Author: John Burke

Hi all,

What do we make of Royal Ascot so far? The racing has been good, albeit the winners are missing out on that vital ingredient that makes Royal Ascot what it is, the celebration of a big crowd. Wednesday afternoon at Wolverhampton doesn’t need a crowd. The likes of Royal Ascot and the upcoming Epsom Derby.

On the punting front I’m shortlisting most of the winners in the race previews but not selecting them. Still we have three days to pull things around.

Themaxwecan managed to get into the frame to land an each-way punt in the last yesterday but apart from that it was slim pickings.

Royal Ascot – Day 3

The Thundery showers didn’t materialise as I hoped on Wednesday although it looks like the track will see more overnight and in the morning. There has been a notable draw bias in the big field races on the straight track with those stands side having a big advantage.  It will be interesting to see if the Ascot Clerk waters the stands side overnight to level things out.  If he doesn’t and your horse is drawn low you might as well tear up your ticket on the evidence of the first two days, especially if the forecast rain doesn’t arrive.

Anyway, onto day three and the feature race is the Ascot Gold Cup. Like the previous two days I will go through each of the seven races.

1:15 – Golden Gates Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 2f

Acquitted, looks a colt worth following this season. A winner twice as a juvenile. He made an excellent return to action when runner up to the potentially smart Palace Pier at Newcastle 12 days ago. Hey may turn out to be the best horse in the race but stall 15 isn’t ideal over the 1m 2f distance.

Hypothetical an easy winner on his only start last season,was a well backed into favouritism for his seasonal return in the Classic Trial at Kempton. He travelled well for a long way before eventually finishing 4^th. Should be all the better for that run and on a workable mark for handicap debut.

Maori Knight a winner at Chelmsford in February, improved for the return to turf when runner up at Haydock 11 days ago. Up in class in a better race but looks to have a nice weight and can race off the same mark as last time.

Verdict: The draw puts me slightly offAcquitted and at the prices I just side with Maori Knight who looks on a winnable handicap mark.

1pt Win – Maori Knight – 9/1 @ Paddy Power

1:50 – Wolferton Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 1m 2f

Sir Dragonet looked a smart colt in the making when winning the Chester Vase last May. The colt was then sent off the 11/4 favourite for the Derby and given his relative inexperience did well to get as close as he did in 5^th. Probably didn’t stay 1m 6f when only 4th in the St Leger. Remains capable of better as 4-year-old and really needs to win this to put his career back on track.

Verdict: This looks a good opportunity for Sir Dragonet to start to fulfil last years promise.

2:25 – Jersey Stakes (Group 3) – 7f

Monarch Of Egypt was a useful juvenile but didn’t get any sort of run behind a wall of horses when 7^th in the Irish 2000 Guineas 6-days ago. Drops in both in class and distance and provided this race doesn’t come to quick after his Guineas run can go close.

Runners in the Jersey Stakes that had previously run in a Group 1 race that season have done well in the race with – 6 winners from 31 runners +33 10 placed in the past ten years.

Like Monarch Of Egypt. Final Song comes into the race after finishing 4^th of 15 behind Love in the English 1000 Guineas. The drop back to 7f should suit the filly and she should be in the mix.

Another runner dropping back from Group 1 company is French challenger Celestin who was a close 4th in the French 2000 Guineas. The colt should appreciate the drop back to 7f. A winner on heavy so rain won’t be an issue either.

None of those horses heads the ante post betting for the race that honour goes to the unbeaten King Leonidas. The son of Kingman won his only juvenile start and returned to action with an easy win in a Newmarket novice under his 7lb penalty. Looked a Group horse in the making that day and he shouldn’t have a problem with the drop back to 7f.

Molatham did well as a 2-year-old, 2 from 2 over 7f and quick ground, including a good win over recent 2000 Guineas runner-up Wichita at Doncaster.  Looked to find a mile on soft ground to far when only 4^th in a Group 3 at Newmarket in October.  Big chance on his return if he gets decent ground.

Verdict: Molatham needs good or quicker ground to be at his best. No issues with rain softened ground for French raider Celestin who bring classic form to the race. As does Monarch Of Egypt who ran an eyecatching race in the Irish 2000 Guineas and should be suited to the drop back to 7f.

3:00 – Chesham Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 7f

The Aidan O’Brien trained Battleground raced a shade green in the early stages of his racecourse debut at Naas 10 days. However, he was stayed on nicely enough to finish 5^th under a fairly easy ride. The colt should come on plenty for that run and is bred to improve for the step up to 7f.

Modern News won a Newmarket maiden on his racecourse debut 11 days ago. Looked a smart colt that day and is another who should appreciate today’s extra furlong.

Golden Flame, trained by Mark Johnston, shaped with plenty of promise when runner-up at Haydock on his racecourse debut. The son of Golden Horn will improve for his first start and today’s stiffer track will suit him better than Haydock.

First Prophet made a winning racecourse debut at Newbury 6-days ago showing a good turn of foot to win despite greenness. Any further easing of the ground won’t inconvenience the colt. Granted a quick return to action for the colt but if he handles it won’t be far away at the finish.

Andrew Balding had a juvenile winner here yesterday so his runner Bright Devil, a winner at Newmarket 14-days ago, needs respecting.

Verdict: Modern News created a good impression when winning at Newmarket. Interesting that Aidan O’Brien brings Battleground over for the race. First Prophet could run a big race and unlike the first two named won’t have any problem with wet ground.

3:35 – Gold Cup (Group 1) (British Champions Series) (Class 1) – 2m 4f

Not much needs to be said about Stradivarius who bids for a hat trick of Ascot Gold Cup wins.  If he gets a decent ground, he should be able to pull it off.

Nayef Road is an improving 4-year old who won the Group 3 Sagaro Stakes at Newcastle on his seasonal return. He’s unexposed as a stayer and has place claims.

Technician is 4 wins from 4 runs when soft or heavy is in the going description, winning a Group 1 at Longchamp on his final start of 2019. Capable of giving the favourite a race if the rain arrives to ease the ground significantly.

Verdict: Stradivarius should make it a hat trick of wins but if the rain arrives, it brings the unexposed stayer Technician right into the mix.

1pt win – Technician – 9/2 @ Bet365

4:10 – Britannia Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Colts & Geldings) (Class 2) – 1m

Will a high draw continue to be a major positive as it has been on the straight course on the first two days of the meeting?

Finest Sound has clearly improvedfor gelding and wind operations as he showed when making a winning seasonal reappearance, on his handicap debut, at Haydock 10 days ago. The 3-year-old has a 5lb penalty to carry for that success but remains the one they all have to beat from stall 17. Stable won this race in 2018.

Starcat looked good when winning on his racecourse debut at Kempton back in December. The colt was thrown in the deep end for his seasonal return in the 2000 Guineas and wasn’t disgraced in finishing 7^th.  Clearly has plenty of ability and is interesting on his handicap debut, albeit stall 1 could be a big hindrance to his chance. Trainer Hughie Morrison trained the 2011 winner.

Khaloosy built on the promise of his racecourse debut when easily winning a Wolverhampton novice 208-days ago. Handicap debut and first run on turf for the son of Dubawi but a mark of 94 could seriously underestimate the colt.

John Gosden saddles four of the 24 runners. His best two chances appear to be Enemy, a winner of a 7f Ascot maiden on his racecourse debut last September. Could only finish second when sent off an odds-on favourite for his seasonal reappearance at Yarmouth. There will be more to come from him stepping up to a mile. The other Gosden horse I like is Verboten who won first time up as a juvenile before being upped to Group 1 company for the Futurity. Not surprisingly found that that class to much on just his second career start. Had a wide draw when 4^th of 11 on handicap debut at Lingfield 13-days ago. Found the 7f to short that day but was doing his best work at the finish. The return to a mile and a stiffer track should suit the colt.

One place in front of Verboten at Lingfield was Grove Ferry. A winner of two of his three starts last year. The son of Excelebration was having his first start since a gelding operation and shaped with encouragement. He’s another who can go well and could be well drawn in stall 24.

Verdict: Finest Sound will be hard to beat even under a 5lb penalty but he may find the lightly raced Khaloosy to classy at the finish.

1pt win – Khaloosy – 8/1 @ Bet365

1pt each way – Grove Ferry – 20/1 @ Paddy Power (paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

4:40 – Sandringham Stakes (Handicap) (Fillies) (Class 2) – 1m

Another big field handicap on the straight course concludes day three of the meeting.

African Dream a winner at Lingfield on her second start in March. Improved on that performance when runner up at Newbury 7 days ago. Looks the proverbial blot on the handicap, if able to reproduce her Newbury run. Her chance has been lost on the bookies as she’s a very short price for what is normally a competitive handicap.

Soffika a winner on her racecourse debut at Pontefract last year before finishing runner-up in a Group 3 on her next start. Not seen out since August but she bred to do better at three and improve for a mile. More than capable of going close on her handicap debut.

Declared Interest made a winning return to action on her handicap debut at Chelmsford nine days. Has 5lb penalty to carry here but the handicapper has raised her 9lb for that win so she’s theoretically 4lb well in compared to future races.

Waliyak, trained by Roger Varian,got off the mark at the third attempt when winning a Wolverhampton novice in November. Looks on a a competitive mark for her handicap debut off a mark of 84 and seems the type to improve further as a 3-year-old.

Verdict: African Dream looks a handicap good thing but her Newbury run was just a week ago. At the prices going to take a chance with Soffika.

1pt win – Soffika – 7/1 @ Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Another seven-race card at Royal Ascot which gets underway at 1:15 with a new race the Silver Hunt Cup, a consolation race for those horses who miss out of the Hunt Cup due to the limitation on the number of runners in the big field handicaps on the straight course.

Royal Ascot Preview – Day 2

1:15 – Silver Royal Hunt Cup Handicap (A Consolation Race For The Royal Hunt Cup) (Class 2) – 1m

Ouzo was steadily progressive last season winning three times in the first half of the season. Returned to action with a career best effort when runner up to Bell Rock at Newmarket 10-days ago. Can race off the same mark today and has a big chance of going one better here from stall 24.

Brian Epstein, a stablemate of Ouzo, has a good attitude. A winner over 7f at Musselburgh last June he returned from 374-day break when runner-up to the well handicapped Cap Francais at Haydock 8-days ago, nicely clear of the third. Can race off the same mark here and looks competitive.

Maydanny lightly raced for his age made a winner handicap debut on just his third career start at Yarmouth 14-days ago. Handicapper has raised him 10lb for that success but this half-brother to Elarqam is open to more improvement. Looks set for a big run if his low draw isn’t an inconvenience.

Alternative Bid seems to be at his best on softer ground as he showed when winning a 1m 2f handicap at Newmarket in November. Didn’t get the best of runs on the inner on his seasonal return at Haydock 10 days ago. A strongly run mile on a stiff track could suit and trainer is among the winners in recent days.

Verdict: Richard Hannon looks to have a strong hand in the race with Ouzo and Brian Epstein at the prices I just favour the latter.

1pt win – Brian Epstein – 11/1 @ Paddy Power

1:50 – Hampton Court Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 2f

Juan Elcano out ran big odds to finish 5th in the 2000 Guineas. Raced like the step up to 1m 2f will suit and comes into the race with the best form.

First Receiver finished in the places on both his two two stars as 2-year-old. Showed he had trained on from two to three with an impressive win at Kempton 15-days ago. The colt needs to improve again to win this but that’s more than likely.

Russian Emperor got up in the final strides to win at Naas in his seasonal return. Didn’t seem to get the best of runs when finishing runner up in the Derrinstown Derby Trial just 8 days ago. Capable of better if this race doesn’t come too quick,

Berlin Tango has a 4lb penalty to carry for winning the Classic Trial at Sandown but he’s improved well for two to three and is smart colt. Runner-up Pyledriver boosted the form when winning the King Edward VII yesterday.

2:25 – King George V Stakes (Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m 4f

Plenty of unexposed three-year-olds who could be much better than their handicap marks.

Kipps a good winner at Lingfield in December looked set to make a winning return to action on handicap debut when just touched off at Haydock 10 days ago. Can race of the same mark here and better ground should suit.

Win O’Clock takes a big step up in class after making a winning handicap debut at Haydock 9-days ago. Has 4lb a penalty to carry for that success but is open to more improvement for the step up to 1m 4f.

Convict ended last season with a win in a 1m 2f nursery at Newmarket in October. A half-brother to 1m 6f winner Hamish he looks the sort to do better with age. Might prefer softer ground.

Arthurian Fable placed on his final two starts as a juvenile. Stepped up on that form on his seasonal reappearance when beaten a short head at Newmarket 10-days ago. Races of the same mark and should stay 1m 4f.

To Nathanial has won his last two starts both at Kempton. First start on turf for the son of Nathanial who is gong the right way.

Hukum shaped with encouragement on his racecourse debut at Newbury and built on that promise two months later when winning at Kempton. Takes a big step up in trip for his return to action but he’s bred to appreciate middle distances.

Verdict: In a race where there are a plenty who can improve for the step up to 1m 4f both Kipps & Win O’Clock are strong contenders. Arthurian Fable also looks on a good mark for his step up to 1m 4f and has each-way claims.  

1pt win – Win O’Clock – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt each way – Arthurian Fable – 14/1 @ Bet365 (paying 4 places ¼ odds)

3:00 – Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 1m2f

Just the seven go to post for this Group 1 contest. The recent rain has come at the right time for C&D winner Addeybb. The 6-year-old went ‘Down Under’ in the spring to win two Group 1’s in Australia. The softer the ground the better for him and he’s a big player if over his travelling exertions.

Headman is another who will be suited by some ease in the ground. Lats seasons London Gold Cup winner was well placed to win two Group 2’s in France last summer. The colt could only finish 5^th to Magical when well fancied for the Irish Champion Stakes. Despite that run he looks a potential Group 1 horse for a trainer who won this race in 2013.

The one they all have to beat is Japan, third in last year’s Derby,won the King Edward VII Stakes at last year’s Royal Ascot before going onto land the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp and the International Stakes at York. Only 4^th in the Arc on his final start but there should be more to come from him as a 4-year-old.

Verdict: I’m hoping that Headman has improved from three to four, as his trainer expects, and he can surprise Japan on his seasonal reappearance.

1pt win – Headman – 8/1 @ William Hill

3:35 – Royal Hunt Cup (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m

Lord Tennyson is the least exposed of the 24-runner strong field. The 4-year-old only made his racecourse debut in February when running out an easy winner at Chelmsford. Finished second in a Newmarket Listed race 12-days ago. More progress expected but this will be tough.

Besides Lord Tennyson trainer John Gosden also saddles Alrajaa & Beatboxer.  Alrajaa comes into the race having won his last four starts. Putting in a career best effort on RPR’s when winning at Lingfield back in November. Seasonal reappearance of 9lb higher but could still be progressive.

Montatham showed the benefit of a winter gelding operation when putting in a much-improved performance to win at Newmarket 11-days ago. Hiked up 8lb for that win but there could be more improvement in the 4-year-old. Jim Crowley has opted for Alrajaa.

Afaak, second in 2018, went one better winning this 12 months ago last season on his seasonal reappearance. Cieren Fallon takes off a handy 3lb which means the 6-year-old can race off last seasons winning mark. Can’t be ruled out in his bid for back to back wins.

Dark Vision a very useful 2-year-old (Group 2 winner) found life tougher at three. But he’s dropped down markedly in the weights and showed his well being when finishing runner-up at Newcastle 15-days ago.

Pogo won on his second run last season. Made a highly encouraging seasonal appearance when finish strongly to take second over 7f at Newmarket 11-days ago. Return to a mile will suit and he’s drawn high. Could get in to the places at big odds.

Another who could run into the places if the showers arrive is Indeed. The 5-year-old looks to have plenty of weight for his seasonal reappearance but his trainer still thinks he could be Group horse. A winner at Chelmsford & Newmarket last season he was badly drawn when well fancied for the Golden Mile at Goodwood. First run for 228-days but he finished runner-up in the Spring Cup at Newbury on his first start of 2019. Another with each way claims if the going is on the easy side of good.

There could be more to come from Bell Rock who made a winning handicap debut at Newmarket 10-days ago. A strongly run stiff mile suits the 4-year-old and although he has a 5lb penalty to carry for his Newmarket win could be open to more improvement.

Willie John is interesting on his handicap debut. The 5-year-old has only had seven career starts and was fairly highly tried last season. Best effort came when runner-up to Elarqam in a 1m 2f Goodwood Listed race.  Drop back to a mile could suit as there is plenty of speed on the dam’s side.

Verdict: Dark Vision has dropped down to a good mark. Afaak likes the C&D and won this race 12 months ago on his seasonal reappearance. Last time out Newmarket winners Bell Rock & Montatham need respecting as does Willie John dropping back to a mile. Pogo & Indeed could run in to the places.

1pt each way – Indeed – 22/1 @ Paddy Power (paying 7 places 1/5 odds)

4:10 – Windsor Castle Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 5f

This first 2-year-old race of the meeting and it looks a cracker.

Likely favourite is the Aidan O’Brien trained colt Chief Little Hawk. A winner at Navan 7-days ago. He looks a smart colt but the going won’t be as fast at Navan. Aidan O’Brien & Ryan Moore have a great record when teaming up at Royal Ascot with juvenile colts – 7 winners from 18 runners 39% + 31.24 A/E 1.8 113 placed 72% (+42.04 each way).

Wesley Ward runners always need respecting and he saddles two in Sunshine City & Sheriff Bianco. The former won at Gulfstream on his debut and the latter finished runner-up on his debut at Churchill Downs. Trainer has won this race twice since 2009.

Of the home team I like the Clive Cox trained juvenile Get It. The colt showed good speed on his racecourse debut when runner-up to Eye of Heaven in a fast time at Newmarket 13-days. A reproduction of that run makes him potentially overpriced here. Clive Cox has just had the one runner in this race which finished 4^th in 2015.

Verdict: Who knows what the Wesley Ward horses are like? The quicker the ground the better for them and they have probably had a better prep than the home juveniles.  Chief Little Hawk ran out a good winner on quick ground at Navan last week and represents a trainer & jockey combination who have an exceptional record in juvenile races at the meeting. Get It showed plenty of speed in a good time when runner-up to a smart one at Newmarket. More ease in the ground would be a concern but he looks to have been underestimated by the market.

4:40 – Copper Horse Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 6f

Another new handicap specially arranged for the meeting concludes day two and it’s a tricky one.

Amazing Red holds no secrets with the handicapper but hails from the inform Ed Dunlop stable. He has the benefit of a recent run at Newmarket and Cieren Fallon has been booked to take off a useful 3lb. Not without an each-way chance over a distance that suits.

Collide has improved on the all-weather, winning both two starts in 2020. Last win came at Chelmsford, 8 days ago, when he proved his stamina for 1m6f.  Up 5lb but is progressive and could defy it if he can replicate his recent improvement on turf.

Fujaira Prince won his seasonal reappearance last Spring before placed efforts in a valuable handicap at York and here in the Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes. Has won first time up for the last two seasons so fitness shouldn’t be an issue. Steps up to 1m 6f today but isn’t a certain stayer on pedigree.

Selino improved for the fitting of the visor winning at Redcar and Wolverhampton. The handicapper has put the 4-year-old up 12lb for his latest success which makes life tougher but he probably remains open to more improvement.

Ranch Hand is another who is proven on a rain softened surface He ran poorly when favourite for the Cesarewich but is better judged on his two-length beating of Trueshan at Haydock over today’s distance, off 5lb lower. There could be more to come from the 4-year-old this year.

Mark Johnson saddles two in Themaxwecan & Hochfield. Themaxwecan is a strong good looking long bodied type was steadily progressive stayer last Summer winning twice over 2m, here and at Goodwood. Ran too bad to be true in the Cesarewich on his final run last season. Shaped with encouragement on his seasonal return behind Moon King at Haydock and there could be more to come from the 4-year-old this year.

Hochfield has a different profile to his stablemate. His best form has come on easier ground and he looks attractively weighted on his best form in 2018. A 409-days absence to overcome here.

Verdict: A tricky race to finish off the card. Fujaira Prince has the form to go close if he stays today’s extra distance. Collide is progressive but has to replicate his all-weather improvement to turf. Ranch Hand could do better as a 4-year-old as can Themaxwecan who shaped with promise on his seasonal reappearance.

1pt each way – Themaxwecan – 14/1 @ William Hill (paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Two months ago, it didn’t seem likely we would see Royal Ascot going off at its usual date in the calendar. Yet just two weeks after the resumption of British racing here it is. Settle back and enjoy 36 races – 6 more than normal – over five days. No Queen, no fashion its going to be all about the horses and what they do on the track.

The weather is set to be warm with some sunshine but also the likelihood of heavy thundery showers. As ever with showers they may arrive and they may not. It will pay to keep an eye on the weather radar for latest updates form the track as the going could change quickly.

Day 1 gets underway at 1:15. This year its not the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes that opens the card but the return of the Buckingham Palace Handicap over 7f. The race was hasn’t been run at Royal Ascot since 2014 and in my opinion, it makes a welcome return to the meeting.

I have had the chance to go through all seven races on the card although there are only four races I have selections in.

Royal Ascot – Day 1

1:15 – Buckingham Palace Handicap (Class 2) – 7f

A field of 24 are set to go post for this 7f handicap. There looks to be a slight bias middle to high in big field handicaps over 7f (16 to 24 runners) but I wouldn’t put be put off a horse drawn low if I really fancied it.

Recent impressive Newcastle winner Daarik heads the ante post betting. He’s sure to be popular with punters as he hails from the John Gosden stable and will be ridden by Frankie Dettori. Has to be high on the shortlist if he replicates his much-improved all-weather form to turf.

Mutamaasik is another progressive 4-year-old. He’s just had the five career starts winning the last four. Just 3lb higher than for the last of those wins and can go close for the inform Roger Varian stable.

Good form in big field handicaps on Ascot’s straight course is usually a positive. That brings Cliffs Of Capri and Kaeso into the mix.

Cliffs Of Capri, a winner over a mile at Meydan two start back. The 6-year-old showed he remains in good form when chasing home an all the way winner at Newmarket 12-days ago. Nudged up 2lb but he looks to have a good draw on the stands side and he’s 2 wins from 4 runs over C&D. Trainer Jamie Osborne trained the 2010 winner and has a great record with his handicappers at the track – 12 winners from 50 runners 24% +69.25 A/E 2.7 19 placed 38%.

Kaeso finished 3^rd of 26 to Cape Byron over C&D last May and was beaten just a head by Raising Sand in the International Stakes again over C&D, in July, off 4lb lower. The 6-year-old was well down the field behind Daarik on his return to action but will strip fitter today and Osin Murphy is an eye caching jockey booking. More rain wouldn’t be an inconvenience either.

Verdict: Cliffs Of Capri has a sound chance on C&D that suits. Daarik is 7lb higher than when winning at Newcastle on his return 10-days ago. I doubt 7lb would have stopped him that day. If he replicates his improved all-weather on turf, he should go close.

1pt win – Daarik – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt each way – Cliffs Of Capri – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1:50 – Queen Anne Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) – 1m

The race that normally get the Royal Meeting underway. This year’s renewal has a attracted a big field of 16 runners. There have been stronger renewals of the race but it still a competitive race. On the straight mile in a big field it often pays to be ridden in midfield or held up.

Last year’s St James’ Palace winner Circus Maximus heads the ante post betting. Double Group 1 winner he’s the class horse of the race but maybe the straight mile won’t play to his strengths nor will drying ground.  

Next in the betting is improving filly Terrebellum. She has race fitness on her side having won the Group 2 Dahlia Stakes at Newmarket 10-days ago.  Drop back to a mile shouldn’t be a problem as she doesn’t lack pace. Lightly raced, she’s going the right way and should improve further on her Newmarket run. Deserves another chance in Group 1 company.

Mustashry won the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes last season not so good when only 7^th in this race 12 months ago. The 7-year-old heads the official ratings and can’t be ruled out but he’s vulnerable yo younger legs.

At bigger prices two who could outrun their odds

Turjomaan, a big long striding colt who should be suited by the stiff straight mile, was first the past the post here over 7f on his juvenile debut.  He’s only had the four career starts, winning two both at Newcastle, and ended last season finishing runner-up to Duke Of Hazzard at Goodwood. Has only ½ length to find with that improver and can go well at a price.

Billesdon Brook will strip for her recent Kempton run. The harder they go up front the better the mare is. The surprise 2018, 1000 Guineas winner showed she hasn’t lost he ability when the race is run to suit when winning the Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket last October. Tougher against the colts & geldings but has each way claims in a strongly run race.

Verdict: It’s looks a good race. Of the front two in the betting I prefer the claims of the progressive filly Terrebellum. Turjomaan and Billesdon Brook can get into the money.

2:25 – Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2) – 1m 2f

Eleven 3-year-old fillies are set to meet the starter.  This race normally attracts fillies who have finished down the field in the Oaks. However, this year it’s more of a Trial for the Epsom fillies’ classic.  Impressive Newcastle winner Frankly Darling bids to enhance her Oaks claims here and she will be a short price. Needs to have improved plenty but the daughter of Frankel seems likely to do so. Her trainer John Gosden has won two of the last three running’s of the Ribblesdale.

Trefoil won a Newmarket maiden on her racecourse debut last October. Showed she had trained on from two to three when keeping on to finish third in the Pretty Polly Stakes 9-days ago. The step up to 1m 4f should suit.

Aidan O’Brien’s Passion has come in for support in recent days. The daughter of Galileo was 4^th in the Listed Salsabil Stakes at Navan just six days ago. Bred for 1m 4f, she has the potential to improve for today’s step up in distance. Given her powerful connections has to be respected if this race doesn’t come to soon.

Verdict: It could be a good afternoon for John Gosden & Frankie Dettori and Frankly Darling look set to enhance her Oaks claims with a win.  Trefoil could take advantage should the favourite fail to fire.

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

3:00 – King Edward VII Stakes (Group 2) – 1m 4f

Like the Ribblesdale this has more of a Derby Trial feel. Sadly, the race has only attracted six runners.

Aidan O’Brien sends over two. Mogul, a best priced 8/1 for the Derby, is odds on favourite. A Group 2 winner at Leopardstown he ended last season finishing 4^th of 11 to Kameko in the Futurity. Has the form in the book and is bred to improve for middle distances. 

The other O’Brien runner Arthur’s Kingdom won a Gowran Park maiden before finishing second in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud. Like his stablemate, the son of Camelot has the pedigree to improve as 3-year-old for this sort of trip. If he’s not being used as a pacemaker for his stablemate then I can see him going well.

The Andrew Balding trained Papa Power has won his last two starts on the all-weather at Chelmsford and latterly Newcastle. The son of Nathanial has a bit to find on RPR’s with the O’Brien pair but he’s going the right way and worth his chance in this grade. He made all to win both races and if he gets an uncontested lead may be hard to pass in Ascot’s short straight.

Verdict: Aidan 0’Brien looks to have a strong hand with favourite Mogul and Arthur’s Kingdom. At the prices I just prefer the claims of the latter.

1pt win – Arthur’s Kingdom – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:35 – King Stand Stakes (Group 1) – 5f

The second Group 1 on the card.  Ten runners take on hot favourite Battaash. The favourite is well ahead of his rivals on Official Ratings. Yet to win on his three starts at the track but has finished runner-up in this race for the last seasons. No issues with his fitness and must have a great chance of making it third time lucky.

His stablemate Equilateral could get into the places. He also looks at his best fresh and can get close to this stablemate than 12 months ago.

Glass Slippers improved for the drop back to 5f when winning a Group 3 at Longchamp and improving further to land the Group 1 Prix de l’Abbaye on her final start, Battaash a well beaten 14^th. The going was very soft that day which wouldn’t have suited Battaash and he was drawn out wide. Glass Slippers has winning form on quick ground but whether she can match Battaash at his best his doubtful.

Liberty Beach was 4^th to Raffle Prize in last years Queen Mary before going onto win a Sandown Listed race and the Group 3 Molecombe Stakes at ‘Glorious’ Goodwood. Ended last season finishing runner-up in the Lowther Stakes at York.

The 4-year-old Kurious was 5^th in the 2018 Queen Mary. Only ran four times as 3-year-old, winning a Listed race and a Group 3 race both over 5f at Sandown. A speedy filly she might prefer easier ground in this company. Like Liberty Beach she’s got each way claims especially if showers arrive.

Verdict: Battaash can make it third time lucky if the ground is on the fast side of good. Stablemate Equilateral is at his best fresh and should run better in this than he did 12 months ago. If the showers arrive and the going eases again Kurious would have an each-way chance

4:10 – Duke Of Cambridge Stakes (Group 2) – 1m

Eleven have been declared for what looks a competitive renewal of this fillies’ only race. Jubiloso ran really well to finish third in last year’s Coronation Stakes and then occupied the same position behind Billesdon Brook at Goodwood back down to 7f. Ran well below par when sent off odds on for a Group 3 at Sandown when last seen in action. Type to do well as a 4-year-old but questions to answer. Nazeef improved to win her last three starts in 2019. Showed she had trained on and improved as a 4-year-old when touching off Billesdon Brook in the Snowdrop Stakes 13-days ago. Has 5lb to find with Jubiloso on OR’s but she’s more reliable and looks a good prospect. French trained horses have won this race twice in the past four years so Wasmya has to be respected for that reason alone. Miss O’Connor would be a major player on softer ground.  The quicker the ground the better the chance of Lavender’s Blue who impressed when winning the Sandown Group 3 in which Jubiloso ran well below par. Queen Power’s stablemate of Jubiloso made a solid reappearance when runner-up to Terrebellum at Newmarket. Not sure about the drop back to a mile but if they go a decent gallop it will help her settle better.

Verdict: Nazeef is an exciting prospect and I just prefer her to Jubiloso who ended last season with a poor run at Sandown. There’s no doubt Queen’s Power is capable of winning a race like this when everything falls right and could finish ahead of her better fancied stablemate today.

4:40 – Ascot Stakes (A Handicap) (Class 2) – 2m 4f

Verdana Blue heads the betting although she’s been a shade weak in the betting after the Ascot ground eased in recent days. A high-class hurdler on good or quicker ground with a good turn of foot. She only had the four starts on the level winning at Chelmsford and wasn’t disgraced when 4th of 7 in last season’s Group 3 Sagaro Stakes at the track.  Ryan Moore has been booked for the ride and given the mare is rated 160 over hurdles she looks well in even off top-weight if the ground continues to dry out.

Moon King looked to improve for the step up 2m when winning at Haydock 8-days ago. Has a 3lb penalty to carry for that success but is unexposed over staying trips.  Best form has arguably come on softer going but if the showers arrive and the ground eases, I would prefer him to Verdana Blue.

Rochester House was ¾ length third to Moon King at Haydock. Get’s 3lb today and there shouldn’t be much between the pair. Stays 2m well and could improve for today’s extra four furlongs with Silvestre De Sousa booked.

Summer Moon a stablemate of Rochester House showed he was a stayer when 3^rd of 30 in last year’s Cesarewitch. Up 5lb and has been gelded over the winter. Appeals as the type to improve as a 4-year-old. Seasonal reappearance but can go well if fit enough.

Verdict: I’m very keen on the chances of Verdana Blue as long as the heavy showers stay away from Ascot. Any ease in the ground would help the consistent Moon King. Rochester House looks overpriced on his running behind Moon King at Haydock and has each way claims, Stablemate Summer Moon is a big danger on his first run for 235-days.

1pt win – Verdana Blue – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt each way – Rochester House – 25/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes ( Paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Things didn’t pan out well over the last three days. In fact, it was a bit of a disaster in all truth. However, we have five-days of Royal Ascot to recoup losses.

Royal Ascot is normally a tough meeting to make a profit from and this year looks even trickier. My usual trends approach looks like it will have limited utility this year, as most of the runners won’t have had a previous run prior to the meeting, That doesn’t mean that race trends will be completely disregarded even in an unusual season like this one. However, one set of trends that could pay to note, even more so this season, are trainer stats.

Before all the excitement of the Royal Meeting, we have racing at six venues across Britain & Ireland. With the 1m 4f Listed Pontefract Castle Fillies’ Stakes the feature race of a bumper ten race Pontefract card.  I have a couple of selections from the West Yorkshire track.

Pontefract

2:50 – Antonia De Vega is clearly head of her rivals on form but that fact hasn’t been lost by the market. The race offers punters an each-way opportunity and the one I like is the Richard Fahey trained Eva Maria. The 4-year-old was a steady improver last season culminating in a win in a valuable fillies’ handicap at Newmarket in October. She was never in contention but stayed on to good effect when 4^th of 7^th to the smart Terrebellum in the Group 2 Dahlia Stakes 9-days ago. Back into calmer waters today. The daughter of Sea The Stars could well improve for the step up to 1m 4f and has an each way chance.

0.5pts each way – Eva Maria – 12/1 @ Bet365

3:25 – I don’t know much about trainer George Boughey but I do know he’s had 2 winners from 5 runners since racings resumption and his record for 2020 is a superb 8 winners from 22 runners 36% +25.73 A/E 2.12 15 placed 68%. He saddles Baltic Wolve who has hinted at ability on his four career starts. The 3-year-old makes his handicap debut today, in the first-time blinkers, and if the headgear has the desired effect the son of Australia has to be respected from an inform yard.

1pt win – Baltic Wolve – 15/2 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Racing from Doncaster, Goodwood & Newmarket and Leopardstown.

Let’s begin the Sunday Preview at Doncaster which is today’s principal meeting.

Doncaster

2:00 – Camacho Chief won a similar handicap over C&D 12 months ago, off 1lb lower. A reproduction of that run would see the 5-year-old win this. Made a pleasing seasonal reappearance when 4^th at Newcastle 12-days ago. That run will sharpened him up nicely for this. The only niggle would be drying ground as his best form has come on soft ground.

Tanasoq on the other hand would want the ground to dry out further. The 7-year-old beat El Astronaute in a Conditions race at Musselburgh on his seasonal reappearance last year. He’s a 5f specialist at his best and he normally goes well in the first half of the season. Indeed, his record over 5f between April & July is 5 wins from 8 runs +32.51 6 placed. He could surprise if the ground dries out.

0.5pts each way – Tanasoq – 25/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Camacho Chief – 9/2 @ Bet365 & Coral

2:35 – Dakota Gold improved all last season moving up from handicap company to win two Listed Races and finish runner-up in a Group 3 at Newbury. He has to give a 3lb penalty to his five rivals but he’s got a touch of class and if he’s fit enough for his return, he will take all the beating.

El Astronaute is a real speed ball and can be hard to pass if he gets an uncontested lead.

Lady In France won on her seasonal return last season and is 2 wins from 2 runs when racing 60+ days since her last run. The 4-year-old won a Fillies only Listed Race at Ayr last September. Should be fit enough for her reappearance but probably wouldn’t want the ground to dry out.

Tarboosh seems to hold Copper Knight on two bits of form last Autumn and he seems at his best in small field sprints.

Copper Knight has the benefit of a recent run at Newmarket 8-days ago. He ran a cracker to finish runner-up in Class 2 handicap, beaten just a short head. That was a career best on turf from the 6-year-old on RPR’s so he’s clearly returned to the track in great form. Six of his eight career wins have come when racing 8 to 15-days since his last start so he should be spot on here.  Drying ground will suit and a reproduction of his Newmarket run would see him go close.

1pt win – Copper Knight – 9/2 @ Ladbrokes

Leopardstown

3:35 – Ilikehim is the first reserve in this 1m 4f handicap. He’s still a maiden after 14 starts on the flat but last August was beaten just ¾ length when 2^nd of 13 here over 1m 5f. He can race off 2lb lower today and a useful apprentice takes off a handy 7lb. First time blinkers are applied and if the headgear works could surprise at big odds.

0.5pts each way – 14/1 @ Bet365 (paying 4 places ¼ odds)

5:15 – Gatsby Cap was in good form this time last year, winning a mile handicap at Gowran Park off just 1lb lower. Trainer has had a couple of winners since the resumption. Trish’s Company looked really green when winning a maiden at Dundalk in November. That was just her third career start and she make’s her handicap debut off what looks a good mark.

0.5pts each way – Gatsby Cap – 20/1 @ Paddy Power (paying 5 places 1/5 odds)

1pt win – Trish’s Company – 5/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Not great yesterday, particularly after last weekend’s efforts.

The pre-Royal Ascot weekend tends not to be the strongest. However, we have been so starved of racing recently that were happy to take anything that comes our way.  The Irish don’t let us down though. At the Curragh it’s the Irish 1000 Guineas and there’s a strong supporting card of seven races.  Let’s begin Saturday’s betting preview at the Curragh.

Curragh

4:00 – Dalton Highway finished runner-up in last season’s Irish Cesarewitch over C&D. He was no match for the easy winner in the that race but would have run out a decisive winner of the race if the well handicapped winner hadn’t been in the field. He then finished strongly to finish 4th November Handicap at Naas over two furlongs shorter. Has since won over hurdles and goes well off lay off. Bumper winner Jerandme relished the step up to 2m when running out a cosy winner of a handicap at Dundalk in February.  Just 2lb higher for his return to turf and Colin Keane has been booked for the ride.

1pt win – Dalton Highway – 7/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Jerandme – 8/1 @ Bet365

5:45 – It may be worth taking a chancewith the nicelyhandicapped Art Of Unity on his seasonal return. Both the 5-year-old’s career wins have come over the minimum trip and he’s now 4lb lower than when staying on well to be beaten just a neck into third at Cork last September.

0.5pts each way – Art Of Unity – 16/1 @ Paddy Power (paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

6:15 – The booking of Colin Keane for Lariat takes the eye. The 4-year-old is having his first start for Aido McGuiness and looks on a decent mark for his seasonal return. Top-weight Verimli is having for run for Joseph O’Brien since moving from France. The 4-year-old won three of his four starts last season and was just beaten in a 1m6f Listed Race at Deauville when last seen in action. A chance is taken with the Jessica Harrington trained Lynwood Gold who won a heavy ground maiden hurdle at Navan back in March. If he can replicate his improved hurdles form back on the flat, he’s on good mark.

1pt win – Lynwood Gold – 10/1 @ Bet365

7:15 – The Irish 1000 Guineas – We saw a good winner in yesterday’s first colt’s classic. Will we see a good filly win the fillies equivalent? Albigna won the Group 1 Prix Marcel Boussac last season and is the clear pick on juvenile form. The Aidan O’Brien trained pair Peaceful & So Wonderful could easily have improved from two to three and could give the Albigna most to do.

Newbury

2:25 – Miss Celestial was a consistent in Listed races last season without winning. Putting in a career best when runner-up at Ascot on her final start of 2019. Should be all the better for her recent 5^th of 13 behind Liberty Beach at Haydock 6-days ago.

1pt win – Miss Celestial – 5/1 @ Bet365

Sandown

2:25 – Impressor won a Salisbury maiden on his second start last season before disappointing when upped to Group 2 company here in August. Proved that running all wrong when 3^rd of 12 in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes at Newmarket in November. Any further easing of the ground will be in his favour and he looks on a workable mark for his handicap debut.

1pt win – Impressor – 4/1 @ Bet365

3:15 – Solid Stone was a consistent enough handicapper last season and ran well twice around here. Maybe better over slightly further than a mile but he’s been gelded over the winter and it’s interesting he stays in training with top connections as a 4-year-old. Exec Chef made a decent return to action when 4^th of 12 at Newmarket 7-days ago. He’s well handicapped on his best form and although he’s another who may be better now over slightly further looks a big player.

1pt win – Exec Chef – 5/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

It’s going to be wall to wall racing for the next eight days and that’s something all us racing fans should be excited about.

The action gets underway on Friday. Over at the Curragh it’s the Irish 2000 Guineas and an excellent supporting card of seven races. There’s also a good card at Newbury and as an added bonus ITV Racing will be covering nine races from the two tracks in an early evening show.

Let’s begin where else but the Curragh

Curragh

5:10 – Top -weight andhandicap debutant Flash Gordon could give Jessica Harrington another winner but I like previous course winner Ice Cold In Alex in this 6f handicap. The 6-year-old has only won 4 of his 27 career starts but has often run well in valuable handicaps and really deserves to land one. He ended last season with career best efforts in big field handicaps here over a mile and Leopardstown (7f). His hold-up running style means he needs a good gallop to chase and can be a hostage to fortune in his races. Drop back to 6f shouldn’t inconvenience and he’s gone well fresh in the past.

1pt win – Ice Cold In Alex – 13/2 @ Bet365

5:40 – Seventeen 3-year-olds are set to go to post for this 7f handicap and there are plenty of unexposed horses who could prove much better than their marks.

One of the more experienced runners is The King Of Kells. He showed he had trained from two to three when 3^rd at Naas in March and may not have stopped progressing. Two from two at the course but he’s prominent and the forecast strong pace may not play to his strengths. One place behind him at Naas was Elusive King he will be fitter for that run but this will be his first start on going quicker than soft to heavy. A winner at Dundalk back in November Music To My Ears makes her handicap debut of what looks an attractive mark. The daughter of Camelot is bred for much further but has claims here. So has her stablemate Bright Idea who also makes his handicap debut off a workable mark.

United Front, trained by Aidan O’Brien had shown promise on three starts last season. Not seen out since Royal Ascot he made a winning start to his 3-year-old career when winning a 6f maiden at Dundalk in February. Looks the sort to do better with racing and he can improve for the step up to 7f. The forecast strong pace will be in his favour and he has to be high on the shortlist. Another who would be suited by a strong pace is Leadership Race who improved for the step into handicap company and going on the all-weather when landing two nursery handicaps at Dundalk in the Autumn. If he can transfer his all-weather improvement to turf, he’s a big player. Layfayette won a Navan maiden on his second career start last season before putting a career best effort when beaten just a short head into second in a valuable sales race at Naas in October. There should be more to come from the colt in his second season and he can go well if fit enough.

1pt win – United Front – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

6:40 – Eleven colts have been declared for the Irish 2000 Guineas. Aidan O’Brien saddles six of the field. However, none of his runners head the market. The ante post favourite is Siskin trained by Ger Lyons. Unbeaten on his all his four starts as a juvenile. The fast ground will suit but will he stay the mile if he does, I think he wins. It’s hard to say who will be the best of the O’Brien horses although the highly regarded Vatican City is a colt who could make up into a smart 3-year-old. For those looking for one at bigger odds Fiscal Rules appeals. The Jim Bolger trained colt finished runner-up to recent English 2000 Guineas runner-up Wichita on his sole start at two. Clearly highly regarded he’s been thrown into the deep end for his seasonal return but he could get into the money.

7:15 – The 1m Irish Lincolnshire usually gets the Irish Flat season underway in March but now find’s itself on the 2000 Guineas card. Despite the big field it doesn’t look the strongest of renewals. The market is headed by Current Option who ended last season winning a valuable 7f handicap at Leopardstown. Yet to win over a mile but he’s progressive and has a big chance on his return.

The inform Jessica Harrington stable saddles a couple of live contenders in Tauran Shaman & Njord. The former won his first two starts last season before struggling on testing ground in a Group 2 at Longchamp back in October. Back into handicap company today and has the scope to defy a mark of 96. Njord was progressive last autumn winning over C&D (soft to heavy) before switching to his present yard and winning at Galway. Seasonal return but looks to have been aimed at this race all winter and can go close if he’s as effective on quicker ground.

Dermot Weld trained the winner of this race in 2014 and his runner Bashiyr has to be on the shortlist with the useful Andrew Slattery taking of a valuable 5lb. The four-year-old won two of his four start last year, both wins coming on rain softened ground. Was only 6^th of 15 over C&D on his handicap debut but wasn’t beaten far. Stays 1m 2f so a mile maybe on the short side for the gelding but a strong pace should see him finishing his race of well.

1pt win – Bashiyr – 6/1 @ Bet365

1pt win – Njord – 10/1 @ Bet365 & Ladbrokes

Newbury

4:55 – The first of four competitive looking handicaps on Newbury’s evening card. I like the chance of top-weight Into Faith. The 3-year-old shaped with promise on his first two starts last season before going onto win a maiden at Longchamp on his final start. The ground was soft at Longchamp so the easing of the Newbury surface is in his favour. Need to improve further on his handicap debut but he’s lightly raced and looks to be going the right way.

The Richard Hannon trained Count Of Amazonia also takes the eye off what looks a winnable mark off 83. The colt impressed when getting off the mark at the third attempt at Newcastle back in October. He can improve for the step up to a mile and the looks the sort to do well in his second season.

1pt win – Into Faith – 11/1 @ Ladbrokes

1pt win – Count Of Amazonia – 7/1 @ Bet365 & Ladbrokes

6:25 – Lunar Jet is 2 wins from 2 runs over C&D, both on good to soft, and should be fitter for his seasonal return at Newcastle 10-days ago.  The 6-year-old is 4lb below his last winning mark and is to well handicapped to ignore on a track that suits. 

1pt win – Lunar Jet – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

Cheers

Hi all,

Rosadora refused to enter the stalls at Kempton last night and was withdrawn at the start. I have one selection at Newbury today.

Newbury

2:40 – Trainer Roger Charlton has an excellent record with his runners in 3-year-old only handicaps at Newbury. Since the start of 2015 he’s had 7 winners from 13 runners 54% +20.25 8 placed 62%. That stat alone makes Tambourine Girl of some interest in this 6f handicap.

The daughter of Cable Bay finished runner-up on her racecourse debut at Windsor 12 months ago and ran well to finish third on her next start at Kempton. Off the track for 97-days she returned to action at the same venue and managed to hold on for battling success in maiden company. Needs to have improved over the winter to defy a mark of 76 on her handicap debut but has the scope to do so.

1pt win – Tambourine Girl – 4/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

Cheers

John

Hi all,

One has tempted me into small stakes at Kempton this evening.

Kempton

8:00 – The Ralph Beckett yard have bounced into form in the last couple of days. He saddles Rosadora in this 6f handicap. The filly won her sole start on the all-weather at Lingfield 12 months ago and improved for the step into nursery company when finishing in the places in three fillies’ handicaps. Disappointed on her final start of last season but a 256-days break will hopefully have freshened her up for the new campaign. All being well, all eight runners stand their ground as I’m going each way on her chance.

0.5pts each way – Rosadora – 16/1 @ Bet365, Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A nice way to end the weekend and the first week since the return of racing with a Newmarket double courtesy of Jabbarockie (11/1) & West End Charmer (13/2).

The first few weeks are inevitably going to be tough on the betting front so to end week one with a profit is pleasing.

There are no selections today.

Cheers

John