Tremendous day of racing ahead with Channel 4 screening ten races. Two from Ascot and four from both Newmarket and York. We are going to look at one race each from the latter. At both courses the going is Good to Firm.
It is an ultra-competitive day with plenty of prize money on offer. The percentage mark up in many races leaves little scope for value, especially each way in the big handicaps. If you are looking at any of the bigger priced horses, the exchanges should be consulted.
3.40 York John Smith´s Silver Cup Stakes (Listed Race)
Quest For More looked to have a solid chance on quick ground. However rain is forecast and any easing of the ground is a worry. Just the one outing this season when runner up at this course/distance. The stable are keen to get a run into him and with Goodwood being on his priority list this could be a prep if conditions turn against him. The current 11/4 looks risky given the doubts.
Seamour appeared the winner of the Northumberland Plate before being run down close home. Ground conditions aren’t an issue although drop back in trip could be. I still expect him to be in the ‘shake up.’
With uncertainty regarding the ground at present, I am not going to finalise my prices until I get a course report later and have watched the opening races.
Seamour would be my preference at this stage
5.10 Newmarket bet365 Bunbury Cup (Heritage Handicap) (CLASS 2)
Bossy Guest caught the eye in the Hunt Cup at Ascot, finishing the race strongly. He is handicapped to go close. He does tend to linger at the stalls however and this has become an issue. The yard are keen for him to replicate his good form at home into a strong racecourse performance.
Conditions are suitable and if breaking on terms I would expect a big run in a wide open race. Currently around 14/1 which is in keeping with my provisional pricing.
Good day for us yesterday as we were well ahead of the gamble on Alice Springs. 6/1 early turned into a winning 5/2 S.P. For more details about the service go to my website: www.slh.co.uk