Racing Chat - Thursday June 22nd (Ascot Day 3)

[BillyHills]

Ascot Day 3 

Ladies Day kicks off with the Norfolk Stakes and as most 2yo races at Ascot these days we have an American horse dominating the betting. Mcerin will be quick but of no value or real knowledge of the form. My ratings have the O'Brien horse True Blue Moon on top and his lad Donnacha gets the ride. Ryan Moore rides Sioux Nation for Coolmore and i'm guessing that was deciding factor and not the form. 
Some decent horses have won the Hampton Court over the years but i'm struggling to find one of that calibre in this years renewal. Banbatl represents the Derby form and is clear top rated for me from Larchmont Lad in an open race.

The Irish have won the Ribblesdale in five out of the last six years and the O'Brien horse Alluringly heads that particular division, Naughty Or Nice is the only other raider. Astronomy's Choice is my top rated runner and a fair each way bet in a race where value is at a premium.

The big race of the day is undoubtedly the Gold Cup. Last years winner Order Of St George will start a very short priced favourite and you cant really argue with his prep this season. He won easily last time in weaker company but he's no cert and i'd sooner go with Big Orange or Sheikhzayedroad each way.

The big handicap of the day is the Britannia and I have The Grape Escape top rated, trainer Richard Hannon is in good nick so may be worth a little nibble each way. The yards other runner Son Of The Stars is the favourite and I wouldn't pout you off his chances.
Last race is another difficult puzzle and Godolphin have five runners lining up. The best of those may be Atty Persse but he's drawn 22. Drochaid who has won his last two just edges the ratings and the Balding yard often chip in with a winner when you least expect it.

 

3.40: Astronomy's Choice EW 10/1 Bet365
4.20: Big Orange EW 8/1 Skybet

[BillyHills]

3.55 Ripon

Londinium NAP 5/4 Bet365
Expecting a big run here from Londinium on his comeback. Not been seen for over 300 days but trainer Mark Johnston has found a very good opportunity as the 3yo attempts this kind of trip for the first time. Won two of his four starts last season at 7f and proved he was a stayer in the making when battling on to win in heavy ground at Haydock.