The field for the Coronation Stakes (3.45) at Ascot tomorrow includes 5 of the first 8 home in the 1,000 Guineas. The winner that day went on to finish 3rd in the French Derby so there is no reason to doubt the form. Spacious was 2nd in the Guineas despite not having had a prep run and she would have to be my choice. Infallible who was 4th in the Guineas looks next best while Muthabara would prefer some ease in the ground. Modern Look was 4th in the French 1,000 and would normally come into the equation but her last 3 wins have all come on soft ground.
I don’t have a strong view in the 4.20 where Championship Point attempts to follow up his win in the race last season. Four year olds have a good record in this and Monte Alto makes some appeal.
Age of Reason put up an encouraging display when 3rd to Unnefer at Newmarket over 10 furlongs. He went in my notebook that day as a likely winner over further. He tackles 2 miles in the 4.55 which is a bit further than I had in mind! Still I will stick with him for my selection with all weather winner Unleashed worth a small each way interest.
The big field handicap at 5.35 will take some sorting out. Docofthebay is entered having finished second in the Royal Hunt Cup yesterday. The drop down to 7 furlongs shouldn’t inconvenience him and he will be a major contender if taking his chance.
Celtic Sultan loves to bowl along in front and he will be suited by the fast ground. A winner at Chester two runs ago he could go well although he is unlikely to get things all his own way in front. Smart Enough has not been at his best this season so far and he has not won at this trip while Dabbers Ridge, although a course and distance winner, is better on an easy surface. Giganticus is suited by firm ground and a straight track but may not have the best of the draw.
Zaahid has gone up 6 lbs for his win in the Victoria Cup and should again go well here. Dhaular Dhar has never won with an “F” in the going description.
Zaahid and Docfofthebay are the pair I like best while Atlantic Story could be an interesting dark horse.
At Newmarket in the 6.30 both Green Beret and Rose Diamond showed promise on their debut runs. Slight preference is for the Roger Charlton trained Rose Diamond.
I had high hopes for Royal Jasra at the start of the season but he has been pretty disappointing. He runs in the 7.05 but I think I will leave him alone (probably win at a big price then!)
In the 8.10 the veteran Presumptive holds his form well and will like the fast ground. I still think that Tudor Prince is going to pop up at a big price one of these days as well.
Good luck
Pictures are by courtesy of Lisa Miller (see links)
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