May 30th: Newmarket: Summer is apparently here, with the first of the 2014 meetings scheduled to be run on the July course. Bitter Lake took the first race – a Class 4 for juvenile fillies over six furlongs. A good-sized daughter of Halling, despite having to be angled out to the centre of the course, once she hit her stride, even on holding ground, she showed an impressive turn of foot. Visually she was impressive, although it remains to be seen what she beat. She could be decent and has the scope to progress. Apparently her immediate target is the Albany. In second, Kinematic stepped up markedly on her debut at Ascot when she was only ninth of eleven. It was a similar story with the third, Looking Good, who had finished fifth of six in an ordinary event at Sandown last time. In fourth, if realistically campaigned, Hound Music – who was carried wide by the winner – finished nicely, making her perhaps the most interesting betting proposition next time if turning up at Kempton or Wolverhampton.

Paying two-and-half million for a yearling is asking for trouble. However, Qatar Racing took the chance with the Galileo colt Hydrogen who made his belated appearance in the Class 5 maiden over 1m 4f. Unfortunately his price tag will be a permanent millstone round his neck after what was only a moderate debut. Those of a charitable nature could point to the ground and to the fact he was not beaten far by the horse that finished sixth in the Dante. But clutching at straws is expensive. On the face of it, his failure to make an impact in this sort of maiden does not augur well. Wonderstruck, the only filly in the field, will probably improve plenty for this, only her second outing. By Sea The Stars, she is very well related and her debut at Ascot when behind Marsh Daisy has already been advertised by the winner’s success at Goodwood. The Ribblesdale is next on the agenda, where she will not be out of place. Forever Now and Karraar (third to Connecticut at Newbury) will surely win in turn. Saab Almanal may not have stayed this trip but was probably flattered by his proximity to The Grey Gatsby at York in any case.

So disappointing last time, Cloudscape ran better in the Class 3 handicap, but he does have an awkward action and pulled too hard early on. He looked all set to win when striking the front over a furlong out but was worn down by the giant Top Tug – who was behind Cloudscape at Newmarket and looks well-treated from a mark of 84. Even a rise in the weights should not prevent Top Tug from following up. His action suggests this ground, or at least easy ground, will always suit. The pair was clear.

May 29th:

Sandown Results:
The Listed National Stakes, so often a dress rehearsal for Royal Ascot and won last year by Rizeena, went to another filly this time round when Tiggy Wiggy pounced a furlong out. Beaten in a decent listed event at York last time that should throw up winners, she was patiently ridden and quickened strongly in soft ground. The Queen Mary is an obvious target. There was money for Brocklesby winner Cock Of The North who was fizzy at the start, reluctant to load and started slowly. He did stay on but without looking likely to trouble the winner. Chester runner-up Roudee made most of the running and finished third.

Brown Panther shrugged off his 2lbs penalty to clear away in the Henry II Stakes. He is a powerful galloper that stays well and was suited by these conditions. High Jinx ran up to his best in second, ahead of Whiplash Willie who, after his comeback win at Salisbury has now put two good runs back-to-back. Of the rest, Girolamo was fourth and Tiger Cliff a never-nearer fifth. Connections of Tac De Boistron will presumably be pleased with the showing of stable mate Seismos, who was beaten just over five lengths in sixth.

With only three runners the Brigadier Gerard was always going to be a tactical affair. Run in driving rain, Sharestan – a horse with a good record fresh – just lasted. Fallon was excellent on the winner, as was Martin Lane on the runner-up Sheikhzayedroad. In throwing down a last furlong challenge, Lane risked a whip ban on a mulish individual, all but pulling the prize out of the fire. The combination was in front a stride after the line. With a 3lbs penalty, Top Notch Tonto was not disgraced in last place and it could not be said he failed to stay, although the time on the soft ground was understandably slow. The withdrawals of Hillstar and Remote greatly devalued the event.

Not for the first time Ryan Moore excelled in the Listed Heron Stakes. Winning for the first time since twelve months ago, this success knocked off the brick dust Master Carpenter had accumulated on his head after banging it on a wall. Beaten by the likes of Kingman and Western Hymn this year, this ground, a return to a mile and a tactically aware ride from Moore all contrived to make it his night. Indy was beaten a respectable distance in second whilst End Of Line, who was only seven lengths adrift in the French Guineas, carried his head awkwardly and was a laboured third.

Proven soft ground performer Ishikawa won the concluding handicap with something to spare despite a late lunge from Dream Walker, who was third to Chil The Kite at Newbury last time.

May 22nd: Goodwood Results: Plenty of rain softened the track from good to soft. Stepped up to six from his debut Portamento made light of the Class 4 maiden. As the only one with experience it is hard to know what he actually achieved in drawing away from Estidhkaar – for whom there was market support. By Dark Angel, the runner-up took a while to grasp the message.

Solo Hunter caused an upset in the Class 4 handicap. By Sleeping Indian, this step up in trip was not guaranteed to suit as he was beaten twelve lengths only four days ago at Ripon over a mile. But in a slog on soft ground (they clocked ten seconds slow), it seemed to do the trick – at least on this occasion. Gothic did not get an opening when needed down the straight but Ryan Moore stuck to his guns on the inner and eventually found room. This ground was not ideal for Gothic who has still improved on his run at Sandown last time. Thrice-maiden Loving Home was close up in third and should be opening his account before long. Fast Delivery was once again intractable in that he pulled too hard. He looks a lost cause.

In a race that was sixteen seconds slow, Story Writer got off the mark on turf in the Class 4 handicap over two miles. He had a duel with Kashgar over the final two furlongs, the pair clear of Lion Beacon, who will improve on a faster surface. Where that puts him though is questionable.

Possible Hunt Cup contender Russian Realm won the Class 2 handicap, showing he has benefitted from his latest run at Ascot. He made short work of last year’s runner-up George Guru and So Beloved, who, with his awkward action is not one to bank on. For the money on offer this was not a strong handicap.

The Pretty Polly form, on which current Oaks favourite Tagrooda claims are largely based, is beginning to look shaky. Neither the second nor fourth (Jordan Princess and Uchenna) made any impression in the Height Of Fashion where the Pivotal filly Marsh Daisy who – like many of the progeny – relishes easy ground. To be fair she looks an improving filly. The ground probably scuppered the chances of Jordan Princess, who is probably better than this; however, it is likely – as suggested at the time – that this year’s Pretty Polly was only a moderate renewal. Taking a line through the runner-up Eastern Belle, last week’s Newbury winner Volume is a much better prospect than the well-beaten Jordan Princess. Psychometry was another inconvenienced by the easy surface but at least she put up a show of sorts in third.

Black Shadow lost his maiden tag in an ordinary class 5. However, although entitled to win, he did so with something in hand, suggesting a handicap from a reasonable mark may not be out of the question.

Sandown Results: Dame Liberty, a lengthy filly by Tamayuz, made all for a tidy success in the Class 5 maiden for fillies. Hemmed in on the rails at one point, Russian Heroine was always going to have to play her experience card to mow down the winner but, once extracted for a run she only kept on at one pace to nab second. A sixth furlong will help. The expensive Invincible Spirit debutant, Blue Aegean, looked green but showed ability in third.

The ground may have been responsible for the defeat of Provenance in the Class 4 handicap. The early gallop was slow causing her to fight for her head until she settled after a couple of furlongs. Her mark of 84 is not harsh, but she had to concede weight to Reedcutter and Cape Icon, who were both just too strong. Ryan Moore looked after Provenance who may repay his kindness.

Despite pulling hard early, Elite Army, representing the strong form of Windshear from the last meeting, found plenty when presented with a gap, eventually running out an easy winner. If his antics can be curbed he is capable of progressing further. By Authorized, he has plenty of substance. It was a Godolphin one-two with Gold Trail, who looked the winner early in the straight, running out of puff on this testing ground but hanging on for second.

Mutakayyef, second to Barley Mow in a listed Newmarket event last time when stepping up to ten furlongs, told us little when winning his maiden by a wide margin. As suggested by his pedigree, soft ground is no problem. There could be more to come over a mile-and-a-half.

May 17th: Newbury Results: On firming ground, the competitive Class 4 maiden went to Connecticut, for whom everything went right. Despite a wide draw, his rider got him out and across and, after promise at Newmarket when third to Munjaz, Connecticut showed a willing attitude down the straight. He eventually collared Smiling Stranger (third to Criteria at Kempton) with a hard-pulling Mange All third. This was a step in the right direction for the winner, who has a King Edward entry at Royal Ascot but may not be quite up to that standard. Obsidian ran on promisingly in a race that appeared to favour those that raced prominently.

Now seven and with plenty of gruelling miles on the clock, Mount Athos, ridden closer to the pace than usual, picked up the pieces to grab the Listed Aston Park. With Battalion curling up tamely and Sky Hunter (should have been suited by this step up in trip but wasn’t) not proving a threat, it was left to Forgotten Voice to chase him home.

The class 2 handicap featured several that were down to winning marks. Back to his Cambridgeshire-winning mark of 2012, Bronze Angel was the most popular. He hit the front over a furlong out but was eventually run out of a place. Chil The Kite, fourth in the Lockinge on this day last year, pounced inside the final furlong and cleared away. Only four but with his fourth trainer, Fort Knox flashed home late for second. This trip of seven may be a minimum. Dream Walker was third in what looked like a who’s-turn-is-it-today handicap.

Stepped up in grade, Cannock Chase, beautifully settled by Ryan Moore, won the Class 2 London Gold Cup from a mark of 89 like a horse going places. Like most Lemon Drop Kid’s he is a real looker. With a sparkling turn of foot, it may be this trip of ten furlongs is his optimum. Raised 11lbs for his Sandown success, Windshear chased him home valiantly but could not get on terms. This was a strong handicap. After the win of Volume yesterday and this effort from Windshear, the run of Cloudscape last time (beat them both) is all the more perplexing. Satellite went into premature orbit when pulling hard early but Frankie Dettori kept something in reserve. Not surprisingly, it was not enough. The son of Danehill Dancer needs to settle down if he is to take up some lofty engagements.

Despite doubts, Olympic Glory, settled to perfection by Frankie Dettori, rewarded a bold policy by the Hannon camp when winning the season’s first Group 1 – the Lockinge. The ground was not ideal but, although firming, there was still juice left. Travelling well throughout, he maintained a fine record of first-time out successes for three seasons. Tullius stepped up to the challenge in much better company to finish second, emphasising once again the strength of this year’s Lincoln. The eye was drawn to the monster that is Verrazano. On his first run for new connections and looking as if it would bring him on, he finished third, serving up a warning that he is likely to transfer Grade 1 American form to this country before long. A great mover that was nudged home once the winner had committed, he is all quality. In time he could turn out to be the best in show.

The Class 4 maiden over seven furlongs looked of questionable quality. Recent form rose to the top but it was moderate form at best. Skaters Waltz emerged best from debutant Telefono and Between Wickets. Bon Voyage – a serial maiden was fourth – next came the unraced gelding Polybius, who has an action more suited to a Lipizzaner than a racehorse. He hits the ground like a pneumatic drill and will surely be more effective in the soft; or, possibly on the all-weather. Be warned though; this race was poor by Newbury standards and anything stepping outside a modest parameter is being set up for a reversal.

Covered up, Aertex took the fillies’ handicap. It is a hard race to make too much of, but apprentice-ridden Cay Dancer (a stable mate of the winner) did finish strongly and a step up in trip may bring about improvement next time.

Newmarket Results:
Always travelling well, a step in trip to 1m 6f seemed to improve an already upward Van Percy who won the Class 2 handicap with ears pricked. They may not have been the best in behind.

Coulsty came out of nowhere to land the listed event, narrowly beating Toofi who had run so well in one of the sales races at the Craven meeting. It was a bunch finish. Windfast was a close third, ahead of Parbold who, after a rough passage, only got going when it was all over. Complicit was next, ahead of a disappointing Aeolus who, after looking unlucky in the Free Handicap – a race that is throwing out mixed messages at present – was never travelling. His best form is with cut in the ground and this surface may have been responsible. He is worth another chance. Gamesome has an action that needs to be seen to be believed (races on three legs); it was therefore no surprise he was well beaten.

Following some speculation by jockeys, it seemed after the running of the Class 2 sprint trophy that, on this occasion, racing on the stands’ side presented a definite advantage. At least those in the centre seemed disadvantaged. Why this sort of situation should exist at a course like Newmarket is something of a mystery. Be that as it may, Eastern Impact scooted up the nearside to grab this from Fear Or Favour and a closing Stomp. Roger Charlton, responsible for the latter, also fielded Stars Above Me, who, although coming with a challenge, was soon out with the washing from her position. Apparently the trainer’s justification in running two was that there were no other suitable races to be found. Really?

Hugging the rail, Pinzolo, although not looking entirely in love with his task, appeared to battle on once headed to win the Listed. As already stated he may have benefitted from the strip of ground he raced on. In second, out in the middle of the ocean, Master Carpenter did no harm to the form of Western Hymn.

Although apparently disappointing on his second run, that was put into perspective by the end of the season so Yuften was entitled to win an ordinary maiden without too much fuss. This he achieved in the Class 4, endorsing his debut second to Barley Mow at Newbury. Racing up the favoured strip of ground, he came right away. Fourth to Dante runner-up Arod at Windsor, Kinshasa ploughed a furrow on the unfavoured middle of the track and having lost his pitch, kept on again up the hill to finish fourth. He should be marked up for this. A step up in trip may suit. He will be qualified for handicaps after his next run.

Built to carry big weights if necessary, stepping up in trip to a mile-and-a-half, Miner’s Lamp settled better than when we last saw him to make all in the concluding Class 3 handicap. Alex My Boy staged a last furlong challenge that only narrowly failed.

May 16th: Newbury: The class 4 maiden over six furlongs for two-year-olds has a decent record. The market was on the money, centring on Adaay and Aledaid. Once he got the hang of it, Adaay quickened like a decent horse, showing a good turn of foot and winning with something to spare. The most expensive Kodiac to have gone through the ring, he looks as good a two-year-old as we have seen so far this year. Aledaid finished only fifth having travelled nicely. Out on the wing for most of the journey, the way the race was played out did not help. A good-looking son of Acclamation, he should win next time.

The Listed Swettenham Stud for fillies looked a quality event. Volume, third to Cloudscape and subsequent Sandown winner Windshear at Newmarket, made all under a confident ride from Richard Hughes, who saved plenty up his sleeve. Lahinch Classics for Ireland was her nearest pursuer. Newmarket maiden winner Hadaatha travelled into the race but lugged left when it mattered, forfeiting her chance. You could put it down to greenness, but, notably weak in the market, it could be she is not straightforward. Inchila was a close fourth. Only small, she lacks scope.

Clouds Rest flashed out of the gates to make all in the Class 3 conditions stakes. A Beverley winner, she was too sharp for her rivals. The Sir Percy debutant, Persun finished best of a tight bunch for second. Spirit Of Xian was inches away, ahead of Expensive Date who took an age to load but came back in promising style. This was not the strongest event of its type.

Arab Dawn took the eye at when winning at Goodwood last time and continued his progression in a strong Class 4 three-year-old handicap. Personal Opinion did not get the run of the race in second but the winner had a little left in the locker. Notarised and Raven Ridge added substance in third and fourth.

On a day that belonged to Richard Hughes, Musical Comedy made it four when nursed home in the listed. He was always in the right place and struck inside the last furlong to hold Naadirr. No excuses are forwarded for Mushir who was a strong second in the Free Handicap. He was always struggling from two lengths off the pace. It could be he wants to return to seven or maybe, considering he had a 3lbs penalty, this is pretty much as good as he is.

York: Speedy two-year-old fillies lined up for the listed race that opened the card. Patience Alexander, a nine-length winner at Wolverhampton, eventually wore down dual-winner Tiggy Wiggy. The winner is a natural for the Queen Mary. Kodiac was responsible for the first two. Eventual favourite Zuhoor Baynoona stepped up on her Yarmouth debut in third. In fourth and fifth, Appleberry and Don’t Tell Annie want noting. Both won their maidens on stiff tracks and, although not slow, were unable to go the early pace here. They stayed on strongly doing their best work in the closing stages and can be expected to recover the winning thread in the right event over six furlongs.

With a Hardwicke entry, the course whisper was that the Monsun colt Arab Spring was a Group horse in a handicap in the Class 2. Rated 96 after winning his maiden at Kempton and a handicap at Doncaster this year, he represented Sir Michael Stoute who won the event last year with Sir John Hawkwood. Although racing from a high enough mark (up eleven pounds from last time), Arab Spring was taking on decent but exposed opponents. To be fair beating handicappers of their nature is never easy for horses with limited experience (this was only his fourth racecourse experience). A fluent mover that travelled strongly throughout, Arab Spring found plenty once he hit the front. Athletic and neat, he is very likeable and can continue to progress, although life will get harder for him from here on. Reading between the lines it would appear his non-committal trainer favours one of the big Royal Ascot handicaps.

Gospel Choir emphasised what a versatile campaigner he is when winning the Group 2 Yorkshire Cup. Having shown speed over nine furlongs on debut before claiming a couple of notable scalps in the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket over twelve furlongs, he took a further step up in trip of two furlongs in his stride, although he was helped by a slow pace and drying ground. A mile-and-a-half may be his best trip. A splendid example of Galileo but out of a Pivotal mare, he is not bred to stay this far but, eased into the lead over a furlong out, he found plenty when challenged – and challenge him they did! Ryan Moore gave him the perfect ride. One of his many attributes is that he gives horses time to respond without immediate recourse to the whip. He had a very willing partner here. With a 4lbs penalty, Tac De Boistron has run a mighty race in second and his advance towards the Ascot Gold Cup continues. Tiger Cliff was close up in third. After a slow early gallop, in behind plenty took the eye. Ahzeemah, Camborne and Seal Of Approval were the chief protagonists to give connections encouragement for the future.

Lustrous made all to land the listed event although she may have been fortunate to an extent as the runner-up, Radiator, failed to advance her claims when tanking early. She has done well physically since last season and if this was a one-off should make amends.

The Class 3 handicap over five furlongs was all about Newcastle winner, G Force who won in impressive fashion. Well backed, they knew what they were doing as he found a change of gear from some way back to make up a lot of ground, not easy to do over the sudden death distance. A mark of 87 was fair enough beforehand but he made a mockery of it. He will stay six no problem (it might improve him judging by the way he was powering clear in the closing stages) and looks destined for better things.

Newmarket: Juventas put her experience to good use when winning the juvenile Class 4 maiden for fillies. By Sixties Icon, this sixth furlong was of benefit. Dutch Party was an always prominent second ahead of Rose Of Kiev. In fourth, Ski Slope made up a lot of ground in the last furlong on her debut and should know more next time.

Outlaw Country put up a fine debut against experienced rivals after missing the break in the novice stakes. Honours were shared between Dougal and Justice Good.

Groundbreaking might be all right although his win in the Class 3 handicap should not be taken too literally. He looks a sulky sort and did win first time last year before failing to progress. There was a ground excuse in October but he will need to defy a hefty hike in the handicap to win again.

May 15th:

Salisbury Results
There were no real stars on show in the opening Class 5 maiden for juveniles. That is to say with the exception of Richard Hughes, who timed his run to perfection on Beacon to claim Windsor runner-up Fine Prince close home. With 66/1 shot Amber Crystal (who had showed nothing at Kempton on only outing) in third, one has to question the worth of the race. Beacon did win cosily but will need to be significantly better than the bare form to make an impact at a better level.

The Class 4 handicap, confined to three-year-old fillies over ten furlongs, placed an emphasis on stamina as several participants were not stoutly bred. Richard Hughes struck once again when delivering the Rock Of Gibraltar filly Crystal Nymph late from a slow pace. The filly was breaking her maiden from a mark of 72, mugging Melrose Abbey close home. The runner-up will stay further but not in a hurry. She has a rounded action and will always need cut. Pace-setter Rosehill Artist kept on for third, although it is far from certain she will stay this trip in a truly run event. For those with a forgiving nature, Surcingle did race on three shoes so can possibly be accorded another chance.

There was a time when some in the Hannon camp would have nominated War Spirit as their possible Guineas candidate. Water and bridge have seen plenty of each other since; War Spirit has been gelded and, from a mark of 70 was unable to make the most of a perfect pitch in the Class 5 handicap. He travels well but did not give his rider a lot of help. Brighton winner Issemist and Suitsus were the two to beat him.

The well-bred Hidden Gold got off the mark at the first time of asking in her maiden. With another high-profile newcomer in Too The Stars unplaced, this average to moderate event looked better on paper than it did in real time.
The second division featured more of the same with debutants Sultanina and Desert Snow finishing first and second. They will be worth more at the paddocks than on the racecourse.

York Results
On a day when all eyes were on the three-year-old colts in the Dante, older fillies and mares got their chance in the Group 2 Middleton Stakes over the same trip.
Second to Dalkala in this last year, Ambivalent, third to Gentildonna in the Sheema Classic in March, made the running until headed by Secret Gesture over a furlong out. There was a time when that would have been her cue to withdraw, but she resolutely fought back to finish nicely on top. She has turned into a pretty good mare.

Odeliz upheld the Newmarket form of Esoterique (beaten six lengths in the Dahlia) in third. Mango Diva was always in rear until making some headway for fourth, ahead of the penalised The Lark, who appeared to blow up in the last furlong. Thistle Bird faded tamely under a tender ride.

The Grey Gatsby’s Dante win has boosted even further the claims of Australia for the Derby. Beaten six lengths in the Guineas, his win here says it all. It is hard to nominate anything that finished behind him as having any sort of chance in the Derby. Despite a tendency to drift right (there was an inquiry) The Grey Gatsby is an honest sort who always runs with credit in this company, having finished second in the Craven this year and the Champagne at two. This is as far as he wants to go. He may take up an engagement in the French Derby over this trip. Easy Windsor maiden winner Arod was second and is expected to improve considerably for this, only his third run. Like the winner (although it is not as cut and dried) there has to be a slight stamina doubt. Impressive at Newmarket, True Story was uneasy beforehand and never travelled that well. There was a point down the straight when it appeared as if he would take a hand, but essentially he lacks a turn of foot. Putting a brave face on this reversal, connections consider the Derby trip will bring out the best in him. Excuses at this level are expensive; a place is the best they can dream of.

Last year’s winner Navajo Chief, benefitting from a masterly Fallon ride, repeated the dose in the Listed Hambleton Handicap. Fort Bastion looked to have the race in the bag inside the last furlong but the winner and his jockey were determined. Prince Of Johanne scraped into third ahead of one of a clutch of monkeys in Tales Of Grimm, who wanted no part in proceedings until running on late. Biggest villain of the piece was Fury. Even from such a tempting mark, his backers knew what they were getting into. Handily placed and given every chance, when the going got tough he backed off pretty quickly.

Shamshon carried his penalty to a cosy success in the conditions stakes. It is tempting to consider five is his trip although Dettori seems to feel six is his optimum. Time will tell. Either way he joins a growing band of decent second-season sprinters. One Chance and Eccleston were next. Third in the Middle Park last year – form that Astaire flagged up as strong to such an extent yesterday – Justice Day should have done better than finishing a remote fourth.

The first juvenile six furlong event of the season was the Class 3 maiden – yes, it’s that time of year already; it will soon be the Coventry! The extra furlong made all the difference to the result – a result that may not play any part in Royal Ascot proceedings. Bossy Guest edged ahead near the finish from Mister Universe, who should be winning soon. Silver Ranger covers a lot of ground with his stride and stuck on in third. Again, he is a winner waiting to happen. Gaudy ran with promise in fourth. It is tempting to conclude this was a nice collection and that those remaining maidens should rectify that if not asked to fly too high too soon.

May 14th: York: On drying ground (the time was at variance with the official description of soft with good patches), bumper/hurdles and Flat maiden winner Clever Cookie won the competitive Class 2 handicap from a mark of 88. He came from a good way back to negate a wide draw. Last week’s Chester winner was second, ahead of Awake My Soul and Pasaka Boy. Being honest not many of these held secrets from the handicapper. That said Rye House may be capable of improvement. Looking ring-rusty he was angled for a run over a furlong out that shut in his face. A big unit, he picked up again without looking likely to recover. Silvery Moon and Lahaag are others that have run better than their places suggest.

Money for Aetna, from the ultra-sharp Mick Easterby stable, was not misplaced in the Class 2 handicap. She finished strongly, denying the in-form Baccarat who travelled well for most of the trip. Apparently easy ground brings out the best in her. According to her ebullient trainer she will always be hard to beat at this level when conditions are in her favour so there may be another handicap in her. After a tame second season, Blaine, now gelded and with a good record at York, was the last to challenge and was close up in third. Fast Shot was fourth. Despite the numbers this was a race that went pretty much as expected. Not for the first time Yeeoow checked out quickly. He does seem to find it difficult to get his head in front and rarely runs two races alike.

Once-raced Madame Chiang – a winner at Yarmouth in October last year – battled on under a determined ride to land the Group 3 Musidora. A big filly by Archipenko that handles ease in the ground, she has done well since last season but it is questionable whether this represents Oaks form. However, she is scopey enough to come on again but ground could be the key to her. Lily Rules chased her home in second, ahead of Regardez and maiden Nancy From Nairobi. A keen and reluctant-looking Queen Of Ice (ran as if in season) was fifth. Of the rest, Shama made the running but would not have been suited by the ground. Cambridge is not there yet. A fine big filly, she needs more time. The impression left was that as a field, these could all beat each other in turn.

Four came clear in the Group 2 Duke Of York, ultimately dominated by the penalised Group 1 winners, Maarek and Astaire. Time and again, the Prix l’abbaye winner Maarek will take advantage of any chinks in his opponents’ armour. On this sort of ground he is always a serious player. His strength was decisive in the closing stages as he mowed down the three-year-old Astaire who has run a stormer returned to sprinting. Statistically this was almost mission impossible for Astaire but, prominent throughout, he almost pulled it off. This augurs well for the remainder of the season. Unlike the winner, he is not ground dependent and he should grab a major prize. Es Que Love and Mass Rally were next of the bunch of four that broke away. There was a surprisingly long break back to Hawkeyethenoo in fifth. Nothing else deserves a mention, although, in particular, Jack Dexter was a major disappointment.

They have bided their time with That Is The Spirit who was an impressive winner at Doncaster in March. Once again, on ground with cut, he was prominent throughout in the Class 3 handicap and was soon in control, smashing a mark of 90 in the process. He travels nicely and is smart enough to keep himself out of trouble in these sorts of events. Shot In The Sun was a decent second. Idea took the eye in behind. Tenderly-ridden on only his second actual race in public (unseated rider on debut), he can do better and should not be pressed to win from his present mark of 79. Provident Spirit (second to the winner at Doncaster) was all over the place from his disadvantageous low draw.

Only five turned up for the Class 3 novice stakes, which did not look a strong event. Inexperienced on debut at Newcastle, Mignolino knew more today, getting the better of disappointing favourite Captain Colby a furlong out and then holding Abscent Friends. Outpaced early, Winstanley made good headway to take third. A step up to six furlongs should suit and help him get off the mark.

10th May: Lingfield: A big day for the track with the running of the Derby and Oaks trials. Fillies first, and Windsor winner Honor Bound beat many better fancied opponents to cause something of a surprise. By Authorized, she has handled easy ground well to nut an unfortunate Criteria virtually on the line. This was Criteria’s best effort. Clearly the trip was no problem – the ground was probably not ideal for her but she battled willingly. Momentus was third, ahead of Sandown winner and stable mate of the winner, Kallisha. Trying to land a Listed event with an established maiden filly is never that straightforward, and despite the figures, Casual Smile (in front of Criteria at Newmarket last season) was squeezed out down the straight but was already giving out negative signals. Queen’s Prize pulled much too hard early and predictably paid the penalty.

Snow Sky (second to Western Hymn at Newbury) won the colts’ trial, looking as if this step up to just short of a mile-and-a-half brought about improvement. It would be a surprise if Snow Sky is good enough to enter the Derby picture after this but the win clearly provides a boost for his Newbury conqueror. Distressed after Epsom when behind Our Channel last time, Hartnell returned to something like his best in second. He did not handle the track that well and was staying on at the finish. On a similar surface he could make his mark later in the season in distance events. In third, Sudden Wonder probably stayed this trip but may be better at shorter. Blue Hussar picked up ground from a long way back in fourth. On only his second start, this has to go down as a promising effort. Red Galileo is looking either slow or disinterested, or possibly both. Munjaz took an early tug and was well beaten. Mekong River also failed to fire.

Ascot: We got a master class from Frankie Dettori in the Listed Buckhounds Stakes. He squeezed and cajoled home Gatewood, who was winning for the first time since returning from Australia where he so often battled against unsuitably firm ground. There were no such worries here on a rain-softened surface. Gatewood has been labelled an under-achiever and a confident-inducing ride brought his best to the fore. The penalty beat Pether’s Moon, who had run so well at Newmarket last week behind Gospel Choir. Elidor ran above himself in third. Harris Tweed is not firing on all cylinders as yet.

Amulet, a filly with a proven record on soft ground, made all to win the fillies’ handicap from a mark of 84. Behind Be My Gal at Goodwood last time; although not to be taken literally, her win has paid the winner from that day a compliment. Ribbons stalked the winner but despite coming there strongly, only got going too late. By Manduro, it is stating the obvious to say ten furlongs should suit her better.

Despite finishing second, in what was probably only an ordinary contest, Mubtaghaa just about came out best in the two-year-old event won by Moonraker. The winner had the perfect run and was clear a furlong out, but his stride shortened in the final 100 yards allowing the runner-up and Winslow to cut back his lead.

Having travelled like the winner for a long way, Chatez was narrowly foiled at Haydock by the shock winner Red Stargazer in the Class 3 handicap. They should find something for Showpiece before long, although the jury is out as to his trip. Having looked a seven furlong horse, he did finish strongly over this mile. Newbury winner Matalleb can be forgiven this run. Not beaten that far, his pedigree and action suggests he will always be more effective on a better surface.

May 9th:

Chester Results
Two years ago as a two-year-old, Here Comes When was touted as a horse with classic pretensions. Plenty has happened since. Gelded after his last outing in the Jersey at Royal Ascot; a course winner here, he scooted away with the Class 2 handicap from a mark of 95. Visually attractive in success; although he carries his head at an angle and may not be straightforward, he emphasised the current form of his yard and now faces a hike in the weights. On only his third outing, and on ground probably too soft, Abseil kept on for second and of the two may be the better prospect next time.

Having already demonstrated an ability to handle soft ground, Kingfisher finished off strongly to grab the Dee Stakes. This is not his ideal surface but he does cope with it. He outstayed the penalised Bow Creek to finish nicely on top. Somewhat, also with a penalty, and Century, stable mate of the winner, both stayed on. Century will appreciate a faster surface and could pop up in something at Royal Ascot.

Only four turned up for the Group 3 Ormonde Stakes. Four became two from some way out, when it was a long way home for highest rated Hillstar on ground he doesn’t like. Hard though he and Ryan Moore tried, they could not get to the powerhouse that is Brown Panther. Hillstar probably stayed the trip but he will always be more effective on good (not firm) ground. The winner will now be aimed at the Ascot Gold Cup.

May 8th: Chester: The Group 3 went to Noble Mission, who put back-to-back wins on his score card, once again making all the running. As at Sandown, he kept galloping despite a challenge from Telescope, who was the only credible danger from some way out. All we can conclude is that soft ground and front-running tactics seem to suit Noble Mission, who kept on resolutely. As for Telescope, this tight track and trip was not guaranteed to suit. He has bettered his Sandown run, but not by much and those banking on him realising hopes once held will be hoping a step up in trip will bring about improvement. Last year’s winner Dandana was a distant third in this better field. Ektihaam, already a horse with a chequered career, pulled hard and was soon a spent force. The market told its story and he looks like one to be wary of.

Orchestra claimed the Chester Vase in similar fashion to Ruler Of The World last year. A real eye-catcher by Galileo, he won despite looking slightly awkward on the track. Although pressed to the line by Romsdal – who very nearly stole the race – Orchestra left the impression he was the best in show. He has done well since last year and there is more to come. Scotland ran slightly better than at Newbury but was a remote third. Seagull Star headed the rest in a fair renewal.

Ryan Moore was brilliant on a reluctant Ballymore Castle in the two-year-old event that was run in a rainstorm. Close proximity with a filly accounted for the horse becoming stirred up in the paddock. In the race it appeared he was outpaced and going nowhere until Moore plotted a course one off the outside and drove him up, eventually winning with something in hand. He was entitled to beat London Life and Hell Of A Lord on form so has hardly set the form book alight. The win was all about the jockey.

May 7th: Chester: Despite a 9lbs weight disadvantage with a disappointing Cheerio Sweetie and a wide draw, Mukhmal shrugged off such adversity to defy the market in the Lily Agnes. Fast away, he was too strong for Roudee and Charlie’s Star, who ran better than at Newbury and looks ready for six.

Rain got in pretty quickly and stamina was very much the order in the Cheshire Oaks. Anipa made just about all from Secret Pursuit. In third Bright Approach (whose form was franked on Saturday by Be My Gal), stayed on, leaving the impression she could be the best filly in the field. This was only her second race and she did well considering this represented a rise in class from her Newbury maiden and crucially was found to be coming into season after the event. The Ribblesdale is her next objective. Psychometry was a never nearer fourth, but hers was a satisfactory return. Terrific is probably better than her finishing position but it is stretching the imagination to perceive her as an Oaks contender. Brown Diamond probably failed to stay but her habit of starting slowly and then giving her jockey no assistance makes her an undesirable proposition.

Suegioo won a drama-filled Chester Cup at his first attempt over an extreme trip. Dashed to the front from right out the back, Angel Gabrial threatened to take out the winner when veering right a furlong out when clear. Communicator stayed on for third, ahead of Mubaraza, who, not for the first time, travelled strongly without finding too much.

The best we could have said for Sir Maximilian before the class 2 sprint handicap was that he runs well fresh and handles cut. He picked up the trailblazing duo of Caspian Prince and Ballista.

A babyish and staying-on fifth in the Wood Ditton, Prince Of Stars looked as if the penny is dropping when running out an easy winner of his maiden. His opponents were moderate but he is potentially much better.

Swan Song, Masamah and Trinityelitedotcom, the front three throughout, took the sprint condition event by the throat from the start and dominated. Swan Song picked up Masamah inside the last furlong. Lucky Beggar could never go the pace but was free on his way to the start in any case.

Storm Force Ten continued the good run of the Andrew Balding yard with a narrow win in the Class 3 handicap from a mark of 79. Captain Morley and Swivel filled the places in an ordinary handicap.

May 4th: Newmarket: A tough looking Class 2 handicap ended up being all about Mighty Yar, who had lost his unbeaten record in the listed Further Flight at Nottingham in the soft over 1m 6f last time. According to his jockey (the admirable Ryan Moore) he was struggling to an extent on the quickening ground today, but found his stride up the hill. Confidently handled he got up close home. A mark of 89 will be revised to something in the low-to-middle nineties, which should not preclude further success. By Teofilo, 1m 4f may be his trip for now, although something like the Ebor could be on the agenda. He also holds an engagement in the Hardwicke but plenty of improvement is required before he could be seriously considered for that. Miss Marjurie and Amrullah were next to finish ahead of Rosebery winner Salutation.

In a close scrap for the Group 3 Dahlia Stakes, Integral went down with all guns blazing to Esoterique. To an extent Integral compromised her chances by getting fretful and warm beforehand. Once launched, she finished very strongly. Fancied to open her account for the season, this was a fair enough reappearance and one that suggests she will make her mark in similar events later in the year.

Last year’s Oh So Sharp Stakes supplied all the answers to the 1000 Guineas. But for a dubious reappearance at Maisons-Lafitte in the Imprudence, Miss France, winter favourite for this, would have been a warmer order but her attitude that day did not please everyone when she pulled too hard and looked recalcitrant. She was a different filly today, roaring up a hill she is familiar with to withstand Lightning Thunder. A strong daughter of Dansili that was always prominent, her trainer is adamant she will stay further and the Prix Diane is likely to be her next assignment. Lightning Thunder had gone over the edge on her last run of the 2013 season but returned with renewed vigour here. Best fresh, a filly with plenty of depth, she almost stole the race and should be primed for a lucrative season; although, of course, she will be contesting all the best races. Dual Meydan winner, Ihtimal put up her best performance in third. Allowing for the fact she was match-fit it could be we should not expect any further improvement. Pace-setting Manderley (fifth in the Fred Darling) proved a revelation in holding on for fourth. Euro Charline reversed Nell Gwyn form with Sandiva in fifth ahead of Majeyda, another to figure prominently from the same event. Rizeena looked very well but could not confirm juvenile form with Ihtimal in seventh. Vorda proved she stayed but, although ahead of Miss France at Maisons-Lafitte, was unable to beat her today. Joyeuse was not ideally placed at the rear considering the early pace was not fierce, but she did finish to a degree, running out of puff in the last furlong. It could be she has not quite seen out the trip. Tapestry lost her action at halfway and appears to have sustained some sort of setback.

As the only filly, Elite Gardens deserves credit for holding the colts in the juvenile event. She became Godolphin’s first two-year-old winner of the season, responding to Fallon’s urgings as Aktabantay staged a late lunge. Symbolic Star was third in a race that should throw up the odd winner.

It’s been a tough weekend for the message men. Taghrooda redressed the precarious balance to a degree when winning the Pretty Polly. By Sea The Stars (who could be one of the stallions of the year) out of Ezima, on ground considered by her trainer to be firming up to the tune it could be against her, Taghrooda eased clear of only fair opposition to win impressively. She is now favourite for the Oaks have skittled Jordan Princess and Sound Reflection.

Zee Zeely may have been fortunate to win the Class 2 handicap, although he is currently fairly treated from a mark of 79. The articulated truck that is Miner’s Lamp did particularly well to stage a last furlong challenge considering he pulled much too hard early and refused to settle. Despite a steadier of 95, he has plenty of scope if only he can learn to pull himself together.

May 3rd:

Newmarket Results
Niceofyoutotellme kicked off the Guineas meeting with victory in the Class 2 handicap. Best when fresh, a horse with dodgy feet but that likes Newmarket, he held on in the face of a late challenge from Ajmany. Always well thought of but lightly raced, Ajmany should win something decent before long if standing training. Bold Sniper was coming back in trip and made up a lot of ground to challenge inside the last furlong. Trumpet Major travelled like the winner from the dip; either his weight (rated 106) or the trip found him out as he failed to find what was expected in the last hundred yards. To give him the benefit of the doubt maybe nine furlongs was too far, but he has disappointed in the past and is not one to plan a holiday over. Farraaj was another to carry a big weight with distinction in a handicap worthy of its status.

On drying ground, after two spins at Meydan, tough warhorse Sole Power claimed the Group 3 Palace House – a race he won last year. Once hitting the rising ground his finishing kick was decisive. Kingsgate Native was a narrow second, ahead of pacesetting Hot Streak, who has performed well for a three-year-old against such experienced rivals. Pearl Secret never looked happy on this ground – he needs cut.

After a run that oozed promise over nine furlongs at the Craven meeting, returned to a more suitable trip in the Group 2 Jockey Club, we saw Gospel Choir at his best. This was a canny piece of training and his handler can conjure yet more from this highly likeable son of Galileo who may be Group 1 bound. In second, Pether’s Moon was another to produce a personal best. 10lbs clear in the ratings, Trading Leather was a warm order but failed to relax and consequently found little at the business end. Yet to win first time out, he may do better next time but his reputation is built on his three-year-old career. He now faces opposition that threatens to be much better than those he battled with last season. It could be a long year for him. In fifth, hindsight suggests they were plenty quick enough to contest such a level with Brass Ring. His was a decent enough run but unfortunately a mark of 98 will surely be sacrificed now, thus precluding high-profile handicaps.

Night Of Thunder, the horse that burnt fingers at Newbury when comprehensively beaten by Kingman, gained spectacular revenge in the 2000 Guineas. Despite swerving across the track he was too good for Kingman today, who may not have been quite so effective over a mile. Take out the winner and the right horses all filled the places in this first classic of the season. Night Of Thunder, unbeaten before Newbury, may be a very good horse; there seems no logical reason to crab his win – it was merely a surprise! Australia came out best of those on the stands’ side, producing a mighty effort in third considering his relative inexperience. Obviously the Derby looks a credible target. Free Handicap winner Shifting Power ran a big race in fourth. Charm Spirit, Toormore (jockey claims the horse ran flat but that remains to be seen – he was only beaten four lengths), War Command and The Grey Gatsby all appear to have run well enough from this viewpoint. Those that are in a rush to extract Australia from the race for Epsom might like to have a look at the run of Kingston Hill. Outpaced early he was staying on strongly over the last furlong. The fact he has yet to find his feet at home has been well documented and there is every chance this run will pull him together.

The handicap won by Nova Champ did not look that strong. He made all in first time cheek pieces, but will not be allowed so much rope next time and off a revised mark.

A very good looking field lined up for the Listed event, ultimately dominated by one-time classic prospect Barley Mow. Making all, this son of Zamindar seemed to thrive over this trip of ten furlongs. After a couple of indifferent efforts this season, perhaps this trip is the making of him. He is a fine-looking specimen. Beaten in a decent maiden at Newbury, Mutakayyef almost snatched victory and was not helped by receiving two bumps at the business end. Again, this trip has brought out the best in this son of Sea The Stars. Although he looks a handful, Pinzolo held on to third ahead of Postponed. After such a promising run in the Craven it was disappointing Postponed could only manage fourth. This trip was in his favour but, to be frank, he looked a trifle one-paced. On the back of a strong handicap here last time, Cloudscape was put in his place in this better company. It would appear after an early season rampage the Gosden yard is now finding a more realistic level.

Hors De Combat was a ready winner of the concluding handicap. Tackling a mile for the first time seemed to suit. He travelled strongly and produced a decent turn of foot. This looked a decent race. Born In Bombay, who has fancy entries, looks like a well handicapped horse that can win something decent before too long. Not for the first time Golden Town proved to be his own worst enemy. He again failed to keep a straight course and needs to sort out his attitude if he is to realise his potential.