In search of an outsider to tip in the London Gold Cup (Newbury 2.30) I looked at Doctor Zhivago, Bonfire Knight and Aquarian Spirit. Bonfire Knight at around 16/1 looks decent value.
Zacinto is very much a horse to follow this year and makes his seasonal debut in the Lockinge at 3.05. Over a mile and without the benefit of a recent run he may have to give best to Paco Boy but whatever the outcome I am sure he will be winning races sooner rather than later.
In the 3.40 I am quite keen on the chances of Striking Spirit and Arthur’s Edge. Striking Spirit has the better draw and the stable are in form so I will give him the nod.
Engulf is the form pick in the 4.50 but the stable have been a bit quiet lately but did have a winner the other day. J Murtagh rides which can’t be bad but the horse may be better with a bit of give. At 7/4 his price looks a tad skinny. He is one to follow as the season unfolds though. Flambeau is my selection in the 5.25.
At Newmarket Gala Evening and Gordonsville are favourite stayers of mine and along with the consistent Chiberta King form my short list, while, given the name of this site Mykingdomforahorse would be an apt winner! Jim Goldie’s horses are going well at the moment and he had a winner with Hillview Boy today. This trip may just be on the short side for Gordonsville however so I will give it to Chiberta King by the narrowest of margins.
Luca Cumani is very shrewd when it comes to placing his horses in handicaps and his 4 year old Mistoffelees looks on a decent mark in the 6.00 at Doncaster. Another horse that could be leniently treated is Tim Easterby’s Antoniola in the 6.30. He is a course winner, the trip will suit and the stable are going well.
Royal Swain is held in high regard by connections and will take some beating in the Thirsk 2.40. Bubber is one to watch on his handicap debut in the 3.15 while Cape Quarter is a potential improver in the 3.50.
Picture courtesy of the artist Lisa Miller.
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