Curvy, 8/1 into 9/2 was a very nice touch. Bartel got no luck and Scottish could only muster 2nd place in what was an admirable run. Forgotten Rules was game but ultimately disappointing. Doubtful if we’ll see him on that kind of ground again, but he surely has plenty of big races ahead of him.
I’ll drive on, it’s been a long day.
14:30 Albany Stakes (Group 3): Wesley Ward brings another interesting type to the table in the shape of Laxfield Road. She absolutely bolted up at Keeneland back in the spring and no doubt the old California sunshine will have her more forward than her European 2yo counterparts. Frankie on board as opposed to Rosario is a relief. Poor old Joel scuppered Ruby Notions chance out of the gate with his American style ‘balls-to-the-wall’ from the gate ride.
15:05 King Edward VII Stakes (Group 2) Strvagante flogged to the Qataris…good craic. I’ll be with Balios here who after only two starts has been crying out for a step up in trip. He gets it here, and with a shade of improvement could be the value play of the race in my eyes.
15:40 Commonwealth Cup (Group 1): The addition of this race to the Royal Ascot schedule has divided opinion, but I for one think it is great to see the 3 year old sprinters given something to aim at instead of having to be forgotten about until they are strong enough to be competitive with the older sprinters. Hotenanny looked an absolute monster in the Windsor Castle here last year. I have never quite bought the Limato hype….it could be to my detriment once again as he has almost answered every question asked.
16:20 Coronation Stakes (Group 1): I really like the way Lucida showed herself in the Guineas, even though it was in defeat. A game and honest filly who sees out a mile well. If it comes down to a battle, she’ll fight for you and she should improve from that seasonal debut at Newmarket.
17:00 Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes (Handicap): Pfffffffff…..hard not to be clichéd about a handicap like this….so it’d fair to say plenty of these have chances. One against the field is Igider who looks like he may have more in the locker after a good win at Donny last time out. Graham Lee can ride too.
17:35 Queen’s Vase (Listed): Second in the Racing Post trophy, Aloft makes his 3yo bow in this and at 7/4 I’ll be looking elsewhere. One against him for an each way bet is Great Glen who was still learning in as listed contest at Goodwood last time and should improve again. He’ll relish the trip too.
So there you have it folks. Day 4 in a nutshell.
Slán tamaillín,
T
Turf Talk 