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There is racing a plenty on a busy Saturday, sadly the fields are not an Each Way punters dream, so all we can do is dream big from these small fields!
4 turf cards mixed with 2 All Weather cards, in the middle of summer! Whoever sorts the calendar needs to give their head a wobble & the BHA should take a long hard look at themselves for not voting to reduce the fixtures, as the small field cards prove this weekend!
And to top the news off this week, John Gosden & Frankie Dettori are taking a break, having been publicly roasted by JG at Royal Ascot last week & was not given any rides for JG at Newmarket today. We are all human & make mistakes but the spat was a bit too public, some thing’s should be kept in house until the laundry needs drying on the line….
A big congratulations to Jamie – AKA @Glen_Colt for his stunning Royal Ascot performance, taking the AOLR RA winners award…. Can he keep it up?
Due to the slim picking’s on offer today, Charlie & Chris are taking the time off…
Jamie –
the Curragh –
2:00 – Dubai Duty Free Summer Fillies Handicap
Selection: She’s Trouble (E/W)
This is an open looking Fillies Handicap and I think the masterful Bolger / Manning combination have a chance of getting in the money with the lightly raced She’s Trouble. This daughter of Fracas got off the mark over 6F at the Curragh at the second attempt last year. That was followed by a third to Magical Lagoon in a G3, where she finished nearly three lengths adrift. However, that form looks pretty decent now with the winner going on to win the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot last week. I wouldn’t read too much into her final start as a 2yo when she was well beaten and clearly not on song. The ground, trip and course are all fine for She’s Trouble today. Plus, Jim Bolger is a master at having his horses at concert pitch first time out. I just can’t ignore that each way price.
Windsor –
4:30 – Class 2 Handicap (1m 3½f)
Selection: Sir Rumi
Sir Rumi has been running well enough so far this season to make his presence felt in this sort of contest. It was a solid run at Royal Ascot last week over 1m 4f in the Duke of Edinburgh, where Sir Rumi stayed on well late on to take sixth. He has other decent pieces of form to his name but he will need to up his game today. If he does then he must have a big chance on all known form as his best is around today’s trip. Having not won for just over a year Sir Rumi has slipped down the weights and is just 3lbs above his winning mark. On ground he likes and ridden closer to the pace, I am quite confident Sir Rumi will give us a good run for our money today. 9/2 is a decent price too.
Rich –
Curragh.. 2.30 Celebration Stakes – Listed – 3yo+ – 1m…. Pretreville – Acclamation X Pegase Hurry 7yo gelding. They say ‘ Change is as good as a rest’ & that is very much the case with this horse. He moved from France to Ireland, having raced twice at the top table in Group 1 races, a pair of Group 2’s & 4 times at Group 3 level, winning the 1m Bertrund Du Breuil Stakes at Chantilly in May 2020. He beat Thunder Moon over 7f on the all weather at Dundalk in January 2020 before finishing 2nd to Pearl’s Galore ( 2 & 1/2 lengths) in the 1m Heritage Listed Stakes at Leopardstown in April before beating Ivy League ( 1 & 3/4 lengths) in the 1m Group 3 Amethyst Stakes, again at Leopardstown in May. He was last seen over 7f in the Group 3 Ballysax Stakes, finishing a 2 length 3rd of 5 to Dr Zemph on June 9th, Back up to 1m today…. EACH WAY
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This is it folks… The last day of Royal Ascot… 5 days of racing comes to a close! What does the last card have for us? Group 3 Jersey Stakes, Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes & the Group 1 Platinum Jubilee Stakes…
As promised the AOLR Table… Charlie – 1 Winner 2 places Chris (2 Days) – 3 winners 1 place Jamie – 3 winners & 1 place Rich – 2 winners & 1 place
Highlight of the week? Nature Strip Low point of the week? Losing any horse
A big thanks to the lads for their hard work over the last 2 weeks, from the Oaks & Derby blogs to a Full 5 days of Royal Ascot has been some feat & thanks to you all for popping by, Cheers… Charlie & Jamie have you covered today..
Charlie –
4.20 PlatinumJubilee Stakes Group 1 over 6f
Selection- Home Affairs – 4 year old Colt out of I Am Invincible and Miss Interiors. Has had 9 career starts winning 4 times. The wins have came at Rosehill x2 and Flemington x2. Won first race at Rosehill on 2nd start when beating Rocket Tiger by a head on the 20th February 2021. Next win at Rosehill came on 5 start on the 25th September 2021 when beating Paulette by 1 and 1/2 lengths. Won again at Flemington on the 30th October 2021 when beating Bruckner by 3 lengths. Beat Nature Strip by a short head on next start at Flemington on the 19th February this year in the Black Caviar Lightning Group 1 over 5f. Returned to Flemington on the 12th March and finished 9th over 6f. Has shown ability in 6 of the 9 starts he has had so far, most notable was the short head defeat of Nature Strip who was an emphatic winner of the Group 1 Kings Stand Stakes on Tuesday. If showing a repeat of that form today should be the one they have to beat, biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of Sacred who has won 3 times from 8 starts.
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5.00 Wokingham Stakes Class 2 Handicap over 6f
Selection- Silver Samurai– 5 year old Gelding out of Cable Bay and High Tan. Has had 5 wins from 16 races on the flat and is 0 from 7 on the All-weather. Won last 2 starts at Newbury and Haydock over 6f, beat Indian Creak by a head on the 13th May at Newbury, beat Music Society by 1 length at Haydock on the 28th May. If showing same attitude as last 2 starts could be involved here again, biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of Blackrod who has 4 wins from 9 starts.
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Jamie –
Down Royal –
2:00 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden (3yo+)
Selection: Spartan Army
This doesn’t look like an especially 3yo+ Maiden where Spartan Army and A ShinUndine lock horns again. I am more than hopeful that the slightly less exposed Spartan Army can take this for the Prince Of Wales winning combination of Joseph O’Brien and Shane Crosse. My selection is a son of Highland Reel and has been to the racetrack twice so far. A debut 8th last September was followed by a third at Sligo last month where he looked more of a finished article, A Shin Undine was just a neck in front of him that day. Any necessary improvement from that gives him every chance of taking this and the stable are in great nick. Big chance. Best price of 11/8.
3:45 – Irish EBF Ulster Oaks Handicap
Selection: Eclat De Lumiere
Dermot Weld is a master at training Fillies and his Eclat De Lumiere drops into handicap company today off a mark of 88. Eclat De Lumiere is thrice raced to date and has been running in good races, including a 4th in a G3 on her penultimate start which was won by Epsom Oaks 6th Tranquil Lady. Last time out she found Voice of Angels too strong over a mile at Navan in an EBF race. She appeared to be done for toe that day and judging by her pedigree this 3yo Filly will love the step back up to 1m 2½f. This is also a step down in class and she remains unexposed. There is a lot to like for a trainer who has won this race multiple times in the past. 5/1 is decent value in an open looking race.
We’ve reached the finishing post
And were out of here! Thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it, it means a lot.. Take Care & were see you soon!
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Were past half way through the 5 days of Royal Ascot & what a great 3 days of racing we have had, the finest in the world? On todays menu, we have a pair of Group 1 races – Commonwealth Cup & Coronation Stakes, Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes & Group 3 Albany Stakes…
An interesting result in the Norfolk Stakes yesterday with a 50/1 winner tracking hard left, rules are so out of date! Nice to see AOB land the Gold Cup, after Yeats landed 4 it was a shame to see Stradivarius have to go so wide to try & land his 4th, but it wasn’t to be…
The AOLR table will be updated for the final day tomorrow but Chris is away for the rest of the Festival…
Charlie –
3.40 Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes Class 2 Handicap over 1m 3f 211y
Selection – Trawlerman – 4 year old Gelding out of Golden Horn and Tidespring, has had 5 career starts winning twice. The wins have came at Pontefract on the 6th April 2021 when beating King Frankel by 8 and 1/2 lengths over 1m 4f 5y. Won again on most recent outing at Chelmsford on the 15th April this year when beating U S S Michigan by 1/2 length over 1m 2f. Steps back up in trip for todays race and if showing same attitude as last time should have enough ability to land this race, biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Contact who has won last 2 starts.
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Jamie –
2:30 – Albany Stakes (G2)
Selection: Meditate
As usual this is a wide open Albany Stakes. Aidan O’Brien always runs his best 2yo Filly in this and Meditate fits the bill today. The daughter of No Nay Never has done nothing wrong so far (2-2) and appears to be a typical Ballydoyle 2yo improving with time and racing. She opened her account on debut at the Curragh in nice fashion and followed up in a G3 at Naas last time out. The stiff nature of the 6f trip here at Ascot looks tailor made for Meditate as she has been hitting the line well over the same trip back home. This will be the first time she has encountered fast summer ground but the progeny of No Nay Never love quick ground, so I wouldn’t worry too much about it. With Ryan Moore riding as well as ever she must be in the mix on all known form.
3:40 – Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes (Handicap)
Selection: Cemhaan (Each way)
I put Cemhaan up on the blog when he won a handicap on 1000 Guineas day at Newmarket and I see no reason for me to jump ship today. Cemhaan seems to have really matured over the winter and looks a different proposition this year, as proven by two wins from races so far this campaign. His Newmarket success last time out was his most valuable (Class 2) and impressive win to date staying on well over 1m 6f. It is a step back in trip today but from his draw Cemhaan should be able to get a nice position and use his stamina to good effect. He also has winning form on good to firm, so there is a lot to like and at 16/1, he looks great each way value in my eyes. Cemhaan gives the impression there is more to come off his mark of 92.
First past the post
Rich –
3.05 Commonwealth Stakes – Group 1 – 3yo Only – 6f… Perfect Power – Ardad X Sagely colt. Winner of 4 of his 6 starts in 2021, including the Group 2 Norfolk Stakes & a pair of Group 1s – The Prix Morny at Deauville & Middle Park Stakes. He started this season over 7f at Newbury, when landing the Group 3 Greenham Stakes from Lusail by 1 & 1/2 lengths on April 16th. he was stepped up in trip to 1m at Newmarket on April 30th in the Group 1 2,000 Guineas. The Ardad colt finished a 6 & 1/2 length 7th to Coroebus & was never really in the race. He drops back in trip today & is an impressive sprinter over this distance, he stays 7f & has a nice draw in stall 1. El Caballo is 4 from 4 over the distance & is unbeaten in his career & along with Go Bears Go, rate the main DANGERS to Perfect Power…
That is everything for you today folks, shall we have 1 last dance tomorrow? Of course we will! Thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it..
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Today’s card has a pair of Group 2 contests – Norfolk Stakes & Ribblesdale (Fillies’) Stakes PLUS the GOLD CUP…
Brilliant performance from Saffron Beach & a classic ride by Shane Crosse to land the Prince of Wales’ Stakes. All 4 of us had a winner, so that’s now 6 winners & 3 places in 2 days… Chris leaves us for the week, so we are down to 3… The Englishman, Irishman & Scotsman!
The RA AOLR Table – Charlie – 1 winner.. 1 place Chris – 3 winners… 1 place (Extra places) Jamie – 1 winner Rich – 1 winner.. 1 place
That’s the housekeeping sorted, & were half way there now folks…
Charlie – 3.40 Ribblesdale Stakes Group 2 over 1m 3f 211y (Fillies)
Selection – Sea Silk Road – 3 year old filly out of Sea The Stars and Oriental Magic, has had 3 starts so far winning twice, the wins have came at Nottingham on the 6th May when beating Queen of The Skies by 5 and 1/2 lengths over 1m 75y. Won again on next start at Goodwood on the 20th May when beating Eternal Pearl by 1/2 length over 1m 1f 197y. Steps up in distance for todays race and the extra yardage should be within her grasp, if showing same attitude as previous 2 starts she should be thereabouts today, biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Life Of Dreams who won at Newbury before finishing behind Emily Upjohn at York last time out.
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6.10 Buckingham Palace Stakes Class 2 Handicap over 7f
Selection – Montassib -4 year old Gelding out of Exceed And Excel and Felwah, won on debut back in September 2020 at Newcastle before having a set back and missing the whole of 2021. Made a winning reappearance on the 24th April this year at Wetherby when beating Eeetee by 2 and 1/2 lengths over 7f. Won again on next start at Goodwood on the 20th May when beating Marshal Dan by 2 and 1/2 lengths over 7f. Has gone up 10lbs for those wins and although that seems a bit harsh should be thereabouts again today. Biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Silent Film who has won last 4 times from 7 starts.
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Jamie –
4:20 – Ascot Gold Cup (G1)
Selection: Kyprios
Kyprios might just be the up and coming horse in this year’s Gold Cup and that gives him every chance in what to me looks a winnable renewal of this great race. Kyprios is still on the improve with only the six starts under his belt. So far this season Kyprios has not put a foot wrong and ran away with the Saval Bag last time out by 14 lengths. The form might not be the strongest but the visual impression created was very impressive. The step up in trip is an obvious question mark but there is a lot of confidence from team Ballydoyle that he will stay the extreme distance today. The ground is fine for this fella and I think he is the one to beat. Stradivarius is the main danger and will be a tough nut to crack.
5:00 – Britannia Stakes (Heritage Handicap)
Selection: Jimi Hendrix (E/W)
There are two horses I have got against the field here. Jimi Hendrix has just snuck in at the very bottom of the weights and has the right sort of profile for this 3yo handicap over 1m. The son of New Bay struck on his handicap debut at Haydock last time out, where he passed the whole field up the home straight (10 ran). I liked the style of his victory and he will get a strong pace to aim at today which will really suit him. He is going the right way and at 28/1 there are worse each way bets this week in my opinion, especially considering he will like the ground. Thesis is another solid candidate, he brings in some smart form including a close second to My Prospero at Newbury back in April. Ryan Moore in the saddle is another boost too. Each way advised on both horses.
Will Stradivarius land the Gold Cup?
Rich –
2.30 Norfolk Stakes – Group 2 – 2yo Only – 5f… The Antarctic – Dark Angel X Anna Law Colt. A FULL brother to 5 x Group 1 sprinting legend, Baattaash, The Antarctic made his race course debut at Tipperary on April 21st on soft ground, in a 5f EBF race. He went off at 6/4 & won the race by 1/2 a length before heading to Naas on May 15th. The going was good & the Dark Angel colt went off at 4/6 ON, dually winning the race by 3/4’s of a length from Mehmar. This will be the fastest ground he encountered but his brother won 8 races on good to firm, so that should be no issue & he has a decent draw in stall 10. He has plenty of speed & talent, so there is lot’s to like when taking on the Favourite, Walbank….
Midway through the 5 days now, hopefully were all still going strong! Thanks for popping by & for your support…
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Day 2 is Group 2 day with 3 Group2 races & a Group 1 – The Group 2 races are : Queen Mary (Fillies’), Queen’s Vase & Duke of Cambridge (Fillies’ & Mares’) with the Group 1 Prince of Wales’ Stakes…
A fine day yesterday for Baaeed, who remains unbeaten. Guineas winner Coroebus, Bradsell with Hollie Doyle created a fantastic impression & a stunning performance by Nature Strip winning the King’s Stand in fine style!
2 places & 2 winners yesterday.. More of the same today!
Charlie –
5.00 Royal Hunt Cup Class 2 Handicap over 1m
Selection – Dark Shift – 4 year old Colt out of Dark Angel and Mosuo, has had 10 runs winning 5 times, 3 of those wins have been at this venue. Won on most recent outing at Nottingham when beating Dubai Mirage by 3 lengths over 1m 75y. Current market leader is Legend of Dubai who hasn’t been out of the 1st 3 places in his 5 career starts so far, won on most recent start at Newmarket on the 29th April when beating Carolus Magnus by 4 and 1/4 lengths, has been raised 11 lbs for that win and although that seems a lot in my opinion and current price of 5-1 is a bit short, my preference is for Dark Shift who has course form in the book and is almost double the price of the market leader and is an eachway play with most firms giving enhanced places for this race.
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Chris –
2.30 Queen Mary Stakes
Katey Content has been foot perfect in 2 starts to date, winning twice over the minimum trip last month at Salisbury and Windsor. She was very impressive on her latest start under a penalty and seems to thrive on quick ground, which she will get here once again. This is obviously a much sterner test of her credentials, but at the current prices she makes plenty of each-way appeal, especially with several bookies offering enhanced placed terms.
4.20 Duke Of Cambridge Stakes
A fairly small but select field go to post for this Fillies and Mares Group 2, with Group 1 winners heading the market. I’m siding with Saffron Beach today, who produced a fine effort when landing the Sun Chariot last Autumn over this trip. She was far from disgraced when 4th in the Dubai Turf and whilst she has to give the field weight today, she is the form horse and ticks plenty of boxes here.
Jamie –
3:05 – Queen’s Vase (G2)
Selection: Nahanni
Nahanni was well beaten in the Derby but did stay on inside the final furlong to finish 7th of 17 having been well back rounding Tattenham Corner. All of which suggests the step up to 1m 6f could bring out more improvement in Nahanni and the reports from the Appleby stable are positive. Before Epsom Nahanni had done little wrong, winning 3 of his 4 races including a listed contest back in April. It is eye catching that William Buick has chosen Nahanni over Hafit who could also have a big role to play. This will be the fastest ground my selection has encountered so far but being by Frankel out of a Street Cry Mare gives hope that he will handle it alright. Stable has a good record in this race and I’m expecting a good run.
5:00 – Royal Hunt Cup (Handicap)
Selection: Dark Shift
I quite like course form when looking at these big handicaps at Ascot so I can’t ignore the claims of Dark Shift. Charlie Hills’ 4yo is 3/3 at Ascot and 2-2 over 1m, so he has to be high on many people’s shortlist. Dark Shift has been in good heart so far this campaign with his Nottingham success last time out ensuring he just about sneaks into this race off 9st 1lb, which makes his chances seem even more appealing. He is drawn right in the middle in stall 15 which gives James McDonald options of where to go, he is a hold up horse so if he can get a good tow into the race then I don’t think he’ll be far away. Due to the competitive nature of the race I would advise an each way bet. (10/1 at the time of writing). Everything is set fair for a big run today.
Rich –
5.35 Windsor Castle Stakes – Class 1 Listed – 2yo Only – 5f… Little Big Bear – No Nay Never X Adventure Seeker Colt. Beaten a head over 6f on race course debut on April 10th in a Curragh Maiden by Tough Talk before dropping back to 5f in a Naas Maiden on May 7th, breaking his maiden by 3 lengths… EACH WAY – Star of Lady M – Havana Grey X Abraj Dubai Filly. 3 wins from 4 starts. All wins over 5f, only defeat over 6f. Beat Primrose Ridge last time out in a 5f Class 2 Fillies’ Conditions Stakes at Beverley by 3/4’s of a length on May 26th…
That’s Day 2 sorted folks, onwards & upwards. Thanks for popping by & your support, we really appreciate it..
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Ahead of us we have 5 days of top class racing from Ascot…. Will the Queen be there? Will Godolphin have many winners? Who will be top jockey? ALL these questions & more will be answered in the next 5 days….
We kick off the week with 3 Group 1 races – Queen Anne Stakes – The King’s Stand & St James’ Palace Stakes PLUS the Group 2 Coventry Stakes!
The lads are refreshed from having 2 weeks to prepare since our Derby blog, so let’s get the week off with a BANG….
Charlie –
5.35Wolfertin Stakes Class 1 Listed over 1m 1f 212y
Selection – Cadillac – 4 year old Colt out of Lope De Vega and Seas Of Wells, has had 12 starts winning 4 times, the wins have came at Leopardstown X3 and the Curragh. Although hasn’t won outside of Ireland has ran to a decent standard, including when finishing 5th at Newmarket some 4+ lengths behind winner St Mark’s Basilica on the 10th October 2020. Won on most recent outing at Leopardstown on the 2nd June this year when beating Georgeville by 3 and 3/4 lengths in a Listed race over 1m 1f. If showing up in same attitude today could easily gain another victory, biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of Juan Elcano who is out of Frankel and won this race last year.
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Chris –
3.40 King’s Stand Stakes
A fantastic renewal for this years 5f test, featuring a strong home team and a pair of top class international raiders. It’s a close call, but I’m siding with the Aussie Nature Strip here. Officially rated the highest sprinter in the world, Nature Strip landed another Group 1 last time out at Randwick, his 8th top level success. He is versatile regarding ground and tactically doesn’t have to lead, which could prove crucial if Golden Pal goes off too hard in front. I’m expecting him to be doing his best work late on and must take all the beating if reproducing his best form on these shores.
5.00 Ascot Stakes
The first contest for the stayers at this years meeting and as usual, it has attracted an array of flat and jumps trainers. Coltrane is relatively lightly raced for a 5yo on the level, and produced a clear personal best when runner-up in the Chester Cup behind a smart Ballydoyle horse last month. Raised only 3lbs for that effort, he holds strong claims here and boasts a perfect 2/2 record when getting good to firm ground. At the current double-figure price, he is my each way selection today.
Jamie –
3:05 – King’s Stand Stakes (G1) Selection: Golden Pal
A mouth watering edition of this 5F Group 1 sees Breeders Cup hero GoldenPal go head to head with crack Aussie sprinter NatureStrip. I have to side with Golden Pal as he is probably my strongest tip for the week. Wesley Ward knows how to get one ready for the Royal meeting and he has his charge primed for this test. Soft ground didn’t help his chances at this meeting last year where he was narrowly beaten by Thr Lir Jet, but at least he has got some previous track experience to draw on. Golden Pal will relish the quick ground today and he has a big chance in my eyes after a comfortable comeback win in America of adding to his trainers impressive Ascot CV.
Ariasta will have to take another sizeable leap forward to win this but at 18/1 I believe there is enough positives to think she could sneak into a place here. Richard Hannon’s Mare is still quite unexposed having had just the six races in her career so far. Ariasta won a listed race at York last year and returned to the same track last month where she finished a close second in the G2 Middleton Stakes, connections will have been delighted with her reappearance and any improvement from that run gives her claims of getting in the mix. The fast ground is to her liking and the stable are in decent form coming into the meeting.
Rich –
3.05 Coventry Stakes – Group 2 – 2yo Only – 6f…. Persian Force – Mehmas X Vida Amorsa colt. 2 runs with 2 wins. The colt started the season at Doncaster back on March 26th when landing a facile victory in the 5f Class 4 Brocklesby Conditions Stakes by 4 & 1/2 lengths from Primrose Ridge. He stepped up in class & trip when last seen on May 14th at Newbury in the 6f Class 2 Conditions Stakes, winning by 2 & 1/2 lengths from Holguin. Richard Hannon trained with Rossa Ryan on board… He is currently joint favourite with Blackbeard for Aidan O’Brien, who is also unbeaten with 3 wins from 3 starts, which include a Listed 5f Stakes & Group 3 Marble Hill 6f Stakes & along with the other AOB runner, King of Kings, who recently broke his maiden on June 1st on his second start, are LIVE threats to Persian Force… My AOLR Flat horse to Follow 2022. The BEST Each Way horse in the race comes from Adrian Nicholls, who saddles King’s Crown, who placed in his first 3 starts over 5f before winning when stepped up to 6f last time out…
That’s a wrap for Day 1, thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it..
Last Friday saw myself have a little journey over the border from Lancashire into our next door neighbours Yorkshire for a visit to the beautiful Knavesmire (York), for what was a typically competitive card with decent field sizes and good racing.
There was also some lovely food and drink including a very well recommended afternoon tea in the famous Gimcrack Rooms.
It wasn’t all gambling and gluttony though and below I have another three potential winners in waiting for you.
1 – Poppy Carew – 2yo Bay Filly. Trainer : Karl Burke.
Making her racecourse debut this filly who cost £62,000 as a yearling ran with a bit of promise behind some far more experienced two year olds in the EBF Filles’ Novice Stakes over 5f. She was green to begin with but the penny finally dropped towards the end and she stayed on nicely, an extra furlong will be appreciated and she has a fair future ahead of her.
2 – Valiant Prince – 4yo Bay Gelding. Trainer : Charlie Appleby.
Only six went to post for Friday’s feature Listed Ganton Stakes over a mile but the winner couldn’t have been more impressive here in Valiant Prince.
Despite running against some fairly exposed types this fairly lightly raced 4yo bounced back from his April disappointment at Ascot to resume winning ways again, a dual winner in Dubai during the winter he has four wins to his name all on left handed tracks. I could envisage him going up in grade and trip back here in July for the 1m2f York Stakes which is a Group 2.
3 – Vondelpark – 2yo Bay Colt.
A seller might not seem the most obvious race to pick one from but on Friday Vondelpark left Karl Burke’s yard to run in the 6f Rous Selling Stakes which had a nice looking winner in Explicit from Mark Johnston, who had to go to £44,000 to retain him.
Now the reason I left the trainer’s name off here is that after the race and auction, Vondelpark was subsequently claimed by Gemma Tutty & he was third in the race. It’s highly likely Gemma will get some improvement out of him and could be one to keep an eye on in nurseries.
Next up on the racing travels will be Lancashire Oaks Day at Haydock in a few weeks time.
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We would like to put on record our condolences to Lester Piggott’s Family, friends & colleagues. We dedicate this blog to him.. Sleep Well Lester.
Yesterday’s Oaks was a fantastic race won by Tuesday, with a fine ride from Ryan Moore, although you do have to feel a bit for connections of Emily Upjohn..
We have some special guests today – @AOBFS & @WattyRacing have kindly contributed to the day, along with the 4 of us to make this a mega blog…..
Charlie – 2.00 Kazoo Handicap Class 2 over 1m 2f and 17y
Selection – Blue Trail – 3 year old Colt out of Teofilo and Pietrafiore. Has had 5 career starts winning twice with one 2nd place finish and one 3rd place finish. The wins have came at Southwell on the 25th January this year when beating Benedict Wildes by 4 and 3/4 lengths over 1m 13y. Won again on next start at Kempton on the 2nd March when beating Harrow by a nose over 1m. Was 4th on next start at Chelmsford on the 31st March when beaten 8 lengths by winner Dark Moon Rising. Most recently was 3rd at Sandown on the 22nd April when beaten 2 and 1/4 lengths by winner Wanees. Although hasn’t won since that Kempton victory on the 2nd March has hinted that a step up in trip is required, if handling the course and the extra yardage could easily win here. Biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of War Horse who is out of Sea The Stars and Santa Anabaa who has 2 wins and has finished 2nd twice from 6 starts.
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Chris –
3.10 Diomed Stakes
A small but select field go to post for this Group 3, and I’m siding with Mutasaabeq here. Lightly raced for a 4yo, he has shown smart form this season, winning a conditions contest over 7f before a close 2nd in the Group 2 mile at Sandown last month. just failing to get up on the line. That form is amongst the best on offer today, and he seems versatile regarding tactics and ground.
coming soon
AOBFS takes us through the 3 Ballydoyle runners..
Aidan sends 3 to Epsom to contest the world renowned Epsom Derby a race he has won a record 7 times Galileo (2001), High Chaparral (2002), Camelot (2012), Ruler Of The World (2013), Australia (2014), Wings Of Eagles (2017), Anthony Van Dyck (2019), Serpentine (2020). I honestly could not put you off any of them each of them have solid claims. Changingoftheguard – Galileo x Lady Lara – Wayne Race Career – Starts 5 Wins 2 Places 1 Career Earnings £71,746 Major Race Win – Chester Vase Group 3 Changingoftheguard’s Dam Lady Lara was a Group 2 winner on the track in America. He is a full brother to Shining Bright who was unraced and was obviously sent straight to the breeding sheds. Changingoftheguard had 3 failed attempts to break his maiden tag as a juvenile but put that right on reappearance at Dundalk in April making all in maiden company and scooted up by 6 lengths. He was then sent to run in the Chester Vase against the highly regarded New London again he made all and burnt off his rivals with ease. I can see him attempting to make all again in the Derby. I’m always wary of horses making all but if Changingoftheguard gets an easy lead he certainly could take some pegging back it will be all about timing and getting a breather into him at the right time something that Emmet was able to do beautifully on Serpentine in the 2020 version. Wayne rode Changingoftheguard in his victory at Dundalk he is a talented & experienced Jockey hopefully he can get the fractions spot on.
Star of India – Galileo x Shermeen – Heff Race Career – Starts 3 Wins 2 Places 0 Career Earnings £60,465 Major Race Win – Dee Listed Stakes Star Of India’s dam Shermeen was a Stakes winner of the track he is a Half Brother to Group 1 winner Sudirman. Star Of India only ran once as a juvenile when winning on debut at Leopardstown in October. Made his reappearance in 2022 when he was sent to represent Ballydoyle in the Craven Stakes at Newmarket. He was to finish 5th behind eventual Irish Guineas winner Native Trial. Clearly the trip was way too short for him forgive and forget that run. Got back to winning way next time out when he was sent to contest the Dee Stakes at Chester. Coming into the turn Ryan was working hard on Star Of India but really galvanized him and he powered up the straight to go away with plenty in hand. After seeing that you would imagine the further 2 furlongs step up in trip will bring a lot more from him.
Stone Age – Galileo x Bonanza Creek – Ryan Race Career – Starts 7 Wins 2 Places 4 Career Earnings £117,013 Major Race Win – Leopardstown Derby Trial Group 3 Stone Age’s dam Bonanza Creek is a race winning Daughter of Anabaa. Stone Age is a half brother to the unraced Perriand & multiple race placed Siyoulater. Interestingly Stone Age was previously named Statesman. Stone Age made 5 starts as a juvenile and was placed in the group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud. Stone Age came into 2022 as a maiden but broke that smartly on reappearance in a Navan maiden at the end of March winning by 9 lengths. Stone Age was then sent to contest the formerly named Derrinstown Derby Trial. He got to the lead early on and coming into the later stages around 2 furlongs from the winning post Stone Age kicked on for home and he powered away winning comfortably by over 5 lengths pretty much dismantling the field non of his rival ever landed a blow on him. To me he shaped like a very very smart colt with bags of potential. I have been with Stone Age since his maiden victory in March I have him backed at 28/1 & 25/1. Ominous that Aidan said very early after his Leopardstown win Ryan will find it very hard to get off Stone Age in the Derby and that this trail stacks up very well against the others. Another pointer is that Stone Age is Aidan’s only 3 year old colt entered in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
Summary I have the greatest respect for Sir Michael Stoute’s runner Desert Crown clearly he looked a very smart colt when winning the Dante Stakes at York. I also think Donnacha’s horse Piz Badile will run a big race. As previously stated I could not put you off any of the Ballydoyle candidates for the Derby but my firm pick is STONE AGE.
DERBY SELECTIONS –
Neil – Seventeen runners from twelve different trainers for me means that this possibly one of the most wide open Derbies in a long time.
In recent years big priced horses have been involved at the business end and with that in mind and as someone who likes to find one that could go well at double digits I have one for you in Masekela from Andrew Balding’s yard. Priced at around 50s at the moment of typing he had some fair juvenile form and finished 2021 when fourth in the Royal Lodge at Newmarket behind Royal Patronage who was second in the Dante and the 2000 Guineas winner Coroebus. He began the season at Newmarket when second behind Eydon in the Feilden Stakes over 1m 1f but shapes like he wants further and I can see him getting involved and outrunning his odds under Jason Watson providing he handles the undulations of Epsom which will be a question asked of all of this field.
Charlie –
I put up Nations Pride as my flat horse to follow and said in my writeup that he could be a big player in the summer flat calendar, he didn’t have an entry for the Derby at time of writing, he has since been supplemented for 75k and i couldn’t be happier that he gets to take his chance, hasn’t put a foot wrong since finishing 2nd on debut at Yarmouth on the 15th September last year. He has won his last 4 starts by a combined total of 18 lengths, he definitely looks like he will stay the trip and has plenty of gears to get him out of trouble. Biggest dangers are current favourite Desert Crown who has won both starts and Stone Age who has won his last 2 starts.
Chris –
I’ve backed Stone Age ante-post and I’m not going to abandon him now on the big day. He showed smart form last term, being placed at the top level in France last Autumn before he landed his maiden first time out this season and followed up with an impressive win in the Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown last time, keeping on strongly over 10f there which gives more than enough hope todays trip will be within range. By Galileo, I have few doubts about stamina today and he could go very well here.
Jamie –
Selection: Stone Age
Aidan O’Brien is going for a record breaking 41st British Classic winner and I believe that Stone Age has a big chance today of giving him that record. Stone Age improved throughout his 2yo campaign last year without actually winning a race. But he was still runner up at G1 level on his final race at 2. Stone Age looks to have made the typical Galileo improvement from 2 to 3 judging by what we have seen so far in 2022. He eventually shed his maiden tag easily at Navan and then powered away easily in the Derrinstown Derby trial last time out. The way he won that race screamed ‘Derby horse’ and there should be more to come. The rumour from the Ballydoyle camp is that this is their number 1 for the Derby and one thing seems certain, Stone Age will be doing his best work inside the final furlong. He’s a big strong staying type. Everything is set for a bold bid under Ryan Moore.
Rich –
Walk of Stars – Dubawi X Sound Reflection The Godolphin colt has James Doyle on board, fresh from winning his double Guineas & he rode Walk of Stars to victory at Newbury over 1m 2f in a Class 3 Handicap on April 17th by a neck from Hafit. His last run was at Lingfield in the 1m 3f 133yd Listed Derby Trial on May 7th, when a 3/4’s of a length 2nd of 4 to United Nations. Has a nice draw & hopefully the extra 1f will bring out improvement in the colt who has 2 wins from 4 career starts – EACH WAY
Jamie –
2:35 – Princess Elizabeth Stakes (G3) Selection: Potapova
Potapova has always had a big reputation since winning that Ripon Novice and this Group 3 should be well within her compass. Since that Ripon success last May things haven’t worked out for Potapova. She was given a chance at the top level in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot but she found it all too much (heavy ground didn’t help either). I think connections will have been pleased by her first start of 2022 where she was just held off by Roman Mist at Kempton, who she faces again today. That run should suit her up nicely for today and the market suggests there is confidence behind Potapova. Big chance if she gets the breaks.
Bergerac may have run poorly at York last time out but I am willing to forgive one bad run. It was his previous run at Newmarket that gives his supporters hope for this 6f contest today. He flew home late on in a Class 2 Handicap at the Craven meeting, just being denied by a nose. A fast run 6f with a stiff finish is ideal for Bergerac. If he could find that Newmarket form again and handle the track then at 9/1 Bergerac does make each way appeal. Hopefully not too much rain falls as all his best form is on good or better.
Neil –
4.20 Most Important 3-Year-Old Race Today Juvenile Hurdle, Class 4, 2m, 3yo, Hexham
Perfect timing by the executives at Hexham to have this race just ten minutes before the worlds most famous flat race but like Epsom this place is also a tough course to negotiate as it does go uphill and downdale a lot and you need a horse to be well balanced and to settle.
The first 3yo hurdle race is never as strong as the Triumph and I very much doubt any of these will be at Prestbury Park come next March but I do like one who could prove hard to beat if handling the jumps ok.
National Charter is rated 62 on the flat and since her last flat run for William Haggas she has switched to the Chris Grant yard, third at Wetherby in April over 1m 6f she seemed to stay on pretty well and should be in the shake of things if taking to hurdling, this isn’t a strong race but I can see her running a nice race.
Rich –
3.45 – DASH – Handicap – Class 2 – 3yo+ – 5f….
I have 2 for you in the 5f DASH today,,, Mid Winter – Burwaa X Cayman Fox 6yo Mare. A ready winner on May 28th over 5f at Catterick in a Class 3 Handicap by 1 & 1/4 lengths, which was a 3rd run of the season. She finished a 3 & 1/4 length 3rd on May 15th in a Ripon 6f Class 3 Handicap having finished 4th of 12 in a Beverley Class 3 5f Handicap on season return. Her form over 5f since her wind operation in the winter of 2020/21 – 2/4/3/1/7/2/8/4/1 Good draw in stall 13 & is happy to be up with pace or go from the front –EACH WAY Tees Spirit – Swiss Spirit X Mistress Twister 4yo gelding. The gelding has won his last 2 starts since returning to action after 229 days away from the track. Both wins were going from the front, when taking a Beverley 5f Class 5 Handicap by 4 & 1/4 lengths on April 21st & last time out at Nottingham in a Class 4 5f Handicap, beating Four Adaay by 1 length, who has won since… EACH WAY
That is everything from this ram jammed edition from us at AOLR, a huge thanks to the lads for their hard work & to you guys for visiting, we really appreciate it…
Good Luck – AOLR Team Pictures – Lester via Epsom RC Twitter account
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Oaks day at Epsom, part of the Queens’ Platinum Jubilee celebrations & we have a fascinating card to get our teeth in to, with the Group 1 Oaks the highlight for 3yo Fillies’ Only….
The lads have worked hard to bring you this blog so let’s see what we have today…
Charlie –
Epsom 3.45 Kazoo Handicap (Class 2) over 1m 2f 17y
Selection – Moktasaab– 4 year old Gelding out of Lope De Vega and Dash To The Front. Has had 10 career starts winning 3 times, the wins have came at Yarmouth, Newbury and Goodwood. First win came at Yarmouth on the 11th August last year when beating Dark Company by 4 lengths over 1m 2f and 23y. Next win was at Newbury on the 16th April this year when beating Frontispiece by 1 and 1/2 lengths over 1m 2f. Won again on most recent start at Goodwood on the 30th April when beating Caradoc by 1 and 1/4 lengths over 1m 1f and 197y. Currently available at 11/4 at time of writing, has best form going into this race and if showing same attitude here should notch up another victory today, biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Soto Sizzler who has 3 wins and has finished 2nd twice from 5 visits to Epsom.
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Chris –
5.10 Poundland Surrey Stakes
Dawn Of Liberation produced a clear best when landing a conditions event over a mile at Goodwood last time out, moving away in clear style. Had earlier landed a 7f novice win at Doncaster so the drop back in trip should pose no serious problems. Likely to take all the beating in another small field here today with conditions to suit.
Jamie –
3:10 – Cazoo Coronation Cup (G1) Selection: Pyledriver
I fancy the chances of Pyledriver to retain his Coronation Cup crown today. William Muir’s stable star looks a solid bet and at 2/1 he does make some appeal. Pyledriver has been on his travels quite a bit since winning this race last year and has performed with credit, including a close fourth in the Sheema Classic out in Dubai. The form of that race looks very solid as the 6th home Alenquer has boosted it by winning the Tattersalls Gold Cup a few weeks ago in Ireland. We know Pyledriver handles Epsom and is coming here in good form. Frankie on board is another plus. He holds excellent claims today and he will give us a good run for our money. Manobo is the main danger for the Appleby / Buick combination.
Oaks Selections :
Rich – Thoughts of June (Galileo X Discreet Marq 3yo grey filly) 4 runs with 3 places & 1 win from the 4 starts. 2 runs in 2021, starting in a 1m Cork Maiden finishing a 2 & 1/2 length runner up on September 8th before heading to Leoaprdstown on October 16th in another 1m Maiden, finishing a 2 length 5th of 15 to Villanova Queen ( 4 winners from that race). Off for 172 days before making seasonal return, when stepping up in trip to 1m 2f in a Leopardstown Maiden, again finishing 2nd, this time to Above The Curve by 2 & 3/4 lengths ( First 3 have all won since). Her last run was 30 days ago at Chester, in the 1m 3f 75yd Listed Cheshire Oaks at Chester, when overturning the form with Above The Curve, winning by a neck, with the RU winning the Group 1 Prix Saint-Alary – EACH WAY
Chris
With The Moonlight did not set the world alight as a 2yo last term, with just a pair of Novice wins before finishing 3rd at Listed level on her final start. It’s clear she has wintered well with an easy success in the Pretty Polly Stakes over 10f last time out, running through the line well. The form of that contest in questionable, however she looks like she will relish this test and could provide another classic winner for her sire Frankel today. She looks a great each-way bet at the current double-figure price.
Jamie –
Selection: With The Moonlight (E/W)
11 go to post for this year’s Epsom Oaks. At 14/1 I can’t ignore With The Moonlight as an each way selection. The daughter of Frankel was an impressive winner of the Pretty Polly Stakes at Newmarket last month, leading over 3f out and continuing to power on until the line to win by 5 lengths. That success over 1m 2f gives hope to her supporters that she will stay the extra two furlongs today. With the Appleby/Buick combination enjoying a great season so far there is worse each way bets this weekend to be placed.
Charlie – Nashwa – 3 year old filly out of Frankel and Princess Loulou. Has had 3 career starts winning twice and placing 3rd in the other. Began racing career with a 3rd place finish at Newmarket on the 30th October last year when beaten 5 and 1/2 lengths by Golden Lyra over 7f. Gained 1st victory on next start at Haydock on the 23rd April this year when beating Wonderful Times by 6 and 1/2 lengths over 7f 212y. Won again on most recent start at Newbury on the 14th May when beating Stay Alert by 1 and 3/4 lengths over 1m 2f. Hollie Doyle has been onboard for all 3 runs and retains her mount for todays race, if showing same attitude today could gain another victory, biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of Stablemate Emily Upjohn who is out of Sea The Stars and Hidden Brief who has yet to taste defeat in her 3 career starts.
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Rich –
5.45 – Derby Festival Handicap – Class 2 – 3yo+ – 7f 3yds… Top Secret – Anjaal X Just Devine 5yo gelding. Changed yards at the end of 2020 & has runs 8 times for the new yard, 7 in 2021, winning & placing twice. He won an Ascot Class 2 7f Handicap in September 2021, when beating Documenting by 1/2 a length & his last run was in October, also at Ascot, where he finished 11th of 17 & was put away for the winter. He had a nice break of 225 days off the track before returning on May 14th in a Newbury 1m Class 2 Handicap, when 2Lb out of handicap, leading close to the finish & headed on the post, finishing 2nd by a nose. Mark has gone up 2 from 86 to 88 – EACH WAY
That’s all for today folks, thanks for popping by & your continued support
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