I will start tonight’s preview with a look at the two big field handicaps at Ascot tomorrow. My original fancy for the 4.25 was Hoof It who may be better than his current rating. The ground may be a slight concern as his winning form is on a sound surface but he was only beaten a short head on soft ground at Haydock last year. Deacon Blues should handle the ground, is a progressive sort and Johnny Murtagh rides him for the first time. Mac’s Power was only beaten a head at Newbury last month and he should handle the ground. Victoire de Lyphar was runner up in the Ayr Gold Cup last season and should go well. Of those at bigger prices Cheverton and Anne of Kiev are worth considering. In a very open race I will go with the James Fanshawe pair of Mac’s Power and Deacon Blues. I very much fear Hoof It but have deserted him because of the ground and his draw.
In the 5.00 Modun, Fox Hunt and Taqleed are all interesting. Modun will be hard to beat if he handles the ground. Taqleed looks the main danger.
Other Ascot selections; 3.05 Harris Tweed: 3.45 Bated Breath.
Mariachi Man appeared not to get the trip at York last week over 10 furlongs. Back to a mile he should go close in the 2.50 at Ayr.
Maqaraat should outclass his rivals in the 7.15 at Haydock, while Chill showed enough promise at Sandown last time to be given a chance in the 7.45.
Newmarket 1.35 Kirthill: 4.15 Mehdi; 4.50 Danehill Dante.
ahorse 