Author: John Burke

Hi all,

Everything came together yesterday. We had three excellent priced winners, including Ice Cold In Alex who won for the first time in nearly three years and a big profit on the day.

Its Irish Derby Day at the Curragh. The big race goes off at 3:45 and for the first time is being broadcast live on ITV.

This side of the Irish Sea it’s Northumberland Plate Day at Newcastle and that’s where I begin today’s preview. Looking at the four races being shown on ITV.

Newcastle

1:45 – williamhill.com Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

Woven has made a positive start to life the Michael Dods yard. The 5-year-old was runner-up at Redcar and then ran just as well when a 1 ¼ length 4^th of 18 at York last month. Two decent efforts here for previous yard and he should go well if stall 3 isn’t an inconvenience.

Fleeting Prince is also drawn low in stall 4. The 4-year-old finished 4^th of 13 over C&D in the Group 3 12 months ago. Third of 12 at Newmarket (7f) when last seen in action in April. He doesn’t hold any secrets from the handicapper but if the gelding operation has had the desired effect he could go close returned to 6f.

1pt win – Woven – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:20 – William Hill Chipchase Stakes (Group 3) – 6f

Jim Crowley likely had the pick of three here in Khuzaam, Khaadem and Tabdeed. He opts for the first named but I prefer the claims of Tabdeed. The 6-year-old hasn’t been the easiest to keep sound but he ran well on his seasonal reappearance at this meeting last year when runner-up to Glen Shiel in a handicap over C&D. First start for 294-days but should be fit enough to do himself justice and the yard is among the winners.

The 3-year-old Diligent Harry heads the market. Three wins from four starts, all on the all-weather, and was only beaten a short head by Wokingham winner Rohaan. Looked pattern horse when winning at Lingfield in April and capable of more improvement.

The mare Chil Chil has returned to action with two excellent efforts in handicap company this season. An easy winner at Newmarket last time she remains open to progress and deserves to take her chance in pattern company.

2:55 – William Hill Pick Your Places Northumberland Vase Handicap (Consolation Race For The Northumberland) (Class 2) – 2m ½ f

East Asia has won all three starts since joining Ian Williams. He can race off 2lb lower than when running out an easy winner at Goodwood 20-days ago. All three wins have come on the turf but he had placed form on the dirt when trained in the UAE. The one to beat granted luck in the run.

Zeeband remains capable of better and shaped like he could be suited by the step up to 2m here.  A respectable third on his Newmarket seasonal reappearance and he’s interesting in the first time visor on his all-weather debut. Likely we haven’t seen the best of the 4-year-old yet.

Margaret Dumont is a consistent handicapper on the all-weather. The filly came up against a big improver when runner-up on the tapeta at Wolverhampton last time and should give her running once again.

Byron Hill seems to have improved from three to four and put in a career best effort when running out a comfortable winner at Yarmouth (1m 6 ½ f) 25-days ago. Unexposed over staying trip he looks worth a try at 2m and is just 5lb higher than for his Yarmouth success. Each way claims back on the synthetics.

Verdict: East Asia will be tough to beat if reproducing his improved turf form back on the all-weather. Byron Hill is going the right way and is a contender.

1pt win – East Asia – 4/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt each way – Byron Hill – 16/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook (both paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

3:30 – William Hill Northumberland Plate Handicap (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 2m ½ f

Trueshan has a huge weight to defy but Alan King takes 5lb off the top-weights back with the booking of Rhys Clutterbuck. A Group 2 winner at Royal Ascot on Champions Day, He’s the class horse of the race and he did win on his sole all-weather start on the tapeta, albeit at Wolverhampton.

Dubious Affair has decent claims of being sent off favourite. The mare put in a career best effort when a head 2^nd of 15 in a 1m 6f handicap at Royal Ascot last week. If handling the quick turnaround, she’s capable of winning this off her present mark.

Galata Bridge was 2 ¼ lengths back in 6^th behind Dubious Affair at Royal Ascot. Needs to settle better on his first start over 2m. We probably haven’t seen the best of the 4-year-old who has each way claims.

Rajinsky was only 7^th in this race 12 months ago but he’s improved since and was as good as ever when a length 2^nd of 10 at Haydock last month.  A wide draw in stall 19 to overcome for one that likes to be prominently but likely to give his running.

Verdict: Trueshan is the class horse of the race. Dubious Affair is on a winnable mark and the consistent Rajinsky deserves to win a nice pot.

1pt win – Trueshan – 4/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

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

ITV are covering three races from Newmarket’s July Course. The most competitive race is the Listed juvenile fillies race at 2:05.

Newmarket

2:05 – Maureen Brittain Memorial Empress Fillies’ Stakes (Listed Race) – 6f

Desert Dreamer a winner on both sides on the other track in the spring. Was well fancied to complete the hat trick in the Group 2 Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot 10-days ago.  Her chance was gone when she was slowly away from her low draw. Wasn’t given the hardest when her jockey realised her chance had gone. I think she better than that form and can show it here.

Curragh

In addition to the Irish Derby there’s a good supporting card of races.

3:45 – Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) – 1m 4f

It looks a decent renewal of the race.  Here’s the race preview I wrote for Thursday’s Daily Punt.

High Definition, trained by Aidan O’Brien, heads the market. The colt looked potentially high class when coming with a late run to win the Group 3 Beresford Stakes at the Curragh last season. Unbeaten on both starts as a juvenile, he ran with plenty of encouragement when a 2-length 3^rd of 10 in the Dante on reappearance.  Missed Epsom but he can take time to hit top gear as we saw last year here and at York.

Aidan O’Brien seems likely to saddle a few more in the race. Van Gogh shaped like he needed further when 3^rd of 11 in the Irish 2,000 Guineas. However, he never got into the race from the rear in the French Derby. Surely, he’s better than that run and better performance can be expected from the colt. Carlisle Bay is bred to appreciate 1m 4f and shaped like the run was needed when last of six in the Lingfield Derby Trial on his seasonal return. Promising on both juvenile starts he looks like type do better as 3-year-old and can’t be written off just yet.

Other Irish Contenders

Mac Swiney bounced back to win the Irish 2,000 Guineas on soft ground but was only 4^th of 11 in the Derby on good to soft. Maybe he needs really soft ground to be at his best or perhaps he doesn’t stay 1m 4f. If it’s the former he would be big contender if the ground was too ease.

Earlswood realised the stamina test when winning a Group 3 here over 1m 2f (soft to heavy) last time. His dam finished runner-up in the Ribblesdale on soft ground so there’s a good chance that he can find further improvement for the step up to 1m 4f. The more rain the better and he can get into the places if it was to come up soft on Saturday.

The English Raiders

There looks likely to be strong contingent most English trained runners:

Hurricane Lane had High Definition back in third when winning the Dante. Although he did have race fitness on his side that day. He’s since run third in the Derby but didn’t seem totally at home on the Epsom undulations and this track should suit him better.  Clear claims on his Derby performance.

Mojo Star finished one place ¾ length in front of Hurricane Lane in the Derby. The Sea The Stars colt has finished runner-up on all three starts and is the best maiden in training. He might have been flattered by his position at Epsom but he’s a high-class colt and has been supplemented by connections for the race rather than go for a maiden.

Lone Eagle was a high class staying juvenile, winning the Group 3 Zetland Stakes at Newmarket on his final start of 2020.  Fourth in the Classic Trial at Sandown on his seasonal reappearance. Looking that day like he needed a stronger stamina test. As expected, he improved for the step up to an extended 1m 3f when making all to win a Listed race at Goodwood last month.  He handled the soft ground better than his rivals that day but he’s still a smart colt. Plenty to like about his attitude but like a few he might need easy ground to make this a real stamina test. 

Verdict:

A lot depends on the weather. If the going was ease significantly then the likes of Earlswood and Long Eagle would come into the mix. High Definition could still turn out to be special and we know the track suits him. You rule out a Jim Bolger colt out at your peril so Mac Swiney must be respected. The English Derby form will be tested here but it looks the best on offer and both Mojo Star and Hurricane Lane are strong contenders for taking the winner prize back across the Irish Sea.  

2:30 – Dubai Duty Free Summer Fillies Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 7f

The Aidan O’Brien trained 3-year-old More Beautiful is sure to be popular with punters and could be nicely treated on her handicap debut. The filly was a 4-length 4^th of 13 to stablemate and subsequent French Oaks winner Joan Of Arc two starts back. And wasn’t disgraced when 5th behind Sonaiyla in a Group 3 here last time over 6f.

French Rain put in a career best effort when a ½ length 2^nd of 11 at Limerick two weeks ago. Up 4lb, the third won a handicap here last evening. and the 4-year-old looks on a winnable mark.

Sindhia, Miss Molly T & Deidra were separated by just ½ length when 3^rd, 4^th & 5^thin a 7f Gowran Park handicap last time and all three have claims here. At the prices Deidra looks a bit of value with the first-time blinkers replacing the visor she’s worn on her last two starts.

1pt win – French Rain – 8/1 @ Bet365

5:25 – Dubai Duty Free Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 1m

Coill Na Sionainn put in a career bets effort when winning a mile handicap at Leopardstown 9-days ago. Up 10lb for that success but she’s in form and capable of another big run here.

Hale Bopp is getting better with each start. He’s up 12lb for winning on his handicap debut at Cork 50-days ago but he’s a 3-year-old who’s only had four career starts and is capable of more improvement.

Dream Tale beat French Rain at Limerick last time. The 5-year-old is up 7lb and faces some improvers here but should continue to run well.

1pt win – Coill Na Sionainn – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:55 – Dubai Duty Free Irish EBF Handicap – 2m

Arcadian Sunrise made it three from seven over hurdles when winning at Punchestown 28-days ago. The 7-year-old has only had three starts on the flat and won a maiden Thurles in October. Need to improve on his flat form so far but is lightly raced to think he can.

Dalton Highway never really got into the race from behind in the 2m 4f Ascot Stakes 11-days ago. He’s better than he was able to show at Royal Ascot and won this race 12 months ago off 2lb lower and Sam Ewing takes off a handy 5lb.

Jake Peter has dropped to 2lb below his last winning mark and raced like he was returning to form when 6^th of 9 at Limerick 8-days ago.  Could run into the places at big odds.

1pt win – Dalton Highway – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The Richard Fahey trained Hartswood won Newcastle’s feature race on his all-weather debut. The surface at Newcastle was as deep as it’s been seen since they laid the tapeta surface.  Hopefully they have had some rain overnight which should see the track quicken up for this evening’s card and of course Saturday’s Northumberland Plate meeting.

Both yesterday’s selections Kimifive & Fox Champion ran well. I thought Fox Champion was going to win but in the final 50 yds he was swamped by two closers.

Today’s feature race is once again at Newcastle. The William Hill Gosforth Park Cup Handicap (6:45). I have selections from Newcastle, Newmarket and the Curragh.

Newcastle

6:45 – William Hill Gosforth Park Cup Handicap (Class 2) – 5f

Copper Knight won this in 2018 and finished a ¾ length 2^nd of 13 in 2019. He’s bounced back to form this spring winning at York back in May and has remained in form on two subsequent starts. Although he’s 5lb higher than when winning at York he’s still 15lb lower than when runner-up in this race two years ago.

Besides Copper Knight Tim Easterby also runs Count D’Orsay and Sunday Sovereign. The first named is having his first run on all-weather since joining the Easterby yard. Very effective on soft turf. He comes into the race on the back of a career best effort when a 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 11 behind Kings Lynn in a Listed race at Haydock. He’s up 3lb for that effort so likely needs to improve again but won’t be far away if handling the surface. Sunday Sovereign is making his all-weather debut The lightly raced 4-year-old bounced back to something like his best when 2^nd of 12 at York last time. He and his stablemates give the yard a strong hand in the race.

Kind Review’s form figures over C&D are 3111.  A winner on turf at Redcar he comes into the race in the form of his career and although this a hotter race than he normally races in. The 5-year-old can’t be dismissed on racing on what are his optimum conditions.  

Aljady was in tremendous form last season winning four of his seven starts. Hasn’t really built on a good reappearance effort when beaten a nose on his all-weather debut back in April on two subsequent starts. Back in handicap company today and Jim Crowley 1-1 on the horse has been booked for the ride.

Lahore was only 11/2 for this race last year. He didn’t get the strong pace he needed that day and today’s likely stronger pace will suit the 7-year-old but he needs to be at his very best to win this on first start for 258-days.

Verdict: A very competitive looking race. Tim Easterby has a strong hand with three lively contenders in Copper Knight, Count D’Orsay & Sunday Sovereign. Kind Review must prove he can mix it in this company but he gets his optimum conditions today. Aljady is on a good mark and should be in the mix if back to his best.

1pt win – Aljady – 6/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

1pt win – Kind Review – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Newmarket

8:35 – The lightly raced Passion And Glory and Mashhoor will be popular with punters in this Class 2 handicap. The latter looks capable of more improvement for the step up to 1m 2f for the first time on his handicap debut.

Data Protection is 2-3 on the July course, including C&D. He’s run well on both starts this season and although he’s handicapped up to his best and vulnerable to any improvers. The 6-year-old could well get an easy lead out in front and if he does could be hard to peg back.

1pt win – Data Protection – 6/1 @ Bet365

Curragh

5:30 – Ice Cold In Alex is on a losing run that dates back to August 2018. However, he does run well in this big field handicaps and the former C&D winner did put in his best run of the year when a ½ length 4^th of 12 at Leopardstown 15-days ago. Has each-way claims if reproducing his last run.

1pt each way – Ice Cold In Alex – 20/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

7:10 – Longbourn races beyond a mile for the first time since winning a Tipperary maiden over 1m 1f last September. He’s been in good form this season and should go well again here.

1pt win – Longbourn – 10/1 @ Bet365

7:45 – Fearless Girl improved for the step up to an extended 1m 1f when winning at Ballinrobe 4-days ago. Has a 6lb penalty to carry for that win but she’s going the right way and provided this run doesn’t come to quick has a good chance of following up here.

1pt win – Fearless Girl – 7/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A frustrating day on Wednesday. Get Knotted was a non-runner in the Carlisle Bell but the race preview did at least highlight the first two home. It was even more frustrating in the Cumberland Plate as my two selections Croeso Cymraeg & Ravens Ark finished second and third.

Newcastle’s three-day Northumberland Plate meeting starts today and the feature race is the William Hill Seaton Delaval Handicap (3:10).  There’s also a decent looking card at Newmarket’ July course.

Newcastle

3:10 – Chichester won yesterday’s Carlisle Bell. The previous C&D winner is the one to beat under his 5lb penalty if turned out quickly.

Crownthorpe won over C&D in 2019 and was beaten a neck here in December. Back to form when runner-up to the smart Brentford Hope at Nottingham last time.  Capable of big run with Ray Dawson taking off a handy 3lb. One of two runners for Richard Fahey. The other being Hartswood. The 4-year-old looked as good as ever when a strong finishing 3^rd of 14 at York two starts back. Didn’t have the best of passages when stepped up to 1m 2f at Redcar last time. First run on the all-weather and if he handles the surface, is a player.

Artistic Rifles ran well when third over C&D in February, his only start here. He improved further for a return to turf winning the Spring Mile at Doncaster and at Ripon. However, he ran poorly at York on his hat trick bid. In with a good chance if bouncing back.

Baltic Baron shaped much better, than he had done on his stable debut here at York last time when a 3 ¾ length 7^th of 16 over 7f. The return to a mile is a positive for the 6-year-old who is well treated on his best form for previous yard. However, he finds winning hard as his career record is 1-22 shows.

Verdict: A lot depends on whether Chichester takes his place. If he does, he’s worth chancing. It will be interesting to see how Hartswood fares on his all-weather debut. If he handles the surface he could be the pick of the Richard Fahey pair.

2pts win Chichester –

Newmarket

4:10 – Ametist comes into the race seeking the four timer. He’s just 3lb higher than when winning on the Rowley Course 40-days ago. Lightly raced there is likely more to come from the gelding.

Kimifive is on a losing run that goes back just over two years but he’s on a winnable mark when ll the cards fall right a return to quicker ground and 7f will suit the 6-year-old.

Fox Champion bounced back to some approaching his best when a 1 length 3^rd of 13 at Haydock two starts back. That was his first start since switching to Ralph Beckett. A combination of soft ground and low draw probably didn’t help him when down the field in the Victoria Cup at Ascot last month. He’s better judged on the promise of his Haydock run.

Verdict: Ametist is the right favourite and most likely winner of the race but at the prices It may pay to go with Kimifive & Fox Champion.

1pt win – Kimifive – 7/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Fox Champion – 6/1 – Gen

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A frustrating day on Wednesday. Get Knotted was a non-runner in the Carlisle Bell but the race preview did at least highlight the first two home. It was even more frustrating in the Cumberland Plate as my two selections Croeso Cymraeg & Ravens Ark finished second and third.

Newcastle’s three-day Northumberland Plate meeting starts today and the feature race is the William Hill Seaton Delaval Handicap (3:10).  There’s also a decent looking card at Newmarket’ July course.

Newcastle

3:10 – Chichester won yesterday’s Carlisle Bell. The previous C&D winner is the one to beat under his 5lb penalty if turned out quickly.

Crownthorpe won over C&D in 2019 and was beaten a neck here in December. Back to form when runner-up to the smart Brentford Hope at Nottingham last time.  Capable of big run with Ray Dawson taking off a handy 3lb. One of two runners for Richard Fahey. The other being Hartswood. The 4-year-old looked as good as ever when a strong finishing 3^rd of 14 at York two starts back. Didn’t have the best of passages when stepped up to 1m 2f at Redcar last time. First run on the all-weather and if he handles the surface, is a player.

Artistic Rifles ran well when third over C&D in February, his only start here. He improved further for a return to turf winning the Spring Mile at Doncaster and at Ripon. However, he ran poorly at York on his hat trick bid. In with a good chance if bouncing back.

Baltic Baron shaped much better, than he had done on his stable debut here at York last time when a 3 ¾ length 7^th of 16 over 7f. The return to a mile is a positive for the 6-year-old who is well treated on his best form for previous yard. However, he finds winning hard as his career record is 1-22 shows.

Verdict: A lot depends on whether Chichester takes his place. If he does, he’s worth chancing. It will be interesting to see how Hartswood fares on his all-weather debut. If he handles the surface he could be the pick of the Richard Fahey pair.

Newmarket

4:10 – Ametist comes into the race seeking the four timer. He’s just 3lb higher than when winning on the Rowley Course 40-days ago. Lightly raced there is likely more to come from the gelding.

Kimifive is on a losing run that goes back just over two years but he’s on a winnable mark when ll the cards fall right a return to quicker ground and 7f will suit the 6-year-old.

Fox Champion bounced back to some approaching his best when a 1 length 3^rd of 13 at Haydock two starts back. That was his first start since switching to Ralph Beckett. A combination of soft ground and low draw probably didn’t help him when down the field in the Victoria Cup at Ascot last month. He’s better judged on the promise of his Haydock run.

Verdict: Ametist is the right favourite and most likely winner of the race but at the prices hopefully it will pay to go with Kimifive & Fox Champion.

1pt win – Kimifive – 7/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Fox Champion – 6/1 – Gen

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Carlisle hosts its biggest and most historic flat meeting of its year: Carlisle Bell & Cumberland Plate Day. First run in 1599 the Carlisle Bell is one of horse racing’s oldest prizes and the Cumberland Plate dates to the time of Charles II. I have selections in both races.

Carlisle

3:30 – This season’s Carlisle Bell has attracted a field of 17 runners.

Chichester comes in to the race in good form having finished third in the Zetland Gold Cup at Redcar and runner-up at Haydock last time. The drop to a strongly run mile will suit an he gets the addition of the first time cheekpieces.

Global Spirit a winner at York last season (soft). Returned to that venue to post a seasonal best when 4^th of 15 back at the venue 11-days ago. Shapes like he’s coming back to his best but may prefer easier ground.

Garden Oasis has returned to action in good form finishing runner-up at Ripon and over C&D. Showed a good battling attitude to win after being headed at Ayr three weeks. He’s been raised a 1lb for that effort and must be on high shortlist.

Get Knotted was a ¼ length back in fourth behind Garden Oasis at Ayr. He was doing his best work at the finish that day.  The 9-year-old isn’t the horse he used to be. However, he’s become well treated and is now 11lb below his last winning mark. A strongly run race suits and although stall 13 isn’t ideal he’s got each way claims.

1pt each way – Get Knotted – 16/1 @ Bet365 & Coral (paying 4 places ¼ odds)

1pt win – Garden Oasis – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:05 – Sixteen have been declared for the Cumberland Plate over 1m 4f.

Tricorn has been well placed to win his last four. The 7-year-old has just a 4lb penalty to carry for winning at Thirsk 8-days ago and has a favourites chance.

Croeso Cymraeg got a great ride hold up ride from jockey Dougie Costello to get up inside the final half furlong at Leicester. He’s only been raised 2lb for that success but is arguably in the form of his life. Stall 14 means he will need luck in the run again but will be tough to beat.

Ravens Ark ran on to strongly for his nine rivals when winning at Brighton two starts back. He wasn’t suited by the slow early pace when a 2-length 3^rd of 9 at Goodwood 19-days ago. If he gets a good stamina test, he won’t be far away.

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

1pt win – Ravens Ark – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

We ended a tough five days at Royal Ascot with a win by Stratum in the very last race Queen Alexandra Stakes. Gulliver also ran a cracker to finish 5^th in the Wokingham to grab the each-way money at 20/1. That race was a good one for the service with Fresh finishing runner-up and Chiefofchiefs fourth. Plenty of winners were highlighted in the race previews so although he could have been better, I’m happy with my Royal Ascot efforts.

There are no selections on Sunday and there will be a limited number of selections between now and Thursday. When it’s the start of Newcastle’s three-day Northumberland Plate Meeting which culminates on Saturday with the latest renewal of the “Pitman’s Derby” the William Hill sponsored Northumberland Plate.

Keep your eye on inboxes for any selections in the early part of next week.

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The rain arrived at Royal Ascot. Fortunately, the meeting passed a precautionary lunchtime inspection and meant a profit on the day. Let’s hope we can end the meeting with another profitable day. It’s been a tough meeting and one of the hardest to get a handle for a few years so I’m pleased to be still in with a chance of making a small profit on the week.

There were ton of non-runners on Friday due to the softening ground and I expect plenty more tomorrow.

Royal Ascot – Day 5

Day five gets underway with the Listed Chesham Stakes (2:30) and the feature race is the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (4:20).  

2:30 – Chesham Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 7f

The Aidan O’Brien trained Port Lonsdale looks sure to be popular with punters after his win in a Curragh maiden 17-days ago. The ground was yielding at the Curragh but if he handles today’s softer ground, he’s the one to beat.

Charlie Appleby saddled Pinatubo to win this in 2019 and he’s got a live contender in New Science who made a winning racecourse debut at Yarmouth (good to soft) last month. He’s open to more improvement and looks the main threat to the favourite. A son of Lope De Vega there’s hope in the pedigree that he will handle more testing ground.

3:05 – Jersey Stakes (Group 3) – 7f

The bookies are going 11/2 the field. Ante post favourite Creative Force steps up to 7f for the first time and is racing on soft ground for the first time.

Mutasaabeq was only 6/1 for the 2,000 Guineas after an impressive seasonal reappearance win. He ran below market expectations in 7^th.  A winner on heavy ground on his sole juvenile start. Drop back to 7f looks a good move and he remains capable of better. Stall one doesn’t great though with all the pace looking to be high to.

Light Refrain won a heavy ground Listed race at Nottingham on her seasonal return and ran even better when a 1 length 4^th of 10 in the Group 2 Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock. She was doing her best work at the finish and there’s a good chance she will stay 7f on pedigree.

Fast Raaj won the Group 3 Prix Djebel at Deauville last time. That Group 3 success means he has to give a 3lb penalty away and needs to improve to win but that’s possible as he’s only had four career starts. Seemed to handle heavy on his juvenile debut so should be fine on the ground.

Verdict: At the prices I’m happy to take a chance with Light Refrain and Fast Raaj.

1pt win – Light Refrain – 12/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Fast Raaj – 16/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

3:40 – Hardwicke Stakes (Group 2) – 1m 4f

Wonderful Tonight ran out a good winner of the Group 1 Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes over C&D last October. She’s 4-4 on soft & heavy, including 3-3 on heavy. The rain has come at the right time for her but how fit will she be for her seasonal reappearance.

Hukum won the King George V Stakes (Handicap) over C&D at seasons Royal Ascot. He possibly didn’t stay the St Leger distance when 5th on his final 3-year-old start. A nice reappearance at Sandown over an inadequate 1m 2f on his return and then he went on win a Listed race at Goodwood (soft).  Connections still think he can make up into Group 1 horse so he needs to win this if those lofty aspirations are to be fulfilled.

Albaflora ran out an easy winner of a Listed race over C&D two starts back. Possibly wasn’t suited to track when 4^th in the Coronation Cup at Epsom last time or may have found Group 1 company to hot. Goes well in the mud and like it here.

Logician won the 2019 St Leger. He hasn’t reached that level of form on two starts last season or when 3^rd of 5 at Newbury on his seasonal reappearance.  He was badly in need of the race that day and will strip fitter. Hard to say whether he wants the ground as testing as its likely to be today.  Class horse of the race if bouncing back to his Leger best that’s for sure.

Broome finished a close-up 4^th in the 2019 Derby. Last season was a bit of a write off, just the two starts. Has returned to action in good form winning his first three starts and finished a head 2^nd of 8 in the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup last time. Handles juice in the ground and a return to 1m 4f for the first time this season looks a good one.

4:20 – Diamond Jubilee Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 6f

Starman is likely to be a non-runner.

Dream Of Dreams finally gained a Group 1 success when winning the Haydock Sprint Cup last September and has finished runner-up in this race for the past two seasons, beaten a head on both occasions.  Made a winning return at Windsor and is a worthy favourite.

Glen Shiel had Dream Of Dreams back in 8^th when winning the Champions Sprint over C&D last autumn. Likely needed the run when 4^th of 10 at the Curragh on his seasonal return and should be spot on for this.

Art Power was a 1 length 4^th in the Champions Sprint. It was a good effort by a 3-year-old and he’s well suited to soft ground.  Had a nice prep at York last month and isn’t out of this.

Sonaiyla was only 10^th in the above race but was probably over the top.  Finished one place ahead of Glen Shiel at the Curragh on her return and then went on to win a Group 3 back at the Curragh 17-days ago. Needs a career best to win but could get into the places given her present form.

5:00 – Wokingham Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 6f

Kings Lynn is a surprise runner. The 5-year-old makes a quick turnaround after an unlucky 3 ¼ length 7^th of 16 in the Group 1 King Stand Stakes here on Tuesday. An improving sprinter he’s well in on King Stand form and provided this race doesn’t come to quick will take the beating. Seemed to handle soft ground well enough when second at Doncaster last autumn.

Fresh beat Pendleton a nose over C&D last month. He goes well on soft ground and although he’s up 5lb for that win. The runner-up has gone onto win at York so the form of that race looks solid. Pendleton is up 6lb for his York success but he’s another who goes well on soft/heavy ground.

Punchbowl Flyer comes into the race seeking the hat trick after wins at Windsor and Haydock. Has a 5lb penalty for the latter success but he’s in great form and likes soft ground. Won’t find it easy to dominate the field as he has done the last two times but must be respected.

Chiefofchiefs goes well on the straight course. A winner of last season’s Silver Wokingham off 4lb lower, the 8-year-old has run well with plenty of encouragement on both starts this season Last time out was a 3-length 7^th of 27 here in the Victoria Cup over 7f. Has been trained to peak today and a big run can be expected although who knows whether stall 8 is a good or not.

Gulliver can never be left out of calculations in big field handicaps like this especially on soft ground. Was a 1 ½ length 4^th in this race last year and latter that season beat 20 rivals at York (soft) and is now 3lb below that mark. More encouragement last time when a strong finishing 6^th of 18 at York.  Needs luck in the run but can go well.

Verdict: Apart from Punchbowl Flyer most of the horses I like are drawn low to middle.  He could get to the stands rail and could be hard to peg back. Kings Lynn looks a handicap blot if he handles the quick turnaround.  The old boys Chiefofchiefs and Gulliver like the type of races and should go well. There was plenty to like about Fresh’s C&D win last time and he’s high on the shortlist as is Pendleton.

1pt win – Fresh – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt each way – Gulliver – 18/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (Both paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

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

5:35 – Golden Gates Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m 2f

King Frankel has been steadily progressive on all four starts this season. He finished runner-up in the London Gold Cup and occupied the same position when beaten a nose at Epsom two weeks ago. Didn’t really handle the track last time and can be seen to better effect on a more conventional track. Big contender with Frankie Dettori booked.

River Alwen was 4 ½ lengths behind King Frankel in the London Gold Cup and gets 9lb form that one today. Stall 18 will be tricky to negotiate but he’s a definite contender.

Foxes Tale is one of the least experienced of the field. A winner of a Newbury maiden on his return to action, He was fancied for Chester’s Dee Stakes but was slowly away and didn’t seem to handle track. Handicap debut off a workable and can go well if he handles today’s rain softened ground.

Fantastic Fox easily won a Hamilton maiden last time and prior to that had finished a respectable 1 ¾ length 3^rd of 10 to Sky Lantern at Newbury.  Workable mark for his handicap debut and step up to 1m 2f. Should be fine on soft ground but his stamina for the distance will be tested here.

Alfaadhel has won his last two and is going the right way. Looks nicely treated for his handicap debut but really soft ground would be an unknown for the colt although he won on good to soft at Chester two starts back.

The Richard Fahey pair of Seasett & Pythagoras will both appreciate soft ground. The former is up 7lb for finishing 2^nd of 10 in the Silver Bowl at Haydock. Needs to improve again for the step up to 1m 2f. Pythagoras won a soft ground Listed race at Pontefract on his final juvenile start. Not disgraced when 6^th of 10 in the Group 2 Dante Stakes last time and this is a drop-in class for the colt.

Visualisation has won two of his last three since going on turf. He battled on well to win to beat 15 rivals in a Curragh handicap last month. Both turf wins have come on soft/heavy and although he’s been raised 7lb for his last win there could be plenty more to come from the colt. Stamina on the dam side suggests he will stay 1m 2f.

Verdict: Both King Frankel and River Alwen are respected on their London Gold Cup form, The latter has every chance at the revised weight but stall 18 at this distance tempers enthusiasm. Alfaadhel is a good prospect but testing ground is an unknown. Foxes Tale is capable of better but is another with a wide draw. Pythagoras could be the pick of the Fahey pair and is respected. As is the improving Visualisation who goes well on soft ground.

1pt win – Visualisation – 12/1 @ William Hill

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

6:10 – Queen Alexandra Stakes (Class 2) – 2m 5 ½ f

Falcon Eight won the Chester Cup last time. He’s got a good chance at the weights but will likely want the ground to dry out.

Stratum bids to give Willie Mullins a third win the race. The 8-year-old is highest of these on official ratings and he did win the 2019 Cesarewitch on soft ground.

Stag Horn won over 2m 2f at Pontefract last autumn. No problem with soft ground that day and should be suited by a severe stamina test like this. Found things to quick when 4^th of 6 in the Group 2 Sagaro Stakes here on his return to action. Sharper today and will like the return to testing ground.

Morando was third to Hukum in Goodwood Listed race last time. Track and ground fine, stamina for this marathon trip is an unknown but he’s got a good chance st the weights if he does stay.

Verdict: A better renewal than normal. Stag Horn will relish the return to testing ground and is improving stayer but preference is for Stratum today.

1pt win – Stratum – 5/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Day four of Royal Ascot is almost upon us. This year’s Royal Meeting is proving decidedly tough. It’s a long time since the handicaps were as competitive as these have been and today looks no easier. The forecast 28mm’s of rain never arrived, in fact just 3mm fell at the track. However, it’s looking more nailed on that there will be heavy rain overnight and all day tomorrow. Surely this band of rain will arrive to ease the ground significantly.

The juvenile fillies get the card underway in the Albany Stakes (2:30). There are also two Group 1’s on the card: The Commonwealth Cup (3:40) and the Coronation Stakes (4:15).  Like Wednesday the card concludes with three big field handicaps.

Royal Ascot – Day 4

2:30 – Albany Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) – 6f

Ralph Beckett saddled a winner here yesterday and he’s got a good chance of adding another here with Hello You. The well-bred daughter of Invincible Spirit made an impressive winning racecourse debut at Wolverhampton last month. Looked a smart prospect that day when quickening up in the straight to go clear of her rivals inside the final furlong. Should be capable of reaching Group level. She’s out of a Pivotal mare so there’s a decent chance she will handle rain softened ground.

Cachet made a winning Newmarket racecourse debut for George Boughey. She looked a useful prospect that day and handled good to soft last time. Should be there or thereabouts.

The best filly in the field long term may not win today and it’s Aidan O’Brien’s Prettiest. The daughter of Dubawi out of Group 1 winning mare made a winning a racecourse debut at Navan 19-days ago. That win came on yielding ground but her dam was at her best on quick ground. She’s already been backed for next seasons 1,000 Guineas.

3:05 – King Edward VII Stakes (Group 2) (Colts & Geldings) – 1m 4f

Alenquer had Derby winner Adayar back in second when causing a 25/1 shock in the Classic Trial at Sandown. Won on soft ground last year so so shouldn’t have any issues with the forecast rain. The step up to 1m 4f can bring out more improvement in the colt.

The Mediterranean won a Leopardstown maiden (good) on his seasonal return and improved further when a ¾ length 2^nd of 8 in the Listed Nijinsky Stakes over today’s distance. He’s open to further improvement and could be St Leger horse.

Title runner-up on his first two starts got off the mark at Yarmouth (good to sof) last time. The first two pulled clear of the third.  Interesting that Roger Varian ups the colt into Group 2 company rather than take advantage of a mark of 92 in handicaps.

3:40 – Commonwealth Cup (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 6f

French filly Suesa is unbeaten on four career starts and impressed when quickening clear of her rivals to win a Group 3 at Chantilly last time. Three of those wins have come on soft and heavy so underfoot conditions should hold no terrors for her.

Campanelle won the Queen Mary here last year and followed up in the Group 1 Prix Morny at Deauville. It was good to soft at Deauville so she should be ok should the ground ease.

Supremacy a high-class juvenile winning three of his four starts, culminating in success in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket. Ran too bad to be true when last of eight over C&D on his seasonal reappearance. The first-time blinkers are applied today but I wonder if the ground has gone against him.

Dragon Symbol won his first four starts and maintained his improvement when a nose 2^nd of 10 in the Group 2 Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock. Had no issues with heavy ground last time and looks set for another big performance.

Method was 2 ¼ lengths back in fifth in the Sandy Lane. That was the colt’s seasonal return and he’s entitled to be spot on fitness wise here. Trainer Martyn Meade knowss what’s required to win this as he saddled Advertise to win in 2019.

Jumby put in a smart handicap performance to win at Newmarket (good to soft) last month. Takes a big jump in class here and soft ground is an unknown but I think he will go well if handling it.

A Case Of You disappointed when upped to 7f behind Poetic Flare two starts back but returned to winning ways back over 6f in a Group 3 at Naas last month. The rain is coming at the right time for the colt who is 3-3 on soft.  Need to improve again to win this but on soft ground maybe he will.

4:20 – Coronation Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) (Fillies) – 1m

Mother Earth won the English 1,000 Guineas and then handled softer ground when runner-up in the French 1,000 Guineas. Ryan Moore chooses here ahead of stablemate Empress Josephine.

German 1,000 Guineas winner Novemba won’t find it easy to dominate this field as she did last time. However, she does go on soft ground and is a very interesting runner.

Pretty Gorgeous won the Group 1 Fillies Mile at Newmarket (soft) on her final juvenile start. She shaped like the run was needed when 3 ½ length 7^th of 14 in the Irish 1,000 Guineas.

Empress Josephine showed much improved form to win the Irish 1,000 Guineas. More improvement to come and further will suit her on the evidence of her Curragh win. The more testing the ground the better her chance.

Fev Rover finished 3^rd behind Mother Earth in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket but ran well below that form in the Irish version. Yard going better now and she’s surely better than she was able to show last time.

Primo Bacio showed a high class turn of footto win a Listed race at York last month. The ground was good that day and she’s yet to race on ground worse than good. Unexposed over the distance and likely capable of better.

Snow Lantern a good winner of Newbury maiden against the males on her seasonal return. The daughter of Sky Lantern, who won this is 2013, pulled far to hard to do herself justice behind Primo Bacio at York. Remains a potentially smart prospect but needs to settle better than she did last time and soft ground be an unknown.

Verdict: We have three Guineas winners in the line-up Mother Earth, Empress Josephine and Novemba and potential improvers in Primo Bacio and Snow Lantern. Softer ground will bring Empress Josephine’s stamina into play and I prefer her claims to stablemate Mother Earth. Novemba is an interesting runner from Germany, Fev Rover isn’t out of this if she can reproduce her English 1,000 Guineas third.

1pt win – Empress Josephine – 7/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – Novemba – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:00 – Sandringham Stakes (Handicap) (Fillies) – 1m

Glesga Girl showed she has trained on from 2 to 3 with a tidy win at Wolverhampton on her seasonal return at Wolverhampton 25-days ago. Up 10lb, Mark Crehan takes off a handy 3lb, but she’s going the right eye and likely there is a better performance in her.

You can give plenty a chance including Samoot who had a wide trip when only 5^th behind Glesga Girl at Wolverhampton and is better judged on her win at Salisbury two starts back.

Create Belief a winner at Gowran Park on her reappearance bounced back from a poor run at Navan Listed race when making a winning handicap debut at the Curragh 27-days ago, It was soft to heavy that day and soft when she won at Gowran Park. Up 10lb but the time was decent and the forecast rain does give her a solid chance out of stall 16.

Verdict: Glesga Girl is likely capable of better and the rain will hopefully have come for Creative Belief.

1pt win – Glesga Girl – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Create Belief – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:35 – Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m 4f

Plenty in with a chance again. Jeremiah won over C&D last summer and had been trained for this race. He’s a tricky one to with me but is on a competitive mark. Not sure he will be seen at his best on soft ground though.

Sam Cooke was beaten a nose by Jeremiah over C&D and gets a 2lb pull here. He’s become a bit inconsistent sort but ran well for long way on his reappearance, only headed at the furlong mark, when 6^th of 16 at York. On a good mark and has won on soft ground in the past.

Raymond Tusk finished runner-up in that York race. He’s another on a handy mark although may need a bit further to exploit it. Stall one could be tricky in a big field around here over 1m 4f.

Win O’Clock would be a welcome winner for Roger Charlton. He was a 1 ¼ lengths behind Raymond Tusk in 4^th in the York race. The 4-year-old had a good season last year winning four times and goes well in the mud. Must be respected.

Mirann has a big race in him. Back to his best when a ½ 2^nd of 11 at the Curragh last time.

Zabeel Champion has been well placed to win his last three on good to firm. Showed a good attitude at the finish to hold off a couple of challengers in the final 50-yds. Nudged up 2lb and on different ground but he seemed to handle soft ground when winning at Newmarket last July.

Quickthorn a winner at Kempton last summer. He made a winning seasonal reappearance at Haydock (good to soft) 20-days ago. An 8 ½ length success means the 4-year-old has been raised 13lb but he’s lightly raced for his age and open to more improvement. Trainer Hughie Morrison saddled the winner of this in 2003, 2010 and 2015.

Verdict: The improving Quickthorn is a worthy favourite, Zabeel Champion is tough at the finish and his winning run may not have ended. The likes of Mirann & Win O’Clock have each way claims and the latter goes well on easy ground. Jeremiah & Sam Cooke have good form over C&D but the former maybe better on a sounder surface.

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

1pt win – Sam Cooke – 9/1 @ Bet365

6:10 – Palace Of Holyroodhouse Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 5f

Warrior Brave showed improved form to win at Goodwood (good to firm) two starts back and improved again when running Atalis Bay in Listed race at Sandown 6-days ago. The front two pulled nicely clear of the third. The blinkers replace the cheekpieces but the likely softer ground is a bit of a unknown.

No going concerns for Mo Celita. The filly has won her last five on ground from good to firm to heavy. Up 8lb for her last win but could still be a head of the handicapper. Osin Murphy booked and not discounted easily if the rain has come.

Popmaster has finished runner-up on his last two starts. Just 1lb higher for a nose defeat at Doncaster last time, gave the winner first run that day, drop back to a strongly run 5f looks a positive but soft ground would be an unknown.

Significantly had Jumby back in third when runner-up to Creative Force at Newmarket two starts back and ran just as well when runner-up to Dragon Symbol at Hamilton last time. Looks nicely treated on the form of his last starts and could get into the places but doesn’t always find much at the end of his races.

Boomshalaa is one of the least exposed in the field having just had the three career starts. Has won her last two over 6f at Windsor & Kempton. Found plenty for pressure at Windsor. Drops back to 5f for his handicap debut but is open to plenty of improvement. A strongly run 5f could suit but soft ground asks a new question of the colt.

Verdict: Plenty of the fancied horses must show they handle significant ease in the ground. One who won’t be concerned by a deluge of rain is Mo Celita. Boomshalaa is an improver going the right way and is on a workable mark for his handicap debut but soft ground is an unknown. Same for the inform Warrior Brave who looks interesting in the first-time blinkers.

1pt win – Mo Celita – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Warrior Brave – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Good morning all,

The weather is about to change big time over the next couple of days. If the weather forecasters are right Ascot could see plenty of rain up until Saturday. It’s going to make punting a bit of a nightmare. I would advise plenty of caution on the betting side over the next few days and wait until you know exactly how much rain has fallen.

Update: Ascot seems to have missed most of the heavy rain and according to clerk of the course Chris Stickels the going is still good to firm.

Royal Ascot – Day 3

The 2-year-old’s get day three underway with the Norfolk Stakes (2:30) and the card ends with three tough looking handicaps. The feature race of the day and of the meeting is the Ascot Gold Cup (4:15). In which Stradivarius bids to win the race for a fourth successive year.

2:30 – Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) – 5f

I’m sweet on the chance of the Aidan O’Brien trained colt Cadamosto until the rain arrives. The son of No Nay Never created a good impression when winning at Dundalk on his racecourse debut in April and looks a smart prospect.

Twilight Jet showed improved form to win at the third time of asking at Tipperary (good) 16-days ago. There should be more to come from the colt who was suited by the strong pace last time.

Project Dante showed a good battling attitude to win at York on his racecourse debut. The form of that race looks solid and he merits serious consideration. His dam won on good to soft so there’s a good chance he will be effective on an easy surface.

Trainer David Loughnane had the first two home in the final handicap here yesterday. He saddles Go Bears Go who won over C&D on his racecourse debut last month.  The ground was soft that day so we know he handles rain softened ground. Its hard to say whether stall five is good or not but he’s my idea of the winner.

Verdict: If it was good ground, no worse I would like Cadamosta if not I’m with Go Beats Go.

3:05 – Hampton Court Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 2f

Mohaafeth a late withdrawal from the Derby on account of the softening ground will be a warm order here. However, will the exciting colt run?

One Ruler will appreciate any rain. He was only 6^th in the Derby. He likely didn’t stay 1m 4f and didn’t handle Epsom undulations either. Capable of better back at 1m 2f.

Roman Empire has them all stretched when trying to make all in the Dante and wasn’t beaten far in 4^th. No issues with ease in the ground but needs to improve again to win this.

Movin Time made a winning seasonal reappearance when quickening clear of eight rivals in a Newmarket maiden last month. The form of that race got a boost her yesterday when the runner-up Kemari won the Queen Vase. An exciting prospect who can give the favourite a race.

Verdict: Let’s hope Mohaafeth takes his place in the lineup.  Movin Time can give him a race if he does.

3:40 – Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2) (Fillies) – 1m 4f

Noon Star runner-up to subsequent Oaks winner Snowfall in the Musidora at York was forced to miss Epsom due to a blood disorder. The filly won a maiden at Nottingham on soft ground so ground shouldn’t be an issue and she’s bred to improve for the step up to 1m 4f.

Dubai Fountain only beat two home in the Oaks, possibly was unsuited by the track. The Cheshire Oaks winner is surely better than she was able to show at Epsom and back on a more conventional track should be in the mix.

Eshaada comes into the race bidding for the hat trick after wins at Nottingham last season and Newbury last month. Both those successes came on soft ground so any rain won’t inconvenience her. Shapes like she should stay 1m 4f.

Gloria Mundi was a neck behind Eshaada at Newbury and she’s bred to improve over 1m 4f. Needs to settle better than she did last time though.  Yard have saddled the winner of the Ribblesdale in three of the last four seasons. One of three runners from the yard.

Divinely improved to finish third in the Oaks last time and given she raced more to the centre of the track was a bit unlucky not to finish runner-up. Capable of another good run if this race doesn’t come to quick.

Ad Infinitum was thrown in the deep end, on just her second career start, in a Listed race at Goodwood. However, that didn’t stop her from winning. Not sure how strong the form is but it was run on soft ground and the daughter of Golden Horn is going the right way and has an each-way chance.

Verdict: The improving Eshaada would be the pick if rain has arrived. Otherwise, Noon Star looks a worthy favourite.

4:15 – Gold Cup (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 2m 4f

Stradivarius bids for fourth Gold Cup success. Clearly, he’s the one to beat but I do think this is a much stronger field than he faced last year.

Trueshan relished the testing ground when bolting up here in the Long-Distance Cup on Champions Day.  He will be sharper for his Chester reappearance and the softer the ground the better his chance of beating an on-song Stradivarius.

Spanish Mission won the Yorkshire Cup on his seasonal reappearance and showed he stayed 2m 2f when winning last year’s Doncaster Cup. Has a good turn of foot for a stayer and can’t be totally dismissed here but his chance would be enhanced on quicker ground.

Twilight Payment won last year’s Melbourne Cup. He stays 2m but a real test over 2m 4f could just stretch his stamina.

Subjectivist made all to win the 2m Group 1 Prix Royal Oak (Heavy) at Longchamp on his final start of 2020 and looked as good as ever when winning Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan on World Cup Night. Every chance he will stay 2m 4f and although he needs to improve a bit further its possible, he can.

Emperor Of The Sun is a lively enough outsider. The 4-year-old won a 1m 6f Listed race at Leopardstown last time. A good chance he will stay this marathon trip and has each way claims if doing so.

Princess Zoe hasn’t been at her best on either start this season but must be respected on the form of her win in the Group 1 Prix Du Cadran (heavy) over today’s distance. The mare is at her best on soft/heavy ground and has lively each way claims if the track gets a deluge of rain.

Verdict: It will take a good one to beat Stradivarius but I think the likes of Trueshan & Subjectivist can give him a race. If the heavens have opened Princess Zoe would be an each way bet.

1pt win – Subjectivist – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:00 – Britannia Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Colts & Geldings) (Class 2) – 1m

The first of three tough handicaps. With the first two for 3-year-olds only.

Air To Air bids for the hat trick after wins at Newmarket (soft) and Doncaster (good to firm) last time. The likely strong pace will suit the gelding who showed at Doncaster that he’s at bis best coming from behind. He’s also got the ideal jockey in Jamie Spencer to execute such tactics here.

Raadobarg followed up his win in a Thirsk novice (soft) with a decisive win in the Silver Bowl on his handicap debut at Haydock last time.  His Haydock win came on heavy ground so no problems with plenty of ease in the ground.  The handicapper has taken no chances with the colt as as he’s raised him 11lb. Still, he’s one to keep on side, for a yard that saddled last year’s winner.

Liffey River was a 2-length 2^nd of 13 on his handicap debut at the Curragh last time. He’s another who seems at his best with plenty of ease in the ground. A winner over a mile as a juvenile he will be suited by a return to a mile here.

Aerion Power has won his last three. He doesn’t win his races by much which can make life difficult for the handicapper. He’s up 7lb for his latest win at Doncaster (good to firm). As a hold up horse the fast pace will suit and although stall means he will have to stay far side I could see him getting in to the places on quick ground.

Verdict: Air To Air is a worthy market leader but I just prefer the claims of Raadobarg and Aerion Power if the ground remains on the quicker side of good for the latter.

1pt win – Raadobarg – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt each way – Aerion Power – 20/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (both paying 4 places ¼ odds)

5:35 – King George V Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m 4f

Plenty in with a chance here.  First Light took to soft ground when winning at Ripon 32-days ago. Makes his handicap debut here and is open to further improvement for the step up to  1m 4f.

Sir Lamorak hasn’t been seen since a smooth success on his handicap debut over 1m 2f at Leopardstown in April.  Should stay 1m 4f and although he was raised 15lb for his last success a mark of 100 could still underestimate the colt who had a Derby entry and was ante post favourite for the Chester Vase until a late withdrawal on account of the softening ground.  That withdrawal would be a worry here but he would have a favourites chance if the rain wasn’t as bad as forecast.

Nagano won a Nottingham maiden on good to soft and improved to win on the tapeta at Newcastle 23-days ago. Handicap debut off a workable mark and is bred to improve for the step up to 1m 4f. Looks one to keep on side.

Lord Protector is another capable of improvement for the step up to 1m 4f. A winner at Windsor (good to firm) he followed up on soft ground at Salisbury on his handicap debut last month.  The handicapper has raised him 6lb for that last success but he could be capable of better.

Tashkhan was just touched off at York on his first start for Brian Ellison but made no mistake when winning at Haydock (soft) 20-days ago. The handicapper has hiked him up 11lb which makes life difficult but he’s going the right way.

Surrey Gold won by 7 lengths at Newbury (good to soft)last monthon just his second start on turf. He’s been raised 12lb for that win but he’s bred to improve more for the step up to 1m 4f. Dam won on soft ground so ground easier than good to soft should pose too much of a problem for the colt who rate higher than a mark of 87.

Verdict: Sir Lamorak could be Group class and if the ground is good is the one to beat. On softer ground I’m very sweet on the chance of Surrey Gold and Nagano.

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

1pt win – Surrey Gold – 9/1 @ Bet365

6:10 – Buckingham Palace Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 7f

Persuasion put in a clear best effort on RPR’s when beating 12 rivals at Haydock 54-days ago. It was good to firm that day but he showed he was effective on heavy on his final start of 2020. Just 3lb higher he could be capable of better still.

Interesting to see Bielsa come here rather than go for Saturday’s Wokingham. He’s been in good form this season and was only beaten a nose at Haydock last time. Up 4lb but remains a winnable mark if he stays today’s extra furlong.

Jack’s Point shaped better than his 13^th of 27 in the Victoria Cup over C&D suggests last time. Was first in the small group that race far side. That was his first start for 8 months and he should be sharper here. Again, drawn low in stall 4 but did finish a 1 ¼ length 2^nd of 23 in this race last season and can be expected to go well again.

Lord Campari is one of the least exposed runners in the field. A winner over a mile at Newbury last season. The 4-year-old hasn’t really built on that win on subsequent starts in better company but he wasn’t totally disgraced when 6^th of 11 behind Palace Pier in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes on his seasonal return.  The drop back to 7f could suit as will ease in the ground.

Danyah finished 4^th in the Lincoln and runner-up in the Spring Cup last time. A strong traveller, a well-run 7f could be ideal for the 4-year-old whose been raised 3lb for his last performance.

Boardman bids for the four timer but despite a 6lb rise for winning at Chester last time he still looks ahead of the handicapper. Easy ground suits but a straight 7f demands something different from the 5-year-old as this season’s three wins have come around a bend.

Blue Mist likely needed his Newbury seasonal reappearance and first run since a wind op. He’s just 3lb higher than winning the International Handicap over C&D (good to form) last July. Ideally suited by a cavalry charge here over either 7f or a mile. He seems likely to go well again.

Aldaary is the only 3-year-old in the field. A winner of his first three starts the first two on heavy and a C&D winner in May (good to soft). He was set plenty to do when a 3 ¼ length 3^rd of 11 at Goodwood 26-days ago. Capable of more improvement and set for a good run back here.

Tomfre rattled off a hat trick on soft/heavy last autumn. He was doing his best work at the finish at York last time and should go well although he’s vulnerable to better handicapped horses.

Ropey Guest has put in some of his best efforts over C&D. Finishing 4^th in last season’s Group 3 Jersey Stakes and he made an encouraging return to action when a staying on 2 ¼ length 6^th of 27 in the Victoria Cup. Goes very well in the mud and although he remains 0-15 on turf, he’s the type to out run his odds in races like this.

Verdict: A typically competitive handicap and you can make a strong case for nine or ten of the runners. If Boardman handles the straight course, he will take the beating. Blue Mist can never be ruled out over C&D. Lord Campari is unexposed and could be suited by the drop back to 7f. If the ground isn’t too bad both Persuasion and Jack’s Point can run well.

1pt win – Blue Mist – 16/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Persuasion – 12/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A super day of action at Royal Ascot yesterday. Helped of course, by backing a couple of winners in Oxted & Poetic Flare.

It’s day two and all the action gets underway with speedy juvenile fillies in the Group 2 Queen Mary Stakes (2:30).  

I have had a look at all seven races on the card in this preview.

Royal Ascot – Day 2

2:30 – Queen Mary Stakes (Group 2) (Fillies) – 5f

Andrew Balding saddled the winner of the Coventry Stakes yesterday and his runner Nymphadora must have a good chance here. Building on the promise of her Newmarket racecourse debut, she won the Listed Marygate Stakes at York last month. Today’ stiffer 5f will suit and she won’t be far away. Mas Poder was 2 lengths back in 4^th at York but that was her racecourse debut and she ran green that day and is open to further improvement.

Desert Dreamer had beaten Nymphadora on her racecourse debut at Newmarket and followed up at the same track last month. The latter win came over 6f but the forecast strong pace will suit the daughter of Oasis Dream. Each claims in an open race.

It’s not a race that Aidan O’Brien has had much success in recent season. His runner Yet looked a nice prospect when winning on her racecourse debut at Dundalk and must be a contender.

Wesley Ward saddles Twilight Gleaming. Unlike O’Brien, Ward has saddled three winners of the race since 2015. Twilight Gleaming blitzed her field when winning at Belmont (firm) 38-days ago. Must be respected given connections.

Illustrating looked a smart prospect when winning at Catterick on her racecourse debut. Open to plenty more improvement on her second career start. Didn’t seem to lack speed last time but should stay further than 5f as the season progresses.

Verdict: Desert Dreamer and recent Catterick winner Illustrating both look interesting.

1pt each way – Desert Dreamer – 12/1 @ Bet365 (paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

3:05 – Queen’s Vase (Group 2) – 1m 6f

Wordsworth runner-up to High Definition on his sole juvenile start made a winning seasonal reappearance at the Curragh.  He was a beaten when an odds-on favourite, by a stablemate, in a Navan Listed race last time. That form gives a good chance here and he remains open to further progress.

Dancing King comes into the race having won his last four starts all in handicap company. Improved when stepped up to an extended 1m 6f at Doncaster last time and goes well on quick ground. He’s another open to further progress.

Taipan hasn’t built on the promise of his seasonal return when third to Bolshoi Ballet at Leopardstown. He’s been slowly away on all three starts this season and looked a bit lazy when only 4^th in a Group 3 at the Curragh. The first-time blinkers go on and that looks a good move. Steps up from 1m 2f but should stay and the strong pace will suit.

Joseph O’Brien saddles a couple of contenders in Ruling & Benaud. Ruling looked like he would be suited by a step up to today’s distance when a 1 ½ length 3^rd of 8 at Leopardstown 13-days ago. Benaud looked to have improved for the gelding operation when making a winning return at Naas last month. Open to further improvement for the step up to 1m 6f and Colin Keane has been booked for the ride.

Verdict: Wordsworth looks capable of better but at the prices I prefer Dancing King and the first-time blinkered Taipan.

1pt win – Dancing King – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

1pt win – Taipan – 9/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

3:40 – Duke Of Cambridge Stakes (Group 2) – 1m

Lady Bowthorpe made a winning seasonal reappearance in a Group 2 at Newmarket before finishing runner-up to Palace Pier in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury. Although, she must give away a 3lb penalty here. A reproduction of her Lockinge run would make her hard to beat back against her own sex but she may have been flattered by close proximity to the easy winner that day.

Queen Power finished runner-up to Lady Bowthorpe at Newmarket but went one better when winning a York Group 2 over an extended 1m 2f. Only third in this race last season and although she looks to have improved this season she may be better over further.

Champers Elysees was one of the most improved horses in training last year going from handicap company to winning the Group 1 Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. Needs to bounce back from two below par runs this season and has a 5lb penalty to give away.

Double Or Bubble impressed when winning a handicap at Newmarket on her seasonal reappearance. The 4-year-old has only had four career starts is suited to quick ground and is open plenty of improvement. She has plenty to find on official ratings with Lady Bowthorpe but with progress expected. I think she can go close if it stays dry.

Verdict:  Lady Bowthorpe is the one to beat but I’m going with the unexposed Double Or Bubble who should stay a mile and will love the quick ground.

4:20 – Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (Group 1) – 1m 2f

Just the seven have been declared for the big race of day two but it looks a strong field. Last season’s 1,000/Oaks heroine Love heads the ante post betting on her first start for 300-days. This her first start against the colts & geldings but she’s the one to beat if fully tuned up. Stablemate Armory made a winning reappearance in the Huxley Stakes at Chester last month. This is his trip and he’s suited by good ground. Remains with the potential to be a high class 4-year-old.

Lord North has a great turn of foot as she showed when winning this race in 2020 and a Group 1 in Meydan on World Cup Night. Rates the main danger to the favourite on ratings but was found to have bled after his Meydan success.

Audarya won the Breeders Cup Fillies & Mares at Keeneland on her final start of 2020 and prior to the that had finished a length second to the smart Tarnawa in the Group 1 Prix de l’Opera at Longchamp. Not totally out of this on ratings. However, she probably needs to find out a bit more improvement to win.

Verdict: How fit will Love be for her seasonal return. At the prices it be worth siding with her stablemate Armory who looked good when winning at Chester and could be set for a good season.

5:00 – Royal Hunt Cup (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m

It looks a good renewal of this annual calvary charge down the Ascot straight mile.

Finest Sound finished runner-up in last season’s Britannia Handicap over C&D and won at Haydock 53-days ago. Up 3lb but gets his ideal conditions today and given he goes well here must be high on the shortlist.

Irish Admiral was a big eyecatcher when a 2 ½ length 3^rd of 12 at York two starts back. Didn’t seem to like the soft ground or the track when beaten favourite at Epsom last time. Can be forgiven that run and a strongly run mile could suit the lightly raced 4-year-old.

Magical Morning put in a career best effort when 1 ½ length 2^nd of 12 to Matthew Flinders at Doncaster last September. Up 2lb for his seasonal return but looks the sort to land a decent handicap pot this season and is 2-2 on good to firm ground.

Matthew Flinders is another who’s at his best on a sound surface as showed last season. Made a promising return to action when a 1 ½ length 3^rd of 16 in the Spring Cup at Newbury. Another poor run at York since but the straight mile here could really play to his strengths.

Grove Ferry looked an improver when winning at Chester. Although he’s been raised 4lb for that win he won a shade cozily that day and is going the right way.

Astro King beat Finest Sound at Nottingham on his seasonal return and maintained his improvement when a ¾ length 3^rd of 15 in the Thirsk Hunt Cup. Was doing his best work at the finish that day and may be capable of better.

Beat Le Bon is now 1lb below his last winning mark when landing the 2019 Golden Mile at Goodwood. The 5-year-old finished a neck second to Stunning Beauty at Doncaster 12-days ago. Nicely treated, if all the cards fall right and is well suited to quick ground. Stall 2 may not be great if they come over to the stands side.

Escobar wasn’t suited by the race when only 5^th in the Group 3 Diomed Stakes at Epsom last time. The previous C&D winner is better judged on his ¾ length 3^rd of 27 in the Victoria Cup here over 7f, despite being slowly away. Stall 14 should be fine and although he’s the type to need luck in the run has each way claims if breaking on terms.

Verdict: Matthew Flinders looks an ideal type for this race. Magical Morning makes his seasonal reappearance here but has been aimed at this race. Astro King looks capable of better and is closely matched with Finest Sound. Irish Admiral was really disappointing at Epsom last time but could be suited by this sort of test. At big odds you can make each way cases for both Beat Le Bon and C&D winner Escobar.

1pt win – Matthew Flinders – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Magical Moment – 7/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Finest Sound – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:35 – Windsor Castle Stakes (Listed Race) – 5f

I was impressed with Tipperary Sunset’s win in the 2-year-old Trophy at Beverley last time. A stiff track seems to suit him and if he handles the quick ground can go close.

The Wesley Ward trained filly Ruthin is the ante post favourite based on her easy win at Keeneland on her racecourse debut.

Dig Two comes into the race having won at Newmarket (good to firm) and at Chelmsford. Drawn high and most of the pace looks to be middle to high so should go well.

Chipotle won over C&D two starts back but ran poorly on soft ground at Sandown last time. That run is best forgiven and he will be suited by the quick underfoot conditions.

Spring Is Sprung improved on his Windsor racecourse debut when showing a good attitude to win back at the same venue 51-days ago. That win came on good to firm ground so the going will suit. Looks the type to improve further and if stall 9 isn’t an inconvenience has each way claims.

Verdict: Tipperary Sunset looked useful when winning at Beverley last time.  Spring Is Sprung is capable of more improvement. Dig Two has some of the best English form and can go close.

6:10 – Kensington Palace Stakes (Handicap) (Fillies & Mares) (Class 2) – 1m

A tricky end to the card with eighteen fillies over the round mile. It looks like there will be plenty of pace on and there’s likely to be a few hard luck stories.

Stunning Beauty won her first two starts in novice company on good, good to firm ground last season before disappointing on two starts in Meydan. However, she returned to winning ways at Doncaster last Friday. There was plenty to like about how she battled on inside the final furlong to hold off her Beat Le Bon & Scottish Summit. Her Doncaster success means she gets a 5lb penalty and if stall 3 isn’t a hindrance should go well.

Dreamloper won here over the straight mile last season. She caught the eye when a 1 ¼ length 4^th of 13 at Haydock on her seasonal return and put in a career best effort when beaten a short head by one of today’s rivals Lights On here on soft ground last time. Has been raised 5lb for that performance but this has likely been the target.

Lights On is on the up and although she must give 1lb to Dreamloper, a big field and a more strongly run race will suit her. Has a wide draw in stall 17 to overcome but she will be dropped in and ridden for luck by Ryan Moore.

Lolo The Showgirl put in a career best when winning at York on her seasonal return 25-days ago. The ground was soft that day but she’s only been raised 2lb for York win and if she’s as good on quicker ground must be there or thereabouts.

Trainer David Loughnane also saddles Ffion. The 4-year-old won her first two starts at Wolverhampton and has finished runner-up on her two starts at Haydock in handicap company.  Up 2lb for her last run but remains capable of better. Both turf runs have come on heavy ground but there is hope on pedigree that she could be better suited by a sound surface.

Caspian Queen put in a career best effort when winning at Kempton on just her second start at 7f. Only up 2lb for that win and shaped like she would be worth a try at a mile. Interesting if she stays out of stall 16.

Verdict: Plenty in with a chance here. Last time out winners Lights On and Stunning Beauty are big contenders. Both David Loughnane runners Lola The Showgirl and Ffion have to be respected in particular the latter. If Caspian Queen stays the mile, she’s handicapped to go close.

Lights On – 13/2 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

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

1pt win – Caspian Queen – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Royal Ascot is here. The meeting is set to begin in sunny and hot weather and on good to firm ground although a thundery breakdown is expected on Wednesday night/Thursday morning. Later in the week who knows, its Britain after all. At least we know what the ground will be like for the next two days. All the action gets underway at 2:30.

My present form tipping wise is dire so I need to pull my finger out over the next five days.  It’s a bit of a cliché but Royal Ascot is marathon not a sprint so I am not going over the top tipping wise today.

Royal Ascot – Day 1

2:30 – Queen Anne Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 1m

Despite stall 11 its hard to look beyond hot favourite Palace Pier who is the best colt in Europe in my opinion. Order Of Australia dropped back to a mile to win the Breeders’ Cup Mile at Keeneland in November. Sir Busker goes well here over the straight mile and has each way claims. As does Bless Him whose 2-3 over C&D and goes well on quick ground.

3:05 – Coventry Stakes (Group 2) – 6f

Kaufymaker, trained by Wesley Ward, has been subject to good reports and its interesting that the trainer has opted to run the filly in this race.

Gisburn built on the promise of his racecourse debut when making all to win at Newbury last month. He looks an exciting juvenile prospect although he’s unlikely to get his own way like he did last time.

Ebro River has won his last two starts. He still looked green when hitting the front when successful in the Listed Stakes at Sandown last time. Both wins have come over 5f, on soft ground He stay the extra furlong but does have stall one to overcome. If his wide draw isn’t an inconvenience and he handles today’s much quicker ground he won’t be far away.

Aidan O’Brien has saddled four of the last ten winners of the race so his sole representative The Acropolis must be respected.

Verdict: Ebro River looks a high-class juvenile but today’s quick ground asks a different questionof him. Gisburn is another good prospect should be fine on the ground and can go close.

3:40 – King’s Stand Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) (Class 1) – 5f

Battaash will like the ground and last year’s winner has a great record when fresh – 5 wins from 5 runs when returning from a 121+day break. His preparation for the race has been interrupted by a fracture but he’s still the one to beat.

Winter Power was so impressive when making all to win a York Listed race on her seasonal return. A big step up in class here but she’s potential Group 1 sprinter. Her blistering pace will have plenty in trouble but can she hold on over this stiff 5f?

Oxted last year’s July Cup winner over 6f will like the quick ground and is interesting on his first start over the minimum trip.  Hasn’t really fired on either start this season but the stiff track will suit as should the likely strong pace.

American raider Extravagant Kid won the Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint. That was over 6f but a strongly run 5f on quick ground could really suit the 8-year-old.

Kings Lynn is going the right way and we likely haven’t seen the best of the 4-year-old. He could get into the money for The Queen. Stablemate Stone Of Destiny is well suited to C&D and quick ground. Was doing his best work at the finish in the Epsom Dash last time and although he’s plenty to find on ratings he could get into the places at big odds.

Verdict: Doubt’s over Battaash recovery from injury mean he’s out to a value price at around 2/1. Winter Power has plenty of speed but the likely fast pace can set it up for Oxted.

1pt win – Oxted – 8/1 – Gen

4:20 – St James’s Palace Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) (Colts) – 1m

English 2,000 Guineas winner Poetic Flare looked a shade unlucky not to win the Irish version last time. This will be his fifth start of the season and he did have hard race at the Curragh. Still, he’s the one to beat.

Lucky Vega is having his final start before taking up stud duties in Australia. The colt finished 3^rd in the English 1,000 Guineas and did best of those coming from behind when 4th in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. Now they know he gets a mile he can be ridden more prominently than he was at the Curragh.

Chindit was 5^th in the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket but this track will suit him better than Newmarket. He’s been kept fresh for this and can get closer to those who finished in front of him last time.

Mostahdaf is an improving colt who steps up from Listed company today.  A winner at Sandown last time he’s only had three starts and is capable of more improvement.

Battleground struggled at Newmarket in the English 2,000 Guineas. This track should suit him better and he could bounce back to his juvenile best in the first-time tongue tie.  

Verdict: A better run from Battleground wouldn’t come as a surprise. Lucky Vega should go well but I still fancy Poetic Flare can finish ahead of him again. Chindit looks the pick of the home team and comes into the race fresh.

5:00 – Ascot Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 2m 4f

Willie Mullins has won this four times in the past 10-years so M C Muldoon must be respected although he must show he’s effective on the likely fast ground. Mullins also saddles Rayapour and Royal Illusion. The former is interesting in the first time cheekpieces and returned from a 665-days break to finish third over hurdles at Kilbeggan last month. He could be the pick of the Mullins three.

Just Hubert was an eyecatcher for me when 3^rd of 10 at Haydock last time. That was his first start for seven months and as he showed when winning at Goodwood last summer, he stays 2m 4f strongly. Big chance for an inform yard.

Postileo runner-up in the Chester Plate two starts back but finished one place behind Just Hubert at Haydock last time.

Trumpet Moon improved for the step up to 2m in the second half of last season. A solid 3 ¼ length 5^th of 16 in the Chester Cup. Handy draw in stall 2 should they go forward with the 4-year-old and he has potential to improve for the step up to 2m 4f.

Elysian Flame a winner at Newbury two starts back. He was slowly away in the Chester Plate and poorly placed thereafter but was doing his best work at the finish into 5^th. Granted he’s up 2lb but shouldn’t be far away.

Lostwithiel won his first two starts and has since finished runner-up at Nottingham & Newmarket. He’s only had four starts so is capable of more improvement and could be better than a mark of 96 for the step up to staying trips.

Dalton Highway is just 2lb above his last winning flat mark and is interesting on just his second flat start beyond 2m 1f.  Stays 2m well and a sound surface suits the 8-year-old.

Verdict: The first of two competitive handicaps.  Just Hubert stays well. Trumpet Man ran well in the Chester Cup last time. Lightly raced Lostwithiel has stamina to prove but is on a winnable mark. The best of the Irish raiders could be the Dermot Weld trained Dalton Highway.

1pt win – Just Hubert – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Dalton Highway – 16/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:35 – Wolferton Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 1m 2f

Patrick Sarsfield looked as good as ever when finishing a head 2^nd of 9 in Listed race at The Curragh 13-days ago.

Felix was runner-up in the Winter Derby at Lingfield and then put in a career best effort on RPR’s when a 4-length 3^rd of 12 behind Lord North back on turf in a Group 1 at Meydan. Should be suited by a strongly run 1m 2f and has won off a break.

Juan Elcano is having his first start since wind surgery.  A talented juvenile but he hasn’t run well since finishing 5^th in last season’s 2,000 Guineas.

Solid Stone won a Listed race over a mile at Windsor which means he must give a 3lb penalty away.  The 5-year-old won’t be far away if in the same form as last time.

Verdict:  The bookies have got this right with Patrick Sarsfield & Felix at the head of the betting but a strong pace could set this up for Felix.

6:10 – Copper Horse Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m 6f

A tough 16 runner handicap concludes day one.

Smart hurdler Saldier bolted up for Willie Mullins at Listowel 9-days ago. Only has a 4lb penalty for that win and the 7-year-old could still be well handicapped.

Sleeping Lion is 7lb higher than when winning the Queen’s Prize at Kempton in April. The drop back in trip shouldn’t be an inconvenience for the 6-year-old who has run well here in the past.

Arthurian Fable gelded at the end of last season and ran well on his first start for seven months when a 2 ½ length 4^th of 7 to Global Storm at Newmarket last month. He ran well here last season when a close-up 5^th of 17 in the King George V. Sole win came on good to firm over today’s trip and he looks set for a good run. He would have good chance of finishing ahead of Global Storm on 4lb better terms today.

Throne Hall has run well on all three starts this season and looks worth a try over 1m 6f. He’s less exposed than most and can go close.

On To Victory last season’s November Handicap winner is on a decent enough mark but probably needs softer ground than is likely here.

Verdict: Arthurian Fable must be high on the shortlist. Throne Hill has developed into a consistent middle-distance handicapper who should be in the mix and don’t rule out Sleeping Lion who has run well here in the past and goes well on quick turf.

1pt win – Arthurian Fable – 9/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Sleeping Lion – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John