There were a few surprise results at Newmarket today but by and large the horses from our list to follow ran well. Urban Spirit was the only winner (8/1) accounting for a hot odds on favourite in the 4.55. He had run well in a couple of decent races earlier in the season and clearly has ability. He did veer markedly to his left in the finish today which could be a worry. If steering a straight course though he will be a horse to follow. Sugar Ray was 3rd in the same race on only his 2nd ever run and should win races.
Utmost Respect ran on strongly in the 6 furlong handicap to finish 3rd and deserves to win a decent prize, and the same could be said of Arch Swing who didn’t get the best of runs in the Falmouth.
Portal was 3rd in the Lancashire Oaks and is another worth a close look on her next few runs.
Halicarnassus has the highest BHB rating on offer in the 1.30 at Newmarket tomorrow but, in what is likely to be a truly run race his stamina is unproven. He should appreciate the going though and has an each way chance.
There are 4 runners from our list in the 2.35. In the last 10 years half of the winners of this race have started at 10/1 or higher so don’t be put off backing something at longish odds. Hearthstead Maison has form in some good company this season including a 2nd in the Lingfield Derby Trial. He has top weight but ground should suit and has an each chance. Ladies Best could only finish 8th in the King George V handicap at Ascot but comes from a stable that always has to be respected in this sort of race and cannot be ruled out. I had thought he would be better over further than tomorrow’s trip but we shall see. Black Rock got off the mark at the 5th attempt on his last run but has always been consistent and shown a likeable attitude. Northern Jem won a Ripon maiden last time out and is a half brother to the prolific winner Polar Jem. All 4 have potential but if pushed for a selection I would go each way on Black Rock.
In the 3.10 a case could be made fro both Sixties Icon and Ivy Creek. Sixties Icon disappointed last time at Epsom but the ground may have been the problem that day so I will give him a slight edge over the in form Ivy Creek.
Dig Deep has won 4 times but 3 of these came at Wolverhampton so there is a bit of a question mark over his ability on turf. He represents our list to follow in the 4.55. Fast ground would possibly aid his cause and he does have a decent draw.
My theory of following Sir Mark Prescott’s 3 year olds has not paid the usual dividend this season. I am hoping that Crossing the Line will go some way to redress the balance in the 8.20 at Folkestone. He was 2nd at Wolverhampton 10 days ago.
ahorse 