June 28th: Newmarket: Firm ground conditions prevailed overnight and into the afternoon. In the maiden won by Kingman last year, this time it was Godolphin’s Zephuros that took the spoils from the Hannon-duo Lexington Times and the apparently better fancied Holland Park. Always adrift, he was given the easier introduction. The runner-up made up a lot of ground quickly and with first run it would have been closer. He should win an average maiden – the time suggesting they were nothing out of the ordinary.

A thunderstorm before the listed fillies’ race meant the authorities, understandably reluctant to load the nine runners in an iron contraption, left them milling at the start as time ticked away and the programme got behind schedule. A busy Saturday and the risk of a clash on Channel 4 ensued whilst the runners got a soaking. Anyone think of using a flag start? Once again, without the application of common sense, racing managed to shoot itself in the foot. When they did race it was clear the ground had been eased by the downpour. Recent Leicester winner and 25/1 shot Calypso Beat came out best from Parsley. Littlemissblakeney, fifth in the Queen Mary, did little to uphold that form when dropping away quickly – something the market anticipated.

By the start of the Listed Fred Archer the ground had been revised to good to soft. Not an obvious beneficiary of the changed conditions, Sheikhzayedroad came from last to first to deny penalised Gatewood, for whom the rain arrived in time. They finished at long intervals.

The ground was soft by the Group 3 Criterion Stakes – coming to the rescue of most of the field, although firm ground winner Indignant was a late absentee. Gregorian, disappointing at Epsom but better by the rain, emerged best on the climb to the hill, his class telling in the closing stages. In first time blinkers, in second Garswood again ran in snatches; but to be fair he is not good enough to beat the useful Gregorian on a going day. Eton Forever was third. Top Notch Tonto continues to disappoint, checking out quickly on ground that had come right for him.

Fourth in the German Guineas, Evita Peron – by Pivotal so the ground had swung in her favour – won the listed over seven furlongs from Penny Drops and Swift Campaign – on only her second start after lifting a maiden over this course last month. Money-spinner Wedding Ring was fourth.

Again the ground was a massive help to the Selkirk filly, Melrose Abbey in the handicap for fillies. Off only 82, she cleared away from Seagull (not as suited by the ground) to win with plenty in hand. On this surface, the lightly-raced winner – who has plenty of substance and scope – looks capable of winning something better. An autumn target might be on the cards.

Newcastle: After a bad experience at the stalls last time at York, Danzeno came back to form, taking his biggest prize in the Group 3 over six furlongs. A big gelding, he outstayed Saayerr in the last furlong, who forfeited second late on to Ruwaiyan. Body And Soul shapes as if a drop back to five will suit her better.

Chester Cup runner-up Angel Gabrial was always handy in the Northumberland Plate and made no mistake this time. It was a tough old race. Repeater was the only one to finish from the rear (last at one stage) and a late rattle that took him into third place suggests, tricky though he might be, something could be in the offing. The draw beat Van Percy, who did pick up ground late and should not be overlooked in something similar.

Curragh: And here’s an idea: run the Irish Derby a third of the way through the knife edge World Cup match that was Brazil v Chile. Have a 1/8 favourite and then wonder why viewing figures were low. Over to the Irish authorities… In the race, Australia cruised up to Kingfisher and Orchestra and won without turning a hair. Unfortunately, after the justifiable defection of Kingston Hill on account of the ground, this turned out to be a weak event. That said Australia could only beat what was put before him.

June 21st: Royal Ascot: With form that represented around the best on offer in Ireland (close with Coventry runner-up Cappella Sansevero), Dick Whittington was entitled to start favourite for the Chesham. Unraced Cordero (by Giant’s Causeway) and Toscanini (not far behind Dick Whittington at Naas and improved run next time) were seen as the main dangers in what is often a serious pointer to the months ahead. As it was, after a moderate fourth at Newmarket on debut, Richard Pankhurst punched a hole in all the form lines. Tracking a strong-travelling Toscanini, he quickened away inside the last furlong, showing a killer turn of foot. By Raven’s Pass this drying ground would have been ideal. With no excuses, Toscanini was second and both he and the third, Dick Whittington, set the standard. Nafaqa is worth a mention. By Sir Percy – who is having some success with his juveniles – he flopped out of the stalls, giving the pack at least eight lengths. The fact he finished fourth augers well for his future and you would think he should win next time. Cordero (chopped in his stride two out but already looking held) ran satisfactorily in staying on at the end to finish sixth without giving cause for excitement at this stage of his career.

Up 8lbs for winning at York last time, the immensely likeable Arab Spring made a mockery of the Duke Of Edinburgh from a mark of 104. A superb example of Monsun (not always the easiest family to train), he is the epitome of a perfect racehorse in terms of confirmation. He is not a bad performer either. It has taken four runs to elevate himself to the present level (Group 2 at least); with entries in the Arc and a big home reputation (said to have finished in front of Telescope on his latest piece of work), he is not finished yet. In behind they were decent handicappers. Elhaame (suited by this fast ground) shaped as if he should be winning in the near future. A fancied Hamelin was never travelling on ground that was clearly too fast.

With the ground and trip in his favour, after two runs over ten furlongs this year on soft, aforementioned Telescope had his chance at a Hardwicke. As Group 2s go this was not as strong as it could be, even so Telescope was impressive. So well was he travelling that Ryan Moore (one of his strengths is that he does not make mistakes) let him go two out. From then on Telescope lengthened away from the opposition. Surely the King George is next on the agenda. Hillstar (another that needs this sort of ground as opposed to the soft he has been running on) made it a one-two for his trainer, inching out Pether’s Moon on the line.

Despite sweating beforehand and on ground that was thought to be quick enough, Slade Power blitzed clear in the Diamond Jubilee from off a fast pace. Due Diligence did the better of the two three-year-olds (Astaire went off too quickly), with Aljamaaheer once again finding his stride when it was too late. On the evidence of his two attempts at this trip, it seems too sharp for him. Music Master was a surprising fourth in a race where all the action – for the first time this week – took place on the far side. Considering records have been broken on the round course, there can’t be anything wrong with the track.

Once again it was the stand side that had it in the Wokingham Stakes. Baccarat – no stranger to big sprint handicaps – came out on top. Professor – versatile as regards trip – finished strongly in second. Rivellino, Alben Star and Boomerang Bob were next. It’s a struggle to make too much of it.

And so to the last race of what has been a glorious five days: Last man standing: the Queen Alexandra Stakes over just shy of two-and-a-three-quarters of a mile. Pique Sous – winner of two hurdle races and NH Flat events outstayed his rivals. Keen, he was brilliantly handled by Ryan Moore to make it win number six for the meeting and his third on the day. Races like this do not tend to provide too many pointers for the future. Brass Ring appeared to have stayed this marathon trip, meaning something like the Northumberland Plate may be on the horizon. Poor Tiger Cliff finished distressed.

June 20th: Royal Ascot: Kempton winner Cursory Glance beat some higher-profiled rivals with better form and credentials going into the Albany Stakes, pouncing late and stretching away in the sixth furlong. A strong type that seemed suited by the way the race was run, she is no more than attractive, but effective. It is early days to start talking in terms of 1000 Guineas. A powerful and big filly, Sunset Glow, bursting with Californian sunshine, could have been mistaken for a three-year-old. She trapped quickly; perhaps five would suit better at this sort of level. Form filly, Patience Alexander (beat Queen Mary runner-up Tiggy Wiggy at York) matched strides with Sunset Glow, both succumbing inside the final furlong. Like the runner-up she has seen out the extra furlong although it has not improved her. Malabar ran through beaten horses to finish strongly in fourth and will be even better over seven. By Raven’s Pass, this fast ground will have suited her but this was a major step up from her debut second at Haydock. This was a strong betting heat. Osaila outran her market price in fifth. Bitter Lake was not disgraced in seventh; neither were Sexy Legs in ninth (by Dutch Art, easier ground will probably suit better), or Appleberry (not this class but capable of winning something decent) in tenth. Like many of these the frenetic pace set by Sunset Glow burned them off.

Contributer had his payday in the Wolferton Handicap, possibly signifying that the Ed Dunlop stable is back in business. Enjoying this better ground (never able to get to grips with Noble Mission on the heavy last time), he came from last to first to deny a major gamble on Bold Sniper and a strong-finishing Cafe Society. Several proved to be the architect of their own misfortunes. Hall of Mirrors (fifth) was awash with sweat beforehand. Energizer was one that did show some promise in sixth, but Dick Doughtywylie and Saxo Jack (another intractable Godolphin beast) pulled their way out of contention.

They were an interesting, if slightly sub-standard lot, for the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes. Bunker and Odeon were more fizzy than ideal. Money horse Adelaide is only small but looked well, as did Miner’s Lamp, Eagle Top and Scotland. Snow Sky was warm but has got heated before. Despite having been beaten from a mark of 92 at Leicester (blood was wrong) in a handicap in April, Eagle Top – described as a Group horse in the making at Newbury when winning his maiden – vindicated that opinion with a classy display. Hunting down the leaders travelling well, he was soon in command, proving too powerful for Adelaide. Scotland ran his best race of the season in third, ahead of a slightly one-paced Snow Sky.

Radiator (always a paddock stand out), Lesstalk In Paris and the well proportioned My Titania (got progressively warmer though) were the Coronation picks beforehand. Tapestry is a sparsely made filly, Lightning Thunder is not big but powerful; Lucky Kristale looked well. With two handlers and on her toes, Rizeena was a coiled spring in the paddock but more settled at the start. As feared, after her absence, My Titania was too free early and has probably done well to finish fourth. A slow pace meant it developed into something of a sprint, Rizeena never worse than third nudged on under Ryan Moore and avenging her Guineas defeat. Lesstalk In Paris – another filly to return to her best form – was a late closer on the wide outside to steal second from Euro Charline. After finishing second in the English and Irish Guineas, Lightning Thunder ran like a tired filly, although she was not beaten that far. Radiator is not far from this class – she may improve for a step up in trip and surprise in the Nassau at Goodwood – a track where she has form. Lucky Kristale does not stay.

Courtesy of Gold Approach, no prisoners were taken in the Queen’s Vase. Not bred to stay, Gold Approach set a silly pace he had no chance of sustaining. Not many actually got home. Hartnell managed to hold on, despite wandering off a true line on ground that was almost firm enough. He did stay well, as did Century, who went the scenic route and looked all set to get up until impeded by Hartnell, who arguably cost him victory. Joseph O’Brien stated as much in the inquiry. His persuasive argument was not enough to overturn the result. Marzocco was close in third – he may not have seen it out as well as the first two – Big Orange was fourth with the rest coming home at long intervals.

Once again the stands’ side had the best of the big handicap – this time the Buckingham Palace over seven furlongs. Louis The Pious created something of a shock, although his overall form (Ayr Gold Cup second) entitled him to be thereabouts on a good day. Horsted Keynes was a late finisher that may have been an unfortunate loser.

19th June:

Royal Ascot Results

A strong and compact million dollar yearling by War Front, The Great War carried maximum stable confidence in the Norfolk Stakes. In contrast to his demeanour in his two races leading up to this he was fractious and warm getting warmer beforehand during the preliminaries, requiring two handlers. He was running with sweat at the start, meaning he may have left the race behind in the pre-parade ring. Shaken up two out after a blistering early pace, the whip was soon out and The Great War could find no more. This was a bitter disappointment from a colt that came here in preference to the Coventry. Woodcote winner Baitha Alga picked up the pieces from off the pace to win going away. A son of Fast Company and now a black-type winner over five and six, he is speedy and versatile. Mind Of Madness, unsighted in the Windsor Castle on Tuesday, ran on through a skittled field for second. This was a race of two halves. Bath winner, Ahlan Emarati was third. A winner at lowly Bath, his showing emphasises how dangerous it is to dismiss horses plunged into the deep end by Peter Chapple-Hyam. Snap Shots, who helped to force a suicidal early pace, hung on for fourth. Mukhmal could not sustain the crazy speed and dropped away.

Cannock Chase continued his upward curve with a win in the Group 3 Tercentenary Stakes. A likeable and substantial son of Lemon Drop Kid that won a good handicap from a mark of 89 last time, he must now be considered in the region of a 110 rated horse. His trainer feels he may scale the heights to Group 1 given time. Although fancied today there was a stable niggle over the ground being on the firm side. By a dirt stallion that is understandable. His strength and willingness won the day. In a close run scrap for the places, Mutakayyef was second. He has reversed Newmarket places with Barley Mow and is going the right way. Postponed travelled best of all for most of the journey but the finishing spark was absent. He did stay on well enough for third and despite his pedigree might be worth trying over a mile-and-a-half. Cloudscape, Barley Mow (slightly hampered) and Spark Plug (ran on from the rear and worth considering in lesser company) were next to finish in a hot contest.

Not for the first time we got something of a surprise in the Ribblesdale. Bracelet, a winner of a Guineas trial in the spring but a flop in the classic itself, appreciated this step up in trip and the fast pace set by her stable companion, Terrific. Lustrous emerged from the pack to chase her home ahead of Criteria. In reality the best fillies (at least considered the best going into this) were well beaten for a variety of reasons. Top of these was Vazira. She looks to have a hint of temperament. She was certainly no help to her jockey at the start where she lost several lengths but saw out her race well enough without ever threatening to trouble the principals. Italian Oaks winner Final Score was fifth under a 3lbs penalty, ahead of Wonderstruck. Bright Approach ran deplorably and was unaccountably last of those to finish. Inchila was pulled up sharply after going wrong on her off hind.

The Gold Cup was a fitting spectacle. Despite looking beaten at the turn, Leading Light dug into the locker to see it out. Described as “tough as nails” by young Joseph, he looked out on his feet at the end and was blowing very hard. A fine son of Montjeu, he gave his all.
Estimate also covered herself in glory. Travelling as well as anything as the race progressed, she was checked in her run but thrusted all the way to the line against a better adversary than any she met in this race last year. Another mare, Missunited, having made the running, was a gallant third with Brown Panther fourth. As Gold Cups go, this was a vintage renewal.

The first five in the Class 2 Britannia Handicap came from the stand side. Born In Bombay and Hors De Combat, who had fought out a Newmarket handicap in May, were first and third. Born In Bombay was only having his fourth outing, winning this from a mark of 87. Bow Creek turned in a big performance under top weight to finish second. Blimbi and Zarwaan were fourth and fifth. American Hope did best of those on the far side to take sixth from a mark of 99. First Flight was also prominent on the far side. A trap-and-run race suited such a free-pulling sort.

Elite Army, a brutish son of Authorized, scythed down Windshear to claim the closing King George V Stakes. Up 8lbs for winning a Sandown handicap last time when he pulled too hard he was better suited by this faster pace (still a bit keen) and won with something in hand. Windshear, second to Cannock Chase at Newbury, was another to almost deny the handicapper – he certainly defied a poor draw in second. Captain Morley stayed on strongly in third, as did the maiden Venezia, who still looks green, forfeited a good position early, but finished with plenty of enthusiasm.

June 18th: Royal Ascot: Once again Muwaary proved his own worst enemy in the Jersey as he refused to settle (better than last time in France) but kept on battling once headed. He has more ability than we have seen so far but will always struggle unless he learns to settle. Having finished fourth in the French Guineas he was entitled to take high rank in this Group 3 and only gave best to Mustajeeb – who was seven lengths behind Kingman in the Irish Guineas, appreciated the better ground and gave 3lbs to the runner-up now. The finish concerned the sort of horses this race is designed to attract. In third, Giovanni Boldini served notice a return to form is imminent. Upped in grade, Windfast ran a big race in fourth.

England, Ireland and America met at the crossroads for the Queen Mary. It was Ireland that won the day, although three good fillies fought it out. Impressive at Tipperary, Anthem Alexander, another winner for Starspangledbanner, was not the quickest into stride, but arrived on the scene going strongly to take it up and withstand a rally from Tiggy Wiggy, who looked beaten a furlong out but came back for more. Newsletter (by Sir Percy and not the first speedy two-year-old he has sired!) was a surprise in third. The American filly, Spanish Pipedream is not just a speedball. Flopping out of the stalls she sliced through the field to take it up but refused to go away when headed, putting in a giant effort in fourth. Once-raced Pastoral Girl (fifth at Thirsk) was flying late on and should win her maiden without any bother. Essentially, once again, the right horses dominated, making this look like a good renewal.

Whereas Treve had to defy a couple of negatives to win the Prince Of Wales, for The Fugue it was a case of revelling in everything she wanted. Over a mile-and-a-quarter on fast ground, she is close to the finest around. Certainly, in victory today, achieved in a record time and against the best they could assemble, she put up a personal best. Cruising to the front over a furlong out, she kept on to avenge that Breeders’ Cup defeat by Magician, who broke for home at the turn and kept battling when headed. Treve was only third. Looking magnificent – this is the second time she has been beaten this year and her trainer must take some of the blame for that. Treve is a mile-and-a-half filly and, more importantly, at least from this viewpoint (trainer denies it), she wants to get her toe in. It could be she will return to her best form in the autumn, but it is always possible, although the rightful winner of the Arc, the winning distance flattered her. Mukhadram ran another of his honest races in defeat to finish fourth.

Little Integral – so narrowly touched off in the Sun Chariot last year – gained her most important success in the Duke Of Cambridge Stakes. Perfectly delivered by Ryan Moore, she was soon in command once she hit the front. Balanchine winner L’Amour De Ma Vie was second with much improved Purr Along in third. What Spencer was doing on her remains a mystery. On fast ground he was too far adrift and then challenged on the wrong part of the course. He was not on a maiden at Ripon with a stone in hand. This was a group race! Patience with his style of riding is wearing thin.
Looking big after her absence and carrying a 5lbs penalty, Sky Lantern ran a huge race to take fifth. Presumably she will have a tilt at the Falmouth again this year. Whatever her next target she will surely line up as a different proposition.

On a day when everything appeared to conspire against them, bookmakers got some respite with the win of Field Of Dream in the Hunt Cup. High numbers had the call. Chil The Kite and Steeler were in the money for second and third. With his 5lbs penalty from winning at Sandown on Saturday, Sea Shanty rattled off the fast surface to finish fourth. Victoria Cup fourth Ayaar was fifth this time. Tales Of Grimm, who has built a career out of being a rogue, was close up. Unfortunately, having slipped to a reasonable mark, he cannot be relied upon to reproduce this. Allowed to coast home on the heels of the leaders without his jockey giving him any sort of encouragement, Belgian Bill was given a curious ride. Abseil is probably better than his finishing position. This was a tough assignment for one so inexperienced and he remains a decent prospect.

Muteela, a tough terrier of a filly that refuses to go down without a fight, kept finding to win the Sandringham Handicap. Once again Spencer launched a late attack from out of the clouds on Queen Catrine that meant she was probably the moral winner.

June 17th Royal Ascot: A giant of a performer on his day but capable of disappointing when not, Toronado was strongly fancied to lift the Queen Anne. With a proven record first time out and looking in bullish shape (not any bigger but much fuller than when last seen), despite getting warm beforehand, he cruised off a sharp pace to bust down the door on the race over a furlong out. Apparently he did blow up in the closing stages so better may be forthcoming if he stays on track. In second, a sticky-with-sweat Verrazano bettered his Lockinge effort and one gets the feeling he is teeing himself up for a big prize. Fast ground is essential for him and something in the height of summer may be ideal. Dwarfed by the two in front of him, Anodin justified his supplementation for the event when taking it up over a furlong out. This is as good as he is. In front of Verrazano at Newbury, Tullius once again ran well in this elevated company to finish fourth.

A winner of a modest Ayr maiden in soft ground, The Wow Signal – a good-sized, strong son of Starspangledbanner – was always prominent in the Coventry before opening up for an important win. In a race that favoured those that raced in the firing line, in second, Capella Sansevero travelled strongly throughout, attacking from off the pace and closing stride by stride without quite getting to the winner. On this evidence he will stay further and remains a decent colt capable of winning more races. Jungle Cat confirmed his Goodwood win was no fluke when taking third. Three-time winner Justice Good was fourth, ahead of a tightly knit bunch. Adaay was beaten about three lengths in eighth, half a length in front of War Envoy. He looked unbalanced and awkward but reversed Naas form with Kool Kompany and will be better over further and on an easier surface.

Last year’s King’s Stand winner Sole Power repeated the dose under a cool ride from Richard Hughes. Slicing through the field, Sole Power (proven on fast ground so we have to assume it is quickening all the time) played his turn of foot late to deprive Stepper Point and Hot Streak. The third may have found this ground quick enough: there will be other days. It’s a long way down the line but the Haydock autumn sprint could have his name on it. Medicean Man, another to frank Meydan form, Jack Dexter and Steps (again not helping himself by starting slowly) all closed to run up to their best. Shea Shea went to post in awkward fashion, using up a lot of energy in the process. It has to be said he is developing some odd traits in his old age.

Kingman righted the wrong of the Guineas with an electrifying turn of foot to cut down Night Of Thunder in the St James’s Palace Stakes. Pottery on the way to post but awesome on the way back, he coasted throughout, quickening on the wide outside in the straight to settle the issue in a few strides. This ground was probably as quick as he wants. Apparently, having achieved all he needed to here, he will be given a short rest before possible tilts at the Prix Maurois and the QEII in the autumn. Night Of Thunder made the running but had no answer to the winner’s burst. He left the impression he might be effective over ten furlongs. The same could be said for Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Outstrip, who returned to something like his best in third. War Command and Yuften were next with a hard-pulling Toormore burning himself out at the wrong end of the race.

The two-and-a-half mile slog that is the Ascot Stakes was won by Domination, who, well back at one stage, picked up his rivals one-by-one. They went hard from the start and predictably those responsible were back-pedalling in the closing stages. Another Cocktail and Sizzler were next to finish.

On a day when bookmakers’ jaws were close to the floor, Hootenanny compounded their sorrow when as the best backed horse in the Windsor Castle he bolted up. Bogged down on the Pimlico dirt last time, on turf, cleverly conserved by his American jockey, he blitzed it. All speed, his time was close to that recorded by Sole Power in the King’s Stand.

June 14th: Sandown: After winning a maiden at Bath, from a mark of 84 Agent Murphy took the Class 3 handicap from Torchlighter and Lingfield maiden winner Shafrah. Not ideally placed in a slowly run race, on this occasion Gothic could never land a blow.

On a day of big field handicaps the Class 2 over a mile was no exception. Despite worries over the rain-softened ground for Sea Shanty, Richard Hughes delivered the son of Elusive Quality to perfection to inch out Tanseeb. With a 5lbs penalty, this win means Sea Shanty squeezes under the bar in the Hunt Cup, an engagement he is likely to take up. Not for the first time Enobled ran well enough to suggest his turn is not far away.

It was a rough house of a race for the Listed Scurry Stakes, for which badly drawn G Force was squeezed out early and had to run two races in one to make a challenge. He made headway quickly then, switched, never quite got to grips with the front two. Over five furlongs in this sort of company it is not possible to sacrifice ground and G Force, described as a Group 1 horse by connections, is worth another chance. He does have an electric turn of foot. Reverting to his best trip, Wind Fire, who was always handily placed, was able to last from Hay Chewed. Perfect Blessings was on the heels of the leaders in fifth.

In no mood to be denied and given a powerhouse ride by William Buick, Captain Bob stuck bravely to his guns to hold Silent Bullet, who came with what looked like a winning run in the Class 3 handicap.

Despite a rough passage in running in the maiden, Obsidian (eye catching fifth to Connecticut at Newbury) could not land a blow against the best looking colt in the field, KINGS FETE. The winner has made giant strides since finishing a moderate fourth at Newbury and can continue to improve. A mark in the low eighties will give him a real chance in a decent handicap. New Story, another to reappear from the same event as Obsidian, had every chance but there were no excuses.

York: Beaten five lengths by Abseil at Epsom last week and down to a winning mark, the ever-reliable Spirit Of The Law made just about all in the Class 2 handicap, fighting back inside the last furlong when momentarily headed by the runner-up Busatto. Roserrow was another to recover form in third. Well backed favourite Flow was in the mix in a race very few got into.

United with Frankie Dettori, the frustrating Fencing was tanking throughout in the listed contest, arriving on the scene apparently full of running but getting run out of it by Guest Of Honour. Even all Dettori’s guile and strength failed to galvanise Fencing, who remains a figure horse rather than a winning one.

See The Sun made all to win the Class 2 sprint handicap over six furlongs. Only beaten a head by Jersey-bound Musical Comedy at Newbury last time, Naadirr threw down a big challenge inside the last furlong from a mark of 102. He put in some serious work to go so close and deserves decent consolation. Kickboxer and Gamesome were next to finish. Most of the action took place in the centre of the track, meaning this may not be over reliable form.

The class 4 handicap over ten furlongs went to Eurystheus in a tight finish with Artful Prince and Toga Tiger. If there is a horse to take from this it could be Bishop’s Castle. He started slowly and made up plenty of ground to finish on the heels of the leaders. Not straightforward and with a high head carriage (softer ground might play to his strengths), with a clean break he would have nearly won. Not one to back at a grade 1 track, his trainer might find a soft opening at somewhere like Ayr.

June 13th: Sandown: The market spoke volumes for the chances of unraced Ivawood in the opening juvenile maiden. Perfectly settled and confidently ridden by Richard Hughes, the Zebedee colt asserted once shaken up to beat a couple with experience in Magical Memory and Kinematic. They are no great shakes but the winner had plenty in hand.

Tupi supplied a quick double for the Hannon/Hughes combination in the first seven furlong contest of the current campaign. An early foal [February] by Tamayuz, Tupi may not have beaten too much, but once again was confidently handled and value for more than the official margin. Stable companion Marshall Jennings posted promise in second, although with Red Rubles, Diaz and The Paco Kid all close up, it was a bunch finish.

On a day when the Hannon camp were flying, they landed a treble here in the Class 4 fillies’ handicap with Cay Dancer, who had finished a promising and staying-on fourth at Newbury last time. Again apprentice-ridden, she wore down Lady Tiana close home with Token Of Love in third and looking as if a step up in trip will help.

Seven lengths fourth to the progressive Abseil when last seen at Yarmouth in April, Twin Point was apparently handed an easy opportunity in the Class 5 handicap from a mark of 75. Although flattered by the proximity to the current Hunt Cup favourite, Twin Point was good enough to hold Hoon in what was a weak event.

York: Beforehand, the Class 3 handicap threatened to be all about the potentially reasonably treated Connecticut – so it proved. Accorded a mark of 84 after a decent Newmarket debut followed by a workmanlike Newbury victory, it seemed connections were prepared to forego any temptation to plot a Royal Ascot course in favour of this easier opportunity. Looking a shade bothered by the heat of the day and taking a keener hold early than ideal, Connecticut soon settled and proved a willing accomplice to his excellent rider’s urgings. Patient under fire, Andrea Atzeni gave his mount every chance to respond and, despite being involved in a close scrap, only resorted to a couple of half-hearted taps with his stick in the closing stages. His body language suggested he knew he was on the best horse in the race. By New Approach out of a Slip Anchor mare, Connecticut has a willing attitude and looks as if he will continue to progress. Clearly his stable likes him.

June 12th: Newbury: The class 4 maiden over an extended six furlongs was all about those with experience: Estidhkaar and Mustadeem dominating the closing stages. Having posted promise at Goodwood on debut, Estidhkaar looked more clued up here and more at home on a galloping track. A good-sized and well-proportioned son of Dark Angel, he was always in front and kept on too strongly for Mustadeem, winning with something in hand. The runner-up tried hard without ever threatening to overhaul the winner. Laidback Romeo (by Kodiac) stayed on for third without being knocked about. It was six lengths back to Ascot fourth St Bredales Bay.

Hoop Of Colour stepped up on a promising Windsor debut to land the fillies’ maiden from Oh Star and Pleasant Valley. Having her first run of the season – and her qualifying third run for a handicap – an easy to back BY JUPITER [a daughter of Sea The Stars] shaped as if she can do better and might be of interest if accorded a reasonable mark when trying her luck in handicaps.

The second division of the maiden looked inferior to that won by Hoop Of Colour. Carnevale made it third time lucky at the expense of Cape Mystery without quickening the pulse.

After finishing second three times and third on the other occasion in various affairs at two and this year, Eastern Belle, who is a model of consistency, got off the mark in the Listed Ballymacoll Stakes. Second to Marsh Daisy in the Height Of Fashion at Goodwood, she confirmed placings with Jordan Princess on this better ground. The late rattle of Pelerin meant Eastern Belle may have had more on her plate had the runner-up got out in time. Pelerin will probably be better over 1m 4f. Although she made the running, Queen Of Ice settled this time and kept on for third once headed. Jordan Princess has yet to reproduce her second to Taghrooda in the Pretty Polly. On the small side, she does lack scope.

The class 5 handicap won by the exposed Know Your Name looked of limited value. It is possible THE THIRD MAN, who is stoutly bred for a contest over a mile, will improve for further. By Dalakhani out of Group 1 winner Spinning World and a half-brother to Trade Commissioner, this was his first run since winning a maiden at Lingfield in December of last year. He has a high action indicating cut will help him. It is tempting to think he may do better.

7th June: Epsom: After scooting away with a Sandown handicap on soft ground, What About Carlo flopped at Haydock next time but returned to his best in the Class 2 handicap. With the ground freshened by several showers and over 1m 2f, he played his cards late to take it up inside the last furlong. Black Shadow upped his game from maiden company to finish second from a mark of 93 – which might be a high enough rating for now; although, a winner over 1m 3f with a stout pedigree, twelve furlongs may improve him. Hymenaios was another to put a poor soft ground run behind him. He stayed on from the rear to poach third from Yenhaab. Often a pointer to horses destined for better things, this year’s race looked to contain decent handicappers only.

The Listed Woodcote Stakes for two-year-olds over six furlongs went to the speedy Baitha Alga, who has improved again from last week’s Chester win. By Fast Company, he has the speed to win over five if required. As at Chester last time, Ballymore Castle made things tough for himself – this time being unable to claw back the leader. Untidy at the stalls and sprawly on the track, he was last and going nowhere at the turn but motored in the final furlong and a half to take second. He looks a handful but may shine on a more conventional course, where there might be a big race (a sales event for example) to be won.

Some horses defy description. Try the eight-year-old gelding Cirrus Des Aigles. Even over a trip that is further than his best, he was always travelling supremely well in the Coronation Stakes. Once he overtook the pacesetting Ambivalent the result was never in doubt. He did pull up slightly lame (seemed to walk it off) and his jockey – who was quick to dismount after passing the post – reported he felt something was wrong halfway up the straight. It is testament to Cirrus Des Aigles and all associated with him that he still added yet another Group 1 to an already expanded portfolio. Flintshire made a challenge from over a furlong out without ever looking likely to pass the Cirrus Des Aigles, playing his part in a French one-two. The Grand Prix du Paris winner is better on a sounder surface but even so it is hard to see him winning a King George. Ambivalent kept on doggedly but these rivals were just a little too good.

It was agony for backers of Steps in the Dash after he fluffed the start, was plum last and then flashed home for fourth, finishing in front two strides after the line. He really is in the form of his life at present. Caspian Prince won in a photo with Seeking Magic, Addictive Dream was third. Swan Song recovered her Chester form to finish fifth. The frustrating Smoothtalkinrascal once again cast himself adrift and then finished late. An about-to-peak Barnet Fair should be taken seriously next time on a faster surface in less exacting company. New Fforest put in a satisfactory reappearance.

Aidan O’Brien maintained his recent stranglehold on the Derby, unveiling yet another true star in Australia who fulfilled his destiny in the race he was bred to win. It was no walk in the park, but it looked a strong field. Considering the rain beforehand, Australia recorded a fast time and with his speed could easily win a Group 1 over 1m 2f. The world would appear to be his oyster. The Guineas form was franked yet again with Kingston Hill following Australia home. His immediate target is the Irish Derby. On a similar surface he should be hard to beat. Romsdal has run out of his skin in third and will be aimed at the St Leger. Arod ran on for fourth, upholding the Dante form and confirming his superiority over a never travelling True Story. Fascinating Rock failed to stay, as in all probability did Ebanoran. The Beresford form was further devalued by the abysmal run of Geoffrey Chaucer – who finished last and has to be better than that. After a rough passage, Western Hymn recovered to finish sixth, whilst Our Channel and Red Galileo both performed better than might have been expected.

Given a peach of a ride by Oisin Murphy, Miss Marjurie – effectively 2lbs wrong as he could only claim 1lbs – seized the moment to run away with the Class 2 handicap at the expense of Stomachion.

6th June: Epsom: Thistle Bird repeated her win of last year in the Group 3, showing that her run at York last time was needed. Odeliz continues to perform well at this level, whilst Spencer and Just The Judge looked at odds with each other. The combination allowed the first two the vital drop halfway up the straight before finishing best of the rest. Although she seems to have developed a quirk or two, it could be Just The Judge wants further than an extended mile now and that this drying ground may not have helped.

Assisted by a fast gallop set by Salutation and Soviet Rock, Farraaj and Air Pilot dominated in the Group 2 handicap over 1m 2f. Always travelling strongly, Farraaj tanked throughout and was in front with two furlongs to race. Considering he is so lightly raced, Air Pilot did well to stick with the more experienced winner. A last-gasp winner over 1m 4f last time, this trip is more suitable. Not much delivered a blow in behind – Clon Brulee eventually taking third.

Dropping back to this extended mile in the Group 3, French Navy confirmed Goodwood form on this much quicker surface (drying out all the time) with Windhoek. Whereas French Navy had the acceleration to pick off the leaders, Windhoek did not look entirely happy over this sharper trip. He stayed on but surely needs a return to 1m 2f. In between the two came the improved Graphic, who may have been better served by easier ground. With his penalty and on this surface Penitent was wasting his time. Gregorian (looked as if he was racing on hot coals) was another apparently inconvenienced by a drying wind and a warm sun.

Still raw and inexperienced, the ground firmed in time for the American-bred Abseil in the Class 2 handicap, who travelled beautifully for the last half of the race having started off a little too keen. This is not the easiest of tracks for those that lack experience. Winning from a mark of 92, Abseil should be capable of better yet. Llanarmon Lad closed to emerge best of the bunch in behind for second. Red Avenger and the dastardly Fury were next. Poor Velox got not run on the rail. He is worth bearing in mind for a decent event. By Zamindar out of a Peintre Celebre mare, he may come into his own on easier ground.

With a pedigree to die for – by Sea The Stars out of Ezima – Taghrooda maintained an unbeaten record when winning the Oaks on only her third racecourse experience. The form from Taghrooda’s Pretty Polly win had been devalued but the filly was oblivious, arriving on the scene two out travelling strongly. Once in front she strode clear of a classy field. Tarfasha got the better of a tight tussle for second ahead of Volume, who has improved since Newbury and was given a first rate chance by Richard Hughes. Inchila ran the Newbury form to an ounce with Volume in fourth, but to be fair she did not have much room to move forward throughout the last furlong or so. Ihtimal came with a wide run in the closing stages but probably ran out of petrol in the last furlong.

That Is The Spirit took the leap from handicap company pretty much in his stride in the Listed Surrey Stakes over seven furlongs. Making all with ears pricked, he had an easy lead that was almost whittled away at the death by a determined Ryan Moore on Parbold. This track combined with drying ground was not ideal for the winner, on whom his jockey attempted to take it easy in the closing stages meaning he was almost caught. He is worth more than the distance he won by, particularly on easier ground. Parbold cannot really be decried for this effort but it took all of Moore’s cajoling to get him rolling. Penny Drops was third.

The concluding handicap went to Almargo who benefitted from an aggressive front-running ride, putting his rivals to the sword in the process. After an all-weather hat-trick, it appeared he had lost his way on turf but he was suited by today’s conditions. Kafeel kept plugging away but was hanging on the camber and looks as if an extra furlong will not go amiss.

June 1st: Chantilly: The win of The Grey Gatsby in the Prix du Jockey Club [French Derby] has some bearing on the Epsom Derby considering prior to winning the Dante, he had finished behind Australia and Kingston Hill when six lengths tenth in the 2000 Guineas. For all he has been beaten at the highest level in this country, he was never far behind the best and seems to be peaking as a three-year-old and over this extended trip. Australia’s claims for Epsom do not need expanded upon but this win will have given fresh hope for supporters of Kingston Hill – who is apparently working with much more zest now than on the approach to the 2000 Guineas. In typical style of an Aga Khan homebred, Shamkiyr stepped up drastically on a maiden win last time to finish second at Chantilly. Many thought Gerald Mosse gave Prince Gibraltar too much to do. The favourite picked up from the rear of the field to dash home late but Ryan Moore had made the winning move and he and The Grey Gatsby were already clear, winning on merit. Prince Gibraltar will apparently be stepped up in trip next time as his immediate target is the Grand Prix de Paris. As many feared, Guineas winner Karakontie appear not to stay.

May 31st: Newmarket: Peacock, a well-grown son of Paco Boy, made a winning debut in the first division of the Class 4 maiden for two-year-olds, beating the experienced Commander Patten. Epithet showed promise when picking up ground inside the final furlong to take third.

Justice Well overhauled Brown Sugar in the second division that was run in a slower time than the first. The Fastnet Rock colt, DISENGO took the eye in third, getting the hang of things late and apparently finishing with a full tank of petrol. The well-backed Heartbreak Hero forfeited his chance at the start and might do better next time.

Both looking ahead of the assessor, Mighty Yar and Rye House dominated the market in the Class 2 handicap over 1m 4f. The best laid plans and all that … De Rigueur claimed Duke Of Clarence in a bunch finish with the two high profile market leaders failing to fire. On the positive side, there was promise from Plutocracy on his first outing of the season. Looking as if he blew up in the last furlong, he should be sharper next time.

Muteela won the Class 3 handicap in typical Mark Johnston style. Making all and ultimately challenged by the much larger colt Pretzel, she kept battling from a mark of 87. This was the zenith of her achievements to date and there may be more to come.

It was a wretched day for backers here. A tailed-off Perfect Summer compounded it in the Class 4 handicap won by Poyle Thomas.

Haydock: The Group 3 for fillies saw the eclipse of those with established form as Sultanina – winner of a Salisbury maiden last time that looked ordinary and rated 85 – got up in the final stride to deprive her stable mate Freedom’s Light. Silk Sari – winner of an apprentice handicap last time – was third, ahead of Quiz Mistress and Special Meaning. Astonishing and Cubanita were the two that bombed, both travelling well up to two out and then dropping away.

Something of a revelation in his aging years, eight-year-old Penitent pounced late to spring a surprise in the Group 3 John Of Gaunt. On his favoured easy ground he is always a player in this sort of grade. Without downgrading his performance, he did beat handicappers. The improving Breton Rock was second, ahead of Eton Forever and Garswood, who ran in snatches. After such a lack-lustre run last time, he looks to have fallen out of love with the game at present. Here Comes When was a never nearer fifth, but this represented a step in the right direction after winning a handicap at Chester on his return. His excellent effort here is a pointer to Sandown withdrawal from this week, ABSEIL. Not for the first time, Tawhid burst through looking like a serious contender only to backtrack just as suddenly.

Given a fine ride from Keiren Fallon, reunited with headgear, over his optimum trip and on drying ground with just enough juice, Steps landed the Listed from Eton Rifles and Da’Quonde. Swan Song was burnt off when up with a strong pace, whilst York Glory, who is probably better over six and was having his first run of the season, stayed on without landing a blow. Presumably he will be aimed at the Wokingham once again at Royal Ascot.

Given no chance from the wrong part of the track at Newmarket last time, Aeolus, unlucky in the Free Handicap, got his chance in the listed and showed what he is capable of, producing a fine turn of foot. No Leaf Clover stayed on strongly for second. Parbold probably wants further than six as he lacked a change of gear in this company, whilst it has to be said Shamson is a better horse over five and on quicker ground.

York: BERTIEWHITTLE got no sort of run in the Class 2 handicap won by Dutch Rose from Sirius Prospect and Brae Hill. With the breaks he might have figured; as it was he freewheeled on the heels of the principals at the finish. Rated 102 he has crept back to a winning mark and could be of interest in the near future.

After an impressive handicap win over this course at the Dante meeting, a confidently-ridden Clever Cookie maintained an unbeaten record when dead-heating with Ralston Road in the Listed event over 1m 6f. A step up to this trip was a doubt for many, but clearly that was no problem for the son of Primo Valentino. All set to win when delivered with perfect timing, he had to battle as Ralston Road – a good fifth in the Group 2 Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan – rallied near the finish. Shwaiman, who could never get a decent position in the Chester Cup, was third ahead of Rawaki.

Wadi Al Hattawi was always travelling strongly in the Class 3 handicap over 1m 4f. His jockey possibly sent him into the lead plenty soon enough, driving him clear half-way up the straight. The son of Dalakhani, who should stay further, appeared to get lonely in front and his margin was diminishing at the finish. At this moment, with his mark likely to rise to 95, he remains another open question from Godolphin.

Mister Universe, narrowly beaten by Bossy Guest in the season’s first juvenile event over six furlongs at this course at the Dante meeting, made the most of a soft opportunity in the Class 3 median auction. The form of the York maiden has been let down by the third Silver Ranger, who was possibly unable to cope with a bog at Leicester. Although successful here, Mister Universe may not have beaten too much. Newcomer Home Cummins was the only one to make any impact; the rest looked moderate.