Free Tips July 2015

Posted on by simone

As regards tomorrow, Bob; herewith a couple of thoughts:
Sandown: 2.50 looks a straightforward contest between Royal Ascot protagonists Riflescope and Soapy Aitken, meaning there is value to be had for those that call it right. On the face of it Riflescope’s Norfolk fourth in a faster time to Soapy Aitken’s fourth in the Windsor Castle looks better. Trouble is the Norfolk was run at a lunatic early pace and the form may be dubious. I do know Soapy Aitken is very highly thought of and his overall profile makes him the call this end.

 

 

June Racing Results

Posted on by Bryle

June 20th: Royal Ascot: Winner at Maisons-Laffitte on his only run, Suits You, a son of Youmzain, just held on from a fast-finishing and arguably unlucky Ballydoyle in the Chesham. The runner-up has improved plenty from an inauspicious start at the Curragh and as a filly against colts has performed well. The step up in trip suited Sixth Sense who only gave best inside the last furlong. Palawan improved greatly on his Leicester debut in fourth. Force is too hot-headed for his own good at present. Tonkinese was squeezed out at a crucial moment but looked to be running on the spot at the time.

In the Listed Wolferton Handicap, for the first time this season the draw was kind to Mahsoob. Racing from 106 he made it count, although he took his time (a trait of his) on a course that with its short straight did not play to his strengths. Chances are he will improve again for another two furlongs. The winning margin should not be taken literally and he remains on any positive list.

In winning the Hardwicke, one of the showpieces of the meeting, Snow Sky punched a hole in established form. Making all at a moderate pace, he quickened off the bend to hold two supposedly faster rivals: Eagle Top and Postponed. Okay, the race was not run to suit the second and third, they were too free early and their jockeys seemed intent on what the other was up to as opposed to riding a race; but to be fair to the winner, he does seem to have improved from three to four. Telescope was one of the first to crack. These were too good for him.

It was America from Australia in the Diamond Jubilee. Undrafted – fourth in the July Cup to Slade Power last year on his only other appearance in this country – came through late to head Brazen Beau, who ran a monster race on his own on the stands’ side. Astaire ran the race of his life in third. The older sprinters from this country are not up to scratch, so look out for a boil-over in the July Cup.

The consistent Interception – a lover of fast ground – landed something of a gamble in the Wokingham. There were good efforts from Watchable and Gameshow but, at this level in such desperately keen handicaps, it is hard to hit the scoreboard once your mark flattens out.

Oriental Fox returned to action successfully when landing the final event – the Queen Alexandra. What can you say? After a year’s absence from a yard capable of producing their charges fit if nothing else, he outstayed those in behind.

June 19th: Royal Ascot: In the Albany, a patient ride from Richard Hughes paid dividends on Illuminate, who, travelling smoothly throughout picked up those at the head of the pack that folded after such a fierce gallop. This was a major step up for a filly that had won a Salisbury maiden.

After two promising runs Balios earned his payday with victory in the Group 2 King Edward. A solid second last time at Newmarket, he is a most attractive proposition that relished the step up in trip. Mr Singh and Father Christmas were next to finish. It was good to see improvement from Ol’ Man River in the tongue-tie. Not so good to see Stravagante finish distressed.

The tinder box that was the Commonwealth Cup went to Greenham winner Muhaarar who, dropped back to six fairly scooted clear after a red-hot pace was set. Limato headed a top class field in second, ahead of Anthem Alexander and Salt Island. Back on this fast ground he showed what he is capable of. He reversed form with Adaay, who was not beaten far. Tiggy Wiggy and Hootenanny (has won over a mile in America) were burned off. Once again Tendu fluffed the start but made up plenty of ground to finish on the heels of the principals. She needs to sort out her antics at the stalls in which case she can win a major event.

In a driving finish the French Guineas winner Ervedya wore down Found close home with a late-closing lunge in the Coronation Stakes. Lucida was a close third, always chasing the leaders from the rear and never quite reaching them. There were a lot of potential negatives for Found to overcome here (trip, ground and the fact she has not recovered last year’s top class form). She has run well and may be better over 1m 2f – the Lupe at Goodwood springs to mind as an obvious target. Arabian Queen battled bravely once headed. She is not quite up to this standard but is not far below it.

Richard Hughes made it look easy in a rough Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap. Out from his wide draw and always perfectly placed, he kept it simple to hold Ajman Bridge (deserves to land a race such as this) and Astronereus.

Back to action after his second in the Racing Post as a juvenile, under the strongest drive from Ryan Moore Aloft lifted the Queen’s Vase. Apparently he was not cherry-ripe for this and will presumably improve for racing. He is a tough little nut.

18th June: Royal Ascot: Fast ground was no problem for Waterloo Bridge who picked up the two big guns to win the Norfolk. A winner at Tipperary on his fourth start, he seems to be getting better with racing. Of the market leaders, Log Out Island got the better of King Of Rooks (seemed to stumble a furlong out); it is possible they did too much too early. Riflescope was a close fourth, slightly devaluing the form. After a slow start Ajaya recovered to finish on the heels of the first five and should be sharper next time.

Good horses look good and make it all seem easy. Time Test did that with a smooth display in the Group 3 Stakes. Always travelling as if on an oiled rail, he quickened impressively to mow down Peacock and Mustadeem, with Disegno in fourth. With the three behind him all representing Golden Horn’s form, we should not underestimate Time Test, who could easily be a Group 1 contender.

Godolphin attempted to be clever in the Ribblesdale by setting a moderate pace on Entertainment into order to help Pleascach to get home. The reasoning was sound but they reckoned without the tough Curvy, who picked up from the turn to outstay and outgun the Irish Guineas runner-up. Pamona, buffeted in a rough last two furlongs by the first two in the straight, stayed on strongly in third in what was a good renewal.

What a season it has been for Trip To Paris! Unlucky at Kempton in March from a mark of 88, here he won the Group 1 Ascot Gold Cup. His strength is a turn of foot that he can exploit at the end of 1m 4f or 2m 4f. Held up he once again weaved through his field to hit the front a furlong out and stride clear. Kingfisher did not have the best of runs, but the winner is deceptive and could easily confirm this form. Forgotten Rules may have done better with an easier surface.

Bouncing off the tarmac, dropped in class, War Envoy continued a tremendous run for all concerned in the Britannia. Out of the money, Quick Defence who only broke his maiden a fortnight ago and another to handle the ground, finished second on the stands’ side and is capable of netting a mid-season handicap of this nature.

Space Age made all from a wide draw in the King George Handicap. His will-to-win served him well at Newmarket last time and once again here as he found plenty on more than one occasion. Lightly-raced Scottish was the last challenger. Marma’s Boy, Rocky Rider and King Bolete ran creditably under the circumstances in a handicap where the principals normally pay the price in rating terms.

June 17th: Royal Ascot: Ivawood stretched his losing run to close on a year in the Jersey. His penalty always threatened to make life tough but maybe three hard races this season and quick ground was his undoing. A consistent two-year-old, Dutch Connection successfully defied his 3lbs penalty in what proved a rough contest. The filly, Fadayyil, was second – this drop back to seven obviously suited. Bossy Guest again ran well. Fanciful Guest was staying on; Toscanini travelled but may be a sprinter; Sir Isaac Newton got no run when needed; Hathal stayed on and will do better.

Pre-race confidence in Acapulco was justified in spades when, held onto by Ryan Moore, once unleashed she blitzed the Queen Mary field. A big filly that is apparently much better on turf than dirt, she is all speed. Easton Angel chased her in vain but still ran well. Having been switched Besharah finished third. She might appreciate an extra furlong. Kurland stepped up massively on her maiden debut in fourth.

A decent two-year-old (at one-time considered as a Guineas prospect – ran in the Oaks at three but didn’t stay), Amazing Maria came back to her best and some to win the Group 2. Rizeena, who comes alive here and does not like Newmarket, was second in a race that unpicked itself in running. Cladocera and Bragging were third and fourth. The rest were virtual non-runners. Euro Charline refused to load; Integral ran flat; Lightning Thunder was too free.

On his fifth run and never out of the first two, Free Eagle came back to land a massive payday in the Prince of Wales. Fragile and beset with difficulty, this was a major training performance from a master. Neat rather than small, but not over big, Free Eagle (the horse that was touted as the one to lower Australia’s colours last year) has an engine and is expected to improve for this his first run since last year’s Champion. The Grey Gatsby was possibly unlucky in that the gap did not come and he was in front a stride after the line. Western Hymn, a reformed character this year, ran another blinder in third. The much improved Criterion was very close in fourth, making up ground from a slow pace.

Perfectly produced by Ryan Moore, an always travelling GM Hopkins pounced late to lift the Hunt Cup. He is very effective on fast ground. Temptress, Chil The Kite, Balty Boys, Speculative Bid (not a trouble-free passage) and American Hope were on the heels of the winner.

To a degree Always Smile threw away the Listed, after hitting the front and jinking. This allowed Osaila to lunge late. Touchline recovered from a slow start and was also unfortunate. Jellicle Ball was fourth.

June 16th: Royal Ascot: It’s ten out of the last eleven for Solow, who, always in the first three, committed early, battling when challenged on ground plenty firm enough. He is high class. Esoterique, who ran the race of her life, was a surprise runner-up. Equipped with a tongue-tie for the first time, Cougar Mountain responded to urgings in the closing stages to rattle home for third. He is not short of ability (not beaten far in several Group 1s) but the fact remains he has only as yet won a maiden. The ground was blamed for a tame effort from Night Of Thunder; whilst Able Friend lost the race in the paddock.

Six races in and Buratino, a revelation over six furlongs last time at Epsom, confirmed it was no fluke when repeating the dose in the Coventry. He has improved dramatically since his debut at Chelmsford in March (has ever a winner of this started so humbly?). He is not bred to stay beyond a mile. Air Force Blue burst through to hit the front momentarily but lacked the zip of the winner. Nevertheless, this was a step in the right direction and he is a fine specimen of whom more will be heard. Eltezam – much more effective on fast ground – was third, Beaverbrook fourth. Age Of Empire was not disgraced. Round Two ran below expectations. War Department (slow to start but beaten a long way) and Sir Roger Moore (pulled too hard) found this all too much but both have the ability to improve if getting their acts together.

Goldream, impressive in the Palace House at Newmarket but a flop in the Temple, inched out Medicean Man and Muthmir (has to be considered a top sprinter) in the Kings Stand. Now eight, time might be running out for Sole Power. As a Group 1 this did fall a little short.

In the final sprint it was all Gleneagles in the St James’s Palace. With a super action and a killer kick to match, he dominated on the quickening ground, winning with ears pricked. Latharnach passed pace-setter Consort inside the final furlong. French Guineas winner Make Believe fired blanks on this occasion. Maybe the ground was against him.

It was Clondaw Warrior from Fun Mac and Elishpour in the Ascot Stakes: all laid out for this as you have to be.

Second to Coventry disappointment Round Two last time, Washington DC narrowly prevailed in the Windsor Castle under another Ryan Moore drive. It was touch and go as Areen, who threw away any chance he had in the National Stakes, delivered a very strong and sustained challenge inside the final furlong. Steady Pace, another National Stakes casualty in that the race at Sandown was not run to suit, was third. His position pays a compliment to King Of Rooks. Soapy Aitken was a well-fancied fourth in what looked a keen renewal. The American filly Ruby Notion exited the stalls as if on fire and under the circumstances did well to hang on for fifth. Not beaten far (seven lengths or thereabouts), Nelspruit – behind Buratino at Epsom – gives credence to his win in the Coventry.

June 13th: Sandown: Awesome Power provided Her Majesty with a birthday winner in the Class 3 handicap. Difficult to evaluate on his form from last year, receiving 11lbs from Western Reserve (a horse with a similar profile going into this) he quickened nicely.

Basem was always clawing back the principals in the Class 2 handicap, getting up near the finish to win with something in hand. Still lightly-raced you would think there was more to come. Jacob Black and Master The World ran up to form from their last meeting in second and third. For the prize-money this was not as competitive as the numbers suggested beforehand.

The Listed Scurry Stakes was all about Waady, who is three from three at the Esher track over this five furlongs. Expertly handled by Dane O’Neill, who knows him well, he was much too good for Profitable. Likely looked edgy.

A strong message for Classic Win in the class 3 handicap proved wonky in every respect. Reluctant to load, he pulled too hard and predictably fizzled but didn’t stay anyway! Godolphin has developed into a horror show! The other message, Grand Inquisitor, did it all right and won nicely.

At York Easier ground helped Top Notch Tonto to return to form in the Listed. Gabrial and Fire Ship were no match on this occasion. Wannabe Yours pulled too hard.

Twilight Son maintained his unbeaten sequence in the Charity Sprint. The drop of rain will have helped but he is a quality sprinter, winning today from 94. His trainer (responsible for Limato) will be pleased to back in the numbers. Talking horse Scalzo (colty in the paddock) found this too much.

Online Alexander forfeited her chance when rearing at the start in the Scottish Sprint at Musselburgh. Under the circumstances she did well to run through the field and is worth another chance in a similar handicap.
Behind Queen Mary hopeful Besharah on debut at Ascot, Ejaazah showed plenty of pace to win the juvenile at Chester. She looks a nursery type.

12th June: York: The only filly in the juvenile maiden, the pint-sized Rosina came out best in a race that did not look out of the ordinary. After a slow start Geno scrambled into second, ahead of Kodimoor. Secret Ambition lacks pace and may do better stepped up to six.

Sandown: Last of ten on debut, Albernathy looked a different horse when cruising to the front in the seven furlong maiden and resisting a sustained challenge from Von Blucher. The runner-up should win next time; the winner will probably face a stiff test at somewhere like Newmarket’s July course. Third-placed See You When showed promise, as did Machine Learner in fourth. Well-backed Inherent Vice ran like a lunatic.

Rembrandt Van Rijn saw out his race well to win the Class 3 handicap from a mark of 90. Although not a strong handicap he won it the hard way and looks on the upgrade. Field Of Fame was not as keen as at York but did not find much when asked. Following promise at Newbury after a year off he appears to be treading water.

According to his stable Muntadab is can improve on his narrow win in the Class 4 handicap. Word has it he is considerably better than a 78-rated horse.

June 11th: Newbury: Newcomers Twin Sails and John Splendid fought out a tight finish for the opening maiden over six furlongs. House Of Commons shaped nicely in third after bouncing out and staying on once headed.

Second at Goodwood last time to a smart filly in Speedy Boarding when upped in trip, against less exulted company she was able to dictate in her maiden over ten furlongs. She is bred for this kind of trip and will probably stay further. Gold Sands plugged on but the ground looked plenty lively enough. She should soon shed her maiden tag, possibly over twelve furlongs. La Boheme was third. Excuses were made last time but this looks to be the extent of her ability.

Speedy Boarding continues on the upgrade; her win in the Listed confirms as much on only her third start. A strong filly she was too good for her rivals and is learning her craft all the time.

June 6th: Epsom: Last seen when a distant third to Jack Hobbs at Sandown, a confidently-ridden Stravagante made a mockery of his mark of 89 in the ten furlong handicap. Clearly he has improved tremendously since last in action and he looks very smart.

Not quickly away but once unleashed, Buratino (who seems to have improved for a sixth furlong) cleared away from the useful Nelspruit to win the Listed Woodcote in style. Beaten five lengths by King Of Rooks last time in the National Stakes and a similar distance by Log Out Island at Ascot, this emphatic success obviously pays a major compliment to those two. Nelspruit kept on for second, but once the winner kicked found himself in his exhaust. After only one run Aleko was fazed by the whole experience and this is best forgotten.

The travesty that was the Coronation Cup (£212,000 on offer but only four runners – the credible participants coming from France) was won by Pether’s Moon, hitherto only a Group 3 horse at best. Dolniya attempted to make all, flicking her ears throughout and not looking entirely comfortable on either the track or the ground. She disposed of last year’s runner-up Flintshire but ended up as a sitting-duck inside the last furlong.

Bookmakers got their result in the Dash when former Kingsclere-trained Desert Law – now down to an all-time low mark of 89 – blitzed clear of Monsieur Joe, Boom The Groom and Steps, who as usual only got going when it was all but over.

Well done to all concerned with Golden Horn! He won The Derby like a top class animal, vindicating the decision to switch targets from the French equivalent to take on this extra yardage. He took it in his stride under a cool ride, confirming Dante form with runner-up Jack Hobbs. Storm The Stars continued an upward profile to finish third, Giovanni Canaletto fourth. The fiery Epicuris was fifth. Of the rest Elm Park was too free early; pacemaker Hans Holbein was sacrificed for his better fancied stable mates. There were no excuses in behind.

It turned out to be mission impossible for Oasis Fantasy in the Class 2 handicap. Well back from a wide draw he was switched and finished like an express train. He has not had the rub of the green so far this season and will presumably face another weight rise. Blue Surf got first run and lasted. Gothic ran well in second, only just ahead of the unfortunate Oasis Fantasy.

Last year’s winner, Ashpan Sam repeated the dose in the concluding Class 2 handicap over six furlongs. That’s another Derby meeting for another year. Next big show is in twelve days’ time at Royal Ascot…

June 5th: Epsom: A step up in trip proved ideal for the little ball that is Arabian Queen, who made all and quickened clear of some indifferent fillies in the Group 3 over a mile. Better company found out Crowley’s Law, who still performed with credit, whilst Odeliz could once again manage no better than a place.

The excellent Edward Greatex proved the worth of his claim when steering Elbereth to victory from out of the handicap in the Class 2 handicap. She held on by a diminishing margin from penalised Fire Fighting. Master Of Finance was third. The reliable Spirit Of The Law ran as if he may be about to hit form. Seagull Star looks a dodge.

Class got Arod home in the Group 3 Diomed but his gassy nature meant he had to do it the hard way. Atzeni gave him a canny and sympathetic ride. A horse with plenty of ability, he is the sort to run well in Group 1 races when there is a packet of pace to help smother his keenness. With a 5lbs penalty, Custom Cut did best of the rest.

In a messy finish for the handicap, Abseil found the 7lb hike from last year when winning this event just too much. He did not look entirely happy but was closing at the finish behind course winner Gratzie and Merry Me.

In a strong renewal of the Oaks, Qualify ran down hotpot Legatissimo in the Oaks. Such a success was hardly foreseeable but, having accelerated to pass her field in a hundred yards, Legatissimo wilted close home but you couldn’t categorically say she failed to stay. That said her pace suggests ten furlongs will be preferable next time. Lady Of Dubai stayed on well for third, lacking the turn of foot to grasp the first two inside the last furlong. Even so it was a big effort, particularly from her outside draw. It was a rough ride in behind. Legatissimo created a chain reaction when checking Jack Naylor (already beaten) who rolled on to Together Forever, who in turn bashed Diamond And Rubies (rallied well). Both sufferers looked held at the time but were almost knocked sideways. Crystal Zvezda ruined her chances by pulling throughout and has to be given another chance. Her run here illustrates what a big ask it is for inexperienced horses in the amphitheatre that is Epsom on such a big day.

With a 4lb penalty Code Red won the Listed Surrey Stakes, run at a cut-and-thrust pace from the outset. The pack was closing but never threatened to get there. Mister Universe and Secret Brief (Consort’s form) headed the rest, with promise shown by Hail The Hero in fourth.

Al Bandar wound up the day with some cheer for punters and plenty for his jockey (De Sousa rode a hat trick) and his trainer: Simon Crisford.

Free Tips June 2015

Posted on by Bryle

Spy is taking a short break and will be back on July 1st in good time for the Eclipse meeting at Sandown on July 3rd/ 4th.

ROYAL ASCOT – SATURDAY June 20th:

2.30: Ballydoyle’s reputation preceded her on debut as she started a warm order at the Curragh. Although staying on, that finishing spark did seem missing, so unless she has improved since (very possible in the light of the stable’s showing this week) enthusiasm for her here is somewhat tempered. Tonkinese looks a better prospect on form, having finished third to Air Force Blue on debut and won readily next time. Once again he does not exactly look blessed with speed, but gets a marginal vote.

3.05: After two wins in handicaps where his draw meant he should have been out with the washing, Mahsoob meets his opponents here on a level playing field and ought to win again. A 9lb rise for the latest York win fails to tell the full story and, Mahsoob is taken to register the hat-trick in what is likely to be his last foray in a handicap. He can confirm form with First Flight, whereas this is the sort of event in which Educate could run a big race.

3.40: Back to twelve furlongs, after two excellent efforts over ten furlongs this season, Postponed can gain his first win of the year. This is a strong line-up (connections may be rueing not having run in the Coronation at Epsom) but he is shaping up as a serious King George contender and can confirm that now by accounting for Eagle Top and Telescope.

4.20: Brazen Beau looks the one to beat on his record in Australia and judging by the beat of the jungle drums extolling is virtues. As the betting suggests Mustajeeb looks his biggest danger, although it is somewhat surprising to see a son of Nayef competing for sprinting honours. Due Diligence and Wandjina are interesting in a race that makes no betting appeal.

5.00: The wheel-spin that is the Wokingham does not get any easier with the passing of time. Watchable, Gamesome (shapes as if this has been the target all season) and Kickboxer are three suggestions against the field.

5.35: The enigma that is the Queen Alexandra rings down the curtain on a great week. Wicklow Brave has been trained for it – all his form is on easier ground however. Marzocco would appear to be his biggest danger but faces a trip well in excess of any so far encountered. It’s been a long time since Times Up tasted victory, although it could be argued his fifth in the Yorkshire Cup suggests all is not lost. We do know he will at least stay the trip.

ROYAL ASCOT – FRIDAY June 19th:

2.30: Illuminate is the big word here; but her form is nothing out of the ordinary so it requires a leap of faith to support her at this stage. With two American fillies in opposition – Laxfield Road, a wide margin winner on dirt at Keenland, and Back At The Ranch, a winner at Belmont – the French represented by Spanish Romance and Elegant Supermodel, and a host of home-trained fillies open to improvement, this looks like one to sit out.

3.05: Stravagante was as impressive winner as we have seen at Epsom on Derby Day when he produced a sustained run to pass the entire field to win the opening handicap. That was over ten furlongs; today’s extra two furlongs may not be ideal but if he stays he is a serious player. After two desperate runs this season, Ol’ Man River – described as being on the Derby short-list during the winter – is expected to show more now in a first time tongue-tie.

3.40: Hootenanny, Limato and Tiggy Wiggy promise to provide a thrilling finish to this sudden death sprint. Proven on lightning quick ground, Hootenanny is marginally preferred. There is always a chance that a blistering early pace may cut a throat or two and one of the three big guns may crack. In that case late-closer Tendu, who was desperately unlucky last time, may pick up a few pieces.

4.20: Found is primed to win this and apparently fancied to do so. That said she has not looked quite the filly this year that she promised to become when going into winter quarters. Maybe she is back in top form now in which case she ought to oblige. But obviously she is highly tested on all flanks.

5.00: Arab Dawn looks to have been laid out for this and on revised terms should gain revenge on Astronereus when third at Newmarket last month and confirm placings with Watersmeet. A good draw and the ability to handle the ground also bolsters his claims.

5.30: Here we have a tough finale for which Aloft represents the class act and will doubtless be a popular selection, particularly given his trainer’s past record in this. However, it may pay to take a chance with the progressive Yarrow who is bred for the trip, will handle the surface and under his able partner can hopefully overcome a poor draw.

ROYAL ASCOT – THURSDAY June 18th:

2.30: It looks like it’s Richard Hannon from Richard Hannon in the Norfolk. With his form being franked in all directions, King Of Rooks, so impressive at Sandown, has to be the call to beat Log Out Island.

3.05: Time Test has matured since last season as was evident at Newbury on his reappearance when he built on the promise shown with a fluent success from a mark of 93 in a handicap. He is capable of progressing further and is expected to take this step up in class in stride.

3.40: Many will consider Pleascach to be the third leg of a favourite treble here but the Irish Guineas winner (who may have been fortunate to beat Found) now has to grind it out over twelve furlongs. Given it is no certainty this trip will suit she is surely short enough. Even if she does stay effectively, she still faces several on the upgrade, including Pamona and a much improved filly in Curvy, who chinned Derby fourth Giovanni Canaletto at the Curragh last month. Whatever happens with the favourite it is hard to see the last-named out of the frame here.

4.20: This year’s Gold Cup is a tough nut to crack. Forgotten Rules is obviously good – you could argue he won the equivalent of this in October when taking a strong Group 2 over this track. The big question marks however are his dependence on easy ground (will be watered overnight) and his ability to stay the trip (looks likely but until they do it you never know for sure). Conditions are not ideal, nor are they for Tac De Boistron. Mizzou is an interesting new kid on the block, as is Kingfisher who chased home Australia in last year’s Irish Derby. His trainer is brilliant at getting horses to relax, which is essential in order for them to stay extreme trips. Vent De Force may struggle to confirm Sandown form with Trip To Paris, who is creeping toward this level. He has a serious turn of foot that could propel him into the prize-money.

The last two races are highly competitive three-year-old handicaps peppered with possibilities. Assuming we see the true Time Test earlier in the day, Dissolution should be hard to beat in the 5.35.

ROYAL ASCOT – WEDNESDAY June 17th:

2.30: Last a winner at Goodwood in the Richmond, after a trio of thirds this season (twice behind Gleneagles) many consider the Jersey to be tailor-made for Ivawood. He must have a major chance but negatives are his low draw (at the time of writing not a plus) and a 5lb penalty, meaning his current price looks thin enough. As a juvenile he was physically ahead of most of his generation; whereas that gap has been bridged now. His ability remains a constant but he faces a serious improver in Hathal for one, who is fancied although connections will not want to see the ground too firm. Toscanini, Fadhayyil and Bossy Guest are others to consider.

3.05: As suspected the race Besharah won here on debut looks solid and has thrown up winners. She overcame a slow start and greenness to win impressively and faces her first serious test now. The draw could be a concern but she looks a quality filly. This cut-and-thrust affair is never an easy race to bag. Raw speed is represented by the American filly Bruised Orange and Rah Rah, both of whom could supply the biggest dangers.

3.40: Integral bids to follow up on last year’s victory and after her pleasing effort against the colts in the Lockinge looks a solid favourite. Cladocera and Euro Charline look her main dangers but on all known form they would struggle to beat Integral.

4.20: Our evidence for the claims of Free Eagle at this level are scant, but he has always appealed as a top class proposition. After his effort on unsuitable ground in last year’s Champion Stakes (in front of Western Hymn), he ended the season looking as if the sky could be the limit. Although he lacks experience, always highly thought of, he returns at the deep end as a deserved favourite. It is tempting to think he will win this in preparation for a possible tilt in the Eclipse.

5.00: As you would expect the Hunt Cup is fiercely competitive. Spark Plug is not entitled to beat Ayaar on Spring Cup form, but he was caught on the back foot that day and has since improved and made amends. He is stronger and more focused this year. However it threatens to be tight again, particularly with GM Hopkins who also enters the reckoning. The race does not stop there though, making this too hard to call.

5.35: This is a tough finale to the second day. I am inclined to oppose Always Smile, but nominating the winner is tough. The Listed race at York won by Sperry looks a good place to start. Unexposed Mothers Finest and Touchline tie in on various lines through the winner; Kodiva would have a chance on juvenile form although she is making her seasonal reappearance.

ROYAL ASCOT – TUESDAY June 16th:

2.30: If the market is to be believed it is France versus Hong Kong here. However, Solow and Able Friend may not be entirely bombproof for punting purposes. Impressive at the Meydan Carnival and a ready winner since, the bulk of Solow’s form is on easier ground. A prolific winner in the Far East and described as the best horse in Hong Kong, Able Friend will have no problems with the ground, although of course he is required to transfer that form now. Pressed, he would be the preference. Of the rest only Night Of Thunder has a realistic chance on form. We may see better from Cougar Mountain now he is equipped with cheekpieces, but even so he is climbing the north face without the equivalent of grappling irons.

3.05: This year’s Coventry is likely to go to Ireland. Round Two looks speedy but the Ballydoyle operation has a good line to him through Washington DC. It is therefore likely that stable confidence in Air Force One is not misplaced. His debut win has been franked in a race that is working out well and is taken to score. The American representative Finnegan is stepping outside his comfort zone over this extra furlong and will find this a different sort of test altogether from his latest win over the minimum at Pimlico. Improvement is required from the rest. Age Of Empire was impressive at York and another step forward (not impossible) would see him in contention. After a promising debut, Sir Roger Moore will have his day down the line but his draw combined with his inexperience means he will raise an eyebrow or two if he wins.

3.40: Shamal Wind is the fly-in-the-ointment here against sprinters that otherwise are no strangers to one another. Muthmir is not entirely convincing on fast ground; outside the obvious, Rangali (sure to improve on his latest run behind Muthmir) could be the one to consider at a price.
4.20: It is hard to look beyond Gleneagles who should add this to a brace of Group 1 successes so far this season. The presence of the French Guineas winner Make Believe makes it interesting but he looks to have something to find. Consort is the wild card and looks likely to develop into a top class performer given time. He has earned his place but this may come a little too soon. Belardo could only be considered if the ground altered to soft – something that is very unlikely.

5.00: There is a strong contingent of unexposed Irish contenders here – spearheaded by Clondaw Warrior. Fit from a recent spin over hurdles, Elishpour would not be a million on French form and looks a typical Tony Martin plot for something like this, although firm ground could be a worry. Asbury Boss is another to take the eye. Whilst holding chances, the home team looks exposed.

5.35: Ard San Aer, Ruby Notion, Washington DC and Soapy Aitken look the four principals here. Although a winner on soft last time, don’t be fooled that it is essential for Ard San Aer who looks pretty speedy and has a good draw. He looks overpriced.

SATURDAY JUNE 13TH:

Sandown: 2.55: Although he can get fiery beforehand, Waady was impressive on this track in April (holds Profitable on that run) and did his prospects no harm when fourth to Ascot-bound Adaay at Newbury next time when starting slowly. Reunited with Dane O’Neill, who knows and understands what makes him tick, he faces easier opposition here and can make it count. Once-raced Likely is hard to evaluate but will need to be at the top of his game to win this after an absence of a year.

4.05: After his debut win at Leicester (beat a subsequent winner) Classic Win now takes the handicap route. Apparently he has improved since and, despite my aversion to this once great stable these days, word suggests he may be the exception to the normal rule.

York: 3.45: Before heading for better things, recent Godolphin acquisition Scalzo is expected to justify the move in the Class 2 sprint handicap confined to three-year-olds. Already short enough in the betting I am prepared to watch him win.

Chester: 4.15: Given half a chance by the handicapper, you can set your watch by Spirit Of Law. Back to a winnable mark now if one includes his rider’s claim, and approaching his time of year, after promise at Epsom last week he ought to go well in this competitive handicap from his good draw. That said an easier task would have been preferable for this six-year-old.

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH:

Sandown: 3.50: But for pulling too hard last time at York, Field Of Fame would be a confident selection here based on his promising third to Mahsoob at Newbury. Although beaten by the same rival next time (point of fact ran well considering he was too free), he faced a Group horse in a handicap so there was no disgrace in defeat, but he will need to settle here to be taken seriously.

York: 3.40: It’s been three years since Mehdi last tasted success, something that tempers any confidence in this sprint handicap. Third here at the Dante meeting over course and distance, he ought to be on the premises once more.

NEWBURY THURSDAY JUNE 11TH:

Newbury: 2.20: Plenty of debutants line up with attractive pedigrees in the opener, but of course as we all know that is often only half the story. Given the improvement Richard Hannon’s newcomers are showing after their first outing it would be no surprise to see Papa Luigi go in, but, saddled with an unfavourable draw (which his experience and Ryan Moore may be able to negate) a chance is taken with House Of Commons who is reputed to be useful.

3.25: Encore L’Amour’s recent second to Lady Of Dubai is just about the best form on offer here but the subsequent Oaks third did win with plenty of authority that day, meaning her claims are far from cut-and-dried. Of greater interest is Speedy Boarding, a tidy winner last time (very much expected) despite the fact her stable was not firing. Lightly raced and well thought of, she can take this leap in class. A decent showing from Journey (second to her last time) in the 2.50 will boost her claims.

EPSOM JUNE 6th:

2.00: Stravagante has hinted he could be capable of considerably better on all his runs to date and gets his chance in this handicap from a mark of 89. This rating is reasonable based on what he has achieved so far but he needs to pull out more to beat some more experienced rivals.

2.35: With a good draw, lining up with best form, and the likelihood of improving on his latest win now returned to six furlongs, Nelspruit (a winner on Goodwood’s switchback) is the logical selection here.

3.10: Considering the prize-money on offer the turnout for this year’s Coronation Cup is little short of a disgrace. Were it not for Prince Khalid Abdullah this would have attracted little short of Group 3 contenders at best. Dolniya and Flintshire are the only ones whose names sit comfortably in the line-up. Preference has to be for the filly, who should confirm Meydan form with Flintshire, whom she has beaten twice so far this year.

3.45: As it is designed to be, the Dash is fiercely competitive. Cutting to the chase, well-drawn Perfect Muse seems to have as good a chance as any. Arguably a tad unlucky last time at Goodwood and with a good apprentice booked, she should go well.

4.30: And so to this year’s Derby, a race that does not look one of the best renewals. Racing is all about opinions and those who are prepared to swim against the tide often have the most success. First things first: I feel Golden Horn is an extremely doubtful stayer. The decision to run here in preference to the French equivalent looks a poor one. It is no good saying he was not stopping at the end of the Dante – that was over an extended mile-and-a-quarter, whereas the Derby will be run at a breakneck pace over nearly two furlongs further. There is nothing in Golden Horn’s pedigree to suggest this will suit. Jack Hobbs could easily overturn the form from York but his wins to date leave him with something to find. The message for Elm Park (who will not like the track and could only be considered if the ground changed to soft) is far from positive. Of the rest, Giovanni Canaletto is something of a talking horse, whilst his stable seem to have greater faith right now in Kilimanjaro. Neither appeal. Perhaps this is the year to throw up a big price winner. In that case Storm The Stars seems to be coming to hand and will at least stay; and Moheet, a horse I have always liked but that is discarded by Frankie Dettori in favour of the favourite, shapes as if he will stay and could run better than current odds suggest.

EPSOM JUNE 5th:

2.00: Two days of pulsating racing starts with a tricky enough event, appropriately enough on Oaks day, for fillies. Several are capable but it depends which filly consents to turn up. The front two in the betting look dicey. Odeliz is making a meal of winning and so far the signs are that Lightning Thunder will never recover the sort of form that saw her finish second in the English and Irish Guineas last year. Bold Lass, Crowley’s Law and Don’t Be are all in form but face a hike in grade. From the side-lines Victoria Regina makes more appeal, whilst, although statistics are against her as a three-year-old, Arabian Queen should improve for this step up in trip and could run well in a race that presents punters with no apparent edge.

2.35: Against fair but exposed rivals, Seagull Star looks an interesting contender in his first attempt at a handicap. Considered a Group horse last year, a mark of 93 looks fair. Last seen at Royal Ascot, there is obviously a fitness doubt so any market support would be a positive.

3.10: Now that his right trip has been established Arod could be worth one more spin of the coin in this Group 3. Both his runs this campaign entitle him to win this and, having finished fourth in last year’s Derby, we know he handles the track. This is his chance to shine.

4.30: Featuring the English Guineas winner and a consistent performer at this level as well as several improving fillies, this year’s Oaks looks a quality contest. It is tempting to believe that Jack Naylor (did someone think they had a colt?) has better form (in front of Legatissimo and Together Forever last season) and achieved more when fourth at the Curragh in the Irish Guineas than Legatissimo did when scoring at Newmarket. There is also a doubt about Legatissimo staying the trip here and, despite bullish noises emanating from her camp, she looks a filly to oppose. Lightly-raced Crystal Zvezda was impressive at Newbury and the news for her since has been encouraging. Her turn of foot could prove crucial. Several of the opposition might struggle over this trip; one filly that should relish it is Lady Of Dubai, who appeared to thrive over ten furlongs at Goodwood and has not too much to find with some of the principals on juvenile form. However, she looks more of an each-way player. Jack Naylor has the form, looks an ideal candidate over this trip and can come out on top. Crystal Zvezda and possibly Lady Of Dubai can follow her home.