Hello & welcome along to my blog for a top class day's racing from Haydock Park with a short look at Kempton Park's big Flat meeting of the year & the meeting from Ascot thrown in. Firstly thanks to all my readers who stuck with me over the last 3 weeks after not being able to tie my own shoe laces for what seemed an eternity...joyfully Big Orange ground his rivals into submission at Chester last week at the rewarding early price of 8/1.
I am back on @Betracingnation on Saturday morning between 10:00am - 11:30am on Sky Channel 212 plus an additional programme between 12:00pm - 13:30pm (unsure as yet if its on Sky as well or just via the internet, please check back here or Twitter where I will update it once I know) which takes an early look at the forthcoming National Hunt season not my specialist subject but hopefully I will be revealing some interesting unexposed jumpers to follow.
Hope you can all tune in!
Hope you can all tune in!
On to the action for today & there is no better place to start that the big race of the day The Betfred Sprint Cup which has attracted a bumper field of 18.
With the obvious standout sprinter of the season at 6f Slade Power off on his Aussies travels this has a distinctly open feel to it although I feel I have had the winner of this for some time & he is one of my biggest bets of the whole year but more on him later.
With the obvious standout sprinter of the season at 6f Slade Power off on his Aussies travels this has a distinctly open feel to it although I feel I have had the winner of this for some time & he is one of my biggest bets of the whole year but more on him later.
Slade Power's superstar stablemate Sole Power is due to represent the talented Eddie Lynam as he attempts to win a pattern race & his first ever race over 6f, his form figures at this distance read 3rd / 3rd / 4th / 12th (in this race in 2011)/ 9th / 5th & 2nd. The last 2nd place was in Hong Kong at the end of last year when he was a well beaten 5l 2nd behind an emphatic winner. This season since returning to the UK he has been at the very top of his game winning his last 3 starts all with lightening fast finishes. He is the very best 5f sprinter in the world but 6f has not as yet been his trip as each time the electric burst over 5f is not there at 6f, despite his brilliant form at present he is surely opposable.
So to the opposition much improved handicapper Baccarat a ready winner of the Wokingham has long promised to be Group class & its interesting that connections have clearly aimed him at this race. 6 of the last 10 winners were winning their first Group 1 race in this so I firmly expect him to get involved with the principals & he is a big price.
Caspar Netscher even if anywhere near his best would struggle in this & has not looked the same horse since returning from an ill fated stud career.
Dinkum Diamond has never quite fulfilled his early potential & is well below this class, I believe his excellent trainer has put him in to set the race up for his better fancied stablemate.
Es Que Love travels well enough in his races as he showed last time with an imperious display in a weak Group 2 to suggest that a 6f Group race is within his compass & added to that he has already shown ability in the grade at the trip earlier in the year. Player although I do believe one or two in this field are better than him.
Gordon Lord Byron has been a phenomenal servant to connections over the years & won this race in grand style last year. He travelled over to Australia at the start of the year winning on his first start in Grade 1 company before coming unstuck before the best sprinter in the world Lankan Rupee. Only just lost out in a Group 3 in Ireland last time & must go well again.
Maarek is another Irish sprinter who has been fantastic to a few different trainers & his owners over the last 2 - 3 years, he has disappointed on his last 2 starts in Ireland after being well beaten by Slade Power 3 starts ago. His early season form was fantastic winning The Duke of York but he is a hostage to his conditions as he is a 10lb better horse on soft or heavy going which he is highly unlikely to get judging by the weather forecast for the next 3 days.
Moviesta ran a fine race in The Nunthorpe over what i believe to his best trip of 5f, a decent sprinter he has yet to show he can get any higher than Group 3 class.
Music Master is the apple of his trainer Henry Candy's eye & has been a favourite of mine ever since the end of last season. A strongly run 6f is what he wants as he showed last time when winning The Hackwood in comfortable style, he has long been my fancy for this race as everything about the big expansive Haydock course should suit & his trainer has a fantastic record with improving these types of sprinter over the years. He also won this race in 2010 with Markab, Music Master is improving with every run & for me has a huge opportunity of gaining his maiden Group 1 success.
Pearl Secret surprised me last week when handling the fast ground to win at Beverly but then it was a weak Listed race, he should be up to this class but whether he wants 2 races in a week on fast ground is debatable & the trip does appear to stretch him.
Professor was a good 2nd to Baccarat in the Wokingham when dropped back to 6f a few starts ago, clearly capable at this distance although he has been easily brushed aside back up at 7f in lesser Group races than this on his last 2 starts, work to do.
Tropics gained a deserved Listed win at Newmarket in a hot race last time, he was an excellent 2nd in The July Cup the time before, should get involved now he is back in good form & has a verdict over Music Master in The Bengough Stakes at Ascot last backend although he was on a winning streak & Music Master was trying 6f for the first time.
Cougar Mountain was deemed an unlikely runner at the start of the week yet here he is with Joseph on board, after just 3 starts he has shown a good level of ability & found the 5f too sharp last time before running on. Drawn on the wrong side the time before in The July Cup he needs considering although I worry that for such an inexperienced horse if 3 quick runs in top company may find him out.
Astaire has looked a shadow of himself on his last 2 starts & can only be watched at present.
G Force is similar to Cougar Mountain that he is inexperienced (less so than CM) but clearly well regarded to try in these big sprints. Slightly unlucky in The Nunthorpe last time but then these big sprints will cause havoc so you need the tactical nouse to avoid that & as yet he is not the finished article so may find this coming too soon once more.
Extortionist on the other hand is clearly thriving & ran another creamer in The Nunthorpe coming from the centre of the track for 3rd. Yet to prove conclusively if he gets 6f as his only try at 2 in a French Group 3 was inconclusive as he was outclassed & well beaten.
Hot Streak has stayed at the same level since winning the Temple back in May, the fast ground throughout the summer has looked the problem to me & he needs more again here.
Danzeno is very much on the up & has been lightly raced this year, he won a weakish Group 3 at Newcastle back in June from Ruwaiyan (4th Stewards Cup but well beaten by Tropics since & Sir Maximilian who has won twice since including in Listed grade). Interesting runner but has it to do on the form book with firstly his 3yo counterparts let alone his elders.
So to the opposition much improved handicapper Baccarat a ready winner of the Wokingham has long promised to be Group class & its interesting that connections have clearly aimed him at this race. 6 of the last 10 winners were winning their first Group 1 race in this so I firmly expect him to get involved with the principals & he is a big price.
Caspar Netscher even if anywhere near his best would struggle in this & has not looked the same horse since returning from an ill fated stud career.
Dinkum Diamond has never quite fulfilled his early potential & is well below this class, I believe his excellent trainer has put him in to set the race up for his better fancied stablemate.
Es Que Love travels well enough in his races as he showed last time with an imperious display in a weak Group 2 to suggest that a 6f Group race is within his compass & added to that he has already shown ability in the grade at the trip earlier in the year. Player although I do believe one or two in this field are better than him.
Gordon Lord Byron has been a phenomenal servant to connections over the years & won this race in grand style last year. He travelled over to Australia at the start of the year winning on his first start in Grade 1 company before coming unstuck before the best sprinter in the world Lankan Rupee. Only just lost out in a Group 3 in Ireland last time & must go well again.
Maarek is another Irish sprinter who has been fantastic to a few different trainers & his owners over the last 2 - 3 years, he has disappointed on his last 2 starts in Ireland after being well beaten by Slade Power 3 starts ago. His early season form was fantastic winning The Duke of York but he is a hostage to his conditions as he is a 10lb better horse on soft or heavy going which he is highly unlikely to get judging by the weather forecast for the next 3 days.
Moviesta ran a fine race in The Nunthorpe over what i believe to his best trip of 5f, a decent sprinter he has yet to show he can get any higher than Group 3 class.
Music Master is the apple of his trainer Henry Candy's eye & has been a favourite of mine ever since the end of last season. A strongly run 6f is what he wants as he showed last time when winning The Hackwood in comfortable style, he has long been my fancy for this race as everything about the big expansive Haydock course should suit & his trainer has a fantastic record with improving these types of sprinter over the years. He also won this race in 2010 with Markab, Music Master is improving with every run & for me has a huge opportunity of gaining his maiden Group 1 success.
Pearl Secret surprised me last week when handling the fast ground to win at Beverly but then it was a weak Listed race, he should be up to this class but whether he wants 2 races in a week on fast ground is debatable & the trip does appear to stretch him.
Professor was a good 2nd to Baccarat in the Wokingham when dropped back to 6f a few starts ago, clearly capable at this distance although he has been easily brushed aside back up at 7f in lesser Group races than this on his last 2 starts, work to do.
Tropics gained a deserved Listed win at Newmarket in a hot race last time, he was an excellent 2nd in The July Cup the time before, should get involved now he is back in good form & has a verdict over Music Master in The Bengough Stakes at Ascot last backend although he was on a winning streak & Music Master was trying 6f for the first time.
Cougar Mountain was deemed an unlikely runner at the start of the week yet here he is with Joseph on board, after just 3 starts he has shown a good level of ability & found the 5f too sharp last time before running on. Drawn on the wrong side the time before in The July Cup he needs considering although I worry that for such an inexperienced horse if 3 quick runs in top company may find him out.
Astaire has looked a shadow of himself on his last 2 starts & can only be watched at present.
G Force is similar to Cougar Mountain that he is inexperienced (less so than CM) but clearly well regarded to try in these big sprints. Slightly unlucky in The Nunthorpe last time but then these big sprints will cause havoc so you need the tactical nouse to avoid that & as yet he is not the finished article so may find this coming too soon once more.
Extortionist on the other hand is clearly thriving & ran another creamer in The Nunthorpe coming from the centre of the track for 3rd. Yet to prove conclusively if he gets 6f as his only try at 2 in a French Group 3 was inconclusive as he was outclassed & well beaten.
Hot Streak has stayed at the same level since winning the Temple back in May, the fast ground throughout the summer has looked the problem to me & he needs more again here.
Danzeno is very much on the up & has been lightly raced this year, he won a weakish Group 3 at Newcastle back in June from Ruwaiyan (4th Stewards Cup but well beaten by Tropics since & Sir Maximilian who has won twice since including in Listed grade). Interesting runner but has it to do on the form book with firstly his 3yo counterparts let alone his elders.
Music Master 8/1 Coral / Paddy Power / William Hill / Betway all the way.
Opening up Haydock's card is The Be Friendly Handicap over 5f, just a small field of 12 face the starter this year headed by the bang in form Barnet Fair who is now off 96 & in the past has struggled from similar marks. Player who could well be up to the task as he appears better than ever. Valbchek has been overall a disappointing animal & starts out for Jane Chapple-Hyam off what looks still a mark near the ceiling of his ability on Turf at least (He won an AW Listed off 99 in November last year beating Take Cover).
High On Life's winning streak has come to abrupt end on his last 2 starts & now needs to prove that his new mark is truly not beyond him. Bear Behind is another who is struggling at present after a good early campaign, is capable from a mark like this but has always struggled in this grade before. Confessional has an inspired record in this race having won 2 renewals the first in 2010 from a mark of 88 & last year off a mark of 94 on both the times he has contested this race. Back in off 92 on Saturday with any ground suitable he has to be involved. Kickboxer has been an admirable horse so far this year but he needs softer ground to be at his best & is on a stiff mark for a 3yo.
Old Borderlescott has struggled badly so far this season which is not what the public want to as he has been a fantastic servant over the years, slightly easier than races he has contested but still likely to struggle again.
Normal Equilibrium has been running well without looking like winning this season, his hold up style is always liable to get him in trouble. Slightly smaller field size will help & well capable.
Inxile gained a first win in 2 years a couple of starts back from a reduced mark, since it has been raised he has struggled & has work to do again.
Long Awaited is well named as a win is long overdue, he was fancied on his last completed start at Doncaster but after being left too much to do by his jockey who appeared to believe that he had a pattern class performer under him rather than an 80+ sprinter. He was part of the voided race at Epsom last time where he showed nothing. He last ran in this race back in 2012 when he finished a good 3rd off 91 so he really should have the ability to get involved from 89 on Saturday, you put your life in your own hands backing him.
Sleepy Sioux is going to continue to struggle here if her last 2 starts are anything to go by.
Doctor Parkes is useful at best but would appear to have had his win for the year, he last ran in this race in 2012 finishing 5th off 86 & returns today off 84.
High On Life's winning streak has come to abrupt end on his last 2 starts & now needs to prove that his new mark is truly not beyond him. Bear Behind is another who is struggling at present after a good early campaign, is capable from a mark like this but has always struggled in this grade before. Confessional has an inspired record in this race having won 2 renewals the first in 2010 from a mark of 88 & last year off a mark of 94 on both the times he has contested this race. Back in off 92 on Saturday with any ground suitable he has to be involved. Kickboxer has been an admirable horse so far this year but he needs softer ground to be at his best & is on a stiff mark for a 3yo.
Old Borderlescott has struggled badly so far this season which is not what the public want to as he has been a fantastic servant over the years, slightly easier than races he has contested but still likely to struggle again.
Normal Equilibrium has been running well without looking like winning this season, his hold up style is always liable to get him in trouble. Slightly smaller field size will help & well capable.
Inxile gained a first win in 2 years a couple of starts back from a reduced mark, since it has been raised he has struggled & has work to do again.
Long Awaited is well named as a win is long overdue, he was fancied on his last completed start at Doncaster but after being left too much to do by his jockey who appeared to believe that he had a pattern class performer under him rather than an 80+ sprinter. He was part of the voided race at Epsom last time where he showed nothing. He last ran in this race back in 2012 when he finished a good 3rd off 91 so he really should have the ability to get involved from 89 on Saturday, you put your life in your own hands backing him.
Sleepy Sioux is going to continue to struggle here if her last 2 starts are anything to go by.
Doctor Parkes is useful at best but would appear to have had his win for the year, he last ran in this race in 2012 finishing 5th off 86 & returns today off 84.
Not a race for me.
The Group 3 Superior Mile has attracted just the 7 runners with Captain Cat heading them, I think we all agree he was given far too much to do last time at Goodwood when a fast finishing 3rd behind Bow Creek, previous to that he had been impressive at Salisbury in a better race. His trainer has won this twice in the last 2 years & he is more than capable of coping with the penalty. Penitent will get the run of the race & is more than capable of bouncing back from 4 poor runs. Balty Boys will do well to get anywhere near repeating his stablemates Top Notch Tonto's win in this last year.
Emell was a shock 2nd in The Celebration Mile last time where he got the run of the race being the closest placed rivals to runway winner Bow Creek, not up to this grade in a truly run race. Brendan Brackan has been in good form since returning from Dubai winning in Listed company & 3 placed efforts in Group company, capable of playing part.
Ocean Tempest returned to his best at Chester last week with a hard fought success, should be capable in this grade judged on that & his early season form but softer ground would be better. Short Squeeze tried Group company for just the 2nd time, was ridden with ball of steel for a finish at York last time that set up for a finisher, more required here but respected.
Emell was a shock 2nd in The Celebration Mile last time where he got the run of the race being the closest placed rivals to runway winner Bow Creek, not up to this grade in a truly run race. Brendan Brackan has been in good form since returning from Dubai winning in Listed company & 3 placed efforts in Group company, capable of playing part.
Ocean Tempest returned to his best at Chester last week with a hard fought success, should be capable in this grade judged on that & his early season form but softer ground would be better. Short Squeeze tried Group company for just the 2nd time, was ridden with ball of steel for a finish at York last time that set up for a finisher, more required here but respected.
Will be looking elsewhere for bets than this race.
Despite not getting into the Ebor Havana Cooler now carries top weight in The Old Borough Cup, I am hugely surprised that at least blinkers have not been added after his performance where he through victory away by hanging badly & losing concentration in truth looking less than resolute. Added to the welter burden he now has I cannot consider backing him at short odds here.
Goodwood Mirage had a less than stellar NH campaign after rising through the ranks on the flat last year, he makes his seasonal return here from a mark higher than he has ever been competitive from before & is best watched.
Nautilus made a winning return to action late last month from a bunch of less than genuine animals & has been raised rapidly. This is by far his biggest test but his trainer won with a similar type back in 2010.
Hassle was given a rare poor ride from Olivier Peslier last time out, before that he had shown progressive form at trips up to 2 miles. Dropping back will do no harm & he can remain competitive.
Glenard finally won last time at York which was a big shock to me as he looks less than straightforward, Hassle had his measure 3 starts ago though & from a similar mark that should remain.
Big Thunder disappointed at York last time & has to be watched at the present time.
Communicator is hard to win with & has his own ideas as his wins to runs ratio shows, not for me.
Chancery is often well talked up but his form falls well short of the words, work to do here.
Novirak was a progressive animal last season & returned from a lengthy break with a thoroughly satisfactory run at Newbury in the middle of last month, more than capable from this mark & a huge threat to all in this.
Shrewd has shown little over hurdles this year & last year's flat form is below the standard required here. Aramist returned to winning ways after 2 below par runs last time, he still has mileage from his mark although the trip could be an issue on breeding & on his only start at the distance last year he looked a non stayer.
Quest For More went down fighting to a resurgent animal last time on his first try at 2 miles, drop back in trip will suit & surely has more to offer from a mark of 88.
Lady Kashaan was well beaten behind Quest For More at York & needs to pull out more here.
The usual comments apply to Saptapadi > he doesn't win.
Be Perfect is more than useful at a slightly lower level than this but he does stay & has a small chance. Eagle Rock has struggled on his last 2 starts but as a result is now on his last winning mark, chance in an open race.
Epsom Hill has won his last 2 starts in the style of a strong stayer on softer ground, he was receiving a stone from Novirak last time but this time the weights are much more in Novirak's favour so he will have to have improved again to be getting involved in this class of race.
Goodwood Mirage had a less than stellar NH campaign after rising through the ranks on the flat last year, he makes his seasonal return here from a mark higher than he has ever been competitive from before & is best watched.
Nautilus made a winning return to action late last month from a bunch of less than genuine animals & has been raised rapidly. This is by far his biggest test but his trainer won with a similar type back in 2010.
Hassle was given a rare poor ride from Olivier Peslier last time out, before that he had shown progressive form at trips up to 2 miles. Dropping back will do no harm & he can remain competitive.
Glenard finally won last time at York which was a big shock to me as he looks less than straightforward, Hassle had his measure 3 starts ago though & from a similar mark that should remain.
Big Thunder disappointed at York last time & has to be watched at the present time.
Communicator is hard to win with & has his own ideas as his wins to runs ratio shows, not for me.
Chancery is often well talked up but his form falls well short of the words, work to do here.
Novirak was a progressive animal last season & returned from a lengthy break with a thoroughly satisfactory run at Newbury in the middle of last month, more than capable from this mark & a huge threat to all in this.
Shrewd has shown little over hurdles this year & last year's flat form is below the standard required here. Aramist returned to winning ways after 2 below par runs last time, he still has mileage from his mark although the trip could be an issue on breeding & on his only start at the distance last year he looked a non stayer.
Quest For More went down fighting to a resurgent animal last time on his first try at 2 miles, drop back in trip will suit & surely has more to offer from a mark of 88.
Lady Kashaan was well beaten behind Quest For More at York & needs to pull out more here.
The usual comments apply to Saptapadi > he doesn't win.
Be Perfect is more than useful at a slightly lower level than this but he does stay & has a small chance. Eagle Rock has struggled on his last 2 starts but as a result is now on his last winning mark, chance in an open race.
Epsom Hill has won his last 2 starts in the style of a strong stayer on softer ground, he was receiving a stone from Novirak last time but this time the weights are much more in Novirak's favour so he will have to have improved again to be getting involved in this class of race.
No strong opinion here.
Down at Kempton their feature Flat meeting of the year takes place with The September Stakes the main event.
Saeed Bin Suroor has dominated the race in the last 10 years winning 3 renewals & last year's winner Prince Bishop returns after a stellar campaign on Meydan's now defunct Tapeta surface earlier in the year when he won the last 2 legs of The Maktoum Challenge the latter of those in Group 1 company. He carries a penalty here for that success so has work to do but he is a 10lb better horse on synthetic surfaces. Stablemate Secret Number makes his long awaited seasonal debut (nearest see pic below) after several good efforts in pattern company last season he broke through at Group 3 level on his final start at Ascot in a race that has worked out well (both Gatewood (Dual Listed & Group 3 winner 2014) & Gospel Choir (Dual Group 2 winner 2014 in behind)). He has been working well recently looking a stronger horse this time around & holds grand claims.
The 3rd of The Godolphin owned trio is Charlie Appleby's well regarded Cat O'Mountain who was a decisive winner in his Carnival debut before disappointing next time, appeared to be in over his head on his next 2 starts but performed with credit finishing 4th to Prince Bishop & a fantastic 3rd to African Story in The World Cup. He is already a 4 time winner around Kempton & really should go well if he is fit enough to do himself justice which so many few of his stablemates have been this year.
Saeed Bin Suroor has dominated the race in the last 10 years winning 3 renewals & last year's winner Prince Bishop returns after a stellar campaign on Meydan's now defunct Tapeta surface earlier in the year when he won the last 2 legs of The Maktoum Challenge the latter of those in Group 1 company. He carries a penalty here for that success so has work to do but he is a 10lb better horse on synthetic surfaces. Stablemate Secret Number makes his long awaited seasonal debut (nearest see pic below) after several good efforts in pattern company last season he broke through at Group 3 level on his final start at Ascot in a race that has worked out well (both Gatewood (Dual Listed & Group 3 winner 2014) & Gospel Choir (Dual Group 2 winner 2014 in behind)). He has been working well recently looking a stronger horse this time around & holds grand claims.
The 3rd of The Godolphin owned trio is Charlie Appleby's well regarded Cat O'Mountain who was a decisive winner in his Carnival debut before disappointing next time, appeared to be in over his head on his next 2 starts but performed with credit finishing 4th to Prince Bishop & a fantastic 3rd to African Story in The World Cup. He is already a 4 time winner around Kempton & really should go well if he is fit enough to do himself justice which so many few of his stablemates have been this year.
Winter Derby winner Robin Hoods Bay returns after his summer break, this is by far his toughest test but his ability to handle the surface gives him a chance.
Battalion has been well beaten in Listed company on his last 2 starts. His sire's progeny has a reasonable record on the AW with a 24% strike rate.
Worldwide legend Red Cadeaux is very capable on an AW surface & ran a promising race in The Geoffrey Freer last time, this is a slightly better race & as we all know his aim is Melbourne in November once more.
Dandino won this race in 2012 in decisive fashion he has since gone on to travel the world however this season he has looked laboured until his 2nd place in The American St Leger at Arlington last time (Won it last year), to me though he still looked a bit below his best as it was his class that brought him to 2nd & the less than perfect rides given to those in behind.
Battalion has been well beaten in Listed company on his last 2 starts. His sire's progeny has a reasonable record on the AW with a 24% strike rate.
Worldwide legend Red Cadeaux is very capable on an AW surface & ran a promising race in The Geoffrey Freer last time, this is a slightly better race & as we all know his aim is Melbourne in November once more.
Dandino won this race in 2012 in decisive fashion he has since gone on to travel the world however this season he has looked laboured until his 2nd place in The American St Leger at Arlington last time (Won it last year), to me though he still looked a bit below his best as it was his class that brought him to 2nd & the less than perfect rides given to those in behind.
Actually a decent renewal with some intriguing contenders but I see no bet here.
The other Group race on the card is for 2yo's, the 6f Sirenia Stakes.
Burnt Sugar has yet to try this class, he was beaten in Nursery company last time & has work to do. Stablemate Dr No is below what's required in this grade judged on his last 3 starts. Escalating has not been seen since disappointing in The National Stakes behind Tiggy Wiggy, quite a big lad who is a handful the break should have done him good & he is a 5f course winner earlier in the year, chances at a price.
Fanciful Angel is a real stamp of a horse who was extremely disappointing in a 6 runner conditions race at Newmarket when a well backed favourite, should be fine on the surface as his sires progeny have a 40% strike rate. Interesting he is pitched into Group company & on looks alone he should be up to it. Home Of The Brave won comfortably at Newmarket after a promising debut, it was only a median auction maiden so he does need much more upped to pattern class for the first time but he is going the right way from a stable that has now had two 2yo Group winners this season.
Maftool should appreciate the AW surface being a son of American sire Hard Spun, he won nicely at Pontefract last time. A sharp nippy type who looks like Kempton should suit he is respected upped in class. Misleading won what looked on paper quite a weak maiden for the class at Goodwood, he did it nicely enough & was due to tackle Group company at York but was pulled out due to the ground. Another with potential to improve & his sire can produce decent AW performers. Speedy Move won a nursery over the course last time just lasting the 7f, course form has helped in the past in this race so he is respected on that, probably not up to this class but may not need to be.
Surewecan has been well beaten on his last 3 starts & has work to do once more. Accipiter will appreciate the return to this AW circuit after winning nicely on debut here, she has since looked exposed in similar races to this.
Prize Exhibit ran with little success in The Dick Poole at Salisbury on Thursday & would have little chance here if lining up again.
Burnt Sugar has yet to try this class, he was beaten in Nursery company last time & has work to do. Stablemate Dr No is below what's required in this grade judged on his last 3 starts. Escalating has not been seen since disappointing in The National Stakes behind Tiggy Wiggy, quite a big lad who is a handful the break should have done him good & he is a 5f course winner earlier in the year, chances at a price.
Fanciful Angel is a real stamp of a horse who was extremely disappointing in a 6 runner conditions race at Newmarket when a well backed favourite, should be fine on the surface as his sires progeny have a 40% strike rate. Interesting he is pitched into Group company & on looks alone he should be up to it. Home Of The Brave won comfortably at Newmarket after a promising debut, it was only a median auction maiden so he does need much more upped to pattern class for the first time but he is going the right way from a stable that has now had two 2yo Group winners this season.
Maftool should appreciate the AW surface being a son of American sire Hard Spun, he won nicely at Pontefract last time. A sharp nippy type who looks like Kempton should suit he is respected upped in class. Misleading won what looked on paper quite a weak maiden for the class at Goodwood, he did it nicely enough & was due to tackle Group company at York but was pulled out due to the ground. Another with potential to improve & his sire can produce decent AW performers. Speedy Move won a nursery over the course last time just lasting the 7f, course form has helped in the past in this race so he is respected on that, probably not up to this class but may not need to be.
Surewecan has been well beaten on his last 3 starts & has work to do once more. Accipiter will appreciate the return to this AW circuit after winning nicely on debut here, she has since looked exposed in similar races to this.
Prize Exhibit ran with little success in The Dick Poole at Salisbury on Thursday & would have little chance here if lining up again.
May be tempted by one in this depending on price.
Just 18.9 miles down the M3 from Kempton racing also takes place at Ascot on Saturday (impeccable race planning once more from our sports governing body), its a relatively new card only 4 years old, the card lacks any pattern races but hosts 2 extremely valuable handicaps including the opening 7f event which is a qualifier for the big handicap over the same trip on Champions Day.
The usual suspects in this type of race are once again to the fore; Louis The Pious heads the weights still suffering from his shock win at the Royal Meeting, work to do.
Free Wheeling attempts his first handicap in the UK off the back of a couple of just ok runs in this country this year. Carrying the big weight should cause no problem as he is fine strapping individual who has a decent record in handicaps in Dubai & Australia. He is a 10lb better horse on an artificial surface which bodes well for Ascot which since the relaying has favoured animals who handle synthetics especially on the likely decent ground.
Hawkeyethenoo has been a grand servant over the years but has struggled with tough tasks for over 2 years now, work to do.
Heavy Metal after running into form when winning a similar handicap back in July has reverted back to normality with 2 below par runs, appears held from his current mark. Red Avenger gained the win he had been threatening in The Betfred Mile 2 starts ago, he wasn't beaten far last time at York & remains capable of getting involved.
Pacific Heights has struggled in this kind of grade since a win at Chester in May & similar outcome awaits here. Passing Star is extremely harshly treated for a 3yo & is passed over. Captain Ramius has shown very little on his starts so far this year & is hardly being helped by the handicapper. Almargo bounced back after a couple of below par efforts under a astute ride at Goodwood a couple of weeks ago, this is tougher but is respected having found his form once again. Days Of Conquest is lightly raced this season, the bigger field will suit him here but is he rated to highly on what he has achieved?
Safety Check beat Days Of Conquest 2 starts ago at Goodwood & should still be capable of finishing ahead of that rival here taking Cam Hardie's 5lb claim into account, his run next time behind Almargo was easily his best effort so far given far too much to do he made up a lot of ground in the closing stages to finish 4th from his new mark suggesting there is more to come, interesting. Don't Call Me took advantage of his lowest mark in a couple of years last time when winning at The Shergar Cup meeting, he has shown in the past that he is more than capable from a mark of 97 & he likes Ascot having won 3 times at the course. He won his race off 96 in 2012 & was 9th last year.
Alfred Hutchinson is not as good on Turf as he is on the AW & he struggles in this class but in saying that as I stated before Ascot favours synthetic horses so a better is not out of the question.
Redvers appears to have been geared for a repeat success in this race all season & he returns this time from the same mark as last year, another who has good course form with 2 wins at the Berkshire venue, he travelled supremely well on his last start but was held in at the vital time & by the time he got out Almargo & the others were gone.
Fort Bastion has remained in good form since switching to Ruth Carr this season, blinkers on first time are interesting but in truth he still has work to do from his mark to actually win. Purcell is a lightly raced 4yo who has been well regarded for some time yet so far he has been generally disappointing so far showing much more of a liking for the AW which is no disadvantage here at Ascot, interesting from a low weight.
Cornrow is one of John Gosden's many Cambridgeshire entries who has won his last 3 starts at a mile twice at Kempton & on his seasonal return at Haydock recently pulling away to score in the style of a horse on the upgrade. Drop back to 7f would be a concern as he looks a galloping type who has needed all of the mile on all 3 of his wins but understandably will be well found in the market.
Highland Acclaim has won his last 2 starts at 6f including when just getting up in the shadow of the post at Ascot last time, no reason to suggest he won't be equally as home over 7f but still quite a tough job on as a 3yo.
Am quite keen on Redvers for a repeat success.
The other big handicap on Ascot's card is for 3yo's over 1m4f, it usually attracts a good field & is often won or contested by horses that go on to become useful animals at 4.
Saeed Bin Suroor has won the last 2 renewals with 2 horses that have gone on to Group success Excellent Result (14/1) & Ahzeemah (11/1).
So far in the 3 years of this race the winners have carried 9st / 9-5 & 9.7, they have been rated 94 - 100. The starting price of the winners has been 11/1 - 16/1.
Montaly heads the weights after a comfortable success at Haydock last time, I would say the handicapper has overreacted slightly but I believe he will be a decent stayer by this time next year, my only concern is fast ground which did not suit at The Royal Meeting but as I write this piece looking out my window it remains overcast & oppressive so moisture should remain in the ground come Saturday.
Agent Murphy must raise his game from this mark as he was readily outpointed by Redkirk over 10f here last time, on breeding the step up in trip is not sure to suit.
Nancy From Nairobi finally broke her maiden last time at Windsor after some decent efforts in better class, young Charles Bishop negates her mark but she still has to find improvement. Swivel was well in at Hamilton against his elders last time but on previous Ascot running in a lesser race than this he looks harshly treated & has work to do. Satellite appears to have gone backwards after a promising start to his career, the fast ground has been causing him problems as he is a heavy topped horse & he cannot be fancied until showing more. Second Step was a good 3rd in a similar handicap at Goodwood last time when not handling the course at all well. Ascot will suit better although the high draw is far from ideal. Our Gabrial didn't stay as well as expected in The Melrose last time, previously he had shown guts & determination to win over course & distance. Player with his young apprentice taking 5lbs off his back.
Astronereus was only just nabbed by Our Gabrial on Shergar Cup day when stepped up to 12f, he is lightly raced with plenty of improvement to come, big player.
Gothic finally steps up to 12f after messing about at 9f & 10f this season, a long striding individual who has always promised to be suited by a proper test he comes into this race on a nice looking mark after a win at Leicester (for the 2nd time in his career) on soft ground, good ground will be fine for him. Galizzi is improving at a lesser level, his previous 2 attempts at a better class of handicap leave him with plenty to find though. Trip To Paris went off to fast under his inexperienced South African rider at the Shergar Cup last time so a line can be put through it, he is better judged on a ready defeat of Our Gabrial over course & distance the time before, good chance.
Battersea is another course & distance winner in the field who is on the improve, up 6lbs for a ready success last time he would want the ground to stay as it is as he was pulled out of the Melrose due to fast ground. Penhill was a good 6th in the Melrose last time & is another who would want the ground to remain as it is.
Gwafa was 2nd to Montaly at Haydock last time when receiving 7lbs, he now receives 10lbs from that same horse & is lightly raced enough to believe that he has more improvement to come. Rainbow Rock will enjoy the step up to 1m4f here after an excellent run behind stablemate Lyn Valley at Goodwood, improving at the right time he can get involved but to me he lacks the class of others in this race, place chance.
Hidden Gold did well in 2nd at Pontefract last time giving weight away to a progressive animal, she is now the one who is receiving weight in a better race & from the stable that has won the last 2 renewals she has to have excellent claims with the strong pace sure to suit this strong staying filly.
Bureau & Notarised complete the Johnston attack on this race; Bureau is a doubtful stayer on breeding by 6f Group 1 winning 2yo Embassy & Notarised appears the opposite a bit slow for this kind of race.
Cracking race in which I am a fan of Montaly having backed him last time but this is tough enough to follow up in & Gothic 12/1 E/W Paddy Power has been one of my horses to follow all season so now he finally gets a chance at 1m4f he cannot go unbacked.
Just 18.9 miles down the M3 from Kempton racing also takes place at Ascot on Saturday (impeccable race planning once more from our sports governing body), its a relatively new card only 4 years old, the card lacks any pattern races but hosts 2 extremely valuable handicaps including the opening 7f event which is a qualifier for the big handicap over the same trip on Champions Day.
The usual suspects in this type of race are once again to the fore; Louis The Pious heads the weights still suffering from his shock win at the Royal Meeting, work to do.
Free Wheeling attempts his first handicap in the UK off the back of a couple of just ok runs in this country this year. Carrying the big weight should cause no problem as he is fine strapping individual who has a decent record in handicaps in Dubai & Australia. He is a 10lb better horse on an artificial surface which bodes well for Ascot which since the relaying has favoured animals who handle synthetics especially on the likely decent ground.
Hawkeyethenoo has been a grand servant over the years but has struggled with tough tasks for over 2 years now, work to do.
Heavy Metal after running into form when winning a similar handicap back in July has reverted back to normality with 2 below par runs, appears held from his current mark. Red Avenger gained the win he had been threatening in The Betfred Mile 2 starts ago, he wasn't beaten far last time at York & remains capable of getting involved.
Pacific Heights has struggled in this kind of grade since a win at Chester in May & similar outcome awaits here. Passing Star is extremely harshly treated for a 3yo & is passed over. Captain Ramius has shown very little on his starts so far this year & is hardly being helped by the handicapper. Almargo bounced back after a couple of below par efforts under a astute ride at Goodwood a couple of weeks ago, this is tougher but is respected having found his form once again. Days Of Conquest is lightly raced this season, the bigger field will suit him here but is he rated to highly on what he has achieved?
Safety Check beat Days Of Conquest 2 starts ago at Goodwood & should still be capable of finishing ahead of that rival here taking Cam Hardie's 5lb claim into account, his run next time behind Almargo was easily his best effort so far given far too much to do he made up a lot of ground in the closing stages to finish 4th from his new mark suggesting there is more to come, interesting. Don't Call Me took advantage of his lowest mark in a couple of years last time when winning at The Shergar Cup meeting, he has shown in the past that he is more than capable from a mark of 97 & he likes Ascot having won 3 times at the course. He won his race off 96 in 2012 & was 9th last year.
Alfred Hutchinson is not as good on Turf as he is on the AW & he struggles in this class but in saying that as I stated before Ascot favours synthetic horses so a better is not out of the question.
Redvers appears to have been geared for a repeat success in this race all season & he returns this time from the same mark as last year, another who has good course form with 2 wins at the Berkshire venue, he travelled supremely well on his last start but was held in at the vital time & by the time he got out Almargo & the others were gone.
Fort Bastion has remained in good form since switching to Ruth Carr this season, blinkers on first time are interesting but in truth he still has work to do from his mark to actually win. Purcell is a lightly raced 4yo who has been well regarded for some time yet so far he has been generally disappointing so far showing much more of a liking for the AW which is no disadvantage here at Ascot, interesting from a low weight.
Cornrow is one of John Gosden's many Cambridgeshire entries who has won his last 3 starts at a mile twice at Kempton & on his seasonal return at Haydock recently pulling away to score in the style of a horse on the upgrade. Drop back to 7f would be a concern as he looks a galloping type who has needed all of the mile on all 3 of his wins but understandably will be well found in the market.
Highland Acclaim has won his last 2 starts at 6f including when just getting up in the shadow of the post at Ascot last time, no reason to suggest he won't be equally as home over 7f but still quite a tough job on as a 3yo.
Am quite keen on Redvers for a repeat success.
The other big handicap on Ascot's card is for 3yo's over 1m4f, it usually attracts a good field & is often won or contested by horses that go on to become useful animals at 4.
Saeed Bin Suroor has won the last 2 renewals with 2 horses that have gone on to Group success Excellent Result (14/1) & Ahzeemah (11/1).
So far in the 3 years of this race the winners have carried 9st / 9-5 & 9.7, they have been rated 94 - 100. The starting price of the winners has been 11/1 - 16/1.
Montaly heads the weights after a comfortable success at Haydock last time, I would say the handicapper has overreacted slightly but I believe he will be a decent stayer by this time next year, my only concern is fast ground which did not suit at The Royal Meeting but as I write this piece looking out my window it remains overcast & oppressive so moisture should remain in the ground come Saturday.
Agent Murphy must raise his game from this mark as he was readily outpointed by Redkirk over 10f here last time, on breeding the step up in trip is not sure to suit.
Nancy From Nairobi finally broke her maiden last time at Windsor after some decent efforts in better class, young Charles Bishop negates her mark but she still has to find improvement. Swivel was well in at Hamilton against his elders last time but on previous Ascot running in a lesser race than this he looks harshly treated & has work to do. Satellite appears to have gone backwards after a promising start to his career, the fast ground has been causing him problems as he is a heavy topped horse & he cannot be fancied until showing more. Second Step was a good 3rd in a similar handicap at Goodwood last time when not handling the course at all well. Ascot will suit better although the high draw is far from ideal. Our Gabrial didn't stay as well as expected in The Melrose last time, previously he had shown guts & determination to win over course & distance. Player with his young apprentice taking 5lbs off his back.
Astronereus was only just nabbed by Our Gabrial on Shergar Cup day when stepped up to 12f, he is lightly raced with plenty of improvement to come, big player.
Gothic finally steps up to 12f after messing about at 9f & 10f this season, a long striding individual who has always promised to be suited by a proper test he comes into this race on a nice looking mark after a win at Leicester (for the 2nd time in his career) on soft ground, good ground will be fine for him. Galizzi is improving at a lesser level, his previous 2 attempts at a better class of handicap leave him with plenty to find though. Trip To Paris went off to fast under his inexperienced South African rider at the Shergar Cup last time so a line can be put through it, he is better judged on a ready defeat of Our Gabrial over course & distance the time before, good chance.
Battersea is another course & distance winner in the field who is on the improve, up 6lbs for a ready success last time he would want the ground to stay as it is as he was pulled out of the Melrose due to fast ground. Penhill was a good 6th in the Melrose last time & is another who would want the ground to remain as it is.
Gwafa was 2nd to Montaly at Haydock last time when receiving 7lbs, he now receives 10lbs from that same horse & is lightly raced enough to believe that he has more improvement to come. Rainbow Rock will enjoy the step up to 1m4f here after an excellent run behind stablemate Lyn Valley at Goodwood, improving at the right time he can get involved but to me he lacks the class of others in this race, place chance.
Hidden Gold did well in 2nd at Pontefract last time giving weight away to a progressive animal, she is now the one who is receiving weight in a better race & from the stable that has won the last 2 renewals she has to have excellent claims with the strong pace sure to suit this strong staying filly.
Bureau & Notarised complete the Johnston attack on this race; Bureau is a doubtful stayer on breeding by 6f Group 1 winning 2yo Embassy & Notarised appears the opposite a bit slow for this kind of race.
Cracking race in which I am a fan of Montaly having backed him last time but this is tough enough to follow up in & Gothic 12/1 E/W Paddy Power has been one of my horses to follow all season so now he finally gets a chance at 1m4f he cannot go unbacked.
@fttfracing
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