[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June

Say No Now

hi ken,hope your horse runs well for you mate but you really need to give a reason why you picked your horse and maybe you should take your time and read the rules --:ok

[Royal Ascot PL Comp Weds 17/06/09 - Selections here]

Re: Royal Ascot PL Comp Weds 17/06/09 - Selections here 2-30 ascot-donativum-50pts-win 4-55-ascot-dont tell mary-50pts-win

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 5.30 SANDRINGHAM HANDICAP (CLASS 1) (LISTED RACE) (3-Y-O) (0-110) - 1m A tough finale and certainly not an easy getting out stakes for punters. Photographic has looked a useful sort so far for the Barry Hills yard, making a winning debut at Kempton before making a winning start in handicaps with a game victory in a 1m contest at Newmarket, travelling strongly and quickening well to score by half a length from the fast finishing Shampagne. Didn't seem to appreciate the step back to 7f when sharing second behind Brief Encounter in a good handicap at York and should be better suited by the step back up to this trip, especially back against her own sex. The Michael Bell trained Moneycantbuymelove comes here off the back of a convincing win in the 10f Listed Height Of Fashion Stakes at Goodwood, travelling well and coming with a strong challenge down the outside to overhaul Fallen In Love close home and score by 1½ lengths. She had shown good form at a similar level prior to that, but the big concern here would be the step back down in trip given she was doing all her best work at the finish last time; yard won this with Red Evie in 2006. Moonlife was a smart juvenile last season, placing in the Group 3 Oh So Sharp Stakes at Newmarket behind Souter's Sister, but couldn't cope with the step up to Group 2 company when a one paced fifth in the Rockfel Stakes next time. Some questioned her attitude when carrying her head high under pressure and looking less than willing when second behind Nashmiah, though also fair to say she had an interrupted passage also; should have come on for that run, though, and rates a live contender, though attitude perhaps a slight concern. Golden Stream looked a nice filly in the making when getting off the mark at the first time of asking in a 7f fillies' maiden at Newmarket (July) last August, travelling well and also showing a good turn of foot to score by a length from Uvinza. However, she disappointed when upped in class significantly when fifth in the Group 1 Fillies' Mile here next time, weakening tamely after holding a prominent position turning in; didn't offer much encouragement on her comeback run last month in the Listed Pretty Polly Stakes at Newmarket, finishing sixth and again finding little for pressure, though was eased when beaten. She is now tried in headgear and plenty to prove now. Damaniyat Girl looks a filly open to plenty of progress, the daughter of Elusive Quality unfortunate not to make a winning debut when racing on the 'wrong side' of the track in a 6f maiden at Haydock; atoned for that when easily accounting for her rivals in a 6f maiden at Kempton next time, only having to be shaken up to assert with ease. Interesting that William Haggas deemed her good enough to start off in the Nell Gwyn this season, and she found only the smart Fantasia too good for her that day, running well in second and finishing nicely clear of the rest. She was slightly disappointing against older horses last time at Lingfield at Listed level, though went out pretty fast and left herself little to finish with; should stay this extra furlong, and clearly a useful filly on her day, but a mark of 100 does look steep, and that could be enough to stop her from winning here. Lahan's half sister Wajaha was well-touted prior to her debut run in a 7f maiden at Newmarket last October, but ran green and finished fourth behind Ra Junior; coasted home at her leisure next time in a far easier race at Great Leighs next time over 1m. She made an impressive winning reappearance back on polytrack, this time in a 1m handicap at Kempton when quickening really well to put the race to bed in a matter of strides and was eased down close home. No surprise to see her promptly upped into pattern company, going for the Nell Gwyn Stakes at Newmarket, a race her half sister, Lahan, won before winning the 1000 Guineas; however, she came nowhere near to emulating her, weakening once the tempo increased, although also fair to say it was the first time she had been asked to race proper. She may well still be learning, and this represents a big drop in class, and, off fair looking mark of 93 and on ideal ground, she should go well here. Of some of the others, Rose Diamond looks to build on her third placing here last time behind Apple Charlotte, Say No Now is entlted to get closer to Moneycantbuymelove, whom she finished third behind over 10f at Goodwood, not looking to stay; Good Again returns here after finishing fouth in a valuable handicap at Haydock last time behind Desert Creek having won a fillies and mares handicap over course and distance the time before, the Brian Meehan trained Arabian Mirage looks to build on her fourth placing in the Nell Gwyn in April, though hasn't been seen since, but the step up to a mle should suit her, while the Hughie Morrison trained King's Starlet isn't one to give up on just yet, the daughter of King's Best building on the promise shown at two to land a 1m at Kempton on her reappearance, displaying an impressive turn of foot to win going away from Flora Trevelyan. The rain that fell prior to the Oaks trial she ran in at Newbury last time wouldn't have suited and, now back over a mile on better ground, could go well at a price despite running from out of the handicap. VERDICT: An open race with plenty of possibilities. Photographic looks sure to be suited by this return to a mile, looking a useful sort when winning a 1m handicap at Newmarket last month. Moneycantbuymelove looked to improve for the step up to 10f last time and, although she shouldn't have many problems with the step back to 1m, does have to prove she is as effective over this shorter trip. However, WAJAHA looks worth another chance to build on her impressive handicap win on the all weather in April at Kempton when clearing away to score with any amount in hand. She was possibly asked too much too soon in the Nell Gwyn last time, and should still be improving after just four outings. Others to consider include Say No Now, third behind Moneycantbuymelove after appearing not to stay the 10f trip at Goodwood, King's Starlet, another who should be suited by the step back in trip as well as the quicker ground, and Damamiyat Girl, though her mark of 100 looks fairly excessive for what she has actually achieved though is open to improvement still. Selection: Wajaha Alternative: Photographic

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 4.55 QUEEN MARY STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 2) (2-Y-O FILLIES) - 5f 1. CAPERCAILLIE (ch f Elusive Quality - Silent Eskimo) Form: 11 Trainer: Mark Johnston Owner: Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Jockey: Frankie Dettori She is a very speedy filly who showed plenty of pace on her debut in a 5f maiden at Musselburgh, though had to hold off the late challenge of Exgray, and did so, scoring by a neck. She returned to Musselburgh last time for a decent 5f conditions event, a race which last year's subsequent Norfolk Stakes winner South Central won, and she put in a more polished performance, showing good pace up the stands rail, eventually leading inside the final furlong and staying on powerfully to score from easy maiden winner Reignier. She is very highly regarded by connections and has done very little wrong so far, this stiff 5f should also suit her very well, but not the best drawn and may already want 6f now. 2. CEEDWELL (ch f Exceed And Excel - Muja Farewell) Form: 11 Trainer: Bryan Smart Owner: Prime Equestrian Jockey: Tom Eaves This filly is very highly regarded by connections, trainer Bryan Smart remarking this could be the best filly he has ever trainer. That bold statement came after she made a winning debut in a 5f maiden at Carlisle, needing to be rousted along early to keep tabs, but she was soon back on and even keel, travelling well down the centre of the track; soon emerged out of the pack and quickened up well in the style of a smart sort, running out a comfortable enough winner from Mr Smithson. Her latest outing came in a novices' event at Catterick, for which she had to carry a penalty, and was again slow to warm to the task, needing to be cajoled along early to keep up with the pace, but once again was soon travelling easy at the halfway stage, taking it up passing the two furlong marker before showing an impressive turn of foot to scamper clear by 5 lengths. She clearly has a lot to do on the formbook, but she has looked in need of the experience so far, so it's testament to her natural ability that she remains unbeaten with two ultimately impressive victories to her name. The doubt with her here is that a sluggish start to a race would leave her on the back foot from the off as they are unlikely to be hanging around here, but it is a stiff test this 5f course here and that will suit her as she is sure to be staying on strongly when others are fading. Needs to improve on what she has achieved so far, but surely going to and a major player here from a good draw. 3. CHANTILLY CREME (b f Johannesburg - Creme De La Creme) Form: 1 Trainer: Robert Gibson Owner: L B Robbins Jockey: Stephane Pasquier French raider who made a winning start to her career in a 5f contest at Longchamp last month, scoring by a length from previous winners Quintalina and Irish Cat, so clearly a useful sort, but form hard to equate and this looks a lot tougher. 4. CROWN (b f Royal Applause - Bolivia) Form: 5711 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: Julie Wood Jockey: Richard Hughes She was slightly disappointing on her first two outings at Bath and Newmarket (favourite) but came good when landing a 5f maiden at Windsor from impressive subsequent winner Tawwaab, who drifted under pressure allowing her to score by a length, though it would have been closer had he stayed on a true line. However, she confirmed she was progressive when showing good speed to see of Red Avalanche in a 5f novices' event at Windsor last time, coming from last to stay on strongly and win going away. However, this demands much more and, while she has looked progressive, looks nothing out of the ordinary and others look open to more improvement than her. 5. DON'T TELL MARY (b f Starcraft - Only In Dreams) Form: 11 Trainer: Tom Dascombe Owner: Keith Trowbridge Jockey: Richard Kingscote Very highly spoken of by connections and didn't disappoint when making a winning debut in just an ordinary maiden at Bath when scoring by 3¼ lengths from Toga Tiger, who had the benefit of experience. However, she stepped up on that when being held up and coming with a strong challenge to dispute the lead before quickening away in impressive fashion to come 4 lengths clear from The Hermitage. It was a striking performance, but the form already looks pretty modest and probably needs more to emulate 2003 winner Attraction who took a similar route to her. 6. GRAND ZAFEEN (ch f Zafeen - Majestic Desert) Form: 12 Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: Jaber Abdullah Jockey: Tony Culhane First foal of a smart and precocious mare for the yard and this filly, like her dam, made a winning debut in a 5f maiden at Pontefract when quickening well to score by half a length from Anjomarba. However, she was mugged close home last time when looking the likely winner of a four runner 5f conditions event at Goodwood, but Desert Auction snuck up the rail to stick his neck out and just get up close home. Obviously that needs improving on, but yard have won this three times in the past 11 years and it would be folly to dismiss her on the back of a defeat in a muddling event last time, though probably playing for places at best. 7. HIGH SPICE (b f Songandaprayer - Erin Moor) Form: 16 Trainer: Robert Cowell Owner: Khalifa Dasmal Jockey: Eddie Ahern It was probably more a case that she was the most forward of the field when making a winning debut against the colts in a 5f maiden at Newmarket on 1000 Guineas day when making all to score in good style from subsequent winners Radiohead and Izaaj. However, there was denying she was unlucky when missing the kick in the Listed National Stakes at Sandown, finding all the trouble going when attempting to get closer, making some headway before inevitably weakening. She was very unlucky not finish closer, but that was a weak contest anyway and needs to improve again. 8. ITWASONLYAKISS (b f Exceed And Excel - Reem One) Form: 52 Trainer: John Hills Owner: Gary and Linnet Woodward Jockey: Michael Hills She clearly had learnt plenty from her debut run at Windsor when just failing to reel back Above Limits in a 5f maiden at Sandown last time, coming with a sustained challenge throughout the final furlong but had the time to go past, and the fact she didn't suggests she won't be anyway near good enough to win this. 9. JEALOUS AGAIN (b f Trippi - Chi Sa) Form: 12 Trainer: Wesley Ward Owner: R Abrams, R Brewer, M Dutko, W Ward Jockey: John Velazquez She made a highly impressive winning debut when showing devastating early speed to land a Keenland 5f event in the US by 11 lengths: same tactics didn't come off when headed close home in a Grade 3 at Churchill Downs next time. Hard to know what she has achieved in comparison to her rivals, but obvious has plenty of early speed and the Windsor Castle showed that front runners are always sitting ducks, but likely this filly will be, just as she was last time back in the US; entitled to respect of the back of the yard's success on the opening day but doubtful she'll last home over this stiff 5f. 10. LADY OF THE DESERT (ch f Rahy - Queen's Logic) Form: 1 Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Jaber Abdullah Jockey: Martin Dwyer Certainly bred for the job, top class dam won this in 2001 before going on to be unbeaten throughout her career, and her daughter of Rahy looked a very nice sort when making a winning debut in just an average 5f fillies' maiden at Leicester last month, starting slowly but soon up with the pace before being brought with a challenge before quickening clear to score by 1¾ lengths, this despite edging left and running very green. The form of that race isn't working out too well, but she did it well, suggesting she was some way above her rivals that day, and it would be hugely disappointing if she could make a bold bid to emulate her dam's victory in this very race. Her potent turn of foot will take her far in the game. 11. LADY ROYAL OAK (b f Exceed And Excel - Enclave) Form: 3 Trainer: Marco Botti Owner: Gute Frendue Partnership Jockey: Ryan Moore Well-bred filly who made a promising start when finishing third behind White Daffodil in a 5f fillies' maiden at Nottingham earlier this month, attempting to make all and only being reeled in close home, the front two's experience the telling factor. She is likely to have learnt plenty, but this a massive hike in class, and though rookie trainer's decision to make such a dramatic step up in class is respected, especially with Ryan Moore booked, this looks a big ask. 12. MISHEER (b f Oasis Dream - All For Laura) Form: 11 Trainer: Clive Brittain Owner: Saeed Manana Jockey: Neil Callan Another well-bred filly who looked a smart prospect when showing plenty of speed to score by 8 lengths from Tiradito on her debut in a 5f maiden at Yarmouth; followed up with a game display in a 5f fillies' Listed contest at York, responding really well for pressure to prevail by a head from Aaslmeer (a winner since) but form of that race, as ever, pretty weak and notable that Don't Tell Mary had a few of them even further behind in the Hilary Needler, but trainer confident she is a better filly on faster ground and she did show a willing attitude. However, likely to be found wanting in the class department if this is an up to standard renewal and probably needs to improve again here. 13. ROSE BLOSSOM (b f Pastoral Pursuits - Lamarita) Form: 1 Trainer: Richard Fahey Owner: Highclere Thoroughbred Racing (Blossom) Jockey: Paul Hanagan This filly's trainer was very confident prior to her debut in a 5f auction maiden at Hamilton last month, showing plenty of speed to break the track record when scoring by 4½ lengths from Dazeen. Her trainer said afterwards that she was probably the best filly he has ever had, and she has since been bought privately by Highclere Thoroughbred, who will be hoping for better luck than they enjoyed with 2007 purchase Regal Step. She is clearly a very nice filly in the making, and the track record she broke had stood for more than three decades, so clearly well above average, but price looks pretty low, mostly because of the bullish comments from her trainer, the form of her debut win looking nothing special. However, whatever her price and the form of those in behind her on debut, she's obviously a very quick filly who could be very good; is entitled to plenty of respect. VERDICT: This year's renewal looks up to scratch with plenty of this held in the highest regard, none more so than Hilary Needler winner Don't Tell Mary, but the form of her latest win doesn't look anything out of the ordinary, meaning Misheer is another who needs to improve again, given she beat a few of the same fillies when winning a Listed Race at York. Rose Blossom is held in the highest regard by connections and broke the 37 year track record when blitzing her rivals at Hamilton, but this looks between Ceedwell and LADY OF THE DESERT (NAP), the marginal vote going to the latter who looked a very nice sort when overcoming greenness and a slow start to win going away in a Leicester maiden last month. Her dam won this in 2001 and her yard were successful in 2002 with Romantic Liason. Ceedwell is a very nice sort, but does have a tendency to take her time to warm up, something she will be made to pay for here, though it's doubtful anything will be finishing as strong as her in the closing stages. The Mark Johnston trained Capercaillie is another who should go well after winning a decent conditions event against colts at Musselburgh last time. Grand Zafeen looks a likely long shot if forgiven for her narrow defeat in a small field event at Goodwood last time. Selection: Lady Of The Desert Alternative: Ceedwell

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 4.55 QUEEN MARY STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 2) (2-Y-O FILLIES) - 5f 1. CAPERCAILLIE (ch f Elusive Quality - Silent Eskimo) Form: 11 Trainer: Mark Johnston Owner: Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Jockey: Frankie Dettori She is a very speedy filly who showed plenty of pace on her debut in a 5f maiden at Musselburgh, though had to hold off the late challenge of Exgray, and did so, scoring by a neck. She returned to Musselburgh last time for a decent 5f conditions event, a race which last year's subsequent Norfolk Stakes winner South Central won, and she put in a more polished performance, showing good pace up the stands rail, eventually leading inside the final furlong and staying on powerfully to score from easy maiden winner Reignier. She is very highly regarded by connections and has done very little wrong so far, this stiff 5f should also suit her very well, but not the best drawn and may already want 6f now. 2. CEEDWELL (ch f Exceed And Excel - Muja Farewell) Form: 11 Trainer: Bryan Smart Owner: Prime Equestrian Jockey: Tom Eaves This filly is very highly regarded by connections, trainer Bryan Smart remarking this could be the best filly he has ever trainer. That bold statement came after she made a winning debut in a 5f maiden at Carlisle, needing to be rousted along early to keep tabs, but she was soon back on and even keel, travelling well down the centre of the track; soon emerged out of the pack and quickened up well in the style of a smart sort, running out a comfortable enough winner from Mr Smithson. Her latest outing came in a novices' event at Catterick, for which she had to carry a penalty, and was again slow to warm to the task, needing to be cajoled along early to keep up with the pace, but once again was soon travelling easy at the halfway stage, taking it up passing the two furlong marker before showing an impressive turn of foot to scamper clear by 5 lengths. She clearly has a lot to do on the formbook, but she has looked in need of the experience so far, so it's testament to her natural ability that she remains unbeaten with two ultimately impressive victories to her name. The doubt with her here is that a sluggish start to a race would leave her on the back foot from the off as they are unlikely to be hanging around here, but it is a stiff test this 5f course here and that will suit her as she is sure to be staying on strongly when others are fading. Needs to improve on what she has achieved so far, but surely going to and a major player here from a good draw. 3. CHANTILLY CREME (b f Johannesburg - Creme De La Creme) Form: 1 Trainer: Robert Gibson Owner: L B Robbins Jockey: Stephane Pasquier French raider who made a winning start to her career in a 5f contest at Longchamp last month, scoring by a length from previous winners Quintalina and Irish Cat, so clearly a useful sort, but form hard to equate and this looks a lot tougher. 4. CROWN (b f Royal Applause - Bolivia) Form: 5711 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: Julie Wood Jockey: Richard Hughes She was slightly disappointing on her first two outings at Bath and Newmarket (favourite) but came good when landing a 5f maiden at Windsor from impressive subsequent winner Tawwaab, who drifted under pressure allowing her to score by a length, though it would have been closer had he stayed on a true line. However, she confirmed she was progressive when showing good speed to see of Red Avalanche in a 5f novices' event at Windsor last time, coming from last to stay on strongly and win going away. However, this demands much more and, while she has looked progressive, looks nothing out of the ordinary and others look open to more improvement than her. 5. DON'T TELL MARY (b f Starcraft - Only In Dreams) Form: 11 Trainer: Tom Dascombe Owner: Keith Trowbridge Jockey: Richard Kingscote Very highly spoken of by connections and didn't disappoint when making a winning debut in just an ordinary maiden at Bath when scoring by 3¼ lengths from Toga Tiger, who had the benefit of experience. However, she stepped up on that when being held up and coming with a strong challenge to dispute the lead before quickening away in impressive fashion to come 4 lengths clear from The Hermitage. It was a striking performance, but the form already looks pretty modest and probably needs more to emulate 2003 winner Attraction who took a similar route to her. 6. GRAND ZAFEEN (ch f Zafeen - Majestic Desert) Form: 12 Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: Jaber Abdullah Jockey: Tony Culhane First foal of a smart and precocious mare for the yard and this filly, like her dam, made a winning debut in a 5f maiden at Pontefract when quickening well to score by half a length from Anjomarba. However, she was mugged close home last time when looking the likely winner of a four runner 5f conditions event at Goodwood, but Desert Auction snuck up the rail to stick his neck out and just get up close home. Obviously that needs improving on, but yard have won this three times in the past 11 years and it would be folly to dismiss her on the back of a defeat in a muddling event last time, though probably playing for places at best. 7. HIGH SPICE (b f Songandaprayer - Erin Moor) Form: 16 Trainer: Robert Cowell Owner: Khalifa Dasmal Jockey: Eddie Ahern It was probably more a case that she was the most forward of the field when making a winning debut against the colts in a 5f maiden at Newmarket on 1000 Guineas day when making all to score in good style from subsequent winners Radiohead and Izaaj. However, there was denying she was unlucky when missing the kick in the Listed National Stakes at Sandown, finding all the trouble going when attempting to get closer, making some headway before inevitably weakening. She was very unlucky not finish closer, but that was a weak contest anyway and needs to improve again. 8. ITWASONLYAKISS (b f Exceed And Excel - Reem One) Form: 52 Trainer: John Hills Owner: Gary and Linnet Woodward Jockey: Michael Hills She clearly had learnt plenty from her debut run at Windsor when just failing to reel back Above Limits in a 5f maiden at Sandown last time, coming with a sustained challenge throughout the final furlong but had the time to go past, and the fact she didn't suggests she won't be anyway near good enough to win this. 9. JEALOUS AGAIN (b f Trippi - Chi Sa) Form: 12 Trainer: Wesley Ward Owner: R Abrams, R Brewer, M Dutko, W Ward Jockey: John Velazquez She made a highly impressive winning debut when showing devastating early speed to land a Keenland 5f event in the US by 11 lengths: same tactics didn't come off when headed close home in a Grade 3 at Churchill Downs next time. Hard to know what she has achieved in comparison to her rivals, but obvious has plenty of early speed and the Windsor Castle showed that front runners are always sitting ducks, but likely this filly will be, just as she was last time back in the US; entitled to respect of the back of the yard's success on the opening day but doubtful she'll last home over this stiff 5f. 10. LADY OF THE DESERT (ch f Rahy - Queen's Logic) Form: 1 Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Jaber Abdullah Jockey: Martin Dwyer Certainly bred for the job, top class dam won this in 2001 before going on to be unbeaten throughout her career, and her daughter of Rahy looked a very nice sort when making a winning debut in just an average 5f fillies' maiden at Leicester last month, starting slowly but soon up with the pace before being brought with a challenge before quickening clear to score by 1¾ lengths, this despite edging left and running very green. The form of that race isn't working out too well, but she did it well, suggesting she was some way above her rivals that day, and it would be hugely disappointing if she could make a bold bid to emulate her dam's victory in this very race. Her potent turn of foot will take her far in the game. 11. LADY ROYAL OAK (b f Exceed And Excel - Enclave) Form: 3 Trainer: Marco Botti Owner: Gute Frendue Partnership Jockey: Ryan Moore Well-bred filly who made a promising start when finishing third behind White Daffodil in a 5f fillies' maiden at Nottingham earlier this month, attempting to make all and only being reeled in close home, the front two's experience the telling factor. She is likely to have learnt plenty, but this a massive hike in class, and though rookie trainer's decision to make such a dramatic step up in class is respected, especially with Ryan Moore booked, this looks a big ask. 12. MISHEER (b f Oasis Dream - All For Laura) Form: 11 Trainer: Clive Brittain Owner: Saeed Manana Jockey: Neil Callan Another well-bred filly who looked a smart prospect when showing plenty of speed to score by 8 lengths from Tiradito on her debut in a 5f maiden at Yarmouth; followed up with a game display in a 5f fillies' Listed contest at York, responding really well for pressure to prevail by a head from Aaslmeer (a winner since) but form of that race, as ever, pretty weak and notable that Don't Tell Mary had a few of them even further behind in the Hilary Needler, but trainer confident she is a better filly on faster ground and she did show a willing attitude. However, likely to be found wanting in the class department if this is an up to standard renewal and probably needs to improve again here. 13. ROSE BLOSSOM (b f Pastoral Pursuits - Lamarita) Form: 1 Trainer: Richard Fahey Owner: Highclere Thoroughbred Racing (Blossom) Jockey: Paul Hanagan This filly's trainer was very confident prior to her debut in a 5f auction maiden at Hamilton last month, showing plenty of speed to break the track record when scoring by 4½ lengths from Dazeen. Her trainer said afterwards that she was probably the best filly he has ever had, and she has since been bought privately by Highclere Thoroughbred, who will be hoping for better luck than they enjoyed with 2007 purchase Regal Step. She is clearly a very nice filly in the making, and the track record she broke had stood for more than three decades, so clearly well above average, but price looks pretty low, mostly because of the bullish comments from her trainer, the form of her debut win looking nothing special. However, whatever her price and the form of those in behind her on debut, she's obviously a very quick filly who could be very good; is entitled to plenty of respect. VERDICT: This year's renewal looks up to scratch with plenty of this held in the highest regard, none more so than Hilary Needler winner Don't Tell Mary, but the form of her latest win doesn't look anything out of the ordinary, meaning Misheer is another who needs to improve again, given she beat a few of the same fillies when winning a Listed Race at York. Rose Blossom is held in the highest regard by connections and broke the 37 year track record when blitzing her rivals at Hamilton, but this looks between Ceedwell and LADY OF THE DESERT (NAP), the marginal vote going to the latter who looked a very nice sort when overcoming greenness and a slow start to win going away in a Leicester maiden last month. Her dam won this in 2001 and her yard were successful in 2002 with Romantic Liason. Ceedwell is a very nice sort, but does have a tendency to take her time to warm up, something she will be made to pay for here, though it's doubtful anything will be finishing as strong as her in the closing stages. The Mark Johnston trained Capercaillie is another who should go well after winning a decent conditions event against colts at Musselburgh last time. Grand Zafeen looks a likely long shot if forgiven for her narrow defeat in a small field event at Goodwood last time. Selection: Lady Of The Desert Alternative: Ceedwell

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 09:05 Post subject:
4.20 ROYAL HUNT CUP (CLASS 2) (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (3-Y-O+) - 1m Always a tricky race to sort out. However, that hasn't stopped the bookmakers going as short as 9/2 about the Jeremy Noseda trained Forgotten Voice, though the lightly raced son of Danehill Dancer has looked an exciting prospect to date, currently unbeaten on all three of his outings. He had made a promising start to his career when making a winning debut in a 7f maiden on the polytrack at Lingfield when picking up in the style of a very good horse to score by half a length from Formation. That was in November 2007, but he wasn't seen again until April of this year when strongly backed for his reappearance run which came in a competitive 1m handicap at Kempton; he was waited with at the back and found plenty of trouble in running, but came through to challenge strongly inside the final furlong, again displaying a powerful turn of foot under hand driving to score by a short head from Tourist. He was definitely value for a lot further given the problems he endured in running and also the long absence he was returning from. He made maintained his 100% record last time out back at Kempton in a 1m handicap there last month, again held up at the back before coming through with a strong challenge, though was go easily and only had to be shaken up to draw clear with ease inside the final 150 yards, scoring by 3 lengths from Multakka. There is absolutely no doubting this colt could be much better than a handicapper, but it must also be pointed out that he has been beating horses who are not up to this standard, and his style of running is fraught with danger; has the inside draw, usually handy, but sure to be dropped in and brought with a late run once more. He has gone up 11lbs for his last win and, although he could well be as good as his Sussex Stakes entry suggests, this is a wide open race in which he could find plenty of trouble against significantly better horses than he's been running against to date. This is also his turf debut. Cadre hasn't seen much of the course for a four-year old, but the John Gosden trained gelding is another who isn't short on ability, as displayed last time when seeing off a handful of rivals in a 1m handicap at Yarmouth last month, travelling strongly throughout and only having to be be nudged clear to score easily by 3¼ lengths from Tartan Gigha, winner of a valuable handicap at Epsom since. He had shown promise on his sole outing at two in an above average Newmarket maiden, but hadn't been seen again for over a year when landing the odds as he pleased in a 7f maiden at Kempton; he reportedly went lame when being eased down off the home turn when tailed off on his reapperance in a 1m handicap at Lingfield in April. The reason why he is current second favourite is because of the eyecatching nature of his run when a staying on sixth of 13 behind Dunn'o in a 1m handicap at Sandown last time, being held on to for far too long before getting going all too late. He is clearly capable of better, remains unexposed and comes from a yard who have shown a real penchant for these big handicaps in recent times, including this very race with Royal Oath in 2007, reasonably drawn and is sure to run a nice race here. His one downfall is the fact he does tend to get buzzed up beforehand and that could take the sting out of him during the race. The William Haggas trained Roaring Forte was favourite for the Lincoln before injury ruled him out, and the son of Cape Cross looks another who is open to improvement. He endured a frustrating time of it on the turf last season, usually finding one or two too good for him, but ended his campaign on a high note lost September when making all to win a 1m handicap at Great Leighs by 6 lengths, being committed plenty early enough but finding plenty. His reappearance came back on turf in a 7f handicap at Newmarket, many questioning his ability back on grass considering he was still a maiden on it; dispelled those fears with a classy front running performance once more, travelling really well and quickening away to score by 2½ lengths from the much vaunted Tryst. He does now have to prove his effectiveness in a field of this size, and that he can also adapt tactically, as it is highly unlikely he'll be able to dictate matters here from stall 20 with a couple of pacesetters drawn low. He is up 6lbs for that, and though he promises to go on again, he is high drawn and the fact all his improvement has come when being allowed to dictate suggests he may struggle here. The Luca Cumani trained Axiom is sure to be popular given his trainer's past record in big handicaps, though he notably trained red hot favourite to finish only fifth in this last season. However, his representative here looks to be improving all the time, finishing a running on second behind Dunn'o at Sandown last time; had won a couple of mile handicaps at Doncaster and Leicester, albeit on a surface with a bit of give in it, something that seems to suit him. Stall 18 hardly a brilliant either, so easy to have doubts. The Chris Dwyer trained Mia's Boy has never fulfilled his true potential (rated classic material as a juvenile when with Peter Chapple-Hyam) and it seems he has lost the winning thread after winning a small field handicap at York last May when outspeeding Lang Shining to score. However, he has run some creditable races in defeat, most notably when fourth behind Expresso Star in the Lincoln, leading home the stands side group, keeping on well towards the finish. He has run a couple of encouraging races at York the last twice, putting in a typically late flourish to grab third behind Yamal in the race he had won 12 months ago, then last time ran second behind Regal Parade in a 7f, again staying on well, albeit under pressure. He clearly likes a straight mile, particularly when the ground is riding good; turn of foot could get him into a place late on and well drawn in stall four. Although quirky, Docofthebay is certainly a talented individual, as he showed when going agonizingly close in this last season, being collared by Mr Aviator in the closing stages; didn't really show a lot thereafter, nor has he again this campaign, though did run a decent enough race when seventh in behind Scintillo in the Lingfield Winter Derby. This race seemed to spark some life into him last year, and connections will be hoping for much of the same off a 6lbs lower mark, though form going into this year's renewal suggests he won't be repeating last season's feat, or bettering it. The Clive Cox trained Dunn'o has improved no end this season for switching to front running tactics at Sandown, winning twice, including last time out when holding on in game fashion from Axiom to prevail by half a length; made the most of a kind draw that day, and has been favourably drawn this around in stall six. However, 5lbs penalty to carry for his latest success and unlikely to be as effective making all in a race of this nature, so probably had his day for the season. Nanton was just a fair 70-80's horse in his time for Paul Cole, but since joining Jim Goldie has done nothing but improve, the Pinnacle of his achievements coming last autumn when chasing home Tazeez in the Cambridgeshire at Newmarket. He had been in very good form last season, placing on several occasions and landing a 10f handicap Doncaster in August, scoring by 3 lengths from Granston; ended last season with a victory on the all weather in a 9f handicap at Wolverhampton, taking advantage of a 7lbs lower mark than his turf rating, though had to share the honours, dead-heating along with the useful Suits Me. He didn't offer a great deal of encouragement on his reappearance in the Spring Mile at Doncaster, but back to his best when finding only the highly progressive Kingdom Of Fife too good for him in the Zetland Gold Cup at Redcar last time. There is a slight suspicion that he is better over slightly further than a mile these days, though, but commands respect with big field handicap experince behind him, and a truly run race would suit him here, Soccerjackpot looked a nice enough sort in 2007 when running with credit in a couple of decent handicaps, but lost his way last season, tailing off in a couple of outings; joined the Clive Cox yard this season and couldn't have made a better start when making a winning debut for them in March, pulling 4 lengths clear of Pegasus Again in a 1m handicap at Kempton. He didn't have to improve to follow up 10 days later off a 6lbs penalty at Wolverhampton over an extended mile when making all and winning as he pleased; is another whose improvement has come on an artificial surface when being allowed to dictate, but he won with such ease on both occasions this season that he may be open to more improvement. The Barry Hills trained Huzzah has experience of these big field handicaps, winning a couple of decent handicaps at Newbury and Chester at the beginning of last season, continuing to run with credit without being quite good enough of his revised mark of 99 behind the likes of Fifteen Love and Virtual. He made a promising reappearance when fifth in the Lincoln on the opening day of the season, racing down the centre of the track throughout, finishing a staying on fifth behind Expresso Star; couldn't sustain his challenge in the Spring Mile at Newbury when last seen, but has been dropped back to a mark of 96, though that is still 3lbs higher than his last winning mark. He would like to see some rain, but does have a favourable draw in stall five, and this son of Acclamation could go well at a price if returning to something like his best. Military Power was a slowly progressive handicap sort for John Hills last season, winning a 10f maiden at Redcar in clear-cut fashion before going on to land a competitive handicap at York over the same trip next time; a good second in a valuable 10f handicap at Glorious Goodwood followed, though ended the season on a low note when down the field in the Cambridgeshire. He joined the Dubai yard of the talented Mubarak BIn Shafya and showed promise in a 1m handicap at Nad Al Sheba, but disappointed during the Carnival, a fifth to Presvis proving to be his best effort; returned to winning ways with a win in 9f handicap at Jebel Ali, seeing off the useful Moonquake. He returned to these shores in the care of Saeed Bin Suroor and ran a fair race when fourth behind Kingdom Of Fife in the Zetland Gold Cup at Redcar last time; quick pace is likely to suit given he needs a tow into a race and he is sure to be tucked in nicely just off the pace, but 10f is probably his optimum trip. Philario has been running well so far this season, finishing sixth on in the Lincoln following a couple of promising enough efforts at a higher level on the all weather; chased home Yamal in a decent 1m handicap at York before coming good to land a 1m handicap at the Curragh from Rock And Roll Kid. He probably found giving weight all round beyond him last time when third behind Tartan Gigha over an extended mile at Epsom last time; clearly in good heart, but been allocated the highest draw and is also running off a near career high mark. The Dandy Nicholls duo of Jack Junior and Royal Power, who finished third in this last year, both have ability but don't look the most straightforward of horses; of the two, the latter looks interesting as, for his profile is all or nothing, he certainly put in one of his best performances off this mark of 95 when third in this, and his latest fourth at Epsom suggested he was about to him form once again, so could be interesting at a price despite a high draw. Much was expected of the William Haggas trained Alfathaa last season, starting off in the 2000 Guineas, in which he finished 13th of 15; ran a fair race in the 10f Listed Hampton Court Stakes at this meeting last season, finishing sixth behind stablemate Collection before running second to Generous Thought in a 1m conditions event. He ended his 2008 campaign with a sixth behind Yaddree in a 9f contest at Newbury; draw not been too kind, mark of 103 looks a tough starting point and this a baptism of fire for his handicap debut. Lovelace, from the Mark Johnston yard, looks interesting here considering some of his best recent form has come in big race and big field handicaps, as proved when winning a valuable contest at Sandown last July. He followed that with a second placing in the Bunbury Cup and then went on to win a German Group 2 and has since raced at pattern level; now back down to a mark of 109, meaning he gives weight all round here, but clearly happy in a big field scenario, and if box 25 isn't a major hindrance, there is no reason why he shouldn't go well here at a decent price. A few others to mention in short, and Kavachi comes here fresh from his win in a 9f handicap at York on Saturday for which he picked up a penalty to qualify him for this race but, ironically, it will probably be enough to stop him following up; Manassas returns to handicap company following another unsuccessful foray into Listed company at Windsor last time; he had won the Spring Mile at Doncaster on his reappearance, though showed nothing like that form in the Spring Cup afterwards and has a bit to prove off a mark of 97, while Quinmaster, a half brother to the 2007 winner of this race Royal Oath finished a well-held second on his latest outing in a Listed contest at Leopardstown, perhaps showing signs that he is on the way back to something like his best. VERDICT: A typically open contest where, since the realignment of the track, it has paid to be drawn as low as possible. Forgotten Voice has looked a smart prospect to date, and fancy entries suggest connections feel this colt is much better than just a handicapper, but on pure form he still has a bit to prove, though is more than likely to prove better than what he's achieved so far. However, he's too short in the context of this race and it could be best to side with CADRE (NB)who should have finished a lot closer than he did last time at Sandown and still has scope for considerable improvement after just five runs and hails from a yard who have a habit of winning these big handicap races recently. Roaring Forte would be of more interest if he hadn't been given such a high draw, though he also has to prove is versatile tactically, his two wins coming from the front in small fields. Mia's Boy looks a standout Each Way bet as he seems to thrive in a big field on a straight course, while Lovelace, although giving weight all round, is another well suited to a big field scenario. One other to mention is last season's third Royal Power, who looked to be returning to form last time at Epsom and could sneak a place again off the same mark he ran off to finish third last year. Selection: Cadre Alternative: Mia's Boy

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 3.45 PRINCE OF WALES'S STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 1) (4-Y-O+) - 1m 2f 1. ESTEJO (5 b h Johan Cryuff - Este) Form: 61510-6 Trainer: R Rhone Owner: Giovanni Martone Jockey: Daniele Porcu German raider who likes to front run and won a Group 1 over 10f in his Italy, where he does most of his racing, last autumn; attempted to make all but beat just fresh air home when last in the Hong Kong Cup subsequently. He was down the field for his reappearance run and looks out of his depth here. 2. NEVER ON SUNDAY (4 gr c Sunday Break - Hexane) Form: 2111-51 Trainer: Jean-Claude Rouget Owner: D-Y Treves Jockey: Christophe Lemaire A smart horse on his day, steadily improving last season over this trip, beating fellow compatriot Russian Cross by 5 lengths in a mile contest at Chantilly before seeing off in game style in a Group 3 over at Longchamp in September, which had followed on from a Listed win at Chantilly. He looked in need of his reappearance run when fifth behind Trincot in the Group 1 Prix d'Harcourt, staying on well from off the pace, doing all his best work at the finish; certainly came on a lot for that, landing the Group 1 Prix d'Ispahan last time, showing a good change of pace to seal matters in good fashion to score by a length from Gris de Gris, though favourite Goldikova ran well below her best. This looks a tougher contest, and quite possible he wants slower ground than he's likely to get here, so probably playing for places at best here. However, his trainer, fresh from success on Sunday in the Prix de Diane (French Oaks) with the potentially top class Stacelita, is in incredible form, and it's hard to ignore anything coming from that yard at present. 3. TARTAN BEARER (4 ch c Spectrum - Highland Gift) Form: 2/1123-1 Trainer: Sir Michael Stoute Owner: Ballymacoll Stud Jockey: Ryan Moore Bred to be smart, being a full brother to King George winner and Derby runner up Golan; built on gritty maiden win at Leicester to rally gamely and out battle Frozen Fire to land the Group 2 Dante Stakes at York, setting him up for a crack at the Derby. He was held up towards the rear at Epsom but made eyecatching headway down the centre of the track to sweep past Casual Conquest into the lead, but, as he did so, New Approach was charging down the inside to take it up and hold on well from the rallying Tartan Bearer. It was a tremendous run considering his relative inexperience, and he was well fancied to atone for his defeat in the Irish version; however, things didn't really go his way, getting a hefty bump from the errant Alessandro Volta, allowing Frozen Fire to sweep by and score, while he finished fourth, though was promoted to third, replacing Alessandro Volta. He was off for the rest of the season after that, making his reappearance in the Group 3 Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown in April, winning in gutsy fashion after being made to work hard, also looking less than 100% wound up. He had to battle to see off Pipedreamer who, for all is a questionable stayer over10f is a smart horse, but showed a great attitude to battle on up the hill that day and score by a head. He is obviously going to have improved for the outing - his work at home said to be very good - and he has superb battling qualities, along with a touch of class, and that's just what you need in a good horse. A false gallop may well find him out, but yard adept at improving their older horses no end and it would something of a surprise if this colt wasn't involved at the business end of the race. 4. TAZEEZ (5 b/br g Silver Hawk - Soiree Russe) Form: 1401-19 Trainer: John Gosden Owner: Hamdan Al Maktoum Jockey: Richard Hills Late maturing sort who looked nothing more than a useful handicapper in the making when landing a 10f handicap at Newmarket (July) last August, but soon proved to be just a bit better than that when pulling clear with Nanton before staying on best in a dual to take the Cambridgeshire Handicap by a length. He isn't up to the class of stablemate Pipedreamer, who took the event the previous year, but made a winning return this season when taking advantage of Twice Over's lack of fitness to land the Group 3 Earl Of Sefton at Newmarket back over the same course and distance he'd won the Cambridgeshire over. However, proved very disappointing last time when finishing last of nine in the Group 1 Prix d'Ispahan over in France at Longchamp, though testing conditions wouldn't have really suited him that day; however, clearly needs to improve plenty here and, although this is hardly a brilliant renewal of this race, it really would be a sad indictment on the rest of the field if he were good enough to prevail. 5. TRINCOT (4 b c Peintre Celebre - Royal Lights) Form: 310-812 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Frankie Dettori He was formerly trained by Phillipe Demercastel as recently as last month. proving a progressive sort; won a Group 3 at Chantilly before running well enough back in seventh behind Vision D'Etat in the French Derby next time. He came good to land the Group 2 Prix Dollar at Longchamp a couple of outings later, staying on well to hold off the strong challenge of Loup Breton, holding off his advances by a head. The son of Peintre Celebre never figured in the Hong Kong Cup, nor in his reappearance run when finishing down the field in the Group 3 Prix Exbury; showed the benefit for the outing when showing an impressive turn of foot to score by 3 lengths from The Bogberry in the Group 2 Prix d'Harcourt. After that taking performance, Godolphin quickly moved in to make him one of their many buys in recent times; ran just a fair race last time on his debut for them, running on into second behind in an Group 2 over in Italy last time, form that leaves him well short here, although on the form of his Prix Dollar victory would look an interesting contender. 6. TWICE OVER (4 b c Observatory - Double Crossed) Form: 3172-33 Trainer: Henry Cecil Owner: Khalid Abdulla Jockey: Tom Queally A much hyped colt over the winter of 2007/08 after two runs and two wins at Newmarket in maiden and Listed company meant he was in demand for both classics, his reappearance run doing nothing to quell the storm of support when gamely seeing off Raven's Pass to land the Craven Stakes at Newmarket. However, he bypassed a tilt at the 2000 Guineas to go down the Derby route (trainer always believed he he needs 10f+ to be at his best) but proved slightly disappointing when a one paced third behind Tartan Bearer and Frozen Fire, though time has shown that there was little disgrace in the reverse he suffered that day. He was dropped back to a mile for the St James's Palace at this meeting 12 months ago, finishing third behind top class pair Henrythenavigator and Raven's Pass, but finally got the win he deserved when staying on well to win the Group 2 Prix Eugene Adam at Maisons-Lafitte from fellow raider City Leader. However, he endured a nightmare passage in a Group 2 at Deauville next time before rounding off his campaign chasing home the top class New Approach in the Champion Stakes at Newmarket, going down by 6 lengths, but was staying on all the way to the line. He ran below par in the Earl Of Sefton on his reappearance, still on the bit approaching the two furlong marker before emptying at an alarming rate to finish third behind Tazeez; stepped up considerably on that when just losing out in a three way dual to the line with the re-opposing Virtual and the since disappointing Alexandros. His trainer has always believed this is his trip, but there is no denying the fact he has had three attempts at this level and has never looked like winning any of them, even last time when officially being beaten just half a length; trip and ground should be fine, but likely to find a couple too good once more. 7. VIRTUAL (4 b c Pivotal - Virtuous) Form: 0111-31 Trainer: John Gosden Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Jockey: Jimmy Fortune This colt has done nothing but improve since disappointing on fast ground in the Britannia Handicap 12 months ago at this meeting, the fast ground to blame for the below par effort. He reappeared a few months later to land a decent 1m handicap at Doncaster, but stepped up on that effort when overcoming all sorts of traffic problems to run on close home and outpoint Lady Deauville to score by a cheeky neck in a 9f Listed Race over at Maisons-Laffitte in testing conditions. His final outing came in the Group 3 Joel Stakes when again relishing the soft conditions run on well from off the pace and see off the useful enough General Elliot by a half length. He made his reappearance in the Sandown Mile in April, finishing third behind subsequent Queen Anne winner Paco Boy, racing prominent for most of the way but seemingly unsuited by the quicker conditions, weakening in the closing stages too. However, he bounced back in great style to land the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury next time, though the testing ground obviously played its part; he made his challenge towards the centre of the track, gamely responding to pressure to see of Alexandros by a nose. It was a tremendously brave performance, but, it is becoming increasingly clear that he is in need of considerable ease in the ground to be seen at his best, something he looks unlikely to get here; step up to 10f also a worry and will do well to make it back-to-back wins at the top level, though trainer seemed pretty confident of his ability to cope with this step in trip after the Lockinge. 8. VISION D''ETAT (4 b c Chichicastenango - Uberaba) Form: 1115-31 Trainer: Eric Libaud Owner: Jacques Detre Jockey: Olivier Peslier He was unbeaten in four starts when winning the French Derby last June, taking up with just over a furlong to run and holding off the late challenge of Famous Name to score by a neck. He followed that up with victory in the Prix Niel, a recognized Arc trial, which he won by a nose from Ideal World, responding well for pressure to lead right on the line; fair to say he probably wasn't at full tilt that day after a mid-season break and with other targets in mind. His next outing came in the big race itself - the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe; he was held up in behind the pace and looked to be coming with a good challenge at one point before being slightly hampered and faded thereafter to finish fifth behind the brilliant Zarkava. He didn't exactly show a huge amount of encouragement on his reappearance when finishing third behind Trincot in the Group 2 Prix d'Harcourt, but looked back to something like his best when landing an admittedly sub-standard renewal of the Prix Ganay at Longchamp, overcoming trouble in running and being interfered with by a rival to quicken up smartly and come charging home to score by ¾ length from Loup Breton. He is a very smart colt on his day, and he had plenty more left to give last time, seeming to pull up and idle once hitting the front, but the turn of foot he showed that day marked him down as a top class colt to be reckoned with; this his first taste of action outside of France, but this looks one of the more winnable Prince Of Wales's to be run and it would be hugely disappointing not to see him involved. He, like Tartan Bearer, would probably appreciate a strong gallop here, but it could well be that the French challengers turn of foot will be the deciding factor. VERDICT: A decent enough renewal, though it lacks strength in depth. Virtual comes here in the form of his life after holding on well to win the Lockinge Stakes last time, but worries over the ground and trip means he is likely to be found out here. Tartan Bearer is a warm order to give Sir Michael Stoute his first win in the race since Stagecraft in 1991, and the flashy chestnut certainly found plenty to see off Pipedreamer at Sandown last time. However, he will need a truly run race to be seen at his best, something that could be said of VISION D'ETAT too, and it could well be that last year's French Derby winner possesses a more the more potent turn of foot. Eric Libaud's four-year old had plenty left in the tank when winning the Prix Ganay at Longchamp last time and he looks the one to beat here if the pace is strong; also better value of the two. Twice Over has, based on the evidence so far, looked just shy of top class, though ran a fair race in the Lockinge last time, and his trainer is adamant this trip is what he needs to be seen at his very best. Never On Sunday hails from a yard, that of Jean-Claude Rouget, who can do no wrong at the moment in top events, though his form needs improving upon and he would also like to see plenty of rainfall between now and post time. Selection: Vision D'Etat Alternative: Tartan Bearer

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 3.05 WINDSOR FOREST STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 2) (4-Y-O+ FILLIES & MARES) - 1m 1 LUSH LASHES (4 b f Galileo - Dance For Fun) Form: 21120-3 Trainer: Jim Bolger Owner: Mr.s Jackie Bolger Jockey: Kevin Manning An incredibly tough filly who thrived on a busy schedule last season, starting off in the 1000 Guineas when failing to handle the track before bouncing back in the Musidora Stakes at York, her first attempt over 10f, when winning as she pleased by 5 lengths. She could only manage fifth in the Oaks but then went on to win the Coronation Stakes at this meeting last year back over a 1m, scoring by 3¼ lengths from Infallible; narrowly beaten by Halfway To Heaven in the Nassau Stakes when finding trouble in running before resuming winning ways in the Yorkshire Oaks and then showed great determination to out battle Nahoodh by a neck in the Group 1 Matron Stakes at the Curragh. Had to overcome trouble in running and had too much to do when runner up in the Prix de l'Opera at Longchamp next time, and she was probably over the top when an eased down last in the Hong Kong Vase. The ground conditions went against him when third of 5 behind Casual Conquest in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh last month, but that should have brought her on and, now back against her own sex and on better ground, should be very hard to beat, even with a penalty here. 2. CHANTILLY TIFFANY (5 ch m Pivotal - Gaily Royal) Form: 2121-07 Trainer: Ed Dunlop Owner: Ballygallon Stud Jockey: Richard Hughes She has progressed with racing, as you would expect with a filly who was unraced at two, and won a Listed Race at Dusseldorf and returned to Germany later in the year to land a Group at Baden Baden, scoring by 2 lengths from Rock Of Rachelle. However, the pick of her British form falls well short of what is required - a second behind Royal Confidence in a Listed contest at Doncaster last season her best effort - and needs a lot more to score after two non-descript performances this season. 3. EVAS REQUEST (4 ch f Soviet Star - Ingabelle) Form: 1-37011 Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: Liam Mulryan Jockey: Eddie Creighton She has been highly tried for most of her career but has acquitted herself well in the main, a confirmed Listed performer bordering Group 3 class. Mainly held in Group races at three but has improved this season, acquitting herself with credit in Dubai this winter in Group company before returning to these shores when disappointing in the Lincoln Handicap. However, she has done nothing but improve since, winning a Listed Race at Goodwood in clear-cut fashion from Lady Francesca, showing an impressive turn of foot to burst clear. She then improved again last time when taking the Group 3 Princess Elizabeth Stakes at Epsom on Derby day, fighting on tenaciously, though was undoubtedly helped by the runner up hanging badly down the camber when coming with a strong challenge. She is progressing, but this another step up and more required now. 4. HEAVEN SENT (6 ch m Pivotal - Heavenly Ray) Form: 12345-1 Trainer: Sir Michael Stoute Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Jockey: Ryan Moore She has served connections so well over the years and been one of those to benefit from the new race structuring for more fillies and mares races to be introduced at a higher level. Made steady progress from the handicap ranks, finishing second in the Wolferton Stakes in 2007 before chasing home Cesare back here next time on her first run in pattern company. She made strong progress last year, kicking off with a couple of wins in a Listed Race at Kempton, then a Group 3 at Newmarket, seeing off Harvest Queen as she pleased; sent off favourite for this next time out, but found Sabana Perdida far too good for her, finishing three quarters of a length back in second. Didn't enjoy a successful second half to the season at the top level thereafter, though should have finished closer than fourth in the Nassau Stakes when staying on late to finish fourth. Made a successful reappearance in the Dahlia Stakes at Newmarket last month, winning it for the second successive year, though was made to work harder than ideal, eventually stretching nicely clear to win in commanding fashion. You cannot knock her consistency, but she does seem to come up short on these big occasions, readily put in her place in this last season, and the suspicion is Lush Lashes is a top class filly, so will need to make the very most of the 5lbs she gets from her. 5. PROVISO (b f Dansili - Binche) Form: 3317-15 Trainer: Andre Fabre Owner: Khalid Abdulla Jockey: Stephane Pasquier Looked a top class filly in the making at two, winning the Group 3 Prix Calvados, but the bubble was somewhat burst when running into Listen in the Fillies' Mile here next time out when a red hot favourite. She proved to be very disappointing last season in the main, flopping on her comeback run before showing shoots of a revival with a fourth behind the brilliant Zarkava in the Prix de Diane (French Oaks) but her only success of 2008 came in a modest Listed contest at Bordeaux le Buscat. She started this season with victory in a mile race at Longchamp on her second outing this season, but again firmly put into her place when venturing into Group 1 company in the Prix Ganay, finishing a well-held fifth behind Never On Sunday. This will prove to be a bit easier than that contest, also racing back against her own sex, but been a disappointing sort overall; quicker ground also a concern and probably a minor place prospect and nothing more. 6. ROSALEEN (4 b f Cadeaux Genereux - Dark Rosaleen) Form: 85180-1 Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Exors Of The Late Tom Wilson Jockey: Martin Dwyer Has operated at a fairly useful level throughout her career, winning a Listed contest at Sandown last July, following on from a promising effort at this meeting the time before when a running on fifth in the Sandringham Hanidcap the run before. However, with a penalty thereafter, not showing a great deal on either of her starts at Sandown or Ascot; started this season with a comfortable enough victory in a very weak Listed contest at Pontefract. All she could do was win that day, but a career best by some way is needed here. 7. ROYAL CONFIDENCE (4 b f Royal Applause - Never A Doubt) Form: 0510-46 Trainer: Barry Hills Owner: D M James Jockey: Michael Hills She was a useful juvenile, winning twice and placing third in the Group 2 Rockfel Stakes at Newmarket at the end of her two-year old career; never really went on after finishing third on her reappearance the following season, when third behind Stimulation in the Free Handicap. However, came right back to form when landing a 7f Listed Race for fillies and mares at Doncaster, getting up close home to edge out Chantilly Tiffany. However, limitations at this level exposed in both the Challenge Stakes last season and the John Of Gaunt Stakes at Haydock last time, finishing sixth behind Main Aim; stayed on that day, but far from certain to actually stay this trip (seventh in the 1000 Guineas in her only attempt at the trip), and doubtful a massive amount of improvement is on its way. 8. SHE'S OUR MARK (5 ch m Ishiguru - Markskeepingfaith) Form:723-712 Trainer: Patrick Flynn Owner: B & M Syndicate Jockey: Jamie Spencer Tough, consistent sort who quickly progressed from handcaps to a Group 3 success within a few months, lifting the Group 3 Desmond Stakes at Leopardstown; came up short when she has been stepped up to pattern level in the past, though has remained a model of consistency at Listed level. She gained her first victory in almost 18 months when outpointing Chinese White in a 9f Listed Race at Gowran Park; got going too late when chasing home Deauville Vision latest, but work to do to trouble some of these. Trip and ground unlikely to prove advantageous for her either. 9. SPACIOUS (4 b f Nayef - Palatial) Form: 24144-3 Trainer: James Fanshawe Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Jockey: Johnny Murtagh This daughter of Nayef looked a nice sort when supplementing her impressive debut win with a game success in the Group 3 May Hill Stakes at Doncaster at two. She continued her progress when finding only Natagora too good for her in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket, but was most disappointing at this meeting last year when well fancied to resume winning ways in the Coronation Stakes, finishing a lacklustre fourth behind Lush Lashes. It has been a slippery slope ever since for her, looking less than keen when scraping home from Moyenne Corniche in a conditions contest at Doncaster, but then ran a really good race when a staying on fourth behind Halfway To Heaven in the Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes back at Newmarket. However, she couldn't go on from that, and has since been beaten twice more, the latest disappointment coming in the Princess Elizabeth Stakes at Epsom when firmly put in her place by Eva's Request, finishing third, beaten 5 lengths; hard to see any reason why she should reverse the placings, even counting the fact she was giving away fitness (goes well fresh), and a place looks her very best hope. VERDICT: Not much strength in depth here. Heaven Sent, second in this to Sabana Perdida 12 months ago, is sure to run her usual, honest race, but that is unlikely to be good enough here if LUSH LUSHES returns to her summer form from last season. Jim Bolger's tough-as-teak mare took a busy schedule in her stride last season, bagging three Group 1 contests, so a 5lbs penalty in a weak Group 2 is unlikely to prove a barrier to success. What would put a spanner in the works if it were to rain heavily overnight, all her best form coming on a sound surface. Alternatives other than the two aforementioned look few and far between, so perhaps this will provide Proviso with the perfect chance to nick some black type in what has been an ultimately disappointing career that promised so much at two. Saying that, Eva's Request is in the form of her life and, although she requires a career best to do so, a place may not be beyond her in a weak looking contest outside of the front two in the market. Selection: Lush Lashes Alternative: Heaven Sent

[Royal Ascot Weds 17th June]

Re: Royal Ascot Weds 17th June 2.30 JERSEY STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 3) (3-Y-O) - 7f 1. ASHRAM (ch c Indian Haven - Tara's Girl) Form: 1216-02 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Frankie Dettori Smart colt for John Hills last year, overcoming greenness to make a winning debut before being denied a clear run in a conditions event at Kempton on his next outing; put that behind him to go on and score in the Group 3 Somerville Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket next time, showing a good turn of foot to come with a well-timed challenge from behind, eventually scoring by 4½ lengths from Control Zone. He was forced to race wide when a never to land a blow in the Dewhurst, finishing an ever staying on sixth behind Intense Focus; debut run for current connections not so good, when beating just a couple home in the 2000 Guineas, weakening tamely after a short lived effort. However, the drop back to Listed company over 1m at Sandown in the Heron Stakes last time seemed to have the desired effect, showing a lot more and finding only the highly progressive Border Patrol too good for him; actually lead going into the final furlong before succumbing to the winner's finishing kick. This step back to 7f beneficial and the first time headgear should also help straighten out his tendency to hang left under pressure; Group 3 penalty a worry, but otherwise a solid contender here, albeit yard form still patchy, especially with their three-year olds. 2. ARANEL (ch c Hawk Wing - Antinnaz) Form: 151 Trainer: Mauricio Delcher Sanchez Owner: Cuadra Miranda Jockey: Christophe Lemaire Spanish raider, who is a dual winner in his native country over 1m, though at a significantly lower level; interesting that trainer, who was responsible for last year's King's Stand winner Equiano believes this colt is good enough to attempt another upset, but likely to find this too hot, as he did when fifth in a Listed Race over in France the other month. 3. AWINNERSGAME (b c Kyllachy - Polish Descent) Form: 116-235 Trainer: Jeremy Noseda Owner: Saeed Suhail Jockey: Johnny Murtagh Fairly early sort last season who won a decent maiden at York before running a creditable sixth behind Art Connoisseur in the Coventry Stakes at this meeting next time; went on to scoop a massive pot when winning a valuable sales race at Doncaster from Damien, showing a good turn of foot to lead close home. Came up short in the Goffs Million at the Curragh next time, finishing sixth behind Soul City, but resumed this season with a promising effort behind Ouqba in the Free Handicap at the Newmarket Craven meeting, finishing second and followed that with a third placing behind Border Patrol in a 6f Listed contest at Newbury, never able to land a blow back in third. He again was unable to get himself involved last time, again in a 6f Listed Race, this time at Haydock, when finishing 5th of seven behind Danehill Destiny; hardly surprising to see a visor being applied and, if it has a positive effect, a place isn't beyond him, though would liked to have seen more rain that actually fell. 4. DEPOSER (b c Khelyef - Bezant) Form: 47-9243 Trainer: John Best Owner: Kent Bloodstock Jockey: Robert Winston Still only a maiden win to his name but has run creditably at a decent level, including when fourth behind stablemate Square Eddie in a Grade 1 over in the US at Keenleand last autumn. He made his seasonal reappearance in the Kentucky Derby Trial Stakes at Kempton when racing keen, coming wide off the band and running into trouble before making modest late gains to finish ninth behind Mafaaz; put in his place next time by Ocean's Minstrel in a 7f Listed Race at Lingfield. He ran well when attempting to make all in the Dee Stakes at Chester back on turf, his attempt ove 10f, finishing a close up fourth behind South Easter, and employed similar tactics in the Group 3 Diomed Stakes at Epsom against the older horses, remaining in front until well inside the final furlong when fading and finishing third behind Mac Love. This demands plenty more, won't find it easy to dictate matters here and is basically exposed. 5. DONATIVUM (gr/ro g Cadeaux Genereux - Miss Universe) Form: 27111-4 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Ted Durcan Improved no end for a gelding operation, returning last autumn following three promising runs earlier in the season to win a Yarmouth maiden before going on to land the valuable Tattersalls Timeform Million at Newmarket from subsequent Racing Post Trophy winner Crowded House. He himself then went on to land a Group 1 prize when coming from off the pace under a well judged Frankie Dettori ride to land the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf from Westphalia. Subsequently transferred to current yard and, in keeping with the common theme of the yard's reappearing three-year olds, ran as though in need of the run, finishing fourth in the Listed King Charles II Stakes at Newmarket last month behind Alyarf, pulling hard and not being asked any serious questions when it was clear his winning chance had gone. He should strip a lot fitter for that outing, the run also should have taken the freshness out of him; hard to understand why he has been overlooked by stable jockey Dettori and looks a major player here. 6. GALLAGHER (ch c Bahamian Bounty - Roo) Form: 612224- Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Brimacombe, McNally, Rickman & Sangster Jockey: Martin Dwyer Highly rated colt who got off the mark in good style on his second run at Chepstow, but ran up a sequence of second placings thereafter, firstly when slightly unlucky when chasing home Prolific in the Richmond Stakes at Glorious Goodwood. He put in a career best performance when running on well to take second behind top class juvenile Bushranger in the Prix Morny over in France at Deauville, but didn't improve upon that when again coming off second best back down in grade in the Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury, finding Lord Shanakill too strong at the finish despite displaying a fine turn of foot before his effort flattened out close home. His final outing of the season came in the Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket and seemed to take a backward step, finishing a well-held fourth behind Bushranger, who he had run quite close in the Morny earlier in the season, again proving weak at the finish. He hasn't been seen so far this season and was slightly disappointing last season, beginning to look exposed with questions surrounding his ability to see out his races; this extra furlong not sure to suit either as he shapes like a sprinter and that likely to ensure that he struggles here. 7. INFIRAAD (ch c Haafhd - Razzle) Form: 3-11 Trainer: Barry Hills Owner: Hamdan Al Maktoum Jockey: Richard Hills This well bred son of the yard's 2000 Guineas winner's first crop made a highly promising start to his career when chasing home smart duo Evasive and Makaamen in a 7f maiden at Newmarket last October. He made a promising return to action following an operation when returning over the same course and distance to land a competitive maiden by 2 lengths from Invincible Heart, showing a good turn of foot to take it up passing the two furlong marker and maintain the advantage. He once again returned to Newmarket over 7f for a competitive handicap on 2000 Guineas day and he showed he was a very classy prospect with a comfortable 6 length win over the useful Firebet, making all and kicking clear inside the final furlong to win in convincing fashion. This is obviously a big step up from handicap company to Group 3 level, but he has looked an above average sort who could well progress into a pattern performer; a similar sort, Aqlaam, won this last season, and it would be a surprise if this son of Haafhd did go very close to making it back-to-back Jersey Stakes for owner and jockey. 8. INSTALMENT (b g Cape Cross - New Assembly) Form: 10672-1 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: The Queen Jockey: Richard Hughes He made the perfect start to his career when winning a decent 6f maiden at Newbury last May, but went out like a light in the Coventry Stakes next time when going off pretty fast early on. His form didn't really improve a great deal thereafter, running down the field in both the Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood and the Solario Stakes at Sandown, staying on both times but lacking the gears to get himself into a challenging position; rounded off his juvenile campaign with a second behind Rileyskeepingfaith in a conditions event at Salisbury. He made a winning return to action last month in a 6f handicap at Salisbury, displaying a willing attitude under pressure to take up the running entering the final furlong and holding on well when challenged. This requires much more, though, and he does look a little more exposed than most in this line up, both his wins also coming over 6f; could well be he's best when caught fresh (been off for 45) so that could work in his favour, but more needed to provide Her Majesty with another royal winner following on from Free Agent's Chesham win last year. 9. JOBE (b c Johannesburg - Bello Cielo) Form: 86-7316 Trainer: Kevin Ryan Owner: J & L Duddy A Bailey B McDonald A Heeney Jockey: Neil Callan He was a useful sprint juvenile last term, winning his maiden impressively at Ayr by 7 lengths the useful Quannah Parker; followed that with a good third placing in the Gimcrack at Newbury next time behind Shaweel, but was outclassed when beating one home in the Middle Park, then shaped as a non-stayer when sixth in the Horris Hill Stakes at Newbury over this trip behind Evasive. He endured a terrible time of it on his reappearance run this season in a 1m Listed contest on the all weather at Lingfield, rearing at the stalls, then losing his footing and persistently hung right throughout, eventually ending up well beaten back in seventh. He then finished third behind Total Gallery in a Listed Race back over 6f at Ascot before a drop down to conditions company saw him gain his second career win in a 6f contest at Hamilton, though hardly won with plenty to spare; put in his place in a Haydock Listed contest last month and highly unlikely to be featuring here now stepping back up a furlong and doubtful there's much scope for improvement. 10. LOCH LINNHE (b g Elusive Quality - Firth Of Lorne) Form: 1 Trainer: John Gosden Owner: H R H Princess Haya Of Jordan Jockey: Jimmy Fortune Nicely bred, but already gelded, though it made absolutely no difference as he simply bolted up on his debut in a 7f maiden at Newmarket last month, making all and coming clear with such ease from a fair yardstick in Seaway (admittedly beaten again since), scoring by 8 lengths and showed a very strong turn of foot. That is, of course, a million miles away from what is required here, but it would be very surprising if there wasn't more improvement left in him yet, also notable that a maiden winner won this last season. His trainer wouldn't bring him here if he didn't truly believe he had a chance and definitely one of the more likelier ones here. 11. NASRI (b c Kyllachy - Triple Sharp) Form: 139-623 Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Saleh Al Homaizi & Imad Al Sagar Jockey: Jamie Spencer He won a maiden and then a nursery at Newbury last summer, beating Definightly on both occasions, before running a big race to finish third behind subsequent Group 1 winners Donativum and Crowded House in the Tattersalls Timeform Million at Newmarket. He disappointed on his final start when pulling hard and offering little in the Horris Hill at Newbury in the testing conditions, which may not have suited him, though connections were happy enough for him encounter them again over the same course and distance in the Greenham Stakes on his comeback run this season, in which he finished sixth. The son of Kyllachy put in a much better performance when chasing home Alyarf in the King Charles II Stakes next time, gaining on him all the way to the line, and didn't appear to handle Epsom's contours last time in a Listed contest, finishing third, the slow start hardly a help either. He seems to appreciate a straight track and a strong pace from which to drop in behind, something he'll probably get here; form doesn't suggest that he is open to as much improvement as some, but certainly not done with yet and he could run a big race here at likely decent odds. 12 OCEANS MINSTREL (b c Pivotal - Minstrel's Dream) Form: 451-101 Trainer: John Ryan Owner: Ocean Trailers Ltd Jockey: Jerry O'Dwyer Front runner; had the run of things when causing a 25/1 shock in a Listed Race at Lingfield in April, beating Deposer by comfortably enough, but totally outclassed in the 2000 Guineas when attempting to make all but being left behind when the tempo increased, though did manage to beat five horses home to his credit. He was again allowed to do his own thing in front last time when winning the Listed Surrey Stakes at Epsom from maiden Ermine And Velvet, staying on well to score. However, highly unlikely he'll be allowed to do his own thing here, and also unlikely to be good enough anyway to repel challengers of this calibre either. 13. OUQBA (b c Red Ransom - Dancing Mirage) Form: 9419-10 Trainer: Barry Hills Owner: Hamdan Al Maktoum Jockey: Tadgh O'Shea He had plenty of racing last year, starting off in May, but could only win at conditions/novices race level, winning a couple of small field events at Newmarket (July) and Salisbury; he did run a creditable fourth behind Westphalia in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster over this trip last September, but a no-show on his final juvenile outing when towards the rear in the Dewhurst. However, he made an impressive return to action with a clear-cut victory in the Free Handicap at the Newmarket Craven meeting, staying on well to pull away close home and score by 2¾ lengths from Awinnersgame. Then, somewhat surprisingly given how much speed he has, was allowed to take his chance in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, but, predictably, didn't see out the trip, though was in trouble long before stamina became an issue. He is better than that, this step back to 7f will suit, but yet to prove himself at this level and vulnerable to improvers, of which there are plenty in opposition. 14. PATRICIAN'S GLORY (b c Proud Citizen - Landholder) Form: 136-2 Trainer: Tom Tate Owner: Mrs Fitri Hay Jockey: Olivier Peslier Highly regarded by previous trainer Jane Chapple-Hyam but was allowed to go off a 25/1 chance when making a winning debut in a 7f maiden at Newbury last July; followed up with a commendable third behind Sri Putra in the Group 3 Solario Stakes next time, running on strongly to snatch a place, though the slow ground wouldn't have favoured him. He pulled far too hard for his own good in the Royal Lodge Stakes here next time, eventually dropping back to finish sixth, though was hampered as he weakened. He started this season in the care of Tom Tate, making a promising start for him when chasing home the Hampton Court Stakes contender Four Winds in a 1m conditions event at Newmarket last time, making good ground to challenge before fading away inside the distance. It's probably a wise move to step him back to this trip, but he does seem to lack that extra gear when he needs it, usually getting going too late and hard to see him being good enough on the balance of his overall form so far. 15. SAUCY BROWN (b c Fasliyev - Danseuse Du Bois) Form: 96-3013 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: The Heffer Syndicate Jockey: Ryan Moore This colt finished fifth in the Windsor Castle here last year following a polished performance on his debut; runner up in a weak Listed contest next time out but limitations exposed thereafter in similar company. He was all out to hold off the challenge of Exceptional Art (an impressive winner since) in a 7f conditions event at Doncaster, but a one paced third in a similar contest when dropped back to 6f at the same venue next time. It is doubtful whether he has much improvement forthcoming and another who is vulnerable to improvers here. 16. TOTAL GALLERY (br c Namid - Diary) Form: 1521-15 Trainer: Stan Moore Owner: Coleman Bloodstock Limited Jockey: Liam Keniry Very highly rated by the yard and not a bad sort in fairness. He won a Beverley maiden as he pleased before acquitting himself well when fifth in the Richmond Stakes at Glorious Goodwood; unlucky in running second behind Magic Cat in a 5f Listed Race next time out. However, atoned for that defeat with a gutsy win in the value Redcar 2-Y-O Trophy, finding plenty to score by a neck from Favourite Girl; continued in a similar vein with hard fought success in a 6f Listed contest at Ascot, holding on by a head from Enderby Spirit. However, disappointed slightly last time when fifth in the Group 2 Temple Stakes behind Look Busy, unable to quicken once the tempo increased; first go at this trip and that is the big concern here. VERDICT: Very little genuine Group form to go on here, most of the contenders all having potential rather than solid form in the book. Gallagher would probably just about be the form pick, but the Brian Meehan representative is making his seasonal reappearance and looked for all the world a sprinter last season. Stablemate Nasri should be suited by the likely strong pace here, but INFIRAAD looked a serious horse when bolting up by 6 lengths in a Newmarket handicap last month, quickening well and staying on powerfully. He, too, will be suited by a strong pace off which to quicken and can continue his progress through to pattern company. Loch Linnhe looked a horse of immense potential when skating up on his debut and is a contender, for all this is a massive step up in grade. Ouqba should be suited by this step back to 7f after bombing out in the 2000 Guineas last time, weakening before stamina could even become an issue. The Godolphin pair of Ashram and Donativum have the form and ability to win, though the form of the yard's three-year olds has been dire to say the least, and the latter has to carry a 4lbs penalty. However, Donativum is entitled to run a big race here after looking in need of his reappearance last month, pulling too hard and being given an easy time of it. Also, he escapes a penalty for his Breeders' Cup Juvenile victory last autumn. Selection: Infiraad Alternative: Donativum

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June yes mate up at 6 my fingers hurt lol

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 5.30 WINDSOR CASTLE STAKES (CLASS 1) (LISTED RACE) (2-Y-O) - 5f It doesn't get any easier for punters with this finale looking as wide open as ever, the race last year won by 66/1 rank outside Flashmans Papers. The Dandy Nicholls trained Mister Manannan is sure to be a popular choice to build on his impressive 7 length victory in a 5f maiden at Pontefract last month. The son of Desert Style showed impressive speed from the gates, making all to run right away with it, showing blistering speed, something that will stand him in good stead and commands plenty of respect. However, the Richard Hannon trained Angel's Pursuit also looked to have a bit of quality about him when making a winning debut in a decent little 5f maiden at Newmarket last month, showing a good turn of foot to quicken well from off the pace to win with plenty in hand from the experienced Mijas Playa, winning in taking fashion despite obvious signs of greenness throughout. His half brother, the high class juvenile Dark Angel, got better with racing and no reason why this son of Pastoral Pursuits won't either. He comes from the in form Richard Hannon yard and looks sure to go well here with improvement assured. Star Rover has been one of the most consistent, tough and honest juvenile performers in the early stages of this season, showing no signs of stopping last time when chasing home Monsieur Chevalier in the Listed National Stakes at Sandown last time, giving him a scare before being readily left behind in the final furlong. Prior to that, he had won a decent conditions event at Chester's May meeting, showing good speed to see off the tough Archers Road; has been beaten the last twice, though, and likely others are starting to catch up with him now and is vulnerable to improvers, of which there are plenty in opposition. Mark Johnston runs a speedy sort in The Hermitage, the daughter of Khelyef building on a promising debut effort to brush aside a handful of rivals to land a 5f maiden at Newmarket, scoring by an easy 3¼ lengths from Social Grace. She put in a solid effort last time from not the best of draws when chasing home impressive winner and leading Queen Mary contender Don't Tell Mary in the Hilary Needler Trophy at Beverley last time, taking up the running before being firmly put in her place by the smart looking winner. However, she has plenty of speed and is likely to last longer than most and hard to think she has peaked already, her pedigree suggesting she should go on progressing for a while yet. Another filly to come out of that Hilary Needler Trophy with credit was the Tim Easterby trained Little Scotland, who was some way behind from her modest draw before flying home inside the final furlong to take fifth and would have been a lot closer had she not have got so far behind early on. The draw played its part as well and her previous effort, when third in a fillies' Listed Race at York, also reads well; she is sure to be finished fast once more, but it could be the case that she is perhaps ready for a step up to 6f now. The James Given trained Itsthursdayalready did well to win last time at Chester as he missed the kick, lost his early position on the inside and then found trouble in running down the home straight, but he soon picked up inside the final furlong to come home with a powerful late surge and he just got up to deny Reddy To Star in the dying strides, scoring by a head. He is value for a good couple of lengths given how much ground he lost at the start and he should run a nice race, though whether he can improve quickly enough to trouble some of these remains to be seen. Red Avalanche has been another of the smarter early season sorts, using his early pace to his advantage by making all to land the spoils in a Nottingham novices' event, but found Crown too good for him at Windsor last time and was again put in his place when third behind Corporal Maddox, a horse he'd comfortably beaten previously, in the 6f Listed Woodcote Stakes at Epsom the other week. Hard to believe there is much more improvement to come and is there to be shot at if going out at a rapid rate here; lacks scope for improvement. The Richard Hannon trained Desert Auction won a Folkestone maiden in good style before being given a well timed ride to score in cheeky style from Grand Zafeen in a small field conditions at Goodwood next time; disappointing, however, when never in contention after being interfered with on the turn for home in the Woodcote Stakes at Epsom last time when well fancied. Although 6f will ultimately be his trip, a strongly run 5f at this track suits those who come from behind, tactics that are likely be employed on this colt and he could pounce late if they do indeed go hard early on, which is likely considering the presence of Red Avalanche and a couple of others. Brocklesby winner Hearts Of Fire hasn't really progressed since showing a decent turn of foot to see off Archers Road at Doncaster, finishing a well held fourth in a conditions event at Newmarket before Archers Road reversed the Brocklesby when going down by a length to him in a conditions event at Beverley last time. He is still open to improvement, but his latest effort does underline his limitations, for his conqueror, who has been soundly beaten since, is well exposed and he is likely to find a few too good for him here. One who could be interesting at a big price is the Roger Teal trained Russian Rock, and the son of Rock Of Gibraltar showed promise on his debut when showing plenty of early dash before fading in the closing stages to finish fifth in a 5f maiden at Goodwood. He seemed to have learned plenty from that next time when contesting a 5f maiden at Salisbury 12 days later, again showing good speed and travelling well before showing a willing attitude and finding plenty for pressure to run out a game winner by half a length from Spanish Acclaim (third a winner since). He could run into a place at a nice price if progressing as expected. VERDICT: A real minefield to end the first day with. Mister Manannan will quite rightly be well fancied following his 7 length demolition job at Pontefract last time, and he is one of the more exciting juveniles to have emerged so far this season. However, Richard Hannon looks to have an excellent chance here of winning here with ANGEL'S PURSUIT who displayed signs of greenness before showing an impressive turn of foot to overhaul a more experienced rival with relative ease in a 5f maiden at Newmarket and is sure to have learnt plenty for that outing. Stablemate Desert Auction is likely to be suited by the likely strong early pace and could come through late to snatch a place, though others to make appeal are Hilary Needler runner up The Hermitage and Salisbury maiden winner Russian Rock, who is likely to be a big price but who showed speed as well as a good attitude under pressure and could go well at a big price. Selection: Angel's Pursuit Alternative: Desert Auction

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 4.55 ASCOT STAKES (CLASS 2) (HANDICAP) (0-95) (4-Y-O+) - 2m 4f This is always a tricky race to solve, the last three winners of this going off at 20/1, 20/1 and 33/1. National Hunt trainers, unsurprisingly, tend to do well in this race, and the obvious starting place would be with the Philip Hobbs trained Liberate, third in this last season when narrowly missing out to Missoula in a tight finish, looking the likely winner until his effort faded close home. He then went on to finish a slightly disappointing seventh in the Cesarewitch Handicap at Newmarket on his only other start on the flat last season; he didn't the best of campaigns over the jumps, a remote fourth behind Pettifour in a Grade 2 hurdle at Wetherby his best effort. However, he comes here fit after finishing a decent sixth in a 3m handicap hurdle at Haydock, remaining prominent until weakening before the last; that should have put him spot on for this and, off only a 1lb higher mark than season, is entitled to go well here under Jamie Spencer. Kayf Aramis comes here off the back of a shock defeat at Goodwood last time when sent off an odds favourite but coming home fifth behind Sweetheart; he had hacked up prior to that in a 2m 2f handicap at York the week before, kicking clear by a good 20 lengths before being eased down in the closing stages, passing the line 13 lengths clear of his nearest rival. He was a frustrating sort for John Spearing earlier in his career, always running a good race without winning but his big day came for his current yard when staying on powerfully to land the Pertemps Final Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, showing stamina is his forte. He has gone up a stone for that clear cut success at York a couple of starts ago, but he surely has to hold claims if in that mood again, this marathon distance sure to suit, and he is one of the likelier contenders in a tricky race. Irish raider Sesenta is sure to prove a popular order for the Willie Mullins/Johnny Murtagh combination, and the mare was an impressive winner last time out on the flat when staying on gamely to see of Speed Ticket and score by a head in a 12f handicap at the Curragh. She is a useful sort over hurdles, chasing home top class stablemate Quevega in a decent hurdle race at Punchestown before running a respectable race when eighth in the Grade 3 County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. However, while stamina is her main asset the big thing against her here is the ground as she likes it on the testing side; clearly not to be underestimated following her latest win but likely the quicker surface will prove her undoing. A regular in these big races is the Mick Channon trained Som Tala, but the son of Fantastic Light has yet to win since 2006 when winning the 2m 2f Phil Bull Trophy at Pontefract. He clearly loves a marathon trip, finishing third in this back in 2007 and a close up fifth in this last season; has also gone close in the Chester Cup, finishing second in last year's race, but disappointing in it when tenth on his only start so far this season, though did get hampered inside the final furlong. There is no doubting his stamina and should have come on for the outing and, although likely to find a few too good once again, has place claims. The Jane Chapple-Hyam trained Judgethemoment is progressing well this season with two victories to his name, the most recent coming here in a 2m handicap when coming from off the pace to stay on strongly and get up close home at the expense of Swingkeel by a neck, looking as though he was in need of a thorough test of stamina. That win had followed on from an easy victory on his reappearance at Kempton when running out a convincing 1¼ length winner from Alnwick, able to ease down close home; he ran a good race when sixth behind Patkai in the Queens Vase at this meeting last season, staying on late in the day there, so clearly needs a real test of stamina and a major player off just a 3lbs higher mark for his last win. Mark Johnston won this in 2004 with Double Obesession, and the Middleham handler saddles the unexposed Keenes Day here, a lightly raced son of Daylami who has done most of his winning on the all weather to date. He won a couple of staying handicaps in the space of five days at Southwell and Wolverhampton last October, winning with any amount in hand on both occasions; ran as though something amiss when tailed off in a better contest at Wolverhampton next time out but back to winning ways on his reappearance in a 2m handicap at Lingfield in April. He had to be niggled and given a reminder early on but the further he went the better he looked, gradually coming clear inside the final furlong or so to win as he pleased by 2½ lengths from Wine 'n Dine. For all that he is progressive, he looks a lazy sort who needed waking up on the first circuit last time before responding to his rider's urgings, but won't be afforded the luxury of being able to get back into contention here once losing his position; he has also yet to prove as effective on turf as he is on an artifical surface and this by far his toughest task to date, though trip no problem. The Gary Moore trained Woolfall Treasure proved a disappointing sort over hurdles this winter after a highly promising start over obstacles; won a couple of minor contests early on in the National Hunt season but never involved when down the field in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival and then could only manage a distant third in a handicap hurdle here next time. However, a return to this sphere sparked life into him, scoring by 2¼ lengths from Cool Judgement in a 14f handicap at Salisbury last month, staying on strongly inside the final furlong to assert and score well. This looks a lot tougher, especially off a 5lbs higher mark, and this is as far as he has gone, but may well improve for it if anything as he seemed to relish the test of stamina last time. Last year's winner Missoula comes here in poor form and has achieved little since taking this 12 months ago, though as a result comes here 2lbs lower than when winning it. She did manage to win a novices' hurdle at Fontwell over this trip in December but had been disappointing on the flat after her win in this, never able to get competitive in the Northumberland Plate or in a couple of handicaps thereafter, including the Cesarewitch. She has the advantage of having proven herself over this unique trip and also is 2lbs lower than when winning this in tenacious fashion last season, but recent form raises doubt as to whether she'll be good enough to take advantage of her falling mark. Nicky Henderson relies upon Galient here, a formerly smart stayer on the flat for Michael Jarvis. He looked a promising sort a couple of seasons ago, going off a well fancied 6/1 chance for a Chester Cup, but seemed to regress at four; rejuvenated by current yard and won a couple of novice hurdles before finishing fourth at the Punchestown Festival. His only run on the flat last season came in this race when a well enduring a nightmare run, being hampered when still in with a shout, though was hardly an unlucky loser; ran a couple of decent races over hurdles in a generally modest hurdles campaign this winter, and he would only have an outside chance of a place here, running off the same mark of 87 as he did 12 months ago. Clopf is sometimes a frustrating sort over hurdles who doesn't find as much as looks likely, but for all that he is an incredibly talented individual who is a Grade 1 winner over hurdles. He made a winning return to action in this sphere off a mark of 77 when staying on well to see off Dafarabad by ¾ length in a 2m handicap at Leopardstown; this race could prove ideal for him as his jockey will be able to bury him away and is likely to travel strongly in behind horses. It is just a question of what he finds when finally asked to go and win his race, but his latest effort suggested he does have battling qualities; he should have no problems with this extra half mile, or the 7lbs rise, so entitled to go very well here. VERDICT: A nightmare for punters to solve in recent running's, this season's renewal looking no different. Kayf Aramis is sure to have his supporters following his 13 length demolition job at York, but does have to put the disappointment of Goodwood last time behind him, though guaranteed to stay. Last year's third Liberate is another entitled to go well, though the 2008 winner Missoula has been somewhat in the doldrums since winning this 12 months ago. Judgethemoment has been in fine form this season, with connections switching to hold up tactics and they seem to have worked a treat, but this race could prove ideal for the top class hurdler CLOPF to make his name in this sphere. The Andrew Heffernan trained charge can sometimes flatter to deceive, not finding as much as looks likely during a race, but his jockey, Wayne Lordan, should be able to find plenty of cover for him here, and he looked to have turned over a new leaf last time at Leopardstown, showing good battling qualities to land a 2m handicap. A mark of 84 still looks generous given his talent and he can score here at the expense of the Jane Chapple-Hyam trained colt. Som Tala is sure to run his usual honest race without quite being good enough, while the Mark Johnston trained Keenes Day looks open to further improvement and could run well if transferring his progression on the all weather onto grass. Selection: Clopf Alternative: Judgethemoment

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 4.20 COVENTRY STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 2) (2-Y-O) - 6f The Coventry is always a race to look forward with plenty of potential stars in the line up, the race being won in recent years by the likes of Fasliyev, Landseer, Red Clubs and Henrythenavigator. All the talk around this year's renewal has been all about the Richard Hannon trained Canford Cliffs, a very highly rated son of Tagula who got off the mark in impressive fashion when breezing to clear to score by 7 lengths on his debut in a 6f maiden at Newbury last month. He had been earning rave reviews down at Herridge beforehand after a couple of impressive pieces of work and was sent off an 11/8 chance; broke well and raced handy towards the stands side, coming through to dispute the running hard on the bridle approaching the final furlong before showing immediate acceleration to draw clear effortlessly and score by a resounding 7 lengths from the promising Rakaan (time very good). It was a very special debut performance, the ease with which he travelled and quicken particularly notable; this, of course, demands a lot more - the quicker ground an unknown - but his debut run suggested he was well above average and he is sure to go very well here, though the value in his price has long since evaporated. The Paul Cole trained No Hubris, too, looked a very smart sort in the making when getting off the mark at the first time of asking in a traditionally informative 6f maiden at York's Dante meeting last month. He had been the subject of good home reports himself and was well backed prior to his debut run; he was bounced out and knew his job right from the off, making all and showing impressive speed before quickening on once the pack started to close, forging clear to score by 2¼ lengths from subsequent winner Flying Statesman. It always a good maiden that he won and the fact he should improve again means he commands the utmost respect here. The Barry Hills trained Red Jazz can probably Lay claim to being one of the nicer early season juveniles around, the US bred son of Johannesburg seeming to know his job very well on debut when quickening clear in impressive to score by 5 lengths in a 5f maiden at Windsor. He was less convincing here on his next start in a conditions event when taking a while to hit top gear before coming home strongly in the closing stages to overhaul the tough early season juvenile Archers Road, getting up to score by half a length. Whilst it probably proved he is in need of this trip it didn't suggest he was good enough to win this and takes on some potentially smart, unexposed sorts here. Aidan O'Brien intended to come here with the highly rated Steinbeck, but instead relies upon Air Chief Marshal, a son of Danehill Dancer who has shaped up well enough to date. Following a second placing on his maiden behind Gold Bubbles over 6f at Naas he followed up with a very easy win in a 7f maiden at Gowran Park, drawing 8 lengths clear of his nearest rival in testing conditions; was then, rather oddly, dropped back to 5f for his next outing at the Curragh where he found plenty of trouble in running and came home a staying on third behind Wrong Answer. He is clearly a smart horse on his day, and the yard's record in this race speaks for itself, but seemed happier over 7f and this is the first time he's encountered ground this fast. The Michael Jarvis trained Alrasm is another who has always been highly regarded and the son of Acclamation was well fancied in the second division of the maiden Canford Cliffs won at Newbury last month. However, he was unable to make a winning debut, travelling strongly for most of the way but unable to find that decisive turn of foot to seal matters, hitting the front all too briefly before being headed by Meglio Ancora, who went on to win by half a length. He looked to have benefited for the outing and was sent off a 5/6 favourite for his next outing at Doncaster, scoring in good style from Big Audio, running on strongly throughout the final furlong and breaking the track record in the process. That form does fall short of what is required and there's no doubt he needs to improve, but he should do and it would be surprising if there wasn't more to come from him; ground deemed a bit lively for him last time so wouldn't mind a drop of rain. The Peter Winkworth trained Raine's Cross made an impressive winning debut in a 5f maiden at Bath in April, travelling well and showing good speed before quickening clear of his rivals nicely inside the final furlong to score by 4½ lengths from Avonvalley. It was an impressive debut, but disappointed slightly next time when a well held third behind the top class early season juvenile Monsieur Chevalier at Sandown next time in the Listed National Stakes, coming under pressure from some way out and doing his best work at the finish. He probably needs this trip now, his last run suggesting that, but he still needs to step up on what he has shown so far and probably playing for places at the very best here. Marsh Warbler made a winning debut as recently as last Tuesday when the son of the late Barathea stormed to a 6 length victory in just an ordinary 6f maiden at Redcar; dam was a smart juvenile performer, winning a Listed Race and placing in Group 3 company. It is interesting that Mark Johnston has decided to step him up into exalted company so quickly, indicating he has always thought a lot of this colt, but the bare form of his debut win suggests he has plenty on here and likely to find this a step too far so quickly after his debut win. Richard Hannon has a strong hand in this race as he comes here with another live chance in the shape of Fremont, a Marju half brother to the smart 6-7f performer Asset, once with the yard. He is another who has bit of a home reputation though took a while to show why when taking his time to hit top gear on his debut in a 6f maiden at Goodwood last month; looked as though he would be second when the leader kicked but he responded well for pressure to rally and come back strong to head Rakaan in the closing stages, scoring by a short head. That form needs improving on, but he looked sure to benefit for that run and it was praiseworthy that he showed such a willing attitude despite signs of inexperience to win; he looks a contender for a place if improving again, though he does need to. One horse who does look very interesting is the Richard Fahey trained Flying Statesman, and the son of Johannesburg made a promising start to his career when chasing home No Hubris on his debut at York last month in a 6f maiden, in rear early on before staying on well to take second in the closing stages. He had clearly come on for that run and was sent off a 2/5 chance for his next outing in a 6f maiden at Ayr when making virtually all and easing to a 1½ length victory over the promising Layali Al Andalus, simply showing too much speed and class for his rivals. He obviously has something to find with No Hubris on their debut running at York, but hard to believe he was as forward as that rival was on the day; he looks sure to make up into a smart juvenile this season and he has serious place prospects here for his in form yard. The Jamie Osborne trained Treadwell made an impressive winning debut in a 5f maiden at Sandown earlier this month despite running green, showing a good deal of quality to run out a convincing enough winner. The son of Footstepsinthesand started slowly and took a keen hold but travelled strongly into contention and once asked for his effort approaching the final furlong the response was immediate, quickening clear to score by ¾ length from the more experienced Palisades Park. That form a long way off what is required here, but clear his trainer rates him highly, and it usually pays to follow the yard's juveniles who make winning debuts as it usually means their above average; step up to 6f should suit and should run a nice race, but more is needed for him to get involved. Another colt who made quite an impression on his debut is the Clive Cox trained Xtension, a son of Xaar who was well backed prior to his debut run in a 6f maiden at Goodwood, travelling well just off the pace and quickening up well inside the final furlong when asked, skipping 4 lengths clear of Jehu to win as he liked. This, however, demands much more, the form nothing more than ordinary and, although highly regarded by connections, probably flying too high here. The Joanna Morgan trained Moran Gra looks interesting, the son of Rahy winning well last time out in a 6f maiden at Leopardstown earlier this month, pulling 3 lengths clear of Mark Twain to score in good style; it represented a step forward from a modest showing on his debut over 5f and he should be able to improve again, albeit it is a marked step up in class. VERDICT: This looks a decent renewal of the Coventry Stakes with plenty of promising maiden winners, most with big reputations, taking each other on. The betting has been all about CANFORD CLIFFS (NAP) since his impressive debut win at Newbury when he sailed clear to score by 7 lengths to record a good time despite the softish ground conditions. Richard Hannon does have a modest record in this race but it is doubtful the Herridge handler has had a colt this good with which to go to war with and, although the value in his price has gone, it will take a good one to beat him. There are plenty of smart sorts in opposition, not least the Paul Cole trained No Hubris who created a favourable impression himself when winning a York on his debut as he liked, quickening up some way out to record a comfortable victory. Flying Statesman, who chased home No Hubris on his debut, won impressively at Ayr last time, signalling he is a smart sort and he can run into a place, while other place contenders at decent odds include the other Hannon runner, Fremont, and Irish challenger Moran Gra remains capable of better after winning in good style last time on a quicker surface than he had encountered on his debut. Selection: Canford Cliffs Alternative: Flying Statesman

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 3.45 ST JAMES'S PALACE STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 1) (3-Y-O COLTS) - 1m 1. BORN TO BE KING (b c Kingmambo - Quarter Moon) Form: 821-306 Trainer: Aidan O'Brien Owner: Mrs John Magnier & Mrs Richard Henry Jockey: Colm O'Donoghue Well-bred colt who won a 7f maiden at Gowran Park last season on his third outing, but who has been readily exposed at Group/Listed level so far this season, and hard to see him playing much of a part here. He acted as a pacemaker for Westphalia in the French 2000 Guineas and likely going to fulfil the same duties here for Mastercraftsman. 2. DELEGATOR (b c Dansili - Indian Love Bird) Form: 215-128 Trainer: Brian Meehan Owner: Poilin Good Jockey: Jimmy Fortune This colt looked a smart individual from the outset, showing a good turn of pace to land his maiden at Newmarket (July) following a promising debut there a couple of weeks earlier before running green and being collared after going clear. He then missed a few weeks thereafter with a minor problem and was thrown in at the deep end for his final start of the season in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes here in which he finished a highly creditable fifth in despite looking green when asked for his final effort, though was far behind battle hardened sorts such as Intense Focus, Lord Shanakill, Finjaan and Shaweel. His reappearance run came in the Craven Stakes at Newmarket in April when he simply streaked clear after being held up from off the pace, again displaying an impressive turn of foot to win going away. He was backed into favouritism for the 2000 Guineas the following month, again travelling strongly and showing that impressive turn of foot to take up the running approaching the final furlong, only to find Sea The Stars charging at him and eventually proving too strong for him. Time has shown there was no disgrace in that defeat, the winner since winning the Derby, but it's quite clear he didn't act in the testing conditions when fading throughout the final furlong to finish a well-held seventh behind Masterofthecraftsman, clearly unable to use his dazzling turn of foot to its fullest extent. Now that he is returned to a sounder surface, there has to be every chance he will reverse the form with Mastercraftsman, his turn of foot likely to win out against Mastercraftsman's tenacity; remains a top class prospect and can atone for his 2000 Guineas defeat with victory here. 3. EVASIVE (ch c Elusive Quality - Canda) Form: 311-6 Trainer: Sir Michael Stoute Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Jockey: Ryan Moore A well bred colt who went into his debut run at Kempton last September with a big home reputation to uphold, but, like many debutantes from the yard last season, looked in need of his first run, being pushed along halfway but steadily making up ground inside the final furlong to finish third behind the useful Mafaaz. He certainly stepped up on that when next seen to land a decent looking 7f maiden at Newmarket, pulling clear in the closing stages to score by 2¼ lengths from the useful pair Makaamen and Infiraad. His start came in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes at Newbury, though the testing conditions that day were not expected to suit this son of Elusive Quality, but he never looked in any real danger taking up the running at the halfway and gradually pulling well clear before understandably tying up close home, holding on by half a length from the running on Bonnie Charlie. It was impressive the way he quickened on through testing conditions to put a seal on matters, albeit tiring in the closing stages; his work was said to have been less than impressive throughout the spring and that he has also had a few niggling problems in the lead up to the 2000 Guineas, which forced him to miss his intended trial race. However, he acquitted himself well in the Guineas, surprisingly having plenty use made of him despite fitness and stamina doubts, though looked set to perhaps hold on for a place before being squeezed out and eventually weakening to finish sixth. He should strip a lot fitter for that outing and the quicker ground he'll encounter here is likely to suit; sure to have improved since Newmarket and entitled to get a lot closer to Delegator and Mastercraftsman. 4. INTENSE FOCUS (b c Giant's Causeway - Daneleta) Form: 56331-2 Trainer: Jim Bolger Owner: Mrs Jackie Bolger Jockey: Kevin Manning This colt was a precocious sort last season, going into the Coventry Stakes at this meeting 12 months ago with a couple of outings behind him already; found Art Connoisseur far good for him on that occasion and regularly came up short in top company thereafter. After finishing third behind Naaqoos in France, he somehow managed to find the improvement to land the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket, gamely outbattling Lord Shanakill and Finjaan in a three way dual to the line, though that also suggested it wasn't the strongest of renewals. He made his reappearance back in April when contesting a 2000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown when finding Recharge far too good for him, having to settle for second; not been seen since, somewhat worryingly, and it is also debatable just how much improvement he has left in him. 5. LORD SHANAKILL (b/br c Speightstown - Green Room) Form: 23512-0 Trainer: Karl Burke Owner: Mogeely Stud & Mark Gittens Jockey: Jim Crowley A model of consistency last season, holding his high class early season form all the way through to the end of the season. After winning his maiden at York in impressive fashion he ran a creditable race in defeat when finishing third in the Coventry Stakes behind Art Connoisseur; followed that with a good second to Orizaba in the Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood on his first try at 7f, staying on all the way to the line. He found the step back to 5f too sharp for him when staying on late to take fifth behind Madame Trop Vite in the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster, that run following on from his third behind Bushranger in the Prix Morny over in Deauville, his first attempt at the top level. His consistency was finally rewarded when winning the Group 2 Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury, staying on well for pressure to lead inside the final furlong and he held Gallagher at bay by half a length, though it was by no means a strong renewal. He went agonisingly close on his final start in the Dewhurst Stakes here when losing out by a nose to Intense Focus in a driving finish, resulting in a three way photo between himself, Intense Focus and Finjaan, again staying on all the way to the line. However, there were always going to be stamina doubts heading into the 2000 Guineas and it appeared they were well founded when his response was minimal; trainer has since said he was wrong to run him but still has is it all to prove. 6. MASTERCRAFTSMAN (b c Danehill Dancer - Starlight Dreams) Form: 1114-51 Trainer: Aidan O'Brien Owner: Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier & Michael Tabor Jockey: Johnny Murtagh He proved himself to be a smart sort when winning the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes last season, when readily accounting for the disappointing Art Connoisseur by 4½ lengths. That impressive victory had been preceded by another victory, though he had to fight all the way to the line that day to hold off Albahan by a short head. He again had to show his mettle when out battling Shaweel in testing conditions to land the Group 1 National Stakes, his first attempt over 7f, being made to fight all the way to the line by Mark Johnston’s gutsy son of Dansili. However, that monumental effort seemed to have hollowed him out when next appearing in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagadere, finishing a well held fourth behind Naaqoos. He was slowly away but soon up with the pace, but he was soon being cajoled along as they turned in to hold his position, but with over a furlong to go the response was minimal and he gradually dropped out of contention. It could be claimed as disappointing because of the fact he’d so bravely handled testing conditions on his previous run in the National Stakes; that, however, was only three weeks previous to the race in France, so it’s feasible that such a hard race in those conditions may well bottomed him out and he simply came to the end of his tether. He was reportedly in need of the run when making his seasonal reappearance in the 2000 Guineas, finishing fifth and running a good enough race and didn't really seem at home on the track, staying on once out of the dip. He reversed the form with Delegator back in his native Ireland for the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh on vastly differing ground, seemingly relishing the conditions as he ploughed through the soft ground to score a commanding 6 lengths from Rayeni. He is clearly a smart colt, but seems to be at his very best when there is plenty of cut; could be outdone for a turn of foot by the likes of Delegator and Evasive and looks a very short price considering that. 7. ORIZABA (b c Orpen - Jus' Chillin') Form: 1514-3 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Frankie Dettori This colt burst on to the scene with a magnificent 9 length victory in a 6f maiden at Newbury on his debut and looked unlucky when finishing fifth in the Coventry Stakes here on his next outing, rearing up at the start and forfeiting valuable ground, never really being able to get himself involved at any stage. He showed that to be all wrong when staying on well to land the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood, winning by 1¼ lengths from Lord Shanakill; disappointing slightly when well fancied for the Royal Lodge Stakes here next time outing, managing only the one pace to finish fourth on his first attempt over a mile. He moved from Mick Channon's yard soon afterwards to join current connections, for whom he made just an average start when third in a French Group 3; much more needed now, though yard's three-year olds have been improving for their seasonal debuts, but still a lot of improvement required to see him take a hand at the finish here. 8. PURE POETRY (b c Tagula - Express Logic) Form: 10-1372 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: Julie Wood Jockey: Richard Hughes He wasn't anything particularly special at two, winning his maiden over 6f at Haydock and also winning a 6f conditions event at Newmarket (July) last summer, both victories coming on quick ground. Ended his juvenile campaign with a below par effort in a valuable sales race at Doncaster but started this season with victory in the Listed Easter Stakes at Kempton, his first attempt at 1m, scoring by a head from Shampagne, though the form doesn't look anything special with the runner up fully exposed and those in behind not looking anything out of the ordinary. Managed to finish third behind Delegator in the Craven Stakes a few days later, being beaten a total of only 3½ lengths; ran a perfectly respectable race when seventh in the 2000 Guineas back at Newmarket, but fact he was beaten in a Listed Race at Goodwood last time just underlines how much improvement is needed to figure here. 9 .SET SAIL (ch c Danehill Dancer - Ahdaab) Form: 6184-40 Trainer: Aidan O'Brien Owner: Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier & Michael Tabor Jockey: Seamie Heffernan Winner of a Gowran Park maiden on his second start before finishing a well-held eighth behind Orizaba in the Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood next time; improved slightly next time when fourth in what now looks a sub-standard renewal of the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster. He finished midfield behind subsequent French 2000 Guineas winner Silver Frost on his reappearance in the Prix Fontainebleu but weakened rapidly to beat just a couple home in the race itself next time after riding close to the pace; could well be here again in a pacemaking capacity. 10. SOUL CITY (b c Elusive City - Savage) Form: 41110-3 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: Patrick Fahey Jockey: Richard Hughes Useful colt who improved with every run last season, starting off by winning the Strutt & Parker Maiden Stakes at Newmarket (July); following his fourth in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood, racked a up a hat-trick of big race wins. The sequence started in the Listed Prix Francois Boutin at Deauville when staying on well to score by a couple of lengths and returned to France to contest the Group 3 Prix la Rochette, which he won well after making all the running. He then scooped a huge prize in the Goffs Million at the Curragh on his last start when comfortably seeing off Gan Amhras and Intense Focus, who finished back in third; no show on his final outing when towards the rear in the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket, attempting to make all but dropping away pretty tamely. He seemed well suited by the cut in the ground when finishing third behind Mastercraftsman on his seasonal reappearance in the Irish 2000 Guineas, staying on well, albeit without showing a decisive turn of foot. He will surely be all the better for that run and is entitled to challenge for a place, but at his best when allowed to lead, something he won't be able to do with pacemakers in attendance, and also, all his best form has come on ground with plenty of cut in it. VERDICT: A fascinating renewal of this race where English and Irish 2000 Guineas form is the key. Mastercraftsman, fifth in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, seemed to relish the testing conditions when winning the Irish at the Curragh last time, but it remains to be seen whether he can be as effective on this ground. He looks short enough and, now back on his favoured quicker ground, DELEGATOR is taken to confirm the Newmarket placings with him. Brian Meehan's colt has a major weapon in his armoury - his turn of foot, but it wasn't seen to its fullest extent when blunted by the slow conditions in Ireland last time and he is worth another chance back under more favourable conditions. 2000 Guineas sixth Evasive is entitled to get a lot closer to the pair of them now he has had a run, but nothing else really stands out otherwise, Soul City probably the leading candidate to sneak a place, albeit he prefers a little more juice in the ground. Selection: Delegator Alternative: Evasive

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 3.05 KING'S STAND STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 1) (3-Y-O+) - 5f 1. BORDERLESCOTT (7 b g Compton Place - Jeewan) Form: 3131-32 Trainer: Robin Bastiman Owner: James Edgar & William Donaldson Has been an absolute revelation for his small time yard, progressing from handicaps to top grade sprints within a year. He had a string of agonizing defeats following his win in the 2006 Stewards' Cup, including in the same race 12 months later and also in small field conditions events and also Listed contests. However, he certainly put his best foot forward when showing a good turn of foot to land the re-arranged Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes at Newmarket (July); showed that to be no fluke when third behind Marchand D'Or in the Prix de l'Abbaye next time, staying on well in the closing stages. Ended last season with victory in a Listed contest at Dundalk. Started this campaign with a couple of placed efforts in the Temple Stakes at Newmarket and the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket, unable to repel the challenge of Look Busy close home. His trainer has stated that he reaches his peak in the summer, so should be coming to himself now, but likely to be playing for places at best. 2. CANONBALL (4 b/br g Catienus - No Deadline) Form: 183-422 Trainer: Wesley Ward Owner: Kenneth L & Sarah K Ramsey Jockey: John Velazquez American challenger who isn't one of the US's top class sprinters; has gone close in a couple of Grade 3 events last season at Keenland and Churchill Downs. He doesn't have a good wins to runs ratio, looking short of top class and unlikely to be good enough here. 3. CAPTAIN GERRARD (4 b c Oasis Dream - Delphinus) Form: 400-070 Trainer: Bryan Smart Owner: Reg Bond Jockey: Tom Eaves High class juvenile, winning the Group 3 Cornwallis Stakes over course and distance on his final start of 2007; started last season spectacularly when showing blistering speed to make all and win the Group 3 Temple Stakes at Newmarket, beating subsequent July Cup winner Sakhee's Secret. His form dropped away rapidly thereafter, and has shown little again this time around, including in headgear last time at Haydock. He may well attempt to make all once more but sure to prove easy pickings given his current form. 4. DANDY MAN (6 b h Mozart - Lady Alexander) Form: 4370-99 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Frankie Dettori He was a useful sprinter for Tracey Collins at the start of his career, winning the Group 3 Palace House Stakes on his reappearance as a three-year old before finishing fourth in this race behind crack Aussie sprinter Takeover Target, poorly drawn and leading home the far side. He again enjoyed a successful campaign the following season, improving to finish second behind another top class Australian sprinter, Miss Andretti, running on well at the finish; continued to be there or thereabouts in all the top sprints, prompting Godolphin to purchase him in a private sale at the end of 2007. However, he has failed to reproduced his best form since joining current connections, though his best effort them came in this race last season when fourth behind Equiano; form not improved a great deal in the interim and likely to struggle once more unless a return to this course and distance conjures up a vastly improved effort (no improvement when blinkered latest at Haydock). 5. EQUIANO (4 b c Acclamation - Entente Cordiale) Form: 149-209 Trainer: Barry Hills Owner: James Acheson Jockey: Michael Hills He caused a 25/1 shock in this 12 months ago when allowed to dictate matters and see off Takeover Target, scoring by half a length, finding plenty for pressure. He soon joined his current yard from Spanish handler Mauricio Delcher Sanchez, but could only manage fourth behind Borderlescott in the Nunthorpe Stakes on his next start, staying on well up the hill having become outpaced as the tempo increased. He didn't show a great deal when a little worse than midfield in the Prix de l'Abbaye; began this season with a second placing behind Tax Free in the Listed Abernant Stakes over 6f at Newmarket, but has disappointed the last twice, including when beating a long way out in the Prix du Gros-Chene, finishing last. Blinkers now tried and, in his current form, it's very hard to envisage a repeat performance of last year's heroics. 6. HOH HOH HOH (7 ch g Piccolo - Nesting) Form: 0-80123 Trainer: Roger Price Owner: Multi Lines 2 Jockey: Robert Winston A useful operator at handicap level in the main who doesn't win as often as he should, usually finding one too good or getting going too late in his races; put two disappointing efforts behind him when landing a conditions event at Nottingham from Pawan and then put in a career best effort when chasing home Amour Propre in the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket next time, staying on powerfully to take second from Borderlescott in the closing stages. However, he was put firmly in his place last time when third behind Ialysos at Haydock and will do well to get as close to Amour Propre and confirm form with Borderlescott from Newmarket. 7. MYTHICAL FLIGHT (6 ch g Jet Master - Mythical Bird) Form: 23/27-6 Trainer: Sean Tarry Owner: Chris Van Niekirk Jockey: Kevin Shea South African raider who is one of his country's leading sprinters and racked up a whole string of successes, including a couple of victories at the top level in 2007. He disappointed in his first run on the international stage when only seventh in the Hong Kong Sprint at Sha Tin; fared a lot better on his reappearance when sixth in a Group 1 at Kranji in April, attempting to make all before fitness probably gave out in the closing stages. This quick ground over 5f should suit ideally, and though he has still yet to conclusively prove he's up to this level outside his native South Africa, everything looks set for a big run. 8. SCENIC BLAST (5 b/br h Scenic - Daughter's Charm) Form: 10-2151 Trainer: Daniel Morton Owner: Elio Anthony Galante & Partners Jockey: Steven Arnold He looks to be another top class sprinter from Australia looking follow in the footsteps of fellow compatriots Choisir, Takeover Target and Miss Andretti. He has improved no end this year, causing something of an upset when running on strongly and showing good speed to land the Coolmore Lightning Stakes at Flemington from Typhoon Zed in a race the well fancied Weekend Hussler disappointed, finishing back in fourth. He found plenty of trouble in running when a well fancied favourite for the Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield back over 6f, being badly hampered at halfway, having to be angled out and losing valuable momentum before staying on steadily throughout the final furlong. However, he bounced back from that disappointment to cement his place as Australia's top racehorse when picking up in scintillating fashion to land the Crown Newmarket Handicap, a Grade 1, at Flemington in March. He is clearly a sprinter with prospects of dominating the world scene, or at least dominate at this meeting, just as a few other Aussie sprinters have done before him; he is another Australian speedster who meets with little resistance from the home sprinters and could be hard to beat, his electric turn of foot his main asset. He has yet to prove 5f is his best trip, this stiff track should suit him ideally and, with room for further improvement, his late burst could be hard to repel, especially if they go quick early on. 9. TAX FREE (7 b g Tagula - Grandel) Form: 411-131 Trainer: Dandy Nicholls Owner: Ian Hewitson Jockey: Adrian Nicholls This gelding has been a model of consistency throughout his career for connections, progressing from handicaps to Group company with ease, as so many of the yard's sprinters eventually do. He rose to prominence as a force to be reckoned with in 2007 when winning the Group 3 Palace House at Newmarket from Peace Offering, then following up with victory in a Listed contest at Naas from Dandy Man. However, his progress was brought to an abrupt halt when finishing midfield behind Miss Andretti in this very race; resumed progress back at a lower level soon after, managing to win a Listed contest at Longchamp. He took a few runs to warm up last season before finishing fourth in the Temple Stakes behind Fleeting Spirit, following that promising effort with a couple of victories in a Listed Race at Naas and then a Group 3 contest at the Curragh. He wasn't seen again until this April, when he took up the lead some way out before holding off all comers to land the Listed Abernant Stakes at Newmarket from Equiano; ran a respectable race in the Group 2 Duke Of York Stakes at York before bravely battling back when looking beaten last time to land a French Group 3 at Chantilly over 5f. He is clearly in great heart at present, but the concern is that both efforts in this race haven't gone so well (15th in 2006 and 11th in 2007) and isn't getting any younger; probably just a shade below top class and likely to come up short once again. 10. WI DUD (5 b h Elnadim - Hopesay) Form: 0-34337 Trainer: Kevin Ryan Owner: J Duddy, L Duddy, P McBride, Mrs J Ryan Jockey: Alan Munro He was a speedy, precocious juvenile who placed in the Gimcrack and Middle Park Stakes either side of winning the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes. However, hasn't ever recaptured that level of form since, failing to win since those juvenile days. He has run the odd creditable race, most recently when third behind Look Busy in the Temple Stakes. However, a seventh placing in the Epsom Dash on Derby day underlined his limitations and hard to see him playing a major part here. 11. FLEETING SPIRIT (4 b f Invincible Spirit - Millennium Tale) Form: 2/1354- Trainer: Jeremy Noseda Owner: The Searchers Jockey: Ryan Moore One of the top class sprint fillies to have graced the track in recent seasons, showing she wasn't just a flash in the pan when holding her form well last season. She had shown incredible speed to see of Kingsgate Native when winning the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes at Glorious Goodwood before chasing home Nahoodh in the Lowther Stakes at York next time, her first attempt over 6f and that didn't really play to her strengths. She again showed very good speed to land the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes before running a highly creditable second to Natagora on her final outing in the Cheveley Park Stakes. The Invincible Spirit filly couldn't have been more impressive on her reappearance when breaking the track record to land the Group 2 Temple Stakes at Haydock, showing searing and pace and a wicked turn of foot to readily see of some smart older horses by 2 lengths, winning with plenty in hand. She disappointed slightly when third in this last season, sticking to the far side whilst all the action unfolded on the near side with Equiano eventually prevailing; never in contention when an all the time staying on fifth behind Marchand D'Or in the Abbaye at Longchamp after being tapped-for-toe. Her season ended with a fourth placing in the Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint, at Santa Anita, probably not staying the 6½f trip; has won on her reappearance both seasons to race, but this obviously not the ideal race to be making your seasonal reappearance. Her tendency to get outpaced another negative against her, but on her day she's a match for most and easy to see her running into a place late on. 12. AMOUR PROPRE (3 ch c Paris House - Miss Prim) Form: 7111-1 Trainer: Henry Candy Owner: Simon Broke And Partners It's incredible to think this colt fetched just £1,500 at the sales, though looked something out of the ordinary when breaking the track record in landing a 5f maiden at Warwick from the useful Deposer; followed up with a convincing victory over Lucky Leigh in a conditions event next time, making all and quickening well. He was reportedly unsuited by the going when going for the Cornwallis Stakes at Ascot next time out, his trainer even contemplating withdrawing; a good thing he didn't as he again showed good speed throughout before accelerating and getting the better of Waffle by a neck, again always remaining prominent throughout. Not a huge amount was expected of him on his reappearance in the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket last month, but he again displayed that impressive turn of foot to leave some very smart performers trailing in his wake and he sprinted clear to score by an ever increasing 2½ lengths from Hoh Hoh Hoh. His trainer has shown in the past he can handle a top notch sprinter to good effect, most notably in recent times with Airwave and Kyllachy; this is another step up but thoroughly deserves a shot at top company. The one worry is if he gets involved in an early dual for the lead, thus setting it up for a late challenger, such as Scenic Blast; has shown he can handle the track at least and gets a handy weight-for-age allowance of 6lbs, but Palace House winners have a poor record in this race; favourably drawn for a prominent racer. 13. RIEVAULX WORLD (3 b c Compton Place - Adhaaba) Form: 114-652 Trainer: Kevin Ryan Owner: Rievaulx Racing Syndicate Jockey: Neil Callan He was a precocious sort last term who blitzed his rivals in a couple of contests at Ripon and Redcar; again showed tremendous early dash before fading close home when fourth behind Finjaan in the Molecomb Stakes at Glorious Goodwood. He wasn't seen again until this April when finishing last of six behind Hoh Hoh Hoh in a conditions event at Nottingham but lasted quite a long way before fading close home to take fifth behind Amour Propre in the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket. He again went out all guns blazing in a modest Listed Race at York last month but was unable to hold off Angelzarke's challenge going down by a length; likely to set this up for a hold up performer and doubtful whether he can last long enough to still be in contention for a place in the final furlong even. 14. SPIN CYCLE (3 b c Exceed And Excel - Spinamix) Form: 12500-1 Trainer: Bryan Smart Owner: H E Sheikh Rashid Bin Mohammed Jockey: Richard Mullen He is another who came to hand early last season, winning a decent conditions event at Musselburgh which set him up for a crack at the Norfolk Stakes at this meeting; found only South Central too good for him in that, picking up really well inside the final furlong and only just failing by a neck to overhaul the leader. He didn't really seem himself when hanging and losing his action when well fancied in the Molecomb Stakes next time, finishing fifth behind Finjaan; his final two efforts were very poor to say the least, though he was, perhaps, unsuited by the slower conditions. He made a promising return to action this season when showing a good turn of foot to run and score in a conditions event at Musselburgh against older horses; this requires a huge amount of improvement, though, and unlikely to be good enough, although quicker ground would be in his favour. 15. ANGELZARKE (3 br f Acclamation - Welsh Mist) Form: 6254-12 Trainer: Tim Easterby Owner: David Armstrong Jockey: David Allan She was useful enough as a juvenile - placing in the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes behind Madame Trop Vite and fourth behind Amour Propre in the Cornwallis Stakes here; made a winning return to action in a poorly contested Listed Race at York over 5f last month, staying on well to overhaul Riveaulx World. However, she built upon that when running a career best to finish second behind Ialysos in the Listed Achilles Stakes at York last time; this tougher, however, and likely to find this beyond her, despite her apparent rapid improvement this season. VERDICT: The sprinting division has been devoid of any UK talent for a while now. Amour Propre has looked out of the ordinary so far, winning here last autumn in game fashion before showing a dazzling turn of foot to readily dispose of some useful opposition in the Palace House Stakes. However, he may well get caught up in a dual for the lead, though alternatively it could give him a nice tow into the race; either way, he is a major contender here. However, SCENIC BLAST (NB)has looked something else this season in his native Australia, winning last time from a mile back and, with a strong pace guaranteed and this straight track sure to suit , he is more than likely going to make it four wins in this race for the Aussie's since 2003 with his now customary strong turn of foot likely to prove the deciding factor. Fleeting Spirit, if fully tuned up, is still a force to be reckoned with despite some below par display last autumn, it also notable that she seems best when fresh. Of the rest, South African raider Mythical Flight looks interesting now he has had a run and also drops back to the minimum trip on quick ground, while Borderlescott should run his usual honest race and may sneak a place. Selection: Scenic Blast Alternative: Amour Propre

[Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June]

Re: Royal Ascot - Tues 16th June 2.30 QUEEN ANNE STAKES (CLASS 1) (GROUP 1) (4-Y-O+) - 1m 1. ALEXANDROS (4 ch c Kingmambo - Arlette) Form: 3-11372 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Frankie Dettori Had disappointed for most of last season after a good juvenile campaign in France for Andre Fabre - win in a Bath conditions race his season highlight - but seems to have been reinvigorated by a sojourn in Dubai this winter. He won a couple of 8/9f handicaps at Nad Al Sheba, both in convincing fashion; never involved when third behind Gladiatorus in the Dubai Duty Free, the winner stealing a march and maintaining the gallop. He was never involved in the Champions Mile at Sha Tin next time, but ran a career best when narrowly losing out in a three way go to the line with eventual winner Virtual and also Twice Over in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury (rider dropped whip). It was notable he turned in such a good effort as most of the yard's horses have looked a shadow of their former selves after a winter in Dubai; Frankie Dettori rides and a reproduction of that Lockinge effort would see him go well and, although pretty exposed now, is in the form of his life; goes on any ground. 2. AQLAAM (4 b c Oasis Dream - Bourbonella) Form: 3/11-0 Trainer: William Haggas Owner: Hamdan Al Maktoum Jockey: Richard Hills Always highly regarded and won a 7f maiden at Newbury on his reappearance run last season; stepped up that to then win the Group 3 Jersey Stakes at this meeting 12 months ago, running green but showing a good turn of foot to see off Il Waard by 2 lengths. Injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year and news of modest work ahead of his return run in the Lockinge at Newbury last month hardly boded well for his prospects. His response was minimal when asked for his effort as the tempo increased, weakening to eventually beating just one home. He is, of course, entitled to come on for that run, and will also appreciate the quicker ground, but still has stamina to prove and would liked to have seen more on his reappearance run. 3. ARABIAN GLEAM (5 b h Kyllachy - Gleam Of Light) Form: 58641-3 Trainer: Jeremy Noseda Owner: Saeed Suhail Jockey: Seb Sanders A consistent performer without being quite good enough at this level, winning back-to-back Group 2 Park Stakes (7f) at Doncaster, those two wins remaining his only victories outside of his maiden win at three. He would have finished closer than eighth in this last season when he was one of the main sufferers in a messy race; made a satisfactory reappearance when third in the a 7f Group 3 at Haydock behind Main Aim last month, staying on. He is a useful sort but previous evidence suggests he will once again fall short at this level and likely to be tapped-for-toe once again when the pace quickens, just as he was last year. 4. CESARE (8 b g Machiavelian - Tromond) Form: 0/1443- Trainer: James Fanshawe Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Jockey: Johnny Murtagh Has been the yard's flag bearer for the past few seasons, doing nothing but improve since landing the Hunt Cup over course and distance in 2005. He has shown a particular liking for the track, making a winning reappearance in the same Listed Race the past two seasons, last year's victory particularly impressive when never having to come off the bridle. He wasn't helped by the scrimmaging when fourth in the Lockinge, faring even worse in this race 12 months ago when one of the chief sufferers when continuously blocked when looking for room to challenge, eventually finishing full of running in fourth. Few excuses when a lacklustre third behind Archipenko in a Group 2 over course and distance next time; does go well fresh and clearly loves this course, but yard in dismal form (just three individual winners all year) and couldn't be backed with any confidence. 5. DREAM EATER (4 gr c Night Shift - Kapria) Form: /53-229 Trainer: Andrew Balding Owner: Jeff Smith Jockey: Franny Norton He enjoyed a rewarding juvenile career when winning a valuable sales race at Doncaster after banging his head against a brick wall in Group company, that despite being a maiden. He ran with real credit when fifth behind Henrythenavigator in the 2000 Guineas before finishing a good third in last year's Jersey Stakes here, running on all the way to the line; suffered an injury and wasn't seen again until this spring when running second behind Plum Pudding in a conditions event at Warwick, coming with a strong challenge before veering left and costing himself any chance of victory. He didn't enjoy the clearest of passages when runner up behind Paco Boy in the Group 2 Sandown Mile at the Surrey venue; slow ground against him last time when trailing home in ninth behind Virtual in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury. This quicker ground sure to suit better, but not straightforward and still yet to register a win at Group level, let alone at the top level so clearly has his limitations. 6. GLADIATORUS (4 b c Silic - Gmaasha) Form: 112/111 Trainer: Saeed Bin Suroor Owner: Godolphin Jockey: Ahmed Ajtebi Returned from a season-long absence (high class juvenile in Italy in 2007) to take this year's Dubai Carnival by storm, each time defying the opinion that he was simply nicking races from the front. After his comeback win in a handicap, which he made virtually all and stayed on well, stepped up and pulled off similar tactics to a nicety when landing the Group 2 Al Fahidi Fort, scoring by an impressive 5¾ lengths. He again made all when producing easily his career best performance when showing some world class performers a clean pair of heels to land the Dubai Duty Free from the front; set a generous pace but kept up the gallop in magnificent fashion to stay on and keep Presvis at bay by 3¼ lengths. That form working out exceptionally well, and it was also exceptional the way he virtually sprinted for a mile at that level, staying on when asked to quicken after setting a decent pace. The main worry here is that front running tactics over a straight mile under UK conditions may prove a little tougher to pull off; yard's older horses have all been needing their first run, which is another concern, but this looks a weak Group 1 and, with the form book suggesting he's the best horse in the race, is entitled to plenty of respect. 7. MAC LOVE (8 b g Cape Cross - My Lass) Form: 0210-41 Trainer: Stef Liddiard Owner: Vimal Khosla Jockey: Micky Fenton He has been a good servant to various trainers over the years, most recent Stef Liddiard who has got him right back to his best, narrowly missing out on a Listed contest over 1m at Goodwood on his reappearance in a bunch finish. However, just six days later, he displayed an impressive turn of foot to scythe down his rivals and land the Group 3 Diomed Stakes at Epsom. However, it is hard to see him repeating the feat in this significantly stronger race and is likely to come up short here. 8. MAIN AIM (4 b c Oasis Dream - Orford Ness) Form: 3108-11 Trainer: Sir Michael Stoute Owner: Khalid Abdulla Jockey: Ryan Moore Late starter who looked enjoyed early success last season when winning on his debut before landing a handicap on his second outing; won a decent 6f handicap at Doncaster, beating older horses in the process, but didn't really go on when upped to Listed/Group 3 company thereafter over 5/6f. However, made a stunning reappearance when storming clear to score by 7 lengths in a 6f handicap at Newbury on Lockinge day and followed up with another clear cut success in a Group 3 at Haydock last time, again powering clear from his rivals to score with plenty in hand. Clearly a horse on the up, and the yard's record in this is pretty good, but does have to prove his stamina over this trip; also his first crack at the top level, though this isn't the best Group 1 you'll ever see. He has been supplemented for this, a wise move considering it's a weak contest, rather than going for the Golden Jubilee but enough doubts regarding stamina and whether he'll be good enough to take him on at his current odds. 9. PACO BOY (4 b c Desert Style - Tappen Zee) Form: 13d1-814 Trainer: Richard Hannon Owner: The Calvera Partnership No 2 Jockey: Richard Hughes Has proved a real bargin at just 30,000gns, winning the Greenham Stakes last April and progressing from there; found trouble in running when a staying on seventh behind Falco in the French 2000 Guineas and returned to winning ways when winning the Betfair Cup at Glorious Goodwood by a neck from Stimulation. He was mightily impressive when landing the Hungerford Stakes at Newbury by 4½ lengths from Al Qasi, quickening clear in an instant to put a seal on matters. He finished third in the Prix Moulin but was disqualified after a banned substance was found to be present in his system; followed that run with a convincing success in the Group 1 Prix de la Foret at Longchamp, clearing away to score by 3 lengths from 1000 Guineas Natagora. He made his reappearance in the Dubai Duty Free when finishing a well-held eighth behind Gladiatorus, never able to get involved from his poor draw; dispelled stamina fears when landing the Sandown Mile, travelling and quickening well to see off Dream Eater by three quarters of a length. He was a warm order for the Lockinge Stakes last time, but the testing conditions were expected to test his stamina to its limit; came with what appeared to be a winning run before flattening out in the closing stages and finishing a weakening fourth. However, it soon came to light that he'd sustained a foot injury and it was noticeable that he did hang left in the closing stages; worth another chance to show he gets a mile, particularly now the quicker conditions prevail and looks sure to go well in what looks a winnable Group 1 contest. VERDICT: A tough race to get a handle on with stamina concerns and also concerns over the form of certain yards. Gladiatorus looked a special horse when making all and then quickening again to land the Dubai Duty Free over in Dubai, but now faces very different racing conditions, such as not racing around a bend, and the form of Godolphin's older horses when making their reappearance's has to be of some concern. Stablemate Alexandros, the mount of Frankie Dettori, went down by only a neck in the Lockinge, his rider dropping his whip at a crucial stage, but it would be no surprise if the PACO BOY, fourth that day, can reverse the form now encountering quicker conditions over this trip. He has an electric turn of foot, though unable to use to its fullest effect in the slow ground at Newbury, also returning with hoof infection afterwards, and should be able to see out the trip more effectively on quicker ground. Cesare always goes well over this course and distance, his record fresh also impressive, but disappointed when last seen and this is his first run in 11 months; yard from also a major worry. Main Aim is not one to discount lightly, seemingly improving with every run, but this his first attempt over this trip and at this level, though connections obviously confident enough, supplementing him at a cost of £30,000, rather than waiting for the Golden Jubilee on Saturday. Selection: Paco Boy Alternative: Alexandros

[Best bet of the day Tues 16/06/09]

Re: Best bet of the day Tues 16/06/09 4-55 ascot baddam-e/way won this race 3yrs ago so we know he stays the trip unlike a lot of these who have to prove they do,and as run well in a group 3 here in april and as won over hurdles in the meantime so with everything in his favour worth an e/way chance

[Royal Ascot PL Comp Day 1 Tues 16/06/09 - Selections here please]

Re: Royal Ascot PL Comp Day 1 Tues 16/06/09 - Selections here please 4-20 ascot alrasm-25pts-e/way 4-55 ascot baddam-25pts-e/way thanks

[Best Bet Of The Day ~ Monday 15th]

Re: Best Bet Of The Day ~ Monday 15th 8-30 windsor-everaard-e/way best to forget last run due to the ground,as shaped as if he will get this trip so worth a try to prove it was awarded race over 1m good ground at warwick,and run just as well from a 4lb higher mark when in front of a subsequent winner at beverly

[Royal Ascot]

Re: Royal Ascot trends for the 3rd race at royal ascot st james palace stakes 10/10 had a first three finishes in a group 1 to there name 10/10 had an adjusted raceform rating of at least 130,and the same number were rated within 7lb of the top rated runner 9/10 had finished in the first four in a guineas 9/10 were in the front four in the betting 6/10 won their last start 6/10 favourites have won including thre of the last four 5/10 have been trained by aidan obrian 3/10 have won at 8/1 the biggest winning sp

[Royal Ascot]

Re: Royal Ascot trends for the 2nd race at royal ascot kings stand stakes-last 10 years 9/10 had already run that season [one that hadnt was dominica] 9/10 had an adjusted raceform rating of 121 or higher.looked at more closely7/10 were rated between 123-134 7/10 had won a group race over 5f [one that hadnt was a 3yr old] 7/10 were drawn between stalls 3 and 8 7/10 were four or older 6/10 won there last start 6/10 were overseas raiders including 5 of the last six winners 1/10 favourites have won,and winning sps have included 16/1[twice]20/1 22/1 and 25/1

[Royal Ascot]

Re: Royal Ascot trends for the first race at royal-ascot queen-anne-stakes-last ten-years 10/10 were male 10/10 had an adjusted raceform rating of at least 127[last six winners rated 131 or higher 10/10 had run that year 8/10had won over 1 mile 7/10 were four[the other 3 were agedfive,and four winners prior to the decade investigated were also aged four] 7/10 were trained by either saeed bin suroor or michael stoute 7/10 had won a group race over 1 mile 4/7 finished out of the first three on their last start

[Royal Ascot Competition *Sponsored by Paddy Power* - Sign Up Here]

Re: Royal Ascot Competition - Sign Up Here im in pls

[Ascot Wed 17th June HELP!]

Re: Ascot Wed 17th June HELP! personally i dont know but i did read somewhere that his trainer said that he his a seriously fast horse and ever since the trainer took over training the horse he thought he was an ascot horse,but he admits that jj the jet plane as to raise his game but dont let me put you off mate im no expert and i dont know if i will be betting in that race at the mo but good luck to you if you do back him and what ever else you bet on mate as like i said im no expert im still learning myself but im sure one of the other members on here will have better knowledge than me i know mr bowles will prob put some stats and trends up regarding the race as thats what he does but good luck mate

[Ascot Wed 17th June HELP!]

Re: Ascot Wed 17th June HELP! sorry meant tuesday evening