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:55 – Young Tiger another Tate runner who won over C&D last July and was successful again at Doncaster in August. He can now race off 2lb below his last winning mark. Like his stablemate another 8-year-old he showed he retains plenty of ability when a 1 ¾ length 4^th of 7 at Newmarket on his seasonal return. Not in great form on his last two starts but could easily bounce back here.

1pt win – Young Tiger – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Sligo

2:17 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF Connacht Oaks Fillies Handicap – 1m 2f

Double C&D winner So I Told You will popular with punters after her recent Gowran Park success. 

Miss Myers has been in good form of late, placing on her last three starts. That consistency hasn’t helped her mark though, as she has been raised 6lb for not winning.

Hamley put in her best performance of the season when running So I Told You to ½ length over C&D in May.  That filly has improved plenty since but Hamley gets a 17lb pull in the weights. Granted the 8-year-old isn’t the most consistent of horses but she has won off higher marks in the past and on a going day she’s handicapped to go close. Trainer Peter Fahey is 3 winners from 10 runners 30% +11.50 with his runners in the past 14-days which is another positive to her chance today.

1pt each way – Hamley – 14/1 @ Bet365 & Sky Bet

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A good end to the Galway Festival with two winning selections: Current Option won the feature “Ahonoora” Handicap for the second season running. However, a 30p Rule 4 to early prices was a deflating.  In the final race of the festival Bell Ex One (14/1) just got his nostril down on the line to win the second division of the 1m 6f handicap. Both selections were non-runners in the first division but hopefully some of you got on Insane Bolt the other runner I highlighted in that race preview. If went in with that one you had a cracking end to the week.

Having had a peek at the next few days racing. There won’t be any selections on Tuesday or Wednesday but there maybe one or two on Thursday & Friday. Watch your inboxes for any updates. However, there a couple of races of interest on Monday.

At Windsor there some good prize money on offer for the final of the Fitzdares Sprint Series (18:45) at Windsor on Monday and, not unsurprisingly, a big field is set to go to post. Of the 16 declared runners six of then ran at Goodwood on Saturday in either the Stewards Cup or its consolation race It will be interesting to see how many stand their ground.

The most valuable race of the week is actually taking place today at Naas this afternoon. The Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes (2:25) is one of those juvenile sales races and with €300,000 in guaranteed prize money, including €148,500 on offer to the winner, it has attracted a maximum field of 24 runners.

Windsor

6:45 – Fitzdares Sprint Series Final Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

A handicap that wouldn’t be out of place on a Saturday card.

Of the 16 declared runners six of then ran at Goodwood on Saturday in either the Stewards Cup or its consolation race It will be interesting to see how many stand their ground.

Capote’s Dream has done well since joining the Tom Ward yard earlier in the year. He returned to winning ways when beating 18 rivals at York last time. He edged out Mr Wagyu that day and that one landed Saturday’s Stewards Cup consolation race. He’s been nudged up 3lb for his York success but there could be more to come from the 4-year-old.

Total Commitment was 4^th in the Stewards Cup and should give his running again if this race doesn’t come too quick for the 5-year-old.  

Operatic is the only 3-year-old in the field.  She opened her account in handicap company when getting up late over 5f here two weeks ago. A return to 6f could see her in an even better light.

Be Prepared has won two of his last five starts and maintained his good form when a ¾ length 3^rd of 17 at Goodwood five days ago. That performance came over 7f so the drop back to a sharp 6f might not suit.

Treacherous finished 13^th in the Stewards Cup consolation race on Saturday. He isn’t in the same form as he was last summer but he has shaped on a couple of occasions like he retains ability and isn’t out of this.

Chairmanoftheboard had a good 2020, winning over C&D and at Newmarket and finishing a 1 ¾ length 5^th of 27 in last year’s Stewards Cup. The 5-year-old returned from a 10-month absence to finish an encouraging 5^th over C&D. He was 2 ¼ lengths behind Capote’s Dream that day and he gets an 8lb pull with that one today. Granted he disappointed at Ascot last time but this has likely been the plan.

Verdict: Capote’s Dream looks a worthy market leader but I think he’s worth taking on with a couple at bigger prices in Chairmanoftheboard and Treacherous.

1pt each way – Treacherous – 16/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (paying 4 places ¼ odds)

1pt win – Chairmanoftheboard – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Naas

2:25 – Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes (Median Auction Race) – 6f

There are five British- trained horses among the 24 declared runners.

The best of the raiders could be the Richard Hannon trained Bosh. A winner of a York maiden in June. He followed up under a 6lb penalty at Salisbury 32 days ago. The form of that Salisbury race looks old enough with both the second and third following up on their next start.   

The Tom Dascombe trained Ever Given was the decisive winner of a Goodwood nursery handicap on Friday and would have to be considered a big challenger if turning up for this.

The best of the home team appears to be the Ger Lyons trained Sacred Bridge. The well-bred daughter of Bated Breath looked a useful prospect when winning over C&D on her racecourse debut in June and then showed her versatility by winning a Tipperary Listed race over 5f.  Today’s big field provides a new test for the filly.  Has an entry in the Group 2 Lowther Stakes at York’s upcoming Ebor Festival.

Verdict: Sacred Bridge could be something special and a Group filly. Similarly, Bosh could be capable of mixing it in pattern company.

1pt win – Bosh – 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheer

John

Hi all,

The end of long week is in sight. It hasn’t gone as well as I hoped in midweek but there is one final day to end on a high.

Sunday see’s the final day of the Galway Festival and there’s also a decent card at Chester. I’m anticipating a quiet upcoming week on the selections front. As ever watch your inboxes for any selections before Friday.  On to today’s action and my selections from Galway.

Galway

1:40 – Chavajod put in an improved effort when a 2-length 3^rd of 13 at Leopardstown 10-days ago. The first-time visor is applied today and he has handy draw in stall 2. Said by his trainer to need good or quicker ground to be at his best, connections will be hoping the rain stays away. If it does, he’s got a good chance.

Karlsberg was another to put in an improved performance last time when a 3 ¼ length 3^rd of 30 over an extended 6f at the Curragh 60-days ago. Looked in need of further that day but on pedigree isn’t certain to get a stiff mile.

Hanbags N Gladrags wasn’t the best away when a 2 ¾ length 6^th of 13 on her handicap debut at Ballinrobe last time. She’s just had the four career starts so is open to more improvement and must be a contender.

Krypton Gold shaped with promise when 5^th of 13 on her handicap debut at Tipperary 32-days ago. The gelding was doing his best work at the finish that day so the drop back in trip is a slight negative. On the positive side yard’s runners are going well and they had a winner here earlier in the week.

1pt win – Chavajod – 7/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Krypton Gold – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:45 – Bardo Contiguo comes into the race in good form having finished a 3 ¼ length 3^rd of 14 at Killarney 19-days ago. The cheekpieces he wore that day are retained but stall 19 won’t be easy to overcome.

The Mpex Kid was well beaten here early in the week but he did finish a neck second in this race 12 months ago, off 6lb higher. Comes with rosks attached but he’s well handicapped if the first time cheekpieces can produce a return to form and the 5-year-old has good draw in stall 2.

Excuzio Joe won over C&D last October, off 2lb lower. Never involved from a wide draw here earlier in the week. However, that was her first start for 9 months and she’s better drawn here in stall 3. Might prefer softer ground but Colin Keane takes over in the saddle.

1pt win – Excuzio Joe – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – The Mpex Kid – 18/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:15 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF “Ahonoora” Handicap – 7f

The feature race of the final day of the Galway Festival with €59,000 on offer to the winner. Last year’s winner Current Option bids for back-to-back wins. He’s got a touch of class having gone onto win a Listed race at Cork and a Group 3 at Tipperary after his win here. He finished 7^th here early in the week, the same race he ran in 12 months ago before winning this. The top-weight 5-year-old is 6lb higher this time around but a 7lb claimer has been booked to negate his rise in the ratings. Big chance from stall 1.

The overnight favourite is last time out Roscommon winner Soaring Monarch. The handicapper has taken a dim view of his last win, having raised him up 11lb. Finished twice here, including C&D, at last year’s festival so handles the track well. Goes well on soft ground so won’t be inconvenienced if the rain arrives, has also won on good. High on the shortlist despite a career high mark.

Stone Soldier and On A Session travel over from England. Stone Soldier took advantage of a lower turf mark to win at Haydock last time. He’s up 6lb here but remains 9lb below his all-weather mark. On A Session finished runner-up in this race in 2019 and was third 12 months ago, now 3lb lower.  Has been a bit in an out for trainer David Barron this season although he’s shaped with promise on a couple of occasions. Poor performance on quick ground in the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket last time but maybe better going around a bend.

Quizical goes well here finished a 1 ¾ length 5^th in this race last year off 3lb higher and finished runner-up, from a high draw, here earlier in the week. Tends to do his best work at the finish and maybe better over a furlong further. Connections will hope the rain arrives to ease the ground and if it does, he’s handicapped to go close again.

Verdict: A high quality renewal of the feature race. Last year’s winner Current Option has a good chance of back-to-back wins.  Quizical maybe needs a mile and/or softer ground but he’s nicely treated and in good form. Both English raiders Stone Soldier and On A Session need respecting. As does recent winner Soaring Monarch.

1pt win – On A Session – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Current Option – 7/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

4:50 – Insane Bolt finished runner-up here in 2019 when trained by Gordon Elliott. Shaped much better on just his second start for new yard when 4^th of 20 over hurdles here 3-days ago. Having just second run on the flat beyond 1m 2f and if he stays won’t be far away,

Final Endeavour ran well when a 3 ¾ length 2^ndof 12 at Fairyhouse 3 weeks ago. Won here last October, off 2lb lower. Likely to have been aimed at this race but has a tricky wide draw, for a prominent racer, to overcome

Buckman Tavern returned to winning ways at Leopardstown 17-days ago.He’s up 3lb here but remains on competitive mark based on his 2019 form when trained in England. Could be more to come from the 5-year-old.

1pt win – Final Endeavour – 14/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – Buckman Tavern – 9/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

5:20 – Varna Gold was strong at the finish when third here over hurdles two days ago. Prior to that the 4-year-old had finished a 2-length 2^nd of 12 on the flat at Bellewstown. Good chance of going one better here but stall 19 makes it difficult.

Bell Ex One was in good form in the spring winning at Gowran Park and finishing runner-up at Roscommon and Sligo. Returned from a short break and wasn’t disgraced when 6^th of 13 here 6-days ago. First attempt beyond 1m 4f but looks a worth a try over the new trip.

1pt win – Varna Gold – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Bell Ex One – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The final day of Qatar Goodwood Festival but there are still two days left at Galway. ITV are once again covering the first five races from Goodwood and they add two races from Newmarket to their Saturday afternoon racing coverage.

The emphasis today is on the handicappers with the highlight being one of the biggest betting races of the summer flat season the Unibet Stewards’ Cup (3:40).

I have looked at four races at Goodwood and one at Galway.

Qatar Goodwood Festival – Day 5

1:20 – Thames Materials Handicap (Class 2) – 7f

Quintillus the likely favourite is now a non-runner.

Star Of Bermuda bids for the hat-trick after wins at Leicester and latterly Newmarket three weeks ago. Up just 2lb which looks fair and she did win at this meeting 12 months ago on her racecourse debut.  Might be at her best on a sound surface though.  

Farasi Lane is fine on an easy surface and was only beaten a short head over C&D in May. Ran as well as ever when winning a Sandown handicap 28-days ago. Up 5lb for that win but has handy low draw in stall 2. Two from two in the cheekpieces and they are retained here.

Just Frank has been knocking on the door in handicaps on his last two starts. Stall 10 could be better for a likely front runner but he should continue to give his running and should be in the mix again. The first time cheekpieces could eke out that bit of improvement to win.

Verdict: I’m taking on Star Of Bermuda. Just Frank is knocking on the door and Farasi Lane has good draw and goes well with some juice in the ground. Just Frank is another who goes well on soft ground and is interesting in the first-time headgear,

1pt win – Farasi Lane – 8/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – Just Frank – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1:55 – Unibet Stewards’ Sprint Handicap – 6f

The Stewards Cup consolation race and twenty-eight have been declared for this year’s race. Looking at the pace map most of it looks down the middle.

Music Society was beaten a nose in the Scottish Stewards and continued in tremendous form when beaten a short head by Venturous at York last Saturday. He’s 8lb well in here and has a big chance if in the same form as last time. Not sure about stall 2 though.

Stablemate Staxton was 1 ¼ lengths behind Music Society in the Scottish Stewards Cup He would have finished a bit closer as he didn’t get the clearest of runs inside the final furlong. Looks to be heading into form and William Buick is an eyecatching jockey booking for the 6-year-old. Not sure he wants the ground too soft but handles good to soft well enough.

Royal Scimitar was a big eyecatcher returned to 6f when a ½ length 4^th of 17 at Newmarket last time. Can race off the same mark here but ground any softer than good would be an unknown for the 3-year-old.

Power Over Me put in an impressive display when first past the post at Epsom 30-days ago but was subsequently disqualified after the jockey weighed in 2lb light. A five-time winner all-weather he showed last time that he could be effective on turf. Up 5lb but he remains progressive and is unexposed on grass.

First Folio beat a subsequent handicap winner in a valuable 6f York handicap last time. He’s up 8lb but more of a concerned would be an easy surface as he bounced off quick ground at York

Boundless Power was in excellent form over 5f and soft ground in the spring winning small field handicaps at Nottingham. Not disgraced when 5^th of 18 at Ascot three weeks ago. Was doing his best work at the finish that day, so today’s extra furlong should suit he and remains on competitive mark.

Bickerstaffe put in a career best when winning at Ascot (good to soft) 22-days ago. Has a 6lb penalty to carry here but looks to be going the right way.

Treacherous won this last year, off 3lb lower. Not out of this and the 7-year-old hasn’t shaped to badly this season.

Jim Goldie trained Tommy G to win this in 2018 so his runner Be Proud can’t be totally dismissed at big odds with Danny Tudhope booked for the ride.  

Ruth Carr trained Poyle Vinnie to win this in 2019 and she saddles Embour here. The 6-year-old has placed form C&D for his previous trainer and is 1lb below his last winning mark. Could get in to the places at big odds.

Verdict: First Folio would prefer quicker ground, as could recent eyecatcher Royal Scimitar. Boundless Power won’t mind ease in the ground and Silvestre De Sousa is a good booking. Music Society is in great form and is respected. Power Over Me goes well on a downhill track. Bickerstaffe is an improving 3-year-old, goes well on soft ground and is drawn high.

1pt win – Power Over Me – 10/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Bickerstaffe – 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:30 – Summer Handicap – 1m 6f

Prince Alex has switched from Ralph Beckett to Michael Bell, A big improver last season winning his last five starts. Plenty of promise on his seasonal reappearance at Salisbury and then ran Nuits St Georges to head over C&D. Not at his best at Newmarket but better judged on his soft ground C&D form.

Nuits St Georges really likes soft ground and followed up his C&D win when making all to win at Salisbury last time. Up 5lb and won’t find it easy to give 6lb to Prince Alex here.

Sir Michael Stoute saddles a couple of live contenders in My Frankel & Boss Power. Boss Power looked an improving performer when winning at Kempton last month.  Must show he can replicate that form on soft ground and over 1m 6f. My Frankel a winner at Kempton on his reappearance put in a personal best when 3^rd of 12 in the Old Newton Cup at Haydock last time. It was soft at Haydock and he appreciated the decent gallop that day. Could improve for his start beyond 1m 4f.

Win O’clock goes well on soft and finished a neck in front of My Frankel in the Old Newton Cup. Yard’s runners going well and remains on a competitive mark

On To Victory won a soft ground November Handicap last season, 5lb higher here. Ran the useful Hukum to 1 ½ lengths in a Listed contest here in May.  Stays 1m 6f but probably needs softer ground but if he gets it the top-weight isn’t handicapped out of this.

Rhythmic Intent did well on easy ground last season winning at York & Newbury and finished 1 ½ lengths behind On To Victory when runner-up in the November Handicap. Bounced back to his best, after a couple of low-key runs, when a 1 ¼ length 2^nd of 11 at Sandown 28-days ago. Not a bad effort considering it was over 1m 2f and he’s better over further. Needs the ground to ease further.

Future Investment was beaten a nose at Ascot over today’s distance. Up 2lb and is another on a workable mark if in the same form as last time.

Bodyline makes his seasonal reappearance. He should win races this year but maybe be better for the run and probably wants a sound surface. One to note with the Ebor Handicap in mind.

Verdict: This a tough puzzle to solve. Prince Alex is on a good mark but the switch in stable concerns me. Nuits St Georges is tough and goes well here. My Frankel looks the pick of the Stoute pair. On To Victory goes well here and if the rain arrives, he won’t be inconvenienced. Likewise Rhythmic Intent goes well with ease in the ground and could be about to hit winning form. Win O’Clock is on a competitive mark and the yard is in great form.

1pt win – My Frankel – 13/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

1pt win – Rhythmic Intent – 11/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

3:40 – Unibet Stewards’ Cup (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 6f

The pace looks to be both low and high but most of the fancied horses seem to be drawn to towards the middle. They could split into two groups.

Fresh is up 3lb for finishing a neck 2^nd of 21 in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot. Capable of going close again if handling this sharper 6f.

Chiefofchiefs was 1 ¼ lengths behind Fresh when 4^th in the Wokingham last time. Likes a big field handicap but this track may not play to his strengths like Ascot does. Yard also runs Ejtilaab who is having his first start since a stable switch. Has been in great form since dropping to 6f. Won on the tapeta at Newcastle last time and although he’s up 8lb here could be still on the upgrade. Showed he was effective in downhill track when winning at Epsom two starts back.

Hurricane Ivor dead heated at Sandown over 5f two starts back and improved again when a short head 2^nd of 18 at Ascot over the minimum trip. Up just 1lb here and will be suited by a sharp 6f. Can win a big handicap pot when everything falls right.

Lampang was second best of those who ran in the unfavoured stands side in the Wokingham Handicap. Prior to that he had won at Hamilton off 3lb lower. Not out of this but maybe better in smaller fields.

Great Ambassador’s best form has come on the all-weather (0-6 on turf) but shaped like he would be suited by a big field scenario when coming from behind to finish a 3 ¾ length 3^rd of 7 behind Chil Chil at Newmarket back in May. Likely needs good or quicker ground, was pulled out of the Wokingham on account of soft ground.

Bielsa can win this but isn’t the most reliable. Didn’t stay 7f at Royal Ascot last time and is better judged on his nose 2^nd of 16 behind Punchbowl Flyer at Haydock two starts back. Won’t mind if the rain arrives and Osin Murphy takes the ride.

Summerghand won this 12 months ago off today’s mark. Won the Group 3 Abernant Stakes at Newmarket in April. Outclassed in the Group 1 July Cup last time. Vulnerable to better handicapped horses but likes to come off a strong pace and not of I if reproducing last year’s performance,

Atalanta’s Boy loves C&D but isn’t one to trust. Can be slowly way, as he was when well fancied for this last year and when pulled up at Windsor last time. Apart from last year’s run in the race he’s 4-4 over C&D and if in going mood can go close.

Justanotherbottle was beaten a short head in this in 2018. Won the Catterick Dash over 5f last October off 2lb higher. On a competitive mark on his best form and could get into the money.

Verdict: Both Fresh and Hurricane Ivor are high on the shortlist with a slight preference for the latter Great Ambassador should be suited by the pace of the race but needs good or quicker ground. Summerghand has a lively chance of back-to-back wins in the race. The Charlie Fellowes pair of Chiefochiefs & Ejtilaab are in the mix but the downhill track may suit the latter more.  Bielsa normally gets backed for these sorts of races and has a big performance in him.

1pt win – Hurricane Ivor – 6/1 – Gen

1pt each way – Bielsa – 16/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (both paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

Galway

4:20 – Galway Shopping Centre Handicap – 1m 4f

Camorra improved on easy ground last autumn when winning at Leopardstown in October and then finished a neck 2^nd of 16 in the Irish November Handicap (1m 6f) on his final start of 2021. Low key return at Gowran Park in April. Has been a 114-day break since that run and gets the first-time blinkers for the drop back to 1m 6f. Capable of better but may want softer ground.

Iowa is the only 3-year-old in the field and although he might want quicker ground, he’s handicapped to go close if he gets it.

In From The Cold seems to stay 1m 4f and comes into this in form, finishing a 3¾ lengths fourth of 18 to Sirjack Thomas in a Premier Handicap here over an extended 1m on Tuesday. He was strong at the finish and goes well on soft ground.

Baby Zeus returned from a nine month lay off to run out an impressive winner of a 1m 2f Premier Handicap at the Curragh on Guineas weekend.  Never got into the race from the rear when well beaten at Leopardstown on his next start off 9lb higher. The ground was soft/heavy at the Curragh and much quicker at Leopardstown. Willie Mullins is having a great festival and is 4 winners from 8 runners in the race since 2015. Looks on a good mark if bouncing back.

Verdict: Camorra may prove to be better over a bit further but the first-time blinkers make him of interest. In From The Cold ran a cracker here earlier in the week and his course from is a big plus. Baby Zeus looked like a potential Group horse when winning at the Curragh. He ran to bad to be true last time and is worth another chance here.

1pt win – Baby Zeus – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Comorra – 10/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – In From The Cold – 9/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John