Newbury
1.30 Essell was an 80/1 outsider when 8th of 14 here on his debut. This longer trip could see him in a better light. Galleon showed promise when 8th at Sandown on his only run as a juvenile and is bred to appreciate middle distances. Sun Central was making late headway when 7th on his debut at Yarmouth last season. He comes from a family of winners and I am going to burden him with my selection.
2.30 Mac’s Power has been a little hard to win with but he is well handicapped if things drop right from him.
3.05 Trader Jack was a major disappointment on his seasonal reappearance but it is too soon to write him off. Thomas Chippendale won well at Leicester last season and looks well handicapped. Expense Claim has already won twice this season and there may be more to come. Almuftarris comes here on the back of a Lingfield maiden win. He is a good looking sort with scope. Finally, Tidal Way, a winner at Thirsk last season will strip fitter for his recent outing at Windsor.
Expense Claim, Thomas Chippendale and Almuftarris are my short list.
3.40 I can’t see Frankel getting beaten but this is a race to watch.
4.50 I will take a chance on Mossbrae who was 3rd on his debut at Yarmouth last season. He should be suited by the ground as he would probably not want it too firm.
Newmarket
2.15 This would seem to be between Thought Worthy and Noble Mission. Thought Worthy is getting weight from his rival which could make the difference.
2.45 Mince is consistent and could turn out to be better than a handicapper. Definitely one to consider. Top Cop was a little disappointing here last month but remains an interesting runner. Pea Shooter was an easy winner of a York maiden and is another I like. Rafeej won both his starts last season but on his return last month he was well beaten when last at Sandown. It is too early to write him off. Mince is the selection with a small saver on Pea Shooter.
3.20 Aljamaheer looks open to improvement.
3.55 I have pencilled in 3 for this. Western Prize, High Jinx and Viking Storm. It looks an open race with High Jinx just getting the nod.
4.30 Captain Cat sets the standard on his 3rd to Noble Mission at Newbury.
5.05 There is a good word for the unraced Greatest.
5.470 Wrotham Heath, Autarch and Aazif were my starting list for this one. Wrotham Heath was a bit too keen when beaten on his last start but he could well gain compensation here if settling better.
Thirsk selections
2.55 Pearl Ice (outsider Mass Rally)
4.05 Singeur
Doncaster
7.45 Lady’s First
8.20 Cape Classic
8.50 Shamahan (danger Lucky Henry)
Picture courtesy of the artist Sally Martin
ahorse 