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Horse Racing Results for June 2009..
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY JUNE 30th:
HAMILTON HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Exgray had to struggle to lift the Class 5 maiden, in which he may have come across a couple of smart newcomers. Having finished second to Capercaillie, Exgray had the experience and the form to make him an odds-on favourite. Melody In The Mist snatched second but Yesnabay and Waveband showed enough on debut to be of interest in similar company next time. Waveband missed the break and was on the outside of her field. She should be wiser when she reappears.
BRIGHTON HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Somebody had obviously walked the course beforehand as Itsher was brought stands’ side to win the opening handicap comfortably. This was a pattern followed throughout the afternoon.
Rocky’s Pride won his maiden with ease having run across a useful opponent at Windsor last time.
Espy had every chance in the Class 5 handicap but failed to quicken when only third to Orpen’s Art and Louise’s Lad. He may be better over the full six but has had plenty of opportunities at this lowly level.
THIRSK HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Experience won the day for Ballodair in the Class 5 maiden. Having finished second to Aerodynamic at Nottingham in an event that looked decent, he shrugged off his maiden tag but had to work. Dripping with sweat, possibly due to a thunderstorm beforehand, Ballodair crossed over from his two stall to race prominently throughout. He saw it out well under pressure but Call To Arms, who forfeited a good draw early, stayed on strongly and looks the sort to make plenty of improvement. He should win next time. These two were clear. The strong and stocky winner has the right attitude but lacks the scope of the runner-up.
Frankie Dettori excelled on Yirga in the Class 4 handicap. The son of Cape Cross was keen early and one of the first off the bit. Dwarfed by his main rival, Johnmanderville, he received plenty of encouragement from the saddle and responded. Only small, Yirga needed all of this mile in rain-softened ground and may be capable of defying a small rise in the ratings if put to ten furlongs. He is a nice sort. Johnmanderville is a massive type that will possibly end up over timber. Against a well-fancied rival, he gave it his best shot. He should win next time.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY JUNE 29th:
Offered little.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY JUNE 28th:
SAINT-CLOUD RACING RESULTS:
Pacemaker and a winner in the provinces, Ashalanda produced a shock when taking the Group 2 for fillies at the expense of Terre Du Vent and the winner’s much better fancied stable companion Shamakiya. Enticement, seven lengths behind Sariska in the Musidora, looked fitter for this but finished tamely.
GRAND PRIX de SAINT-CLOUD (Group 1): Given half a chance against inferior Group 1 Company, Spanish Moon, although making a meal of loading, eventually consented. He is at his best in competitive races and thrived today to take it up inside the last furlong, holding the filly Alpine Rose. Youmzain was third, running no better than when fourth behind Spanish Moon in Dubai when Eastern Anthem edged both of them out. He remains a nearly horse. Curtain Call was fourth, ahead of Magadan who lacks an effective turn of foot at this level, looking as if a step up in trip will suit.
CURRAGH RACING RESULTS:
Benbaun maintained an amazing strike rate at this course when winning the Group 3 from Snaefell and Inxile. This ground was too soft for Captain Gerrard. An attempt to steady him early backfired, as he needs to blitz on a fast surface. Goodwood is his track.
Alfred Nobel was nicely on top in the Group 2 Railway Stakes. The subject of confidence from his powerful stable it has to be assumed there is more to come. Once-raced In Some Respect did well to split the winner and the scopey King Ledley.
DUBAI DUTY FREE IRISH DERBY (Group 1): And compensation for Epsom runner-up Fame And Glory who came from off a strong pace to win going away from Golden Sword – thus improving on English Derby form to the tune of five lengths with something to spare. Fame And Glory deserved this, as he was unflinching in defeat at Epsom. Of course, the defection of Sea The Stars took some lustre from the event but Fame And Glory is turning into a relentless galloper and a genuine Group 1 horse in his own right. Vulnerable to the likes of Sea The Stars in a sprint, he remains on the upgrade, looking as if he has improved in several departments since we last set eyes on him. Golden Sword made a break for it at the turn but Fame And Glory was able to deal with him in his own time. Johnny Murtagh delivered the perfect ride. Mourayan, representing the stable of Sea The Stars, was a well beaten third. It is unlikely there will be a rematch between Sea The Stars and Fame And Glory, but under these sort of circumstances the result would not be a foregone conclusion. Gan Amhras has gone the wrong way since Newmarket. He lacks scope and it would appear we saw the best of him in the Guineas.
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
Lord Zenith, an eye-catcher at Newbury in a classy maiden, won the Class 4 maiden with ease. He looked outstanding beforehand but it may be a mistake to get carried away as the opposition was ordinary. However, this son of Zamindar looks like another strong addition to the Andrew Balding stable whose juveniles look half-decent. Lord Zenith is likely to reappear in the Superlative at Newmarket where he will meet tougher opposition, but he has the depth to continue to improve. Of the rest, there was lot to like about the Oasis Dream colt, Kajima. Not wound up, this was not his day but he will do better.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY JUNE 27th:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
Those with experience dominated the class 4 maiden. Missionaire had finished four lengths behind Dick Turpin when second at Windsor on debut. He and Dubawi Phantom pulled clear on ground further softened by morning rain. Simenon found his stride on the climb to the line, taking the eye in third. Many of these found the ground rough and finished strung out.
Sunley Empress Stakes (Listed Race) (Fillies): They finished in a heap with Jira, having beaten the useful Party Doctor at Leicester before running seventh in the Albany last week, coming out best in a tight finish. She is a useful filly whose form is beginning to take shape. This may not have been a strong renewal of this event. Jeanie Johnston was one of those vying for top honours on the dash to the line and was only narrowly beaten. Her form is nothing out of the ordinary. Electric Feel – behind the useful Lillie Langtry at Naas – injected quality in third, although Curtains – in front of the winner at Ascot – anchors the form to a degree. On changing ground it is probably only to be expected that this could be an inconclusive race from a form perspective. The winner and the third look like as if they provide the pivotal form lines.
Fred Archer Stakes (Listed Race): Conditions turned in the favour of All The Aces. Having finishing second to Tastahil in the John Porter at Newbury, he made the most of changing ground to outstay Wasan who was set a tough task on his first attempt at this distance. In truth, All The Aces had the form on this soft ground. Classic Punch ploughed a lone furrow on the rail and stayed on for third. Yellowstone faded; Age Of Reason was under pressure some way out and fizzled to nothing. Even allowing for conditions, his second in Italy last time to Ouijano indicated a better showing should have been forthcoming. Instead, he became another disappointing Godolphin representative.
Criterion Stakes (Group 3): Impongi, a tough globetrotter with excellent form in his native South Africa, in Dubai and last time in Hong Kong, was a big drifter on rain-softened turf that threatened to scupper his chance. However, he stuck on strongly to repel Huntdown and Balthazaar’s Gift. Huntdown has developed into an imposing son of Elusive Quality: a racecard was needed to appreciate he was the only three-year-old in the line-up. He finished off his race well and should give Godolphin something to shout about in the coming months. On today’s evidence he will stay a mile and is the horse to take from this. Balthazaar’s Gift ran more or less to form with Impongi. The ground was in his favour and he has performed well on this track before. He had every chance and finished strongly without being able to get to either the winner or the eye-catching runner-up. Dream Eater pulled hard early but was facing ground that was not ideal. He remains a winner of just one race after fifteen starts. Court Masterpiece is a bit long in the tooth to compete at this level and Al Qasi may struggle in this sort of company now he is past his prime. Winker Watson looks as if he has had enough of the game.
Alazeyab won the Class 2 handicap, becoming another inmate of the Michael Jarvis stable to herald a return to form for the yard. The handicapper seems to have found Wintercast’s level – a mark of 91 looking about right. Proponent ran okay in third and it seems easy ground suits him.
NEWCASTLE RACING RESULTS:
Chipchase Stakes (Group 3): Soft ground played a major part in the outcome of this. Knot In Wood, normally good enough to run in these sort of races without winning, had his day today. Quickly into stride, he overhauled Pusey Street Lady and kept up a strong gallop when chased by Ancien Regime. Pusey Street Lady ran well above herself in third with Shallal fourth. Ancien Regime came into this with the best form, but after a nine month absence and representing Godolphin who have yet to hit the ground running, it was hard to be confident. He finished with a flourish, suggesting he will stay further and that he will do better next time. Knot In Wood was gaining a well deserved success at this level. Once labelled by his trainer as the best horse he had ever trained, Atlantic Sport continues to disappoint. With trip and ability unknown, he is something of a mystery horse.
John Smith’s Northumberland Plate: With so many non-stayers in this, the pace was slow. Stamina-laden Som Tala made the running and after so many near misses in this sort of company had his day in the murk. Pressed down the straight, he kept pulling out enough to keep the hounds at bay. Wells Lyrical was the last to challenge with Friston Forest covering himself in glory from top weight in third. Hendersyde was fourth with little else landing a blow. Tilt ran his usual honest race in sixth. Ajaan was quick to call it a day when the screws were applied. It is not the first time he has failed to find much.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
Lucky General became another wide margin winner for the Richard Hannon yard in the Class 5 maiden. Judging by the support for him beforehand such an eventuality was not a surprise.
A well-backed Mr David disappointed connections in the second division. His fourth was not without promise, but better was expected.
Without A Prayer was able to turn round Polytrack form with Premio Loco in the Listed event. There was no obvious excuse for the runner-up, who seems to have reached his level.
Warringah routed the opposition in the Class 2 Handicap, beating moderate types at his leisure. A big horse, who may take a great deal of getting fit, it is likely he can improve upon this.
I should like to make an excuse for Candy Ride’s defeat from a mark of 75 in the Class 5 handicap but am struggling to do so. This was a poor handicap and one she should have won if she is any good.
CURRAGH RACING RESULTS:
AUDI PRETTY POLLY STAKES (Group 1): On yielding ground, the pace was slow which suited Dar Re Mi, a front-runner that was able to dictate proceedings on her own terms. She and Beach Bunny were first and second throughout. Once the pace lifted, Look Here was soon under the pump. Not very big, she took an age to find her stride and although closing the first two down in the final hundred yards was a never-nearer third. With hindsight, this may not have been the ideal way to ride her as she does stay a mile-and-a-half and found this ten furlongs run at a steady gallop against her. Presumably, she will try her luck at a mile-and-a-half next time, but if taking on the colts future tasks will not be easy. Katiyra has made into an attractive, if somewhat light filly. This, her first run of the season, should have pleased connections.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY JUNE 26th:
FOLKESTONE RACING RESULTS:
Comedy time, unless you had a bet!
An attempt to water the track resulted in the normally unfavoured far side reading over a point higher on the going stick. Not surprisingly, those that raced on the stands’ side in the seven furlong maiden might just as well have stayed at home. These included the odds-on favourite, George Baker, who to be fair was never really travelling. This probably came too soon after his seventh last week in the Windsor Castle. Huygens and Astonishment were clear on the far side with Al Khimiya, racing centre to stands’ side, doing best of the rest.
With only six in the next, they all went across, Bertie Southwest securing the far rail to come clear of Caribbean Coral. ATR interviewed the clerk of the course who claimed a crosswind meant water failed to reach the far rail. Most people leaving a pub after drinking more than six pints soon discover the direction of wind. To continue to water when it was obvious it was not falling in the chosen direction seems another example of a job done by the ‘could not make it up committee’.
FOLKESTONE RACING RESULTS:
Folkestone had a big race of the day. It was the Weatherbys Bank Folkestone Hammer Stakes – a Class 4 handicap run over six furlongs worth £14,000. Rocker was drawn one but became a non-runner. They split into two groups. Zowington, drawn highest of all, won, securing that precious far rail and hanging on from Filligree, who has done well to get so close from the near side. Spirit Of Sharjah (far side) was third but does not give the impression he is going anywhere. Luminous Gold was another to perform well from a low draw, but high numbers held sway. Money for Halsion Chancer, who has won all his races at Lingfield and raced from the three stall, was optimistic in the extreme. Despite diving across to the far side two out, he failed to find enough.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS:
Wigan Lane, a promising third to the useful Itsthursdayalready at Chester, was able to advertise that form when holding on from Cherry Bee in the Class 5 maiden for fillies. The winner has a likeable attitude and plenty of size about her. She is no great shakes but a return to six suited her. Seeking Dubai showed promise in third.
The following maiden, also a Class 5 but for three-year-olds and upwards, went to Running Flush. Luca Cumani’s Leverage will doubtless be a warm order in this sort of company next time. A closing runner-up, he should improve but this was only a poor affair.
Shotley Mac was a game and determined winner of the Class 4 handicap, inching ahead of Castles In The Air. Jeremy Noseda provided the third and fourth in Without Prejudice and The Galloping Shoe. He’s A Humbug put up 10lbs overweight. Why should this be tolerated? It beggars belief – particularly as he was supposed to carry 8st 9lbs.He did manage to beat one home, but to all intents and purposes his participation was irrelevant. That said, somebody somewhere backed this horse and was never going to get a run for their money!
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
A run-of-the-mill maiden won by twice-raced Emma Dora on ground softened by a burst of rain on top of watering. The winner’s form to date is moderate. The race developed into a sprint so it was not surprising that several speedy types were in a bunch of six that formed the leaders. Gundaroo and Dizziness closely followed Water Biscuit, L’Enchanteresse and Keyta Bonita.
Rain had opened up the ground by the time of the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. The Tagula filly, Raggle Taggle beat Pretty Bonnie [Kyllachy] and Mullein [Oasis Dream]. The third was doing her best work in the closing stages, giving the impression she may stay further than six. Cake was never travelling in these conditions.
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
Despite looking a difficult conveyance, both on the way to the start and in the race, Abandagold asserted in the Class 4 for fillies, getting off the mark at the fourth time of asking. Credit must go to Stephen Donohue who handled a tricky situation well.
Alpen Glen, something of a surprise winner at Chepstow when beating a strongly fancied Sweet Hollow, proved the win was no fluke. The race she won at Chepstow looked inconclusive but there was no denying she stepped up on it in the Class 3 handicap from a mark of 85. Lugging this way and that and looking green, she will need to improve again from a revised mark but appears to have more to offer.
With the first three, Desert Dreamer, Gallantry and Fiefdom all suited by fast conditions in the Class 4 handicap, it was Zomerlust back in fifth that has to be of interest in the near future. On ground that was against him, he looks like a horse running into form. Easier ground will bring out the best in him.
NEWCASTLE RACING RESULTS:
Just to add to an already difficult card, rain changed the complexion of the course. The major event, the Gosforth Cup featured some decent sprinters, the action concentrated in the centre. Pavershooz stuck a valiant neck out to hold the late thrust of last year’s winner Buachaill Dona. This was a race where any one of six or seven could have won beforehand but the draw sorted things out. Hamish McGonagall was third ahead of Total Impact. Captain Dunne, handicapped to dead-heat with the winner, was on the unfavoured far side; Cheveton and River Falcon (losing run extending all the time) were others seemingly in the wrong places.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY JUNE 25th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Cloudy Start, a winner of an Epsom handicap from a mark of 88, gained an important success in the Class 3 Conditions stakes. Making all, he was booted clear at a crucial moment by Eddie Ahern to stride away. Set The Trend, another trying his hand in this company after being tested in the Haydock Silver Bowl Handicap, chased the winner making it a one-two for handicappers over those that were attempting to graduate from the stakes route. Prince Siegfried was a distant third ahead of Bridge Of Gold who is exposed as short of this class. As a race, this looked strong before you peeled it away. With half the field returning from absences, the right two were first and second. Cloudy Start is improving, whilst Set The Trend may be on his way to a career in Hong Kong.
Penang Princess made all to win the Class 4 handicap despite running all over the place down the straight. She appeared to have plenty in hand. Ostaadi stayed two miles well but that was all. A good-looking son of Nayef, he lacks pace.
WARWICK RACING RESULTS:
At WARWICK Reddy To Star continues to find seeing out the five furlongs a barrier to her winning.
Golden Stream bounced back from her excellent effort at Royal Ascot last week to win the Listed event for fillies. Perhaps more sternly ridden by Jamie Spencer than was called for, she saw off Damaniyat Girl and Select with something in hand. There should be a race for Foundation Room, whilst penalised Honest Quality should strip fitter next time.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY JUNE 24th:
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
Swan Wings is described as being the best juvenile filly in Andrew Balding’s stable. She won the Class 4 fillies’ stakes in comfortable fashion, looking as if she is still green and as if further improvement is likely. Second to the smart Nosedive at Sandown, her experience was a help here but she looked a good deal better than those she beat.
Mabuya won the Class 5 comfortably despite drifting across the course in the final furlong. The opposition looked moderate. Cloudesley probably found the track and ground against him but his losing run stretches back too far for valid excuses to be advanced.
We’ll Come beat a depleted field in the Class 2 handicap. In the end, he only had the overworked Mujood to beat. The winner is better than his overall record indicates but so far has not always delivered when it mattered.
Athwaab was an expensive loser for message followers at KEMPTON. Backed down to a short price for the Class 5 maiden, she was too gassy throughout and finished last of the nine runners. She must be better than this but will need to prove she is more tractable before justifying future support.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY JUNE 23rd:
BEVERLEY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Rock of Love may have improved for the stiff track and a trip just short of a mile. He certainly won easily on his fourth attempt. Although a Class 6 auction, Going French had fair form but was a comprehensively beaten runner-up.
Traphalgar had a straightforward task in the Class 4 handicap. His close up sixth at Goodwood to Riggins looked better than his follow up effort at Windsor but now down to a mark of 79, he was able to make it count.
Everymanforhimself is beginning to frustrate. Given every chance, he looked dangerous inside the last furlong in the Class 3 handicap. However, he appears to have one short burst of speed, which allowed Fol Hollow to outstay him
Burns Night overturned recent Doncaster form with Almuktahem in the Class 5 maiden. Appearing to win with a little in hand, he may be up to making his mark in a handicap.
NEWBURY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Those with experience dominated the market for the maiden auction fillies’ stakes. Given that they had shown only limited promise, it is difficult to become enthusiastic about this as an event. Lady Pattern won from two debutants in Blue Maiden and Snow Fairy, both of whom may improve enough to win in similar company.
More maiden fillies in the Class 4, once again won by an experienced contender in Mistic Magic who had finished second at Lingfield on her only effort. Secret Queen travelled best of all for most of the way only to be worn down inside the last furlong. Middle Club was the only one of the unraced contingent to catch the eye, finishing third from a low draw. By Fantastic Light, she should improve.
Lady Artemesia seemed to relish the trip when outstaying likely winner Ramora from two furlongs out in the Class 4 stakes. The mile-and-a-half seems to have made a difference to this filly; albeit she beat moderate opponents, she did so in pleasing style.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY JUNE 22nd:
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
Devil You Know does look ready for a step up in trip. Outpaced inside the final furlong by Miss Chamanda in the Class 4 handicap over six furlongs, seven will suit him better. Rapid Water can do better. He was denied a clear run in the vital closing stages and by the time he got into the clear, it was too late.
Big plans are in the pipeline for Saturn Girl, a Danehill Dancer filly that beat a decent enough sort in Rocky’s Pride in the Class 5 maiden. Regarded as a Group filly, the winner has some way to go before she can be considered as such. However, she accomplished her task despite running about as if she had a wasp up her backside. She will need to settle down. With a couple of well-regarded sorts in front of him, it is reasonable to expect Truly Asia to win in the near future.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY JUNE 21st:
PONTEFRACT RACING RESULTS:
Hafawa, an Intikhab filly, recovered form a slow start and defied a wide draw to win the six-furlong maiden for fillies in pleasing style. She became another juvenile from the Mark Johnston yard to make a winning debut, but so far a clutch of first-time winners in small northern events from this stable have failed to cut much ice when raised in grade. Redcar runner-up Dance for Julie was second ahead of City Vaults Girl from the Richard Fahey yard, one that remains in good form. Knockenduff and Sakile were fourth and fifth – the last-named having attracted support.
Fastnet Storm, the only three-year-old in the field, put up a decent performance in the Class 3 handicap. Rated 84, his defeat of Bullet Man and William Blake – both racing from a pound higher mark – confirms he is improving.
Furmigadelagiusta, in a strong looking field for the Listed race, thwarted those that followed the strong message for Drumfire. Unleashed was a fair fourth ahead of Sugar Ray who continues to underperform – different riding tactics having made little difference today. He has the ability though and may be up to a decent handicap at some stage, as his mark appears to be on the wane.
Mr Crystal had the Pontefract Cup won everywhere but on the line. After having finished second to Tyrrells Wood, who ran so well at Royal Ascot, he had to be the call against such opposition but Markington snatched the money in the last stride.
A market-drifter despite being the money horse, someone knew something about Spiekeroog, who had been second to Bugaku on his only start. Shemoli – whose form was ordinary – comprehensively beat him, winning the maiden.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY JUNE 20th:
ROYAL ASCOT RACING RESULTS:
CHESHAM STAKES (Listed Race): One of the first important seven furlongs events of the season, won by the Richard Hannon team with Big Audio – an Oratario – who confounded onlookers by heading Emperor Claudius virtually on the line. Wandering off a straight course, Big Audio stuck his head in front at the vital moment; a stride beyond the post Emperor Claudius was back in front. He had looked all over the winner when taking up the running a furlong out. As for Big Audio, his two runs to date were a world away from winning at Royal Ascot. Perversely, he was fourth to Goodwood Maestro in a race that looked ordinary at the time, but that is throwing up winners. Well behind at halfway, Big Audio came widest of all to land the honours. The runner-up, Emperor Claudius, had a messy start so both colts have overcome difficulties to fill the principal places. Party Doctor may still be a maiden, but his third last time to Arcano and Showcasing looked like top class form. His turn cannot be far away. Beethoven delivered a strong challenge from the two but, well though he ran, failed to last. Only small and by the same sire as the winner, he should have his day. Shakespearean may have won very easily at Hamilton but understandably found this much harder. There was no disgrace in finishing fifth, as he still looks unfurnished. Aerodynamic was another not quite up to this hike in class in sixth. After a flying start to the meeting, American trainer Wesley Ward has not learned from yesterday. Two-year-olds that can trap at five, having won in America over four-and-a-half, have no chance of staying seven. Honor In Peace steadily worked his way toward the back of the field after five furlongs.
HARDWICKE STAKES (Group 2): He may not be very big, but Bronze Cannon is a well-put together strong son of Lemon Drop Kid that defied a 3lbs penalty to grind out a tough finish. Taken literally, his beating of Casual Conquest was the best form in the race, but that was in a three-horse affair when the runner-up was allegedly not on song. Campanologist committed two out, and with a three-length lead looked to have stolen the race. By Kingmamabo, Campanologist may have won over this trip, but a mile-and-a-half in a truly run affair stretches his stamina. Bronze Cannon nailed him close home. Dansant was third ahead of Enroller who wants softer ground and an extra couple of furlongs to be at his best. Barshiba made this at a furious gallop and under the circumstances has excelled to hold on to fifth position, particularly as her stamina is unproven. Illustrious Blue came next ahead of a bitterly disappointing Doctor Fremantle. Strongly fancied in the morning, he was weak in the afternoon market and never a factor.
GOLDEN JUBILEE STAKES (Group 1): With gigantic overseas challenges, this had the hallmarks of being one of the best sprints we have seen. J J The Jet Plane helped to force a strong pace. Several got very warm beforehand, none more so than Sacred Kingdom, who was awash but came through to lead with less than two to race. Possibly, they went too fast up front. One-time Guineas fancy and winner of last year’s Coventry, Art Connoisseur came up what has to be known as the golden highway this week – the stands’ rails – to beat some of the best the world had to offer. A three-year-old reverting to sprinting, Art Connoisseur, justified his connections’ faith (they turned down a lot of money after the Coventry), coming from last to first to pounce. The last challenger was Cannonball who was more effective over this six than over the minimum in the King’s Stand on Tuesday. Lesson In Humility was prominent throughout. She has run well above anything she has shown before to finish third. J J The Jet Plane hung on for fourth. Probably too keen early, he has still put up an enormous performce. Sacred Kingdom, Strike The Deal and Diabolical were bobbing for fifth sixth and seventh with little between them. Nothing ran badly; King’s Apostle was exposed but not far from the pace; Bushranger found everything unfolding too quickly against such seasoned sprinters but was not disgraced. Ialysos was denied a clear run, lost his action at one point and, although probably not Group 1 class, should not be judged literally. He was a long way behind the rest with only two behind him. Kingsgate Native was much too free on his return after a barren period at stud and Intrepid Jack was outclassed.
WOKINGHAM STAKES (Handicap): Against the run of play, the far side held sway. This was always a possibility if they split into two groups. High Standing, unbeaten this season, flashed home fast and late to collar joint top weight Asset inside the last furlong to win with a tad in hand. Presumably, he will be raised in grade next time. Asset has run a one of his best ever races in second. Rock Of Rochelle is another to have carried his big weight with credit. His form in Group contests meant he shared the top spot with Asset and ran a similar race in third. Markab came off best of those on the near side.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH STAKES (Handicap): Hatton Flight bolted up; unfortunately for his supporters minus his jockey after depositing William Buick as he exited the stalls. Drill Sergeant did the best of those completing with rider. This was an overdue win for a front-runner that might have been assisted by the lead he thought he got from the riderless Hatton Flight. Record Breaker completed a one-two for the Johnston yard, with Martyr third. Young Mick ran his usual game race at this venue to finish fourth. It is a struggle to nominate anything else in a race where not many were able to challenge from some way out. Dansili Dancer ran well in sixth. Night Crescendo managed seventh, but is better over a shorter trip and on easier ground.
QUEEN ALEXANDRA STAKES: As usual this developed into a slog. And it was the twelve-year-old, Caracciola that prevailed. A dour stayer, he won with ears pricked as one by one his opponents wilted. It may be worth returning to Pontefract with Tyrrells Wood. He certainly stays. As a comparative youngster, his future lies in races over extreme distances. Amerigo appeared to stay but resolution is lacking. Tasheba was fourth.
And so the band played out another Royal Ascot. It began emotionally and ended much the same way. Victories by Paco Boy, Canford Cliffs, Mastercraftsman, Vision D’Etat, Yeats and Ghanaati were the highlights that stick, but there were others. As always, it was a great meeting.
At NEWMARKET, Glen Molly wants easier ground to show her best. Her defeat in the Class 4 handicap means she may be a betting proposition when faced with a softer surface.
Cosmopolitan won the Class 4 fillies’ handicap in good style. A fine specimen of Cadeaux Generaux, she looks capable of better.
Silver Grecian is a well-grown colt by Haafhd. His win in the Class 4 maiden augurs well for the immediate future. Kavak stayed on well and should do better next time.
Mastership ran well enough at REDCAR to suggest his turn is not far away.
TRACK NOTES…
FRIDAY JUNE 19th:
ROYAL ASCOT RACING RESULTS
ALBANY STAKES (Group 3) (Fillies): Despite the hype surrounding Aegean, layers and punters knew better and were sceptical about a horse that had won over four-and-a-half and five furlong on dirt and Polytrack that was raised in trip to six furlongs and tackling turf for the first time. Unable to dominate, she was in trouble at halfway. The big message was for Lillie Langtry, a winner of a Group 3 at Naas. She started at a short price considering the strength of the opposition. Habaayib has improved since her debut at Newmarket; this was the zenith of her form to date. Stone last by design early on, as Richard Hills was intent on getting across to the stands’ side, she grabbed the ground to make steady headway and hit the front over a furlong out. Lillie Langtry came out of the pack but, lacking the speed of the useful winner, could not close her down. Quotes of 16/1 for next year’s 1,000 Guineas for Habaayib were presumably devised by an odds-compiler with a sense of humour. By Royal Applause out of a Silver Hawk mare, she is unlikely to stay a mile and looks more of a Cheveley Park filly. She is certainly useful. The runner-up is more stoutly bred and open to plenty of improvement. By Danehill Dancer out of a Daarshan mare, she should stay a mile in time. She is a nice filly who is not quite there yet. Chachamaidee was prominent throughout but lacked the finishing kick of the front two. By Footstepsinthesand, who has made such an excellent start to his stud career, she has stepped up on her initial easy Lingfield win. She should continue to give a good account. She’s A Character, by Invicible Spirit, had won her solitary race easily at Doncaster and did well to finish fourth. In fifth, Curtains, a big outsider, ran above expectations. Above Limits, Jira and Sweet Sonnet were next to finish with the American challenger ninth and looking as if she was beaten by the all the factors referred to.
KING EDWARD V11 STAKES (Group 2): Father Time had run consistently without looking likely to lift an event such as this. Only third in the Lingfield Derby Trial, behind Four Winds at Newbury, closely matched with Your Old Pal, he had earned his place in the line-up without appearing quite good enough. It is great testimony to the skills of Henry Cecil that he has produced this full brother of Passage Of Time fresh and well to land such a prize. Cleverly ridden by Eddie Ahern, who brought him into the contest from the turn, Father Time stayed on strongly, prompting quotes for the St Leger. His pedigree does not scream stamina but he stayed this trip in a fast run race. Your Old Pal came out of the pack to chase the winner home. It is the third time he has finished behind Father Time. Dante winner, Black Bear Island, with his 3lbs penalty for winning a messy Derby trial, was understandably weak in the market but came there with every chance over a furlong out. Despite becoming fizzy in the paddock and looking on edge, Free Agent finished a respectable fourth ahead of Aqwaal. South Easter, a late withdrawal from the Derby, may have needed this mentally if not physically and chances are he will better this sixth position in time. Native Ruler still looks something of a baby. It is unlikely we will see the best of him until later in the season. Of the rest, Nehaam, such a disappointment at York, ran better with out looking dangerous. First time cheekpieces lit up Debussy. Why they were applied is unclear. It would seem John Gosden is reluctant to admit he was wrong in his prognosis of this horse: he does not stay a mile-and-a-half. He does not need fancy appliances, just a drop in trip.
CORONATION STAKES (Group 1): There was a great line up for this; the best fillies’ race of the season in fact, containing the English, French and Irish Guineas winners. In addition was everybody’s winter idea of the Newmarket winner, Rainbow View, bidding to regain her reputation, which, on reflection was tarnished rather than tainted. On a muggy day, Elusive Wave became stirred up in the paddock to such an extent she had to be led to the parade in front of the stands. The lengthy and tall Ghanaati looked impressive and as if she had improved physically during the interim seven weeks since Newmarket. Rainbow View, so often on her toes as a juvenile, was much calmer, as she was at Epsom when she ran better than credited. She looked at her best today. A strong pace ensured no prisoners. Ghanaati broke the track record with a superb performance, which on time puts her above Mastercraftsman. For a filly having only her fourth outing, this was some accomplishment. Once asked to race she lengthened instantly, possibly hitting the front too soon. Perhaps her turn of foot even surprised her devoted jockey Richard Hills. I was a doubter after Newmarket, but obviously, Ghanaati is exceptional. After Zarkava last year, we may have another superstar filly in this daughter of Giant’s Causeway. She may stay ten furlongs and the Champion Stakes is a possibility for her in the autumn. On only her third attempt, Reganne did best of the rest. Improving at a rate of knots, she should be back amongst the winners in her native France before long. Rainbow View is no back number. Unable to go the early pace she was last at one point but began making progress on the bend. For a small filly she had to weave through a few gaps, did not flinch and finished strongly. By Dynaformer, the Oaks was too far, this mile now looks too short. That leaves a mile-and-a- quarter as the obvious target. Possibly the Lupe would be on the agenda. It will be surprising if she continues to draw a blank this season. Elusive Wave may have compromised her chance beforehand. Even so no excuses are offered – a better filly beat her today. Lahaleeb, only small, was a close fifth ahead of Heart Shaped and Again, who was unable to handle this fast ground as effectively as she did the heavy at the Curragh.
WOLFERTON HANDICAP (Listed Race): Perfect Stride finally won his race! Up to now it is fair to say he has disappointed. A winner of a maiden and a Class 2 handicap at this course, he gradually wore the pacemaking Moonquake down to head him close home. There have been bad days in between the victories, none more than last time at Goodwood, but he has seen out his race cleanly today. Moonquake made the running and battled when headed, but was unable to get back at the winner in a prolonged duel to the line. Salute Him stayed on for third, ahead of Re Barolo and one time Derby hope Mores Wells. Perks has run well on ground that was unsuitably fast to finish seventh. Stone Of Scone was a major disappointment. He was entitled to finish close to Moonquake so this was certainly not his running. There were warning signs at the start when he became warm and had to be hooded for stall entry. The ground was plenty fast enough (confirmed by the time – another course record) for such a big son of Pivotal, but it would seem there was more to his abject performance than the fast ground.
QUEEN’S VASE (Group 3): Holberg, third in the Glasgow Stakes at Hamilton, was in his element over two miles in this, breaking another course record, which considering they did not go that hard early, is something of a surprise. On what we have seen today, it is hard to believe three track records have been smashed unless there is another factor involved. This takes nothing away from Holberg who is a decent sort that stays very well and, being by Halling, can probably provide more before the season ends. Yankee Doodle finished best of the rest with the penalised Italian Derby winner, Mastery, in third. Tactic made a forward move four out but looked as if stamina failed him in the last furlong. Popmurphy was next in a first-time visor. Stately Home, in front of Holberg last time, was a never-nearer sixth. Dhushan made the running, which is a tall order in a race like the Queen’s Prize. He was already dropping back when hampered by a drifting Clowance House. After a flying start to the season, there is a suspicion the Michael Jarvis horses are not firing on all cylinders.
BUCKINGHAM PALACE STAKES (Handicap): Back on a winning mark and over his preferred trip, Giganticus excelled at the age of six to become another low-numbered winner over the straight course. Al Muheer was second ahead of the talented Redford. Mutheeb was the class act after his recent third to Strike The Deal and in this big field was far from disgraced in fourth from a mark of 102. Very few drawn high landed a blow in this tough handicap. Whatever the Ascot authority claims, once watering is applied, at present anyway, a low number seems a major advantage on the straight track.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY JUNE 18th:
ROYAL ASCOT RACING RESULTS:
NORFOLK STAKES (Group 2): This was quality event – the Middle Park Stakes of midsummer. It was the American horse, this time Yogaroo, who blitzed early although he did not have the blinding pace shown by of his two stable mates earlier in the week. It took him half a furlong to find his stride but then he took the field along at a fair lick. The pace was always a stride too quick for Monsieur Chevalier who was on and off the bridle, something he has done before. There is no room for that sort of behaviour over five in Group company. Yogaroo weakened quickly two out causing mayhem. Rolling to his left, he bashed Monsieur Chevalier who in turn squeezed Nosedive and then broadsided Radiohead. Inside the last furlong, to his great credit, Radiohead recovered to regain his equilibrium and seize the race from Reignier (second to yesterday’s Queen Mary fourth Capercaillie), so his big price was probably unrepresentative of his chance. Tawaabb, like the runner-up, was clear of trouble and finished third. Nosedive was taken off his feet early and beginning to mount a challenge when another victim of scrimmaging. Switched for a run, he has done well to stage a rally. He seems to have improved since Sandown and deserves to be marked up on this performance. He looks ready for six and can win something decent. Monsieur Chevalier was the worst sufferer of the drama caused by Yogaroo. He is another that looks ready to step up in trip but he may be vulnerable to up-and-comers. Diamond Johnny G was sixth, his run representing improvement on his debut. Turned out for the second time this week, Star Rover has earned a rest.
RIBBLESDALE STAKES (Group 2): Blinkered for the first time, Anice Stellato set off as if escaping from a bush fire. Even though the pace was furious, Leocorno refused to settle and received a minor bump five out. Flying Cloud was always moving strongly and was quick to pounce early in the straight. It was a winning move with only maiden winner, Flame Of Gibraltar mounting any kind of challenge. A winner of her two races in France when trained by Andre Fabre, Flying Cloud remains unbeaten. The quality of this is questionable but the winner is a strong traveller. Flame Of Gibraltar has made giant strides since her Newmarket debut and her jaunt at Lingfield. Uvinza, a narrow leader early in the straight, held on for third ahead of Leocorno who does not look the finished article as yet. She should do better. July Jasmine, a respectful second to Midday in the Lingfield Oaks Trial, was a close up fifth. Her stable companion, and number one contender, Take The Hint, looked warm beforehand and was something of a disappointment.
GOLD CUP (Group 1): Brute bull strength won this. Looking terrific beforehand, Yeats came back to the scene of his greatest triumphs to add a precious fourth Gold Cup to his long list of wins. He comes alive at Ascot and to the anxiety of his entourage, who understandably love and care for him, he powered ahead at the turn to put his opponents to the sword. He responded to a cool and confident ride from Johnny Murtagh – one of the great big-race jockeys of recent times. Only Patkai was able to come out of the pack, proving his running at Sandown was all wrong. This was a mighty effort from Patkai, a class horse, but Yeats is exceptional. The race was all about the last four furlongs. Veracity was in the perfect position to strike but never looked entirely happy and once the pace lifted, he faltered, finishing lame. Patkai has run well for a four-year-old against such a monster and there will be other days and other races. It was fifteen lengths back to Geordieland and Sagara. Next came Eastern Anthem, whose participation was perplexing as he does not have pretensions to staying this sort of trip.
BRITANNIA STAKES (Handicap): One of the most impossible handicaps of the meeting won in a heart-stopping four-way finish by Fareer. More exposed than most, he appeared to appreciate this faster surface after failing to act in the heavy at Haydock last time. Tacked on to the stands’ side by Richard Hills, he lunged late. Secret Society was narrowly denied having taken a slight lead a furlong out. His qualifications for this were less obvious but he has run a fine race. The improving Mirrored continues on the upgrade and was beaten inches from the far side in a race where they were dotted right across the track. He may have won with a lower draw. Espiritu was a very close fourth. Although labelled as a rogue after failing to find what he promised at Yarmouth two runs ago, after a facile Beverley win, he is realising his potential. Raised a massive eleven pounds for his Epsom win on Derby Day, River Captain confirmed that was no fluke in fifth ahead of the improving Hyades. Emirates Roadshow found this ground more to his liking than he had the soft at Doncaster last time. Satwa Laird left his Epsom form behind him in eighth. Brief Encounter was in the mix; disappointments were Desert Creek and Rockhampton. They are plenty high enough in the weights but should have shown more given their credentials.
HAMPTON COURT STAKES (Listed ): Glass Harmonium, slowly away in the Dante but not beaten far, overturned form with Monitor Closely and Freemantle in a rough and fast run event. Coming wide, he dug deep despite jinking in a cut-and-thrust battle with Cashelgar. This confirms he has improved since York. Monitor Closely was third ahead of Too Much Trouble, who has run by far his best race and shot his handicap mark to bits. Freemantle faded down the straight, having been up with the rapid pace from the outset. Four Winds was too fizzy for his own good. Perfectly positioned and moving well on the entrance to the straight, he carried his head awkwardly and found little when his chance came. It was a rough last furlong between first and second, resulting in a stewards’ inquiry. Glass Harmonium did lean on the runner-up, providing a delicate situation for the stewards as the French-trained runner-up would have been awarded the race in his native country. As anticipated the result stood.
KING GEORGE V STAKES (Handicap): A shocker ended the card – Cosmic Sun from the in-form Richard Fahey yard winning at 66/1. It a messy event run at a fast pace. Chiberta King and Barwell Bridge filled second and third. The heavily backed Zarinski was fourth having made up a fair amount of ground in the straight. This did not look up to the usual standard of this race. Highland Glen came into this with moderate form but stayed on in taking style. He could be a useful long-distance performer in the making. London Bridge failed to stay and is worth another chance.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY JUNE 17th:
ROYAL ASCOT RACING RESULTS:
JERSEY STAKES (Group 3): Having won the Free Handicap, Ouqba is developing into a seven-furlong specialist, adding this important event to his portfolio. Only small but very muscular, Ougba was brought from arrears by Tadagh O’ Shea from his low draw of three. Outclassed in the 2,000 Guineas, Ougba was back to his right company today. As he had at Epsom, Deposer made the running. A fine big colt by Kheleyf, he has been busy lately and looks to be on the upgrade. Given his size, he may have a better chance in these races if taking on his elders and therefore capitalising on the weight-for-age scale. It is to be hoped his enthusiastic connections do not over-race him, as with care there is a big race to be won. Ashram, visored for the first time to wake him up, make a bold attempt to concede 3lbs to the field. But for his penalty and draw, he may have been significantly closer. Frankie Dettori seemed intent on drifting across to the stands’ side, making it plain that at present low numbers hold sway. On his return, Gallagher was a strong finisher to grab fourth. He looks set to pick up where he left off last season. Donativum, the lesser fancied of the Godolphin pair after finishing a lack-lustre fourth at Newmarket behind Alyarf, did much better today. Slowly away, this Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner made steady headway to finish a close-up fifth. He should be primed to return to something approaching his best form next time. Patrician’s Glory was an honest sixth. Having finished second to Four Winds last time, he has run well enough. Money for impressive Newmarket winner, Loch Linnhe, was not entirely misplaced. In finishing seventh, he has stepped up on that debut effort. Infiraad, favourite and stable mate of the winner, ran inexplicably badly, finishing last of all.
WINDSOR FOREST STAKES (Group 2): A 5lbs Group 1 penalty combined with a dash over a mile proved the downfall of Lush Lashes, who is surely better over further these days. A small, light filly, she is not built to concede weight. The writing was on the wall from halfway where she was unable to challenge those in front. In a change of riding tactics, with Johnny Murtagh bagging the inside, Spacious made just about all the running using her long stride to great effect. There was a moment a furlong out when Heaven Sent loomed alongside and may have struck the front. At the age of six, she was the paddock pick and as always gave it her best shot. This was a great result for Cheveley Park Stud with the first two fillies flying their flag. Eva’s Request was unable to confirm Epsom running with the winner but she ran on. Chantilly Tiffany was fourth. Lush Lashes never gave her supporters too much to shout about. Despite two subsequent wins, Proviso has not looked the filly we saw at two. Royal Confidence does not stay this far.
PRINCE OF WALES’S STAKES (Group 1): Vision D’Etat foiled the on-course gamble on Tartan Bearer with a gritty win in a four-way battle inside the last furlong. Last on the turn and locked on the inner, last year’s French Derby winner had the turn of foot to take him to the front close home. Gassy beforehand and minus his tongue-tie due to an administrative error [don’t need to declare them in France], this colt, a classy winner of the Ganay in April, overcame a couple of negatives. The Arc trip will be no problem for him as he looks as if he only just does enough and as if there was plenty left in the tank. Olivier Peslier gave him a great ride. Tartan Bearer went down all guns blazing. He travelled strongly but that final spark of speed was missing. It looks as if he is ready to tackle a mile-and-a-half, meaning a puzzle for connections as the logical next course is back here for the King George, which of course the same owners have targeted for Conduit. The progressive Never On Sunday produced a great spurt inside the last furlong that just failed. Twice Over made up the last furlong quartet. Tazeez, well beaten by Never On A Sunday at Longchamp, did better here but this level looks a couple of notches too high. Virtual is better on easier ground and appeared not to stay this trip.
ROYAL HUNT CUP (Class 2): It takes a brave man to nominate a horse in this as his banker of the week. That is what Jeremy Noseda did with Forgotten Voice and to his eternal credit, this son of Danehill Dancer bolted up. His sequence of three runs in handicaps started from a mark of 82 at Kempton, continued from a hike to 90 and then today from an elevation to 101. Like so many of his sire’s off-springs, he is a big powerful oil painting of a horse. He floats over the ground. Always handy in the race, and with the plum draw, he eased into the lead between the last two poles and powered away. Plans and fruition are planets away from each other, so Jeremy Noseda has to be applauded for fulfilling such a bold master plan. Forgotten Voice will presumably be waving goodbye to handicaps now. They do not give Hunt Cups away but this was not as tough as some. The exposed trio of Huzzah, Mia’s Boy and Nanton filled the places in a race where all the action was concentrated on the stands’ side. Nanton has run above himself from a high draw as has Axiom who ended up in sixth. Alfathaa, a useful two-year-old who found it tough last year, was a promising fifth on his reappearance run.
QUEEN MARY STAKES (Group 2): Resulting in another trap to wire success for the American trainer Wesley Ward and jockey Johnny Valazquez. The black and yellow colours, so effectively carried yesterday by Strike The Tiger, were again buzzing down the track as Jealous Again made all. Starting quickly, she had her rivals in trouble by halfway and drew clear over a furlong out. Misheer did best of the English contingent. This fast ground suits her style as she gallops low to the turf. She tried hard to bridge the gap but it was a lost cause. The American filly was too sharp, too quick and too mature. In a three-way bunch for third, Ceedwell got the best of Capercaille and Chantilly Crème. Lady Of The Desert was prominent until losing her pitch a furlong out, finishing ahead of Rose Blossom who was sixth.
SANDRINGHAM HANDICAP (Listed Race) (Fillies): With the field spread across the course two out it did look a wide open contest. Say No Now was the first to commit but she appeared to empty quickly. The stoutly bred Golden Stream came through to lead and went a couple of lengths clear only to be worn down by Moneycantbuymelove. They came home at surprisingly long intervals after that with Please Sing, and Silver Games heading the next group. Then came First City and course specialist Good Again, ahead of Beat Seven and the tiring Say No Now. Photographic swerved at the start and was never a factor. She probably could do with a break.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY JUNE 16th:
ROYAL ASCOT RACING RESULTS:
QUEEN ANNE STAKES (Group 1): We had a brilliant start to the meeting with an electrifying performance from Paco Boy. On a hot day, with several sweating – most noticeably Main Aim – Paco Boy was as ice-cool as his partner, Richard Hughes. Found to have poison in his foot after the Lockinge, Paco Boy was at his absolute best today. He travelled like a dream, always cantering, and then quickened inside the last furlong to put his seal on this valuable event. If he fails to stay one mile, he certainly gets seven furlongs and 150 yards well enough. With such a killer turn of foot, the extra seventy yards is academic. This was a well-deserved prize for such an honourable and consistent horse, whose great strength is his ability to cruise and then quicken. Cesare, fourth in this last year, was a game second. Now eight, this was a great effort although he never looked likely to trouble the winner. Aqlaam, winner of the Jersey in 2008, has returned to form finishing third. Free-sweating Main Aim stayed at his first attempt at a mile. Taking this step up in grade in his stride, it will come as no surprise to see him win a major event this year. He has the speed to sprint and the stamina to race over a mile. Dream Eater finished where he should have in fifth. There was a break to Gladiatorus – another Godolphin flop. It was a predictable flop as over entirely different conditions to those faced in Dubai, he was not able to slip his field. A straight mile on turf meant he needed to extend from the gates. He effectively ran himself into the ground by halfway without much help being forthcoming from the saddle. Stable vibes were not favourable and granted the way he was ridden; he needed to have run two separate races to win. Arabian Gleam was seventh ahead of Alexandros, another from Godolphin that failed to run to his Lockinge or Dubai form. Mac Love was outclassed today.
KING’S STAND STAKES (Group 1): Once again, we saw a monster from Australia shoot this field to pieces. Scenic Blast, by a non-sprinting stallion in Scenic, powered to the front a furlong or so out and had his rivals in trouble. A five-year-old with speed to match his looks, Scenic Blast did what he had to do in the style of an equine assassin. Apparently, plans are for him to by-pass the Golden Jubilee in favour of the July Cup. Fleeting Spirit, last seen at the Breeders’ Cup in Santa Anita, seems best fresh. She hassled the big horse on the run to the line, having travelled in the slipstream of the leaders throughout. She has run the race of her life. Although all her wins have been at the minimum, six furlongs will not be a problem for her. Anglezarke was another filly to run with a great deal of credit in third, just ahead of five-furlong specialist Captain Gerrard, who has returned to form. Of the beaten horses, Borderlescott finished where the computer would have put him in fifth. The American challenger, Cannonball, short of top class in his native land, was sixth ahead of Dandy Man. Last year’s winner, Equiano, towed the field along in first-time blinkers but could not sustain his run. He has not been in the same form since this race last year. Amour Propre was found wanting in this class. He has an easy ground action despite his trainer’s assertion to the contrary. Spin Cycle ran better than his finishing position suggests. He is not Group 1 class, but can win a Group 3 on this sort of ground and possibly against his own age group. Tax Free can be excused a poor run; he has had a tough season so far and he is better on softer ground.
ST JAMES’S PALACE STAKES (Group 1): What a horserace we had here! Mastercraftsman came back to his very best juvenile form and left his run at Newmarket well behind him. Apparently, he was not in top form for our Classic; but he has made up for it since. After a demolition job at the Curragh, this was a performance on the verge of the very best. A line through Delegator leaves Mastercraftsman a couple of lengths behind Sea The Stars – an exceptional Guineas winner. Taking it up early in the straight, Mastercraftsman was headed inside the final furlong by Delegator but he battled back to lift the prize under a vintage Johnny Murtagh ride. The winner got very warm beforehand – he was sweating under the saddle. He is all heart and a great credit to connections. After a series of tough skirmishes as a juvenile, he has produced gladiatorial qualities to win a race that was almost snatched from him inside the last furlong. Full credit should be accorded to Delegator for returning to his best. This ground is crucial for him. Eight times out of ten he would have won this, but he came across an extremely determined and tough adversary. He may not fully see out the mile just yet but, like Raven’s Pass last year, he may stay it in time. Lord Shanakill ran surprisingly well in third. Evasive has developed into a fine specimen. He may prefer to be dropped a furlong but, as he is only just beginning to fill his frame, it is premature to make assumptions. He should have a lucrative year. Intense Focus on the other hand is only small and his failure to confirm Dewhurst running with Lord Shanakill does suggest we have seen the best of him. Pure Poetry ran about as well as could be expected in sixth. Orizaba showed little, whilst Soul City was probably feeling the ground and the effects of a hard race when third in the Irish Guineas. Ambitious plans for him need to be shelved for the present.
COVENTRY STAKES (Group 2): How impressive can a winner of this be? Canford Cliffs became the fourth sensational winner on the day. Always cruising in front, although they queued up to take him on and ranged alongside two out, Richard Hughes was sitting, oozing confidence. Once he shook the colt up, the partnership coasted to a smooth victory. A son of Tagula out of a Marju mare, Canford Cliffs is an unlikely superstar on breeding, but right now, looks like one. Okay, we have seen two-year-olds look exceptional before in June – some last some do not. However, this horse is not winning because he has the size advantage of a Zafonic; he is a well-put together juvenile – labelled a freak by Hughes – that looks as if he is just very, very good. This was an astonishing performance from a two-year-old. He simply burned his opposition off. If he continues at this rate, he could be as described by his jockey; but unfortunately, a lot can go wrong between now and 2010. The rest had a scrap for places. Comprehensive Goodwood winner Xtension took second ahead of Rakaan, who had finished second to Canford Cliffs at Newbury. Comfortable Leopardstown winner, Moran Gra was fourth ahead of Sandown winner, Treadwell who ran better than could have been anticipated. No Hubris paid the price of taking the winner on early. He was very fit when winning at York and it came as no surprise that he did not improve for that run. Red Jazz lacks scope and was another swamped for speed. Air Chief Marshall could not live with the pace and must have disappointed Ballydoyle. Raine’s Cross was another to under-perform considering he was stepped up to a more suitable trip. Marsh Warbler was one of a clutch of Mark Johnston two-year-olds to have won impressively in poor company. He looked useful at Redcar but found this leap in class above his head.
ASCOT STAKES (Handicap): Run over two-and-half miles this is normally a case of last man standing. Course winner, the improving Judgethemoment was that man! Taking it up a furlong and a half out, he stuck on bravely when challenged on all sides. In second, Irish mare Sesenta stayed well enough but would have been suited by softer ground. Royal Rationale was third ahead of Gala Evening and perennial participant in such events, Som Tala. Kayf Aramis needs softer ground to be effective in these races. Liberate, third last year, was never spotted with a chance, and Clopf was cantering turning for home but failed to stay.
WINDSOR CASTLE STAKES (Listed): A truly international day was capped by the success of the American gelding, Strike The Tiger in one of the weaker events at the meeting. This takes nothing away from the bold move of shipping over here and grabbing this prize. Strike The Tiger won a claimer at Churchill Downs on his solitary race over a trip of four-and-a-half furlongs. Despite having his eight outing, Fratellino shows no signs of wear. Out of the stalls in a flash, he led then fought back when headed. He closed the winning margin down to a neck at the line. Di Stefano was third and looks to be going the right way after his debut at Newbury and a rickety-rackety run at Goodwood. Little Scotland was a decent fourth after her fifth in the Hilary Needler. Hearts Of Fire and Star Rover were others to turn in solid efforts.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY JUNE 15th:
A quiet day; the lull before the storm that is Royal Ascot, preceded by clement weather, against the forecast rain from our friends at the Guessing Office, sometimes known as the Meteorological Office.
At WINDSOR, unless my eyes deceived me, Kristallo seemed the beneficiary of a quiet ride from Richard Hughes in the Class 5 Handicap. After an absence from the track stretching back to September, that is possibly understandable. Having had three runs in Germany before joining the Paul Webber stable, he looks capable of better and a should be noted for his next engagement.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY JUNE 14th:
CHANTILLY RACING RESULTS:
PRIX de DIANE (Group 1): Worries about the ground firming up for unbeaten Stacelita proved pertinent, as all her wins to date had been on a softer surface. She did not like the ground, changing her legs a couple of times, but she is all class and was able to freewheel to an impressive victory. Lobbing in second for most of the way, she eased into the lead down the straight and quickened for a smack to leave her rivals toiling. By Monsun, whose progeny invariably enjoy give, it might be prudent to wait for better ground for her next engagement. On this evidence, she looks special. She has worked her up through the ranks in a short space of time, winning a Listed at Saint-Cloud and a Group 1 last time at Longchamp. This was her biggest triumph, confirming her as a serious filly. Already compared to Zarkava, many are considering her as a serious contender for the Arc. Such a possibility seems feasible. She beat the French 1,000 Guineas runner-up Tamazirte very comfortably; it remains to be seen how the winner of the fillies’ Classic, Elusive Wave, fares in the Coronation later this week. Tamazirte did not find her stride until the winner had flown, but she stayed on well from the rear. She never looked likely to trouble Stacelita. Marcel Boussac fourth Plumania, who has been slow to come to hand this year, ran her best race of the season to take third. This faster ground suited her. Celimene would probably be better with some give but lost no caste in fourth. Shediyama showed promise for a lightly raced daughter of Red Ransom in fifth. Fantasia was beaten further by Tamazirte here than she had been at Longchamp. Although by Sadler’s Wells she travels like a sprinter, and it could be that she will be seen to best advantage over shorter. Of course her two-year-old form has taken some knocks, meaning she may have been seriously overrated. Even so, all is not lost if a drop in trip brings out the best in her. With hindsight, she was only going up and down on the spot in the Fillies’ Mile last year, something we all attributed to the might of Rainbow View. Six or seven furlongs could be her trip.
Beacon Lodge paid a compliment to his Haydock conqueror Main Aim when winning the Group 3 over a mile from the progressive Sahpresa.
At DONCASTER, Roker Park emphasised the wellbeing of the Kevin Ryan horses with a win over a depleted field in the Class 3 handicap. Barney McGrew and Internationaldebut were close up for the minors with Spirit Of Sharjah running much better than at Musselburgh last time in fourth. Still not entirely convincing, he nevertheless threatens to win something soon.
Once again, Ryan Moore prevailed in a desperate finish, lifting Honours Stride in front of Nice Time in the Class 5 maiden. He must win more photo finishes than any jockey riding. Hukba was third in an all-Newmarket affair.
Racing Hero won a poor maiden but his success is a slight boost to Bugaku, who has since run creditably in a Kempton handicap.
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
Money for Mrs Beeton in the Class 5 maiden was not misplaced. Despite a messy passage, she finished nicely on top in the last hundred yards. You have to feel for little Silk Trail who fought off one contender after another until finally she could do more in the closing stages. She deserves her maiden as her heart is in the right place.
The feature was the Listed Race over six furlongs. No one can begrudge the success of Judd Street as he has been a stalwart for all concerned. In one of those results that may never be replicated, he stuck his head in front on the line to deprive the strong-travelling Palace Moon. The runner-up looked the winner from some way out but might have been ring-rusty after an absence of two-and-a-half months. All credit to Judd Street who, even at the age of seven, will seize the day whenever he can. Spanish Bounty is in his element on this fast ground and looks a likely future winner. He goes well on the July course at Newmarket. Diana’s Choice ran well enough but failed to fire back in fourth. Her best form in Dubai was on dirt when she was fourth to Gayego, Big City Man and Diabolical. There is a plan to run her in the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket; however, someone ought to tell her connections that is over a mile, which she is very unlikely to stay.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY JUNE 13th;
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
TOTEPLACEPOT HANDICAP (Class 3): This three-year-old handicap was run at a brisk pace with no prisoners taken. Forte Dei Marmi was a short price considering he only won a moderate event last time, albeit in taking style and with something in hand. Much was made of him being manoeuvred out of jail last time by today’s pilot, William Buick. Judging by his behaviour today, he seems to court trouble. Slow to break then taking a keen hold, he was climbing early and again had plenty to overcome turning for home. Making ground on the outer there was a moment when it looked as if he would get involved but, this time, against stronger opposition and 8lbs higher, he finished weakly. Dancourt made the break for home but was collared by the outsider, Clerk’s Choice – a maiden going into this with no obvious chance. Cloudesley finished strongly to squeeze into third ahead of Ithbaat and Thief Of Time. There was a little break to Glowing Praise with Forte Dei Marmi only seventh and looking problematic.
TOTESCOOP6 HANDICAP (Class 3): Kyllachy Star maintained the current run of the Richard Fahey stable when cutting down Greensward in the final furlong of this seven-furlong event. This was an ordinary handicap. Head Down has been consistent all season and ran to form in third. All About You, behind Cloudy Start at Epsom last week, ran to form in fourth. Broad Cairn’s mark of 83 looks on the high side.
TOTESWINGER HANDICAP (Class 2): Alan Munro made a winning move on course-specialist Brassini two out. Quest For Success and Dingaan gave chase but the race was won. Dingaan came with a steady and dangerous-looking challenge inside the last furlong. Possibly an extra furlong will be to his advantage. Dixey was fourth but this was another handicap where the assessor appears to hold the whip hand.
The Scurry Stakes (Listed): Looked like a cracking little sprint. Jarjelle, back to her best trip having won the Super Sprint at Newbury as a juvenile and struggling over six and seven in Nad Al Sheba, was in her element. Now with Kevin Ryan, she flashed out of the stalls and towed the field until getting nailed a hundred yards out. This stiff five may have found her out and an easy track would be to her advantage. Even so, she was not stopping; it was more a case of Triple Aspect reeling her in. Having finished second over six to Border Patrol, Triple Aspect was the class act. Although taken off his feet early, he was organised enough to thrust in the last furlong. He is a smart sprinter and obviously this win pays credit to Border Patrol, a horse to bear in mind for the autumn. Rain Delayed made the trip from Ireland and paid the expenses by finishing third. Fault was fourth in a race not many could get in to. Noble Storm is better leading. He lacked the pace to live with Jargelle in the early stages. It would seem City Dancer is trying to tell her connections something. Reluctant to load, this was her fifth run in quick succession. Her form is dipping and she needs a break. The low draw was not the only reason for a poor run from Adorn who was outpaced throughout.
Feature of the Class 4 handicap was the peach of a ride given to Royal Intruder by Richard Hughes. From stall 3, he tacked across, had the nerve to wait before weaving through gap after gap to strike close home. A small nimble son of Royal Applause, Royal Intruder was the beneficiary of the sort of ride only a man at the top of his game can provide.
The maiden looked a poor affair by the standards set at Sandown. The form horse, All Guns Firing, was desperately weak in the market and judging by his run it was easy to see why. Third to Monitor Closely and London Bridge at Newbury last year, something must have gone wrong since. He was a tame finisher. Tailed off on his only effort last year, Brooklyn Spirit was another winner for the in-form Clive Cox yard. On Her Majesty’s birthday, Troopingthecolour would have been an appropriate winner, but this son of Nayef could only manage second place. Secret Life and Laughing Boy were unfancied in third and fourth.
The win of Callisto Moon in the Class 4 handicap pretty much summed up the race.
YORK RACING RESULTS:
Mull Of Dubai returned to form for a stable in good heart to win the Class 3 handicap for amateur riders. Although a winner over 1m 4f, he has always given the impression ten furlongs was his best trip. Not so today as he came with a last-to-first run under his lady rider to pick up the pace a furlong out.
Kavachi advertised the claims of Dunno and Axiom, the two that beat him at Sandown last time, when winning the Class 2 handicap in a tight finish. Albaqaa was second with the unlucky Last Three Minutes, trying to snake up the rail and finding room tight, in third. Acrostic and Angel Rock were next ahead of Mastership who has now put two decent runs together.
Swiss Diva enjoyed the element of cut in the ground to score in the Class 2 handicap. Parisian Pyramid and Favourite Girl headed the rest. Several bubbles were burst – most notably that of Master Of Disguise; this was a competitive sprint. There is a good race in Akhenaten but this was not it. It looked as if he failed to handle the pace; also that his jockey was practising air shots in the last furlong.
Marching Time is developing into an unlucky horse. To be fair he does not look as good as billed, principally because he will insist on refusing to settle. Turned out quickly in the Daniel Prenn Handicap (Class 2) after Epsom last week, he came to challenge between horses two out with enough room for a couple of trucks. That was before Anitnori dived across and slammed the door in his face, causing Marching Time to be snatched up. Switched to the far side, his impetus was checked and although restarting a run it was too late. A difficult passage combined with drying ground conspired against him but he is capable and will have his day. Changing The Guard was a topical winner, scrambling home from Union Island and the wayward Antinori. Marching Time was fourth. Sovereign Remedy looked as if he failed to stay.
The class 3 maiden for two-year-olds looked average at best. Haltela won without having shown any obvious promise at Carlisle on debut, holding a challenge from Summerinthecity. Makbullet was third ahead of a green Tartan Trip. They finished well strung out and the fact that Capacity was favourite told its own story. Capacity had shown only a small amount of promise on his first run. He was soon backtracking here. Number One Guy was one of the nicest beforehand but was beaten too far for any conclusions to be drawn.
Mutawarath and French Applause were clear in the Class 4 maiden. They have both shown improvement to leave a disappointing Seaway behind in third.
The decision to turn Green Park out in the class 4 handicap after yesterday’s third was understandable. He ran up to that form in fourth but by now the ground had firmed up enough to count against him. Dancing Maite concluded a difficult day heavily loaded in favour of handicaps. Silver Wind looks poised to win something soon.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY JUNE 12th:
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
Nosedive was subject to very positive reports in the Class 4 Maiden Stakes. The opposition was not exacting, so if as good as the grapevine suggested this son of Observatory had a perfect opportunity. Compact and strong, Nosedive became stirred up beforehand, breaking into a sweat. As a result he drifted in the market. Fast away, he had to be woken up but scooted away from Swan Wings in the closing stages. Observatorys can get warm. Although clearly speedy, one would like to see this colt grow out of this trend before expecting him to produce the goods in better company. The filly, Swan Wings, ran above stable expectations in second with Master Of Dance closing on her in the last hundred yards but just held in third. After three runs now, Master Of Dance looks moderate but six furlongs in a nursery may bring out the best in him.
Sharpened Edge was quick to break and made all in the Class 5 handicap. Up to now, her best effort was as a juvenile when third to Huntdown but she has only had two runs since. She had this won some way out with a laboured Cawdor not making any inroads in second. Cawdor has never consolidated initial promise and remains a maiden after six runs. Maybe six furlongs will help, but at present he is looking expensive.
The European Breeders’ Fund Maiden Stakes over seven furlongs can throw up a useful sort; the signs after this year’s running are that this time round it may have been only an average contest. Bikini Babe left an expensive Newcastle failure behind when drawing right away for the Mark Johnston stable. It is hard to believe she has made this amount of improvement in two weeks. By Montjeu, she beat opponents that by and large are bred for shorter. Liquid Asset, a gelded son of Refuse To Bend, finished from out of the pack for second. Next was Bitter Man, an Alzamour colt that looked as if he would tighten for the run. Dream Spinner [Royal Applause] was prominent for a long way but understandably tired in the last furlong. He managed to finish fourth. The market failed to call this race correctly. Gumnd did not look the finished article and never recovered from a slow start from his wide draw. Septemberintherain was the subject of an on-course gamble. A small but fit Verglas colt, he showed little. If there is an also-ran to note it could be Mass Rally. By Kheleyf out of a Be My Guest mare, he is speedily bred making this a strange choice for his debut. Slowest of all from the gates, he made steady headway down the straight before running out of puff. He is unlikely to stay much further than this as a mature horse. Although only beating two, it should be a different story when he tackles six furlongs. His future probably lies in handicaps.
After three runs, Yirga was the interesting contender in the Class 4 Handicap. His juvenile form gave him a big chance, whilst he needed his only run this season, which was on heavy ground at Haydock. Looking really well today and always travelling nicely, he was produced inside the final furlong with a perfectly timed Dettori challenge. He won with a little in hand. Most of his opponents were exposed. Sir Isaac improved on an earlier run this month at this track in second ahead of the favourite, Pride Of Kings who represented average form. Roar Of Applause and Imaam were the next two to complete in a poor handicap. It was handed to Yirga on a plate from a mark of 74. Hopefully the handicapper will not overreact.
Australia Day returned to a track where he had beaten none other than Presvis last year. This time he made all in the Class 3 handicap. Mulish at Great Leighs and again at Lingfield during the winter months, running fresh seems one of the keys. Clear two out; he set the chasing pack a task that was literally beyond them. Wintercast appreciated this extra trip but had the misfortune to run into a rival at the top of his game. He saw his race out but the task of running down a horse that was not stopping proved too much. His current mark of 88 looks about right. Shamali was third ahead of King Charles. It is doubtful whether much will emerge from this.
North Cape has been knocking on the door this year. After his latest second to Global, he looked reasonably treated in the Class 5 and finally got his head in front, winning with some authority. Bagber set it up for him, making it at a good clip. Back in third Nbhan showed plenty of promise considering he stumbled two out, but he responded to a vigorous ride from Jimmy Fortune, clinging on to third. Not a big horse, but one with a likeable attitude, he has shown improvement on two-year-old form and his present mark of 72 makes him attractively treated. His stable has always rated him. Worth A King’s, having his first run of the season, was only inches away in fourth, receiving a much more sympathetic ride than Nbhan. He looks sure to come on for this, which should have blown the winter cobwebs away. Races should be found for the third and fourth. Divanatore took the eye under tender handling but stopped too quickly to be a definitive call for the future.
YORK RACING RESULTS:
Falasteen became another juvenile winner for Dandy Nicholls. A strong, well grown son of Titus Livius, Falasteen asserted in the final furlong to win going away. This was Trade Secret’s fourth attempt. Smartly into stride, he possibly did too much early. Although he kept finding, the winner swamped him in the closing stages. There is not a lot of him and as a two-year-old that was out in the first week of the turf season; time is not on his side if he is to get off the mark. Parbold Hill, whose best run was in the Hilary Needler when beaten eight lengths, was inches away in third. She is another that may need to have her sights lowered.
The class 4 handicap looked tough to solve. Prince Evelith may have benefitted from the far rail as he dashed clear two out, soon having the field at full stretch. It is hard to believe that as a six-year-old he has suddenly found the kind of improvement the winning distance infers. Admiral Dundas finished strongly down the centre of the track to snatch second ahead of Moheebb and Addikt. Plenilune finished with a rattle for fifth. With little form to recommend him, either he is about to turn the corner or his placing was further testimony to the questionable nature of the race.
Nemo Spirit gave a fine battling display to keep pulling out enough to contain the late thrust of Hawk Mountain in the Class 3 handicap over two miles. It developed into a slog in the last couple of furlongs with Cleaver third. Bollin Felix had every chance, but after creeping into contention appeared to flatten under a big weight. In truth there is not a lot to make of this.
The class 3 handicap failed to throw up much. Equuleus Pictor held on bravely to deny a couple of old campaigners in Kay Two and Green Park – both of whom like easy ground. Stoneacre Lad in fourth appears to have run one of his best races, but the far rail may have been an advantage. In sixth, Indian Trail is holding his form. He made up a great deal of ground with his 6lbs penalty after winning the Dash on Derby Day to finish just behind Steelcut. For all her brilliance, Lochsong had her own peculiarities, many of which she has passed to her offspring. Lochstar seems to require things to go his own way, so possibly holding him up did not suit. He is tricky to call.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
Harlestone Snake won the maiden handicap in the manner of a decent staying handicapper. Unlucky in running at this track last time over 1m 3f, the extra trip played to his strengths and he was never troubled. The further he went, the better he looked.
Fantastic Dubai was an unlucky loser of the Class 4 handicap, racing from a mark of only 75. Typical of a Storm Cat, he travels well. On this occasion, with nowhere to go approaching the final furlong, by the time he got in he clear, although it looked as if he would collect he could not peg back Perfect Pride. Talked of as a Greenham possibility in March, he harbours ability. He has probably run one of his best races on this track, something worth bearing in mind if a suitable opening is found at the big meeting in August. Perfect Pride provided another winner for the Clive Cox yard who are enjoying a good spell. She is at her best on fast ground according to her trainer.
Lemon N’ Sugar is slowly ascending the ranks. On only her eighth start she returned full circle to the track that saw her make her debut as a juvenile at the Glorious Meeting. After wins at Southwell and Lingfield this season, this imposing daughter of Lemon Drop Kid is only now filling her frame. For such a chunky filly, she handles a downhill track well, sweeping to a comfortable victory in the Class 3 fillies’ handicap. In beating Belles Des Airs and Perfect Silence (who looked very fit) she may not have achieved too much, but there was no disguising the manner of her victory. Currently rated 75, she won like a 90-rated horse. Her trainer has been patient, she has a pleasing demeanour and surely she can only go on from here. Acting at this track is all-important for participants and she is worth bearing in mind for the big meeting. Chances are she will be in action before that and she ought to be followed until beaten.
CHEPSTOW RACING RESULTS:
Being charitable it is worth pointing out that Sweet Hollow did not go a yard on the undulating track that is Chepstow. The firm ground did not help her cause as she raced as if negotiating hot coals. She is beginning to look expensive after a promising back-end debut behind Leocorno at Doncaster. However, this track is not everyone’s cup of tea and it did not look to be hers. She is now qualified for handicaps and should be leniently treated. Alpen Glen, an unraced daughter of Halling, shot clear down the straight whilst several of her rivals were labouring.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY JUNE 11th:
NEWBURY RACING RESULTS:
We are starting to see some nice types in the two-year-old maidens – the line-up for the Class 4 being a perfect example. Party Doctor set the standard having shown ability at Leicester behind Jira, but this was Newbury and he faced potentially better opposition. More than one took the eye. There was a message for the winner, Arcano, by Oasis Dream, who showed a useful turn of foot to take it up over a furlong out. Held on to by Martin Dwyer, he just did enough but looks as if he can do more. The same applies to runner-up, another Oasis Dream in Showcasing who has plenty of knee action, suggesting easier ground will suit. Party Doctor had every chance but experience was not enough to see him home against these. Gallant Eagle [a Hawk Wing] made up plenty of ground in the closing stages to run home fourth. However, the sire shouts caution, particularly if produced quickly. Lucky General was prominent throughout in fifth. Lord Zenith is a nice son of Zamindar that missed the break and had to race widest of all, faced with the glare of daylight. He will know more next time and is another to take from a race full of promising individuals.
Peking Prince, fifth to Mirrored last time, was sufficiently well treated from a mark of 70 to land the Class 5 Handicap. He faced several lightly raced and possibly dangerous candidates but, for all their profiles, form won the day. The field was well strung out. Carbon Hoofprint and Spinners End were next to finish ahead of Makhaaleb. Bouggie Daze appeared to resume to racing with a satisfactory eighth and may be sharper next time.
THE BALLYMACOLL STUD STAKES (Listed Race): Ryan Moore seems to know where the line is. Niggling away on Splashdown from some way out, the filly responded to take a narrow lead inside the last furlong. Apple Charlotte fought back and in a struggle Splashdown stuck her head in front where it mattered. She was a lot straighter and looked better today than when we saw her at Goodwood. Twice-raced last year, Splashdown showed she had benefitted considerably from her reappearance as her connections said she would and I doubted. Apple Charlotte has gone down with credit. Tasting defeat for the first time after three straight wins, this filly, a winner of the first division of the maiden later won by Sariska as a juvenile at Newmarket, was attempting to concede 3lbs to the winner and that possibly made the difference. Fallen In Love had finished in front of Splashdown at Goodwood; in finishing third today she confirmed the improvement made by the winner. Charity Belle was a promising fourth after the one run last season. The rest made little impact.
Hidden Brief was a very warm order for division 1 of the fillies’ maiden on the back of a decent second to Musidora runner-up Star Ruby at Sandown. By all accounts she found the trip of the Cheshire Oaks beyond her. Back to ten furlongs, she was a confident stable call. She won but not like a 1/3 shot! Making all she had some nice but gawky fillies behind her and chances are they can improve past her before long. Brief Look is a tall daughter of Sadler’s Wells that still looks on the weak side. Going For Gold is another that loomed down the straight, only finding a gear inside the last furlong. Bow To No One was another travelling strongly but she failed to see it out. By Refuse To Bend out of a Darshaan mare, this trip was almost certainly too far. We are likely to see her back to a mile next time where at somewhere like Nottingham she would be of interest.
A green and awkward Whooshka won the second division in tidy style. Tenderly handled by William Buick, she eventually won with ears pricked. In beating Kinetix she probably achieved little of note but she left the impression more could be forthcoming.
Maswerte has developed into a fine robust son of Fraam. His three runs as a juvenile did not hint at anything out of the ordinary but his win in the Class 5 Handicap, from a mark of only 75, suggests he is at the right end of the weight scale and he looks sure to go on to better things. A strong colt with a raking stride, he bounded clear of Papyrian who was fifth to subsequent handicap winner Lowther at Yarmouth. Equinine made up plenty of ground after not getting a clear run. She was angled across the course to get into the clear and eventually flew home for third. She would not have beaten the winner, but credit is due for gaining so much ground under difficult circumstances.
After a last gasp success at Goodwood last time over ten furlongs, it was anticipated that further would suit Devil To Pay. Looking to have the field covered, he loomed two out but then found little for pressure. He looks a difficult and uncooperative ride and should be treated with caution after failing to deliver in the Class 5 handicap. Recent Salisbury winner Strathical stayed on strongly to outgun him.
NOTTINGHAM RACING RESULTS:
The Class 5 Maiden looked decent, won by an Oratorio colt, Aerodynamic. Hemmed in for a while, he produced a classy turn of foot to burst clear and win with something in hand. Plans are to go to Royal Ascot next week, which seems asking plenty with so little time between engagements. Undoubtedly a colt with a future, it may be better to hold fire with him. It is a long season after all. Kanaf ran a race brimful of promise in second. He was a good second despite finding himself nudged wide when challenging. Having missed work of late, he was looked after in the race and there is more to come. Ballodair was some way back in third, ahead of Guesswork who had finished fourth to Kurtanella at Newbury last month, thus setting a fair standard.
The Class 3 Handicap contained runners that had finished in the wake of useful sorts. The winner, Firebet, had been second to Infiraad at Newmarket, Mull Of Killough was unbeaten but his form was not quantifiable. Midnight Cruiser’s third in the Esher Cup to Racketeer (finished lame next time) obviously made good reading, as did Everynight’s sixth last time to Border Patrol. Love Pegasus was favourite but, after the run of Implication at Newbury, that was hard to justify considering she chased him home at Kempton last time.
Despite failing to handle the bends and then wandering about down the straight, Candy Ride was too good for a modest field in the maiden. Beaten by Strawberrydaiquiri last time on ground described by connections as too firm, she was more effective on this easier surface. After so much promise at Newbury in a maiden that has failed to work out, this was her day and her race. However, she is better than this and should now be reasonably well handicapped. Eastern Warrior once again had to settle for the minors in second. Opening his account might turn out to be a challenge. Sabi Star was third.
Criticize was unruly at the start where he was withdrawn in the second division of the maiden. A poor event went the way of Gassin.
YARMOUTH RACING RESULTS:
After finishing second to Lady Of The Desert in a warm maiden, Tomintoul Singer was unable to capitalise on a promising debut in the auction stakes. She is not the best advert for Johannesburg and not everything went her way here, but she appeared to have every chance inside the last furlong; however, overhauling Perfect Ch’I was beyond her. On the small side, she lacks scope and sights may have to be lowered.
Pumpkin won the maiden as she was entitled to do on a line with the favourite, Makaam, on a line through Euston Square. In fact, there was nothing between them but Makaam was bidding to break the Marcus Tregoning hoodoo after the shutdown of the yard. He ran no race at all, making anyone reluctant to back anything from this yard at present.
Those that thought Richard Hills had come here principally to partner Makaam were soon enlightened by the emphatic win of Al Qeddaaf in the Class 6 handicap. The ease of this Alhaarth gelding’s victory puts him in a different league from a horse rated 65.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY JUNE 10th:
Global City was the star on an otherwise mundane day. His win in the Class 3 Handicap at HAYDOCK was all the more meritorious considering he was held up at the start on his own for a long time whilst preparations were incomplete in the paddock. Finally, after Calligrapher consented to load following a tug of war with the handlers, once despatched, Global City was always moving easily. Reservations about the ground were ill founded, although it was firm enough. Global City had posted promise in much better company this season and in the end won with plenty in hand. Rated 94 here, he still gives the impression an extra furlong will suit. Certainly, it should not inconvenience.
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Iver Bridge Lad obtained some compensation on his third start after having bumped into first Monsieur Chevalier then Red Jazz. Dropped into a Class 5 Maiden Auction, this son of Avonbridge faced nothing of that calibre here. He is maturing all the time, looking a cut above his opponents. His raking stride was seen to great effect over this six furlongs, meaning he was in little danger from some way out. It would be advisable to avoid Royal Ascot, where he is unlikely to be good enough, but there should be a decent race in this fellow if connections pick their target carefully. Noble Greek is nowhere near as strong but attracted support and ran creditably. He should have his turn. King Of Reason was third in a race shot apart by the winner. I’malwaysalright, the other with experience, was nowhere near good enough to strike a blow. He may do better returned to five.
Devil You Know looks to be on the right road. He won the Class 4 Handicap as if he is improving. He defied 78 tonight in the manner of a horse that can win again. A seventh furlong should suit. Indian Art and Lochan Mor dead-heated for second ahead of Seek The Fair Land. This looked a fair contest.
Silaah seems to be getting his act together. The seven furlongs of the Class 4 Handicap suited him admirably as he was able to assert close home from Woodcote Place and Grey Boy. On tonight’s evidence there would appear to be a race awaiting Countdown. Skittish in the stalls as Woodcote Place delayed the loading, he was never travelling until the straight but Alan Munro sneaked him up the inner making ground, quickly accepting it was not his night a furlong out. We all know the dangers of nominating the likes of Countdown at the age of seven, but he has shown enough of late to bag something at Kempton – a course he has won over.
The Class 4 Handicap was between the lightly-raced duo, Final Victory and Ostaadi. Philip Robinson gave Ostaadi a clever ride from the front, leaving a few cards up his sleeve in the straight as Final Victory laid down a strong challenge. Ostaadi battled on but Final Victory was always going a stride better and settled it in the last hundred yards. Final Victory is a fine example of his sire Generous. He should win more races as long as he is not plunged into the deep end too quickly.
HAMILTON RACING RESULTS:
Of the five that lined up in the Class 4 Maiden Stakes for juveniles the first two pulled clear and looked decent. Leviathan got the better of a final furlong tussle to score narrowly. Said to be in need of the run, it is still far from certain this son of Dubawi will confirm placings with Loveinthesand if they meet again. Another Mark Johnston two-year-old and a son of Footprintsinthesand, Loveinthesand fell out of the stalls and repeatedly changed legs in running. He picked his way over this fast ground as if on hot coals, carrying his head high, which seems understandable in the circumstances. His size and action suggests an easier surface will be to his advantage. His stable has plenty of ammunition in the juvenile department and this is another to keep an eye on.
Fishforcompliments won the Class 3 Handicap easily – only his second overall win and from a mark of ninety. As it turned out this was not a strong field. Dazzling Bay and Maze were not suited by ground this fast. Dazzling Bay plugged on for third; Maze led but soon dropped away. He is not entirely convincing in any case. Nightjar did not go a yard. This left Vhujon, who is holding his form well, to give chase.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY JUNE 9th:
The first division of the auction stakes went to the Dr Fong gelding Practitioner. He was not a clear winner but did it in nice style under a quiet Richard Hughes ride. Abandagold was second on this his third outing. He had finished fourth to the much-vaunted Shakespearian at Haydock last time. Imperial Warrior was third having finished sixth to Goodwood Maestro on his debut after a slow start. Folletta, a filly that ran without distinction when fourth at Goodwood on her only start, was fourth. With only a length between these four it seems reasonable to assume this was a routine maiden. Tucker’s Law and Flashy Lover showed earlier promise and were close up. Tucker’s Law may be the one to consider for a nursery.
The second division was run in a slower time. Again, the principals finished in a heap – 66/1 shot Decree Absolute beating Pherousa. Newton Circus came the long way home, zigzagging across the course and may have won with a straight run. He should find a little race next time. Crystal Gale lost her chance at the start when rearing as the stalls opened. It is a job to construct too much of a case for any of these.
Shangani, second to the useful Deposer on her only run at two, won the maiden in good style. She is another pointer to Deposer being of interest next time. Fair enough, that run may have little bearing on events that are likely unfold almost a year later but it was encouraging to see her win. This was only average at best. Kloof held on for second ahead of Burma Rock who looked if he will be fitter for the run. Next came the fully exposed Poyle Meg. Of the rest, sixth-placed Imperial House is a likeable good-sized colt capable of physical improvement.
The Class 4 Fillies’ Handicap contained some nice-looking types but the result was not entirely convincing. Cill Rialaig may have improved a good deal in the last twenty-three days since finishing a remote third to Tactic and Gibb River at Goodwood, or possibly the drop back to 1m 2f did the trick. Despite recording a fast time, she did not beat a great deal. Spell Caster and Zaaqya had shown nothing worth enthusing over. In fourth, Heritage Coast – a stable mate of the winner having her first run of the season – headed the next group headed by Aromatic. The well thought of Cascata looked well. She was posted wide throughout which did not help, but should have managed more if she is to become the filly they say she is. Racing from 76, she made headway but found little when asked for maximum effort. Despite a good time for this race, I would be sceptical.
Secret Hero landed a gamble for the Hannon team in the Class 6 Handicap. He was difficult to pick out beforehand, but someone knew something. King Of Defence has to be a little better than his finishing position. Drawn one, he missed a beat at the start. Never striding out on this ground, he managed to make improvement in the closing stages without threatening. Making excuses can be costly but he appears to have enough ability to win a similar race when things swing in his favour.
REDCAR RACING RESULTS:
Mark Johnston is quietly introducing one potentially decent two-year-old after another at present; we saw another addition to his team when Marsh Warbler bolted up in the Class 5 Median Auction, winning by six lengths. Pure Nostalgia was put in her place in second. It is hard to know what Marsh Warbler beat, but the manner of his success suggests it would be unwise to dismiss him as merely a Redcar winner next time.
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
Itsthursdayalready overcame difficulties aplenty to win the Class 4 Maiden. Well drawn but lacking the speed to cash in, he was apparently struggling with nowhere to go turning for home. Once he found daylight, he quickened in to gun down the trailblazing Reddy to Star. There was a lot to like about this performance. Reddy To Star had every chance. Very speedy, he was out like a whippet, crossed over and was clear with a furlong to race. He was caught close home in this his fourth and most suitable attempt. Wigan Lane made up a decent threesome.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY JUNE 8th:
Just another day at the office! Dick Turpin was most impressive in the maiden at WINDSOR. He looks like yet another very strong addition to the Richard Hannon juvenile team.
Plaisterer was another to win as she liked in the Class 4 handicap. In Heroes, Buddy Holly, By Command and Folio she had a clutch of frustrating types in her wake and the weakness of the race may have enhanced her performance.
Angelena Ballerina had her chance in the Class 5 maiden auction at PONTEFRACT. Although doing nothing wrong it was a case of her not being good enough. Fourth in the Hilary Needler, this extra furlong and stiff track seemed what the doctor ordered; however, she took an age to get on top of Shibhan before being caught by the strong late run of Bubbelas.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY JUNE 7th:
CHANTILLY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
PRIX du JOCKEY CLUB (Group 1): Le Havre reversed his form with the French Guineas winner in emphatic style with a powerful performance. This son of Noverre looks to be growing physically and in stature. He is no Sea The Stars but in rain-softened ground he possessed the aces to trump Fuisse. The runner-up is a scopey type that should continue to progress. Westphalia ran well over this extra trip in third. A reliable son of Danehill Dancer, he bridges the gap between the French and British Classic generations. Once again, although he can quicken, he has only a short burst it would seem, lacking that killer kick that can make all the difference. It was still enough to label him as smart. Beheshtam was the big eye-catcher. A winner over a mile-and-a-half, still an inexperienced three-year-old, he stayed on in encouraging style. He should regain the winning thread returned to a longer trip. We have to assume Silver Frost did not stay as the ground was in his favour.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY JUNE 6th:
EPSOM RACING RESULTS
INVESTEC SIR CLEMENT FREUD STAKES: (Class 2): A race won under a different banner by Conduit last year and Stage Gift before that, both trained by Sir Michael Stoute who invariably targets a good horse for this. His representative this year, Marching Time, was subject to good reports but a coltish manner in the paddock resulted in him becoming easy to back. In only finishing fifth, he will not be the first from this powerful stable to be beaten in a handicap before going on to leave such a run behind. Anyone remember Pilsudski at Ascot? In a race not many got in to, it seems fair to say he is better than an 83-rated animal. River Captain, already a course winner and a well-balanced colt, bounded away with the race. By Captain Rio, he was not an obvious improver for this step up in trip but settled this with a straight-as-a-die run for the line. Winning jockey, Eddie Ahern, was quick to emphasise the advantage of a horse able to handle this track, adding10lbs to such an animal. Tepmokea was second ahead of Lasso The Moon, who has form with the improving Aqwaal. History Lesson, up close all the way, clung on for fourth ahead of Marching Time. Aurorian was sixth ahead of London Bridge, who should not be disregarded next time as he was posted wide throughout from an unfavourable draw.
INVESTEC WOODCOTE STAKES (Listed Race):
If Epsom poses problems for older horses, it can be the equivalent of a maze to juveniles. Immediately faced with a downhill tumble, then Tattenham Corner, as is so often the case, this particular race was decided early for many. In the second surprise result of the day, Corporal Maddox, a flopper from the stalls, tore up the straight to run down Walkingonthemoon in the last few yards. Corporal Maddox made up at least ten lengths to leave a lowly Hamilton win behind him. This was a sharp but hard to fathom performance. Walkingonthemoon had some experience of racing on a turning track after finished second at Pontefract last time. Having shown so much promise at Newbury it is no surprise that he almost pulled this off. With hindsight, this was a clever piece of placing by his trainer. Walkingonthemoon handled the track well, was always prominent and had the race won everywhere bar the line. Red Avalanche, a smart starter, helped force a fierce pace and stuck on in brave fashion for third ahead of Fratellino, with whom he had traded blows from the outset. Barzan, third to Canford Cliffs at Newbury and then a winner at Brighton, did well to recover from a sloppy start and rattle home in fifth. King’s Approach and Royal Desert were both disadvantaged by events flashing by them too quickly. Little Perisher finished strongly in a race that saw various form lines turned round in a major way.
PRINCESS ELIZABETH STAKES (Group 3):
Eva’s Request handled this track better than the runner-up and that was crucial. A winner at Goodwood, she is a well-balanced filly that was able to keep straight when the French filly, Aladana, looking for all the world as if she would grab the prize, threw it away as she wandered like a wayward firework in the closing stages. Soumillon’s efforts to straighten her out were unconventional to say the least. On her day, Eva’s Request – a competitor in Dubai this winter – is not a bad filly and if not flying too high, will be suited by Goodwood at their big meeting. Spacious did not seem completely at home here, but having looked all set to fold she produced a renewed effort to finish third. Bailey’s Cacao and Badiat Alzaman were the next to finish in a sub-standard Group 3 – possibly won by the wrong horse.
INVESTEC DASH HANDICAP (Class 2):
Run at a frenetic pace and won by the sprint king – Dandy Nicholls – with the nine-year-old Indian Trail. For an old-timer he produced a surge of speed to deny Captain Dunne in the last stride. Strike Up The Band was an honourable third ahead of Oldjoesaid, who makes a habit of running well without winning. Group Therapy was a surprising fifth ahead of Siren’s Gift who could never get to the front. Wi Dud, winnerless since a juvenile, ran fast for three-and-a-half furlongs before shortening his stride. Hogmaneigh, who remains between two stools, stayed on, as did Little Pete who, although handling downhill tracks could never go the pace. He is worth trying over six.
INVESTEC DERBY (Group 1):
So now we know! Sea The Stars stays and is as good a Derby winner as we have seen in recent years. At the very least, he compares with the best. He looked superb beforehand – he walks with a swagger, is perfectly put together, has a head Stubbs could not have bettered – he not only looks like a champion but also proved himself one. Kite Wood was one of several that looked on edge in the paddock. Gan Amhras was another; he became buzzed up although he calmed down once let loose. By the time the field arrived at the start, several were awash with sweat. Debussy, Crowded House, Sea the Stars and Fame And Glory excepted, most of them were foaming. Although calm in the paddock, Rip Van Winkle was white, so were Age Of Aquarius and Black Bear Island. Predictably, Golden Sword made the running but at a steady pace that only wound up on the downhill approach to Tattenham Corner. Sea The Stars, keen early but quick to settle, was ideally positioned by Mick Kinane in fourth for most of the way. One by one, as the field came off the bridle, it became clear Sea The Stars was travelling like the winner and there was no sign of the fuel gauge swinging into the red. Kinane pressed the accelerator approaching the final furlong and Sea The Stars did the rest. Fame And Glory tracked him throughout but it was a struggle from the turn. He responded for pressure but lacked the speed of the winner. This was a big run from this imposing son of Montjeu, who did not flinch for the appliance of pressure. He stayed on with great courage but the winner was too good. They concertinaed for the places. Masterofthehorse narrowly reversed Chester form with Golden Sword. Rip Van Winkle once again played his hand late and split the two in fourth. He finished stoutly and on this evidence it looks as if he stays this trip; although ten furlongs may suit him better. For those that wish to keep the stamina argument alive, the pace was light early, but there is no possibility of any of these reversing with the winner in future at any trip. Sea The Stars is a wonderful triumph for Cape Cross and of course, the dam of Galileo, Urban Sea. Of the rest, Crowded House ran best of the home-team in sixth. Debussy crept closer on the inner until his stamina appeared to fail him. He may not be Group 1 material but can land a major prize over ten furlongs before the end of the season. Finally a word of thanks to Investec, the firm that has sponsored this two-day meeting with so much enthusiasm and without whom the occasion may have been much less spectacular.
INVESTEC STAKES (Handicap):
Coin Of The Realm, a horse with form on the course, slipped through on the inner to land this with something in hand. Drill Sergeant, ridden with more restraint this time, finished second ahead of Martyr who narrowly missed out on the hat-trick having made much of the running. Storyland flashed home late to take fourth ahead of a market-mover in War Party and Group Captain.
INVESTEC DISTINCTIVE STAKES (Handicap):
Baldemar ended a satisfactory day for the bookmakers winning this at 33/1, narrowly foiling last year’s winner Mac Gille Eoin in the process. Something, Northern Dare and Mutamared were next to finish in a race of limited interest. Abraham Lincoln was savaged for room on the rail and can surely do better. Money for his stable companion, Van Bossed, seemed inexplicable in view of such a poor run earlier in the week – flagged by the betting. He beat one home.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS
Emirates Roadshow may be capable of better than a laboured third in the Class 2 handicap. Too keen early, his stable have yet to hit form and better was expected. The ground may have been too soft. Roman Republic defied juvenile form that has looked decidedly shaky to win.
MUSSELBURGH RACING RESULTS
Penalised Archers Road was beaten by his weight in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. He has given connections a great run up to now but the up and coming brigade are catching him. Capercaillie won nicely after a successful debut a week ago and is a Queen Mary possible.
Quai D’Orsay made just about all to win the Class 2 handicap from Kings Destiny who looks as if he does not stay this trip of an extended mile-and-a-half. Holyrood should have managed better but pulled hard in a first-time visor.
Hitchens attracted money in the Class 2 handicap. He had run with promise at York last time but five furlongs seems a minimum trip. Six will suit him better. In this competitive heat he ran better than his position suggests. Drawn on the outside and bumped when exiting the gates, he did well to stake some sort of claim two out. He will be of more interest when dropped a few pounds and given that extra furlong.
Chachamaidee left an impression when winning on her debut over six in the Class 5. Slow to stride and keen on the outside, she coasted to the front to score with plenty in hand.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY JUNE 5th:
EPSOM RACING RESULTS
DIOMED STAKES (Group 3):
The start to a momentous weekend with the Group 3 won, as it was last year, by an eight-year-old. Confront was made favourite after winning a Newmarket handicap from a mark of 105. Now four, he missed out most of last year never realising the high hopes entertained. A one-time Guineas candidate, we only saw him twice as a three-year-old when fifth in the Greenham followed by a tame fourth at Great Leighs. His comeback effort at Newmarket was in a handicap that has failed to work out well and his best form remains his juvenile beating of Stimulation at Ascot. This was his return to Group company and he was not disgraced. It was somewhat surprising he came back in trip by half a furlong. Always prominent he took a long time to master Deposer; but when finally in front, Mac Love cut him down. Confront is not straightforward and may not stand too much racing. He is a typical son of Nayef that is likely to reappear over further next time. Mac Love was not winning out of turn. After a big first run of the season on Saturday when beaten half a length in fourth by Premio Loco at Goodwood, odds of 14/1 for this were an insult.
Admittedly the trip was a doubt but he was delivered to perfection by Micky Fenton. It was no surprise to see Deposer taking on the older brigade. A brick wall of a colt, as big as his older contempories, he made the pace swinging his head with keenness. Under the circumstances he did well to hang on for so long. A close fourth to South Easter last time, he is improving with every run. It will be to his advantage to expose the weight-for-age scale as he has plenty of substance to him. Without A Prayer was the victim of scrimmaging approaching the final furlong, Vitznau was fifth ahead of Lovelace. Hatta Fort crept into seventh but never threatened. General Eliott maintained his established tradition of one good run followed by three bad, coming in last.
INVESTEC MILE (Handicap):
Plum Pudding attempted to put his rivals to the sword when bouncing out and setting a fast pace. In front with several of his rivals in trouble down the straight, he looked as if he would hang on. It was the last half furlong that proved too much; Tartan Gigha outstayed him on this quicker surface, which suited the winner well. Philario, Royal Power and Intabih were next to finish in a race that offered little in the way of pointers for the future.
CORONATION CUP: (Group 1):
The first of the Group 1s of the weekend with persistent contender at this level but a rare winner (never won a Group 1 in this country), Youmzain heading the betting. Second in this last year to Soldier Of Fortune, he got warm beforehand, as did Ask and to a greater extent Frozen Fire. Eastern Anthem looked big and well after his terrific winter campaign in Dubai. Duncan was the message horse, after working with Pipedreamer at home but facing the biggest test of his life. He was very cool throughout. Frozen Fire set the race up, making it at a fast pace but he did not drop away tamely. Just as Buccellati made his run on the inner, Frozen Fire chopped him off as he rolled with the camber. Buccellati was in full flight at the time and may have played a major part. In the end four emerged to provide a thrilling finish. Ask was headed on the outside by the Oaks winner Look Here who went a neck up. With Youmzain between horses and Ask rallying it was a three-way photo. The camera confirmed Ask had got back up. Two noses separated the first three. Youmzain had every chance but some horses are plain unlucky and he falls into that category. Look Here has run a stormer with Duncan a length away in fourth. This was his big day and one he is unlikely to improve upon. He was short of room in the last hundred yards but I also suspect he may not have stayed the final few yards in such company. This was the plateau of his career. Frozen Fire was eventually fifth with Eastern Anthem a fading sixth. He should do better later in the year. Forget the run of Buccellati whose connections may feel they should have been in the mix fighting it out. Johnny Murtagh was found guilty of careless riding, meaning a five-day ban that will incorporate the final two days of Royal Ascot.
INVESTEC CHALLENGE HANDICAP (Class 2):
After the massive run of Look Here in the Coronation Cup, the stable gained some compensation with the win of Seeking The Buck who relishes fast ground. As a big horse that has had problems, he is not easy to train under such conditions. He may win again before the close of the season as he has the size to defy weight. Possibly, he needs time between races. There was a dead-heat for second between Epsom specialist Lake Poet and Mystery Star. This was a big run from Lake Poet in spite of the steadier of 9st 10lbs. William Blake was a promising fourth considering this was his first outing of the season and he looked ill-at-ease on the track. Charm School vindicated an earlier opinion that he needs this sort of trip. Devoid of headgear today and last of all on the turn, he forfeited ground but came home strongest of all on a surface on the quick side. Once he got mixed up in the pack, he flew but it was too late. He is not an easy ride by any means and this was probably the wrong track for him. He will have his day.
OAKS (Group 1):
Jamie Spencer has had his brickbats to contend with this year. Always travelling like a winner on the graceful Sariska, he made a winning move two out which looked likely to take his filly clear. There was plenty of drama left. In front in a matter of strides, Sariska appeared to idle, allowing Midday and High Heeled second chances. As at York, Sariska was not impressive but now we know her better it seems reasonable to suggest she will never win by too far. Challenged on both sides, she responded to Spencer’s urgings. Sariska has laid all the ghosts. She handled the ground, she handled the track and she was good enough to win the Oaks. She is a proper Classic winner, perfectly handled by Michael Bell to win this on only her fourth start. Any suggestion last year that Midday would be fighting out a tight finish for the Oaks would have resulted in derision. But her place here is not only testimony to her own ability but that of her trainer who does so well with fillies. She kept battling. Surely, this effort does give any supporters of Debussy for tomorrow’s Derby some hope.
The Oaks was run in a second faster time than the other Group 1 on the card, the Coronation Cup. In third, High Heeled has run to her Musidora form with Sariska. There was a moment approaching the final furlong when she looked very dangerous. Rainbow View never looked comfortable on this track. Niggled down the hill and thereafter, she almost clipped heels with the winner and had to be snatched up. No blame can be attached to Jamie Spencer, if anything Jimmy Fortune was at fault for not getting his filly into the clear. Rainbow View probably failed to stay. The Miniver Rose was a distant fifth and is another whose stamina gave out. The rest were well beaten. Phillipina headed a group of non-stayers in sixth. Although receiving a bump just after Tattenham Corner, she did not finish as if she got the trip. Oh Goodness Me patently ran out of stamina as did Perfect Truth. The stewards supplied the final stroke of suspense with an inquiry that rightfully left placings unaltered.
INVESTEC SURREY STAKES (Listed Race):
Dropped back to seven furlongs, the Guineas tenth Ocean’s Minstrel, carrying a 4lbs penalty, made just about all to beat some rivals that arguably should have stayed at home. If you are going to come to Epsom you need to act; if you fail, you don’t win. Ermine And Velvet was always in the slipstream of the winner and followed him home. Then came the horses that wasted their time. Nasri failed to handle the track and was never nearer than at the finish. Akhenaten was another all at sea on this track. He bears all the hallmarks of a horse being systematically messed-up. This is his seventh run of the season. A fine specimen of High Chaparral, it has taken all this time to discover his trip. That is not a great surprise as High Chaparrals do have a variance as regards distance. But as a big horse, this was not the place to send him and he is in danger of ending up in no man’s land. This is probably Mishrif’s trip, he may even do better over six but we are going some way down the list now. Khor Dubai, visored for the first time, failed to impress in attitude, Mastoora fly-jumped the stalls and was never able to land a blow thereafter.
INVESTEC OPPORTUNITY STAKES (Handicap) (Class 2):
This was a messy handicap, which not many got into. Cloudy Start showed plenty of courage from the outside of the field, enjoying a relatively clean run. Despite a knee action, he got to the front to hold Shamwari Lodge and Time Medicean. Parisian Pyramid was fourth in a typical Epsom handicap that may not hold up. Tartan Gunna was fifth and on form the well-backed Satwa Laird should have finished alongside. However, he was bustled along throughout and could never deliver a blow. Agente Parmigiano made up a good deal of ground to finish sixth from what looked a hopeless position.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY JUNE 4th:
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
The Class 5 Auction looked no more than ordinary. Treadwell provided another winner for first season sire Footstepsinthesand, beating the two with experience, Palisades Park and Warning Song. There was little between them on their debuts at Salisbury but Palisades Park improved past Warning Song who was having his third start after finishing behind Jira at Leicester on Monday. Races will be found for them at some stage. Treadwell was drawn worst of all, swerved the wrong way coming out of stalls, ran green but finished nicely on top. He will need to raise his game next time particularly if, as intimated by his trainer, he is to run in the Coventry.
The Class 4 handicap, over five like the opener, contained some of the usual suspects. The message horse was Leicester winner Invincible Lad who was attempting to defeat a 6lbs penalty, putting him a few pounds well in. A low draw beat him in a tight finish. Blue Jack – blinkered first time – grabbed the rail to win in a three-way stretch with Canadian Danehill and Invincible Lad. Esteem Machine appeared to run well after a slow start to finish fourth, but this race could prove deceptive. Esteem Machine has had more chances than Gordon Brown, so it would be unwise to get carried away. Similarly, what was an apparently encouraging staying on fifth from Orange Pip may prove flattering. Rocker, with a good draw and ground to suit, broke well but could not wait to back-pedal.
Richard Hannon saddled a one-two in the Class 4 handicap with Cyflymder getting the better of Head Down. The suspicion is the handicapper will be taking care of them. Brave Echo stayed on under a vigorous ride to produce his best work at the finish in the manner of one that will be more effective over further. Goodwood winner Sir Isaac was fourth. I suspect Key Signature can do a little better when dropped a few pounds. She was fifth under a quiet ride. Major Phil was checked as he began his run but does not appeal as a colt that does too much in a hurry.
Ellemujie provided one of those results that make you wonder how you missed it. Fourth over this track to Dunno and Light From Mars the time before last from a 2lb higher mark, he was backed in the Class 3 handicap against opposition that were open books. Produced late, Ellemujie appreciated the stiff uphill finish. Mujood, having his fourth run within a month, is in terrific form refusing to lie down when headed. Second to the much-vaunted Riggins at Goodwood on Saturday, he could probably do with a break. Ballinteni was a staying on third ahead of Annabelle’s Charm who is a tricky customer. She is not one to relish a struggle and found those in front of her too determined. It is possible to construct a case for Cotswolds next time but, as is the case with most of tonight’s card, the quality of this race was nothing special.
The maiden went to Senses who had finished second to London Bridge last time at Newmarket. He showed plenty of pace to catch trailblazer Buckie Boy who was kicked on early in the straight. These two were clear. Funday took third on her introduction ahead of a disappointing favourite in Twisted who looked very one-paced. The winner has paid a compliment of sorts to London Bridge who is engaged in the opening handicap on Derby Day, won last year by Conduit.
The last race looked a wide-open handicap before and during its running with any number in with a chance a furlong out. On the climb to the line, it was still in the balance right up to the finish, resulting in a dead-heat between Cosmea and Shavansky. Kidlat was third with two possible hard luck stories in Barliffey and Basra next to finish. This knotty little contest just about summed up the night.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY JUNE 3rd:
NOTTINGHAM RACING RESULTS:
Against horses with experience, Lady Royal Oak ran well enough to be the one to take out of the Class 5 fillies’ stakes. Beaten a head and a neck by White Daffodil and Velvet Band – both of whom had run well to date in ordinary but rateable events – it should not be long before she opens her account.
Emmrooz should have won the Class 2 Conditions Stakes; the fact he did not is further testament to the lack-lustre form currently shown by Godolphin. Second to Bankable at Nad Al Sheba, his form was a notch above that shown by the winner Khateeb. The Godolphin horses are not finishing off their races in the style one would like to see. Until hitting a vein of form they cannot be backed with confidence. Khateeb made all and Emmrooz could not peg him back.
AYR RACING RESULTS:
The Class 4 maiden that opened the card looked better than normal. Flying Statesman, second to No Hubris at York, has a fast ground action and with everything in his favour put his experience to good effect. Debutant, Layali Al Andalus, looks booked for better. He has a round action, unsuited to ground this quick, but kept snapping at the winner’s heels. This was a promising appearance. Fantastic Prince, second to Step In Time at Newmarket, faded to finish third.
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Fleeting Echo, only fifth to Above Limits at Sandown a fortnight ago, improved to beat I’malwaysright in the Class 6 maiden auction. The runner-up is a keen sort so this minimum looks his trip for now. This was not a good race, but Khanivorous is capable of better. Slowly away and staying on, although never a danger to the front two, he looks the sort to improve for an extra furlong.
The Class 3 handicap featured two hard to figure horses in Bugaku and Covert Ambition. Both were representing top stables having won maidens of little quality. Covert Ambition was returning to action after a soft ground event at Nottingham in October. Whatever his capabilities, he was drawn badly in one and bidding to break a current Godolphin hoodoo, in that the team is currently badly out of form. Bugaku won a poor maiden at Sandown a fortnight ago. The fact they were first and second favourites offered punters that were prepared to oppose them with a value opportunity. These two excepted, the field contained mainly exposed horses. Dark Prospect bounced out and made the running at a fierce pace. Under the circumstances he has performed well to finish fifth. Covert Ambition did better. Tucked in by Ted Durcan in an attempt to negate his draw and taken off his feet early, he looked to be struggling until finding his stride approaching the turn. Looming large and dangerous, Covert Ambition only had to be pushed out in the end for a cosy success. A mark of 94 clearly underestimates his capabilities. He will improve for further and will surely be better when his stable hits better form. A most attractive son of Singspiel, he needs a kind surface. Rattan was a decent enough second ahead of Bugaku, who has improved since Sandown. Always struggling tonight on this fast track, this big son of Montjeu, rated 86, looks better than his Sandown form indicated. He will do better on a galloping track and over further. Fourth-placed Humble Opinion was in the front rank throughout but unable to find an extra gear. His form with Hatton Flight and Dansili Dancer brought solidarity to this event and emphasises the level achieved by the lightly raced winner and the third.
Form horse Janeiro had to run two, or possibly three races in one, in the Class 4 novice. After his third to Archers Road in the Hilary Needler, he should still have won. Missing a beat at the start, then pulling and throwing his head in the air, he was the architect of his own downfall. Delivered on the inside to take a narrow lead a furlong out, he finished in a heap. Challenged wide by Rumool, who had finished fifth to Step In Time at Newmarket, he ran out of gas in the last furlong. He failed to run up to expectations at Southwell, and again on a turning track tonight. He does not appeal as a reliable proposition but may improve on this returned to a more galloping and straight track. Trainers should know this sort of thing and it is galling when race-readers have to point it out after punters have done their money.
Love Pegasus and the unlucky Implication pulled clear of the rest in the Class 4 handicap. The calibre of opposition was not that strong but Love Pegasus will be adjusted accordingly whereas Implication deserves to win next time.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY JUNE 2nd:
RIPON RACING RESULTS:
Di Stefano disappointed at Goodwood on his second start after a promising first effort at Newbury behind Walkingonthemoon. Possibly, he found the Sussex track against him when only fourth behind Kirty’s Boy and Oil Strike. There was no mistake today in the Class 5 as he forged clear of Cherry Bee and Silver Linnet.
There were some unconvincing performances in the Class 3 handicap over five furlongs. Grazeon Gold Blend cashed in on the misfortunes of others to win from a mark of 76 with a promising apprentice claimer lopping a further 7lbs off. This gelding held on from Vhujon, who is in good form but looks weighted up to his best from 87, and Bel Cantor. Excusez Moi was another fully exposed horse in fourth so the winner may struggle to build on this win next time. After showing glimmers of hope in two runs this season, Spirit Of Sharjah ran poorly. He was slow to start and looked reluctant in the finish. He looks the sort that will win eventually but he could be expensive to follow.
Francis Walsingham was a confident call from his stable in the maiden. The drop in trip seemed to suit and he won for fun. The opposition was poor and the time slow; but in this sort of form, as a horse that acts on fast ground, he may win a lowly handicap.
Richard Hills made his journey to Folkestone worthwhile, bagging two wins. It possibly should have been three as Mefraas looked to have settled the issue in the Class 5 handicap only to be caught in the dying strides. He is a winner without a penalty.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY JUNE 1st:
CARLISLE RACING RESULTS
Surprisingly, the Class 5 maiden auction looked a quality affair. There was a strong on course word for Bow Beaver, an American-bred by Vindication. A nice colt that did not look fully tuned, he had to be shaken up to hold on, something he always looked likely to do. His stable introduced Royal Ascot winner South Central in this last year and may have a horse of similar ability here. He will improve. The runner-up, Yeadon, is a well-grown strong type by Fraam that had the advantage of an outing. Although that was nothing special, this represented improvement. He came with a powerful challenge a furlong out and should open his account next time if confined to the north. There is also a race in Silver In The Sand. A small filly in comparison to the first two, she stuck on. This is her grade and she will not always meet such useful opponents.
LEICESTER RACING RESULTS
Jira, one of three fillies in the line-up, showed she had benefited from her Ascot debut when fourth to Little Perisher with a determined win in the Class 4 maiden. She was the horse with rateable form, which swung it for her today. She responded to a vigorous ride when challenged in the last hundred yards by Party Doctor, who took a while to get the message, but looked dangerous when he did. These two were five lengths clear of Warning Song – who had finished fourth at Salisbury two weeks ago. Capacity, a small son of Cape Cross that dwelt and pulled early, did finish better than he started. He was beaten in excess of nine lengths in fourth. Mark Johnston will probably find a little race at the likes of Hamilton for him.
Mister Dee Bee may be about to hit the buffers as far as the assessor is concerned, but he has attributes to die for. Racing low and stretching on this fast ground, he recorded his hat-trick in style in the Class 4 handicap from Pride of Kings and Wee Sonny. For a gelded son of Orpen, he shows nothing but willingness.
Sabotage stepped up on his Goodwood second when drawing away with the Class 5 maiden. He may end up a useful handicapper. Birdinthehand worried Times Up out of second but both were easily disposed of. Times Up is only a stayer and lacks pace. He should receive a realistic mark and will appreciate a little give. Unexceptional, he is not one to abandon just yet.
Tikka Masala, a filly I have abandoned, was produced to steal the Class 5 handicap close home. Her win emphasises the wellbeing of the Dascombe yard but she is not certain to build on this.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS
Navajo Chief started the evening with a shock. A King’s Best colt having his first run, he was the outsider of the field in the Class 5 Novice Stakes. Footstepsinthespring was the one for money, but he is progressing slowly. His second to Goodwood Maestro eleven days ago looked only an average. Receiving weight from Nadeen – who beat Little Perisher at Brighton – and Warwick winner Antonius Moris, this seemed to represent a similar level of form. These four were involved in a close finish.
Bold Argument landed the Class 4 handicap. Alfresco skimmed the fast ground to dead-heat with Zowington for second. Carleton ran no more than all right but he needs it on the easy side to show his best. This was not a strong event.
J J The Jet Plane was the star turn of the evening. Last seen winning a Group 3 at Nad Al Sheba in February, this globetrotter packed the crowds in as he opened his British account with a win in the Listed event. By now, it was apparent that racing up the stands’ rail offered a significant advantage. Ryan Moore and his mount were quickly out of stall one and across to the favoured spot within a furlong. Making all, The Jet Plane extended an already impressive record to nine wins from thirteen starts. For a five-year-old sprinter, this is an enviable record and underlines the thoroughness of his excellent world-class trainer, Mike de Kock. In some hands, this horse would have been burnt out by now. J J The Jet Plane is a powerful traveller that has a professional approach. Not the traditional outbuilding of a sprinter, he is nevertheless strong enough. This ground was as fast as he wants for a heavy horse but he seems versatile as regards going. What we do know is that he dislikes dirt, although he has won on an artificial surface. He will now go to Royal Ascot where the stage is set for a great international showdown between some of the finest speedballs the world has to offer. This was a competent performance. With Intrepid Jack second and Edge Closer in third possibly feeling the ground, pleasing though this performance was it needs improving upon if The Jet Plane is to win at Ascot. That said, he is a horse that knows what he is doing and he gave the impression he knew he was nicely in control throughout tonight’s race. He is a star.
This year in particular it has been apparent that Ryan Moore and Sir Michael Stoute were made for one another. Moore gives the Stoute horses near perfect rides every time. It was in great evidence in the maiden when Moore bagged the rail on Pictorial and made just about all. From three out, most punters would have gladly exchanged their tickets for a Lucky Dip in the Lottery. With the ground possibly lively enough, although Pictorial does not have a typical Pivotal action, he looked in trouble as Moore had to ride in earnest. Several in behind were travelling better, notably Maria Nunziata who got messed about in running. One by one, a gallant Pictorial and a determined Moore fought off the challengers and backers of the favourite owe the combination for this effort. It was only a run-of-the-mill maiden, great rides, however, come at all levels. A good-sized individual, the stable seem to feel Pictorial is a fair bit better than this run indicates. Maria Nunziata should win her maiden; Acquisition, a Danehill filly that is on the small side, finished with a rattle and should also be winning soon. Pointillist was another filly to stay on.