By Press Association Sport Reporters Francis-Henri Graffard is an Ascot regular but not with juveniles so the fact he runs Drazinda in the Queen Mary Stakes on Wednesday is interesting. The daughter of Sioux Nation made an instant impact at Chantilly when beating Loppela by a length to land the Prix de la Mere Marie on debut. “She’s a lovely filly and I think Francis has already been reported as saying that since she came into training she was the two-year-old of ours that showed the most speed and precocity,” said Nemone Routh, racing manager for the Aga Khan Studs in France. “She works well in the morning and works with our good sprinters, but obviously she is very inexperienced, she’s got to travel and get through the preliminaries, so there’s a whole heap of tests for her to get through. “On what she shows us in the morning we think she’s of this level, but it’s a huge field and a big ask and you need luck in running as well.” Karl Burke runs two in the shape of the unbeaten duo of Wild Blossom and Love A Giggle. Wild Blossom, a 300,000 guineas buy at the Craven Breeze-Up sales, made an eye-catching start to her career at Carlisle when she strode clear in the final furlong to rout the field by 10 lengths. “She looks very quick and she’s got a great mind – hopefully Ascot won’t faze her,” said Burke. “She’s had a good prep into this race and hopefully she can run a big one.” Love A Giggle was a comfortable winner as she made her racecourse bow at Southwell and followed that up when stepped up to Listed level at York. Burke added: “Her maiden at Southwell has worked out really well. At the time you wouldn’t know what you beat, but post that race I know Richard Hannon was very disappointed that his filly (Pershaada) got beat and she subsequently came out and won a novice at Goodwood and won well, so he obviously thinks highly of her. “We stepped up again at York, beating a decent Irish horse (Armor Supreme) and the fourth from that race (Angels Passing) won easily at Hamilton next time, so the form stacks up and physically I think she’s come on.” Triptych’s trainer Patrick Biancone has sent Celtic Dispute over from America. “Royal Ascot is where everybody wants to be,” he said. “You need to have a good horse to come. There are many places in the world you can go with money, but at Ascot you need to come with your horse. It is more difficult.”

By Ashley Iveson, Press Association Connections of Daryz are optimistic the Arc hero can show his disappointing first trip to Britain was just a blip when he locks horns with Ombudsman in a blockbuster clash for the Prince of Wales’s Stakes. While there is no doubting the Francis-Henri Graffard-trained colt’s top-level prowess, having this season added the Prix Ganay and the Prix Aga Khan IV to his Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe success from last term, it is impossible to escape the fact the only blot on his copybook so far came on fast ground on UK soil. But Nemone Routh, manager for the Aga Khan Studs in France, believes Daryz is a different beast to the one that first crossed the Channel and finished last of six runners the Juddmonte International 10 months ago and is hopeful he will show his true colours in Royal Ascot’s day two feature.

“The horse has been in great form since his last run and so far everything has gone according to plan,” Routh told the Press Association. “Wednesday will be the big test, but we feel like he’s matured into the horse he is now. The only question mark really is the trip over, but we’d be hopeful that will go well and he has been very relaxed during the preliminaries of his two runs so far (this season). “He’s done everything right this year, obviously the trip is fine and we’re not worried about the ground. In fact we thought he was a firm ground horse before his prep run for the Arc in the Prix du Prince d’Orange, which was on soft ground and he showed he handled it.”

Routh is of the opinion the nature of last year’s Juddmonte International was to blame for Daryz’s below-par effort, rather than the long trip from Chantilly to York. She added: “He actually travelled well when he went to York, which is obviously a much longer trip than it is to Ascot. He wasn’t too badly behaved or anything, it was more the running of the race that didn’t really suit him because it was a very strange race, the pacemaker went off and he got stuck behind the Japanese horse (Danon Decile) and then he started pulling. “I think it was his lack of experience really that told that day and he is a different proposition now to what he was then. He took most of last year to come to maturity and this year he’s done nothing wrong. “It’s going to be a proper test, but this is what it’s about.”

The Godolphin-owned Ombudsman was brilliant when winning this race and the Juddmonte International last summer and added to his top-level tally in the Dubai Turf at Meydan at the end of March. He was workmanlike when making a successful return to home turf in last month’s Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown, but is sure to be fully tuned for the defence of his Royal Ascot crown. “Ombudsman had a bit of a freshen up after winning the Dubai Turf before running in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes, where he beat a good horse in Gethin,” joint-trainer Thady Gosden told the Godolphin website. “It looks a very hot Prince of Wales’s Stakes, with Daryz running, but Ombudsman has done well since Sandown and goes into it in good form.”

Almaqam is a worthy contender for Ed Walker following his Group One breakthrough in the Tattersalls Gold Cup in Ireland three weeks ago, a race in which Aidan O’Brien’s top-class filly Minnie Hauk – just a head behind Daryz in the Arc – failed to fire. Andrew Balding’s See The Fire was third in this race last year and returns following a fine start to the season, winning a Listed prize at Nottingham and the Middleton Stakes at York. Jockey Oisin Murphy said: “She’s obviously taking on the colts and it is a great renewal. It’s very strong, Almaqam is drawn one, Ombudsman may be a bit inconvenienced in stall eight but I’m sure William (Buick) can work it out. “Daryz is towards the middle and I’m in six. I’m hoping she can run another huge race.”

While the major stables are expected to dominate Thursday’s nine-race Vaal meeting, trainer Phillip Labuschagne could enjoy a standout afternoon with two runners offering strong value for punters.

His first notable chance comes in Race 3 with Captain Cooper, a juvenile who has shown enough ability to suggest a maiden win is close. The son of Erik The Red chased home the winner on debut over 1200m and later produced another encouraging fourth over the same trip. His latest effort is best ignored after he kicked the gates and jumped awkwardly, compromising his chances from the start. In a race likely to focus on High Fidelity and Raptor King, Captain Cooper appeals as an attractive outsider capable of outrunning his odds.

The powerful Mike and Mathew de Kock stable could then take control of proceedings with strong prospects in the next two races.

In Race 4, Bristol Hercules looks the runner to beat. The Lancaster Bomber gelding returned from a break with an impressive victory over 1400m despite carrying 61.5kg. He returns to the same course and distance carrying a much lighter weight and remains unbeaten under these conditions. With natural improvement expected from that comeback run, he holds strong claims despite facing quality opposition from Mastership, Quickfreeze, and Wayne. His proven course record and current fitness make him a key contender and a solid exotic-race banker.

The De Kock team can complete a double in Race 5 with the progressive Green Machine. The son of Gimmethegreenlight has improved steadily as distances have increased, following a convincing maiden victory over 2000m with a determined handicap success over 2400m. Although he rises four rating points, his latest performance suggested there is still more improvement to come. If he continues on that upward trajectory, a hat-trick of wins is well within reach.

Labuschagne’s second major opportunity comes in the lucky last with Pompeii Shield. The lightly raced son of William Longsword was far from disgraced when finishing fourth over 1800m on his first run against winners. Dropping slightly in both class and distance should suit, and with only nine career starts, further progress is likely. The booking of talented apprentice Blaine Marx-Jacobson, whose weight allowance is an added advantage, strengthens his appeal.

While Bristol Hercules and Green Machine look the strongest winning prospects on the card, value-seeking punters may find greater reward by keeping a close eye on Captain Cooper and Pompeii Shield from the Labuschagne stable.

Clive Robinson

By Press Association Sport Reporters Ombudsman will face a tough task when he bids to hold on to his Prince of Wales’s Stakes title in the face of Daryz, Almaqam and Minnie Hauk on Wednesday. In what looks sure to be another highlight of a fascinating week at the Royal meeting, the 10-furlong Group One sees two of the highest rated horses in the world clash. John and Thady Gosden’s Ombudsman has added the Juddmonte International and Dubai Turf to his record in the past 12 months and finished second in the Eclipse and Champion Stakes. Daryz won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe last season and already this term has shown his adaptability in winning the Prix Ganay over an extended 10 furlongs and the Prix Aga Khan IV over nine. It is far from a two-horse race however, with Ed Walker’s Almaqam having finally made his Group One breakthrough in the Tattersalls Gold Cup in Ireland last time. Minnie Hauk went down valiantly to Daryz in the Arc and began her season in fine style, but disappointed behind Almaqam in the Tattersalls Gold Cup. Dancing Gemini, Devil’s Advocate, Mississippi River and See The Fire complete a field of eight. The Gosdens also hold strong claims in the Duke of Cambridge Stakes with Friendly Soul. A Group One winner in 2024, she missed the whole of last summer and returned to action recently at Haydock when she was the unfortunate runner to discover the hole in the track. Miraculously unscathed, she looks to get back to winning way in this Group Two against the likes of Blue Bolt, Jancis, Catalina Delcarpio, Shes Perfect and Falakeyah in a field of 15. There are 11 in the Queen’s Vase, with Aidan O’Brien only running Port Of Spain out of five initial entries. Joseph O’Brien’s Limestone, Archie Watson’s Wareeth and Point Of Law, trained by the Gosdens and owned by the King and Queen, also run. A maximum field of 28 is due to go to post in the Queen Mary with Karl Burke’s Wild Blossom, Simon and Ed Crisford’s Senorita Bonita and the Wesley Ward pair of Ruiva and Shining Moment among them. Another huge field will face the starter in the Royal Hunt Cup with Holloway Boy heading 30 runners plus three reserves. Andrew Balding’s Stateira is top-weight in the 25-runner Kensington Palace Stakes, while 25 have been declared for the Windsor Castle.

By Press Association Sport Reporters George Boughey believes Bow Echo has all the attributes to handle any eventuality in his rematch with Gstaad in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot on Tuesday. Unbeaten in three races at two, he routed the opposition in the 2000 Guineas looking every inch the standout miler of his generation. Aidan O’Brien’s Gstaad was the only colt who could make a race of it at Newmarket, but even so he was eventually put to the sword by almost three lengths and his subsequent win in the Irish Guineas only served to put Bow Echo’s performance into perspective. As the field races around a bend in the St James’s Palace, Bow Echo faces a slightly different test at Ascot. But Boughey is unconcerned. “I said in the autumn time last year he’s the best colt we’ve ever had and he’s unbeaten, which means you don’t want them to get beat,” said Boughey.

“When he was sent to me, Sheikh Mohammed Obaid (late owner) said he is the horse that was going to change my career. I think that was probably a bit bold from him considering he was an unraced yearling, but he has that pedigree and to have a 126-rated son of Night Of Thunder who is unbeaten is a huge honour.” Reflecting on his Guineas success, the Newmarket trainer said: “We were hopeful that he would be very competitive. I think to put on the show that he did was a little bit of a surprise to us, but he took the race well and within a couple of days he needed to be back out in full work. “Obviously he’s proven himself to be the horse we hoped he would be. There’s always a bit of an unknown through the spring to see if he’s a horse that’s going to flourish, luckily he has and I think he’s taken a notable step forward. “We’ve always been very comfortable with his work and how he’s trained, but we have seen an improved physical in the mornings and his work has undoubtedly got stronger. “I’ve always thought because he’s a horse that I want to ride with a bit of restraint, on a straight track if you jump and land prominent you’re a victim of circumstance. You don’t want to be too far back at Ascot on the round mile as they can get away from you on the front front, but he jumped and travelled at Haydock around a bend and possibly hit the front too soon. “He’s got quite a few of the attributes you need for that track. I think he’s a horse that will travel and I think he’s got all the attributes to do anything really.” It is unusual for O’Brien to be playing the role of underdog but that is the situation he finds himself in with Gstaad, despite his Irish Guineas success. A winner of the Coventry Stakes 12 months ago, the Ballydoyle handler reports him to have improved again. Speaking in an attheraces.com stable tour O’Brien said: “We’re delighted with him and everything has gone smoothly since the Curragh. We feel he has improved again. “He’s a very balanced horse and we feel a round mile will suit him well. He’s very straightforward and his form tells you how talented and tough he is. We’re looking forward to taking on Bow Echo again. “Our horses were only going OK at the time of the 2000 Guineas, and they’ve all stepped up a gear since then. It looks a very exciting race on paper and we’re looking forward to seeing it play out.” O’Brien also runs Puerto Rico, a dual Group One scorer as a juvenile and a close fourth in the French Guineas on his only outing this term.

The Ballydoyle handler said: “We had been training him for the 2000 Guineas and felt we had him peaking for it, but we decided to switch him to France the following week and the edge might just have gone off him by the time he got there. “He ran very well on the day, but we feel he’s better than that run and we’ve been training him for this race since then, so he is fully lined up this time.” The outlier is Charlie Appleby’s Talk Of New York who did not run in either Guineas but impressed onlookers with the way he won Sandown’s Heron Stakes. Appleby told godolphin.com: “I was impressed with Talk Of New York at Sandown and he has trained very well since. “This has the makings of a great race with the two Guineas winners, while we go in with untapped potential at this level. “We will see if Talk Of New York can rise to the occasion, but we have a lot of confidence in the horse and are looking forward to it.”

Hollywoodbets Greyville’s polytrack meeting on Wednesday features several competitive contests, with What A Fortune looking well placed to break through in the feature Middle Stakes.

The Candice Bass-trained gelding has adapted well since arriving from Cape Town, finishing close-up in both KZN starts. He was narrowly beaten over the poly last time and, despite dropping in trip and drawing wide, benefits from a useful 2.5kg claim. He appears the horse to beat.

The main threats include Sean Tarry’s The Specialist, who makes his poly debut after contesting stronger company on the Highveld. Prior to his latest feature-race effort behind Jerusalema Rain, he had won three in succession and drops in class. Thisiswhatitmeans also commands respect despite top weight, while Golden Destiny returns to sprinting and should be competitive.

Race 1 sees What A Classic narrowly preferred after improving significantly on her first polytrack outing behind the progressive Green Energy. From a favourable draw and back against her own sex, she gets the vote. Sei Bella adds first-time blinkers after disappointing as favourite, while Red Hot Miss has shown enough to suggest she can feature.

In the opening PA leg, Christmas Rose appeals after a promising debut. The experience gained should prove valuable, although she faces older opposition. Brightsunnyday receives first-time blinkers, while Peaceful Duchess has improved since switching stables and surfaces. Chihiro could also improve on the poly.

Good Omen looks to have an excellent opportunity to shed his maiden tag in the first Pick 6 leg. His consistency has been rewarded with a suitable step up in trip. Gimme The Truth appears the biggest threat after two encouraging local runs, while Crimson Typhoon and Bourbon’s Beast have claims.

Race 4 is competitive. Fine Wine carries top weight and a wide draw but boasts strong polytrack credentials and benefits from Mickaelle Michel’s claim. Chasing Gold’s recent form has been franked and she remains a major danger, while poly newcomer Ebisu is respected if handling the surface.

Dawn Surprise heads a wide-open Race 5. The Gary Rich-trained mare is ultra-consistent and proven over the course and distance. Innerbloom could improve significantly if adapting to the poly, while Ruby Rising and Thought Control are closely matched on recent form.

Last Margareta rates the one to beat in Race 7 after an impressive first-up polytrack success for Garth Puller. Golden Angel and Quandura are logical dangers in a modest handicap.

The finale may belong to Mountainsofthemoon. Robbie Hill’s mare has produced two strong recent polytrack performances, the form has worked out well, and championship-chasing Craig Zackey takes the ride. Got The Word and Pongola are respected dangers, but Mountainsofthemoon looks the standout closing bet on the card.

By Adam Morgan, Press Association Since bursting onto the scene with Gold Cup victory in 2023, winners for Wathnan Racing are as common place as top hats and tails and fascinators at Royal Ascot. It was wins for Courage Mon Ami and Gregory that gave the Emir of Qatar’s racing entity a dream start to the ownership experience at the Berkshire track’s showpiece occasion and four more would follow in 2024 before that was eclipsed with a fabulous five-timer 12 months ago. There were doubles on both the opening and final day then as they finished level on winners with Coolmore, only missing out on the leading owner prize on countback.

There are some familiar faces and exciting newcomers on the team sheet this time around, but the mission statement remains the same as Wathnan’s class of 2026 step into the red-hot pressure cooker of the summer’s marquee meeting. “There’s obviously a few nerves and jitters ahead of what is always a big week but I think we’ve got a good team,” said Wathnan’s racing adviser Richard Brown. “I hope we’re improving the team every year and it’s amazing how few big days a horse will give you and we’ve got some horses who have been in the team a long time and some that are new to the team and it’s a blend of both and I think you need that at the meeting to be successful.” It was Lazzat who provided the owners with Group One success at the meeting 12 months ago, but with the French raider absent through injury this time around it could be left to another leading sprinter, Karl Burke’s Night Raider, to captain this year’s Wathnan contenders for the feature events.

Unbeaten in two this term, he showed he is far from a “one-trick pony” when winning the Temple Stakes at Haydock and while the connections were forced to wait for the final Group One of the week to strike last year, Night Raider could help them make an early impression this time around. “I’ve always been a massive fan of his and I think he’s taken his form to a new level this year and so far has done nothing wrong,” said Brown. “He’s won twice and he was very impressive at Newmarket on his return, but it went wrong for him at Haydock and he still managed to win well and for me he would be our number one chance of having a Group One winner. “I think the horse enjoys leading but if the pace is there, then James (Doyle) can make a decision and he’s shown now he’s not a one-trick pony.” Before Night Raider goes to post for the King Charles III Stakes, a striking son of Frankel, Damysus, will represent Wathnan in the curtain-raising Queen Anne Stakes seeking to recreate the form that saw him well fancied for the Lockinge last month.

“Things are going to have to be different for him and he’s going to have to improve again but I think the stiff mile at Ascot will suit him better than the mile at Newbury,” continued Brown. “James felt he just wasn’t himself at Newbury and we just hope to see a better version of him at Ascot.” As is proving an annual tradition, Wathnan have once again headed out and loaded up their shopping baskets with a raft of new purchases ahead of the Royal meeting. The pick of those could prove to be Ed Walker’s 1000 Guineas fourth The Prettiest Star who will have the option of the Group One Coronation Stakes or Jersey Stakes next week. Brown said: “We’re still needing to decide where to go with The Prettiest Star and James has ridden her work recently and was very taken by her. We’ve got a very nice filly on our hands.

He went on: “Another of our new signings, Lost Boys obviously has very good form in the book and won the London Gold Cup having found trouble late on but still found a way which is a trait I always like. “He’s progressive and lightly raced and has a lot going for him. You’ll need a lot of luck in the Golden Gates but he looks nicely weighted to go and hopefully run a big race.” Wathnan tend to play a key role in the week’s juvenile events, winning the Norfolk, Queen Mary and Chesham Stakes in the last two years. Two of those three winners have been trained by Karl Burke, who could prove central to the owners fortunes once again, with the shortest-priced Wathnan horse in the Coventry Stakes (Ruler’s Pride), Queen Mary Stakes (Wild Blossom), and Albany Stakes (Light Of Dawn) all undergoing their preparations at Spigot Lodge.

“Wild Blossom was visually very taking and I think this is the race we have one of our stronger hands as we will also run Alta Regina and Cosmic Mystery,” said Brown. “I had to give James some horrible instructions the other day ahead of Light Of Dawn’s debut and tell him to try to win as easily as he can – normally when you say that they finish last. “James gave her a beautiful introduction and I don’t think it was anything more than what she would have done at home really and it was just a good stiff piece of work. “I think it was extremely impressive as there were three colts in the race that set a good standard and you had to be taken by that. Hopefully we get some luck once again.”

By Adam Morgan, Press Association Aidan O’Brien’s Classic heroines True Love and Precise are the two big names among 10 confirmations for the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot on Friday. It was True Love that scooped 1000 Guineas glory at Newmarket last month, despite Precise being sent off favourite to add to the fine record she built up at two. However, roles were reversed in the Irish equivalent a few weeks later, where Precise showed her true colours to deny True Love and claim a Guineas win of her own at the Curragh. The two Ballydoyle contenders set a clear standard ahead of their third clash of the campaign, but hoping to bridge the gap is Owen Burrows, who expects Ascot to suit his filly Touleen much better than the undulations of the Rowley Mile after she finished a gallant sixth in the opening fillies’ Classic of the year from the wrong side of the track. “She’s well and seems good and it’s all systems go for the Coronation,” said Burrows. “We thought she had a good draw in the Guineas but it didn’t end up being that way as Karl Burke’s filly (Venetian Sun) didn’t stay and Precise didn’t run her race. We just got a bit stuck out there and Saffie (Osborne) had to move about and everything was happening away from her. “I would like to think Ascot would suit her a lot better track-wise. The twice she has run at Newmarket she hasn’t handled the undulations the best so we’re hoping Ascot will prove better for her. “She’s got four or five lengths to make up and I’m not saying she is going to win it, but I would be disappointed if she’s not making up a few lengths on them.” Ed Walker’s Newmarket fourth The Prettiest Star remains in contention, although connections could be tempted to drop back to seven furlongs for next Saturday’s Jersey Stakes, while Sir Mark Prescott’s Moon Target was a smart juvenile and is an interesting name having not been seen yet this term. The Irish hand is strengthened by Donnacha O’Brien’s Breeders’ Cup scorer Balantina, while Paddy Twomey’s Irish 1,000 Guineas fourth Black Caviar Gold adds further spice to the mix. The latter is owned by Yorkshire-based Bond Thoroughbreds Limited and their director Charlie Bond said: “Black Caviar Gold is in great form and we’re looking forward to next Friday. “It was a big run in the Irish Guineas on ground conditions she wouldn’t really like and if there is a bit of rain around next week at Ascot it would be a boost.” Charlie Johnston’s German 1000 Guineas winner Timeforshowcasing is one of two possible runners for owner Jaber Abdullah alongside Richard Hughes’ Rose Ghaiyyath, with Jack Channon’s Fred Darling winner Sukanya in line to be given the chance to bounce back from a below-par run at the Curragh.

After combing through the list of runners for Sunday’s Prix de Diane at Chantilly, one thing is clear: the task is a tough one for locally-trained fillies who take on a formidable raiding party from Ireland and Britain. Ironically, the clear favourite is a filly bred in France at Haras des Monceaux. Out of Dansili mare, Prudenzia, who has also produced the likes of Chicquita, Magic Wand and Philomène, Diamond Necklace is by French-bred, but Coolmore-based, St Mark’s Basilica, and is trained at Ballydoyle by Aidan O’Brien. Impressive winner of the Prix Marcel Boussac last autumn following a pair of wins at home, she was subsequently put away for the winter. Making her seasonal re-entry at ParisLongchamp in early-May, she made short work of the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches. Bred to run beyond a mile, Diamond Necklace should appreciate Sunday’s conditions and justifiably heads the market. Other notable visitor is Evolutionist, a Night Of Thunder filly from Karl Burke’s yard. Third in the Fillies’ Mile at the end of her juvenile campaign, she made a winning return in the Gr.3 Prix de la Grotte at Longchamp in April prior to running second in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket. She is bred to stay and could unlock further progress on her first attempt over 2100m. Earlier in the week, William Haggas confirmed that he was not sending Lilt to Chantilly merely to make up the numbers. Authoritative winner of a York Listed on her seasonal comeback, the James Wigan-owned filly takes quite the leap in class but must be taken seriously nevertheless. Inis Minor arrives on the back of an impressive Listed victory at Goodwood, in a race in which she was not helped by the lack of pace. Although well-beaten in the 1,000 Guineas, she has always been held in high regard by her French trainer David Menuisier. The Sussex-based handler saddled Tamfana in the 2024 renewal, in which she ran an excellent third under Oisin Murphy. Other overseas fillies include Esna, Moments Of Joy and Felicitas. Among the French-trained contenders, Green Spirit undoubtedly holds the strongest chance. Beaten a length by Diamond Necklace in last autumn’s Marcel Boussac, the Wertheimer brothers’ filly produced an eye-catching late run to finish third in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, recording the fastest final 600m of the race. Her trainer, Christopher Head, after what he himself described as a very quiet start to the season, appears to have his string back in form. While reversing form with the Coolmore filly may prove difficult, another high-class performance can reasonably be expected. Evita is a lightly-raced filly that has always been highly regarded by Yann and Carlos Lerner. She will need to take a big step forward to feature but remains unexposed and could spring a nice surprise. Trained in the Provinces by Jean-Claude Rouget and Patrice Cottier respectively, Habibi and Pink Panthera are the other two French-trained hopes.

Video Stars Race 3 – 2 KING OF FIGHTERS His last-start sixth in Class 3 was much better than it appears. Settling off the pace in a slowly run race, he finished strongly to be beaten just 2.75 lengths over this track and distance. Prior to that effort, he had been racing consistently, highlighted by a narrow second placing four starts ago. Dropping into Class 4 for the first time, he should appreciate the easier company and, despite carrying 134lb, looks capable of making his presence felt. Race 4 – 12 SMART FAT CAT He was last seen finishing a close second over 1600m at this track in April, producing a strong finishing burst to chase home the in-form BIG RETURN, who has since completed a hat-trick of victories. His earlier form also reads well, having performed creditably against talented gallopers AEROVOLANIC and BLAZING WUKONG. Resuming from a break, he appears well weighted and shapes as a leading contender. Sectional Stars Race 1 – 7 QUANTUM WUKONG From an awkward draw on debut, he settled towards the rear before unleashing a sustained burst from the 400m to finish fourth over 1200m. With that experience under his belt, he is open to further improvement and can prove a major winning chance against modest opposition. Race 6 – 11 GORGEOUS VICTORY He looks to be racing off a winnable mark and comes into this assignment on the back of a fast-finishing third over this track and distance 13 days ago, where he recorded the second-fastest final 400m of the race in 22.97 seconds. Remaining well weighted, he could finally break through for his first win.

RACE 7 ( 3 – 1 – 5 – 2 ) The 1200m Korean Racing Authority Trophy has once again attracted a quality lineup where talented four-year-old YES MAN (3) will be aiming for successive victories from the good draw. YES MAN finished out of the placings when resuming in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup on March 29 but was back in business with his customary racing pattern when leading throughout in a 1200m Metro A contest on May 10. In a race devoid of early speed, YES MAN (3) may find the front and prove hard to beat again as he strives for his tenth win in Malaysia. PLATINUM EMPEROR (1) has been relatively lightly raced since coming across from Macau but hasn’t lost his class with four wins from nine starts in Malaysia. The six-year-old resumes from a two-month break but does boast an excellent first up record which keeps him under notice. BANKER’S FIRST (5) finished runner up to YES MAN but bounced back with a decisive seven length win at Ipoh a fortnight ago and looks to be a horse on the way up. PACIFIC VAMPIRE (2) is another fast beginner which will no doubt be seeking a forward position after barrier rise. However, he can be vulnerable if he finds himself caught without cover early, especially over the 1200m. FILIAL DRAGON (8) has not won since taking out the Ipoh Gold Vase last year but hasn’t been far away in recent performances and looks a place chance at value. RACE 9 ( 1 – 2 – 6 – 4 ) Malaysia’s best juveniles will assemble for the running of the RM 200,000 3YO Sprint Championship this Sunday at set weights. MEGA ACE (1) will enter the listed feature with the best credentials which includes six wins from nine starts and is rated 12 points higher than his nearest rival. The Simon Dunderdale trained gelding has maintained very good form throughout a busy campaign which has culminated with a couple of Class 3 victories and a win in the Mitavite Asia Cup against some classy opponents on May 23. Jockey Benny Woodworth has a good record aboard MEGA ACE (1) and will likely start favourite in the fourteen-horse lineup. BANKER’S BOSS (2) is a promising type which has announced himself on the local circuit also with two wins from three starts, including a Class 3 win from a wide barrier on May 10. The former Western Australian galloper will also carry the 59kg and is well drawn to receive all the favours in the run. MEGA CRUSADER (6) has taken a while to hit his straps in three runs this preparation but has a touch of class judging by his successive victories earlier this year. STRONG DRAGON (4) received no luck when resuming in a Class 5 contest three weeks ago but has a quick turn of acceleration when called upon and could provide the value. SIR RUBY (3) may prefer a longer distance but did look impressive winning over 1800m last start. Speaking of impressive wins, JET THIRTY FIVE (7) absolutely dominated a Restricted Maiden here last Sunday when leading throughout by 2.25L. The gelding never looked in danger and is a definite watch on the seven-day backup. MEGA SKYE (11) is another galloper with a quick turn of foot which finally broke through last start while BANKER’S WARRIOR (5) has been racing well but may have to be used up early from the wide barrier.

The Prix de Diane has long stood as one of the defining races of the European season for three-year-old fillies, and this year’s edition at Chantilly has an obvious headline act. Diamond Necklace, already a Classic winner this season, will attempt to complete a major French double when she steps up to 2100 metres in the Group 1 Prix de Diane, France’s version of the Oaks. A field of 11 fillies has been declared for Sunday’s feature, with Diamond Necklace expected to start at the head of the market. Ryan Moore will take the ride on the Aidan O’Brien-trained daughter of St Mark’s Basilica, who has drawn well in stall three. Her Ballydoyle stablemate Moments Of Joy will also line up, with Wayne Lordan booked to ride from stall eight. Run under set-weight conditions, the Prix de Diane is one of the great prizes on the French calendar. First staged in 1843, the race has been won by some outstanding fillies and has often shaped the second half of the European season. The honour roll includes names such as Allez France, Zarkava, Treve, Laurens, Blue Rose Cen and Nashwa, while Treve famously used her dominant Diane victory in 2013 as the platform for the first of her two Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe wins. This year, however, much of the attention will be on whether Diamond Necklace can carry her brilliant mile form to the longer Chantilly trip. The Ballydoyle filly was highly impressive when winning the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, the French 1000 Guineas, at ParisLongchamp. That victory confirmed her as one of the leading fillies of her generation and maintained the upward curve that began during her juvenile season, when she had already advertised her top-level ability in the Prix Marcel Boussac. What made that last-start performance so striking was the manner of it. Diamond Necklace travelled with purpose, quickened when asked and gave the impression there was still more to come. She did not simply win a Classic; she won it like a filly with the scope to stretch further in distance and improve again. That is the central question at Chantilly. The Prix de Diane is not a straightforward extension of Guineas form. The race asks a different question. It is run around Chantilly’s sweeping circuit, over an extended mile and a quarter, and it demands balance, rhythm and stamina as well as a sharp turn of foot. O’Brien appears confident Diamond Necklace has the right tools for the assignment. The filly has reportedly pleased since her French Guineas success, and the plan had always been to return to France for the Diane if she came through that race in good order. Her trainer has also indicated that the step up to 2100 metres has never been viewed as a major concern. Her sire St Mark’s Basilica improved when he moved up in distance, and Diamond Necklace has shown several similar traits: professionalism, tactical speed, balance and the ability to travel strongly before quickening. Those qualities are often vital in the Diane, where fillies can be exposed if they are too keen, too one-paced or unable to handle the track. Better ground should also be in her favour, and from a favourable draw in stall three, Moore should have the opportunity to give her a smooth run without being forced into a difficult tactical position. The opposition, however, is not without depth. Green Spirit, trained by Christopher Head, adds an important French presence and knows Diamond Necklace well. She was runner-up to her in the Prix Marcel Boussac and then finished third behind her in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches. Drawn in stall one, she gets another chance to test herself against the favourite and could be dangerous if she enjoys a soft run close to the speed. Britain has a strong hand, with five runners declared — one more than the home team. The group is headed by Evolutionist, the Karl Burke-trained filly who finished second in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket. She has drawn stall five and is expected to appreciate the longer trip. Burke has suggested she has strengthened since her Guineas run and that she will be ridden with more restraint this time, rather than being asked to race as prominently as she did at Newmarket. That change in tactics could make her a serious threat if she settles and produces her turn of foot late. Diamond Necklace may be the filly they all have to beat, but Evolutionist brings high-class Classic form of her own and should not be underestimated. Felicitas is another British-trained runner with claims. The Teofilo filly was runner-up in the Musidora Stakes at York and has drawn stall seven. That form gives her a solid middle-distance profile, and the Chantilly trip should play to her strengths if she can continue her progression. The Ballydoyle team could also be represented strongly by Moments Of Joy, who brings a different profile to Diamond Necklace. She was seen in the Musidora Stakes at York, where the tempo may not have played fully to her strengths. She had several options on the table, including the Epsom Oaks and the Ribblesdale Stakes, but Chantilly has emerged as the preferred target. She looks like a filly who could appreciate the trip and the track, especially if the ground remains on the quicker side. Still, the race revolves around Diamond Necklace. The Prix de Diane has a reputation for producing elite fillies, but it is not easily won. Only the very best can combine Classic speed with the stamina and composure required at Chantilly. That is why the race has historically carried such weight, and why a victory here would significantly enhance Diamond Necklace’s status. A win would not only give her a second French Classic of the season, it would also place her among the leading fillies in Europe and open the door to even bigger targets later in the year. The Arc has been a dream for some Diane winners, and while that conversation can wait, a strong performance on Sunday would make it difficult to ignore. Diamond Necklace has already shown brilliance at a mile. Now she must prove she can be just as effective over 2100 metres. By Scott Bailey – iRACE  

The Gr3 Lucky Fish Winter Stakes over 2400m headlines Saturday’s mixed turf and polytrack meeting at Hollywoodbets Greyville and could play a key role in determining the final Hollywoodbets Durban July field.

Candice and Tammy Dawson’s Enflame has done little wrong in recent staying races and should be a major contender, while Patrick Kruyer’s Tenpenny looks capable of bouncing back after a disappointing run on soft ground. Prior to that effort, he had produced strong Cape staying form and retains the services of JP van der Merwe. Native Ruler has been competing well in stronger company and remains an interesting prospect despite being untested at the distance.

Shoot The Rapids is another July hopeful. Nathan Kotzen’s gelding has finished runner-up in his last two starts and gets a major boost with Richard Fourie booked. Holding Thumbs should improve over this trip after a needed comeback run, while Sean Tarry’s Future Pearl could surprise off a much-reduced rating if returning to his best form.

The supporting card is highly competitive with few standout bankers. In the opener, Highveld raider Tanareef should improve on a promising debut, while Lenoxx and Deonaire appear closely matched after recent efforts. Kid From The South is another to monitor, particularly if supported in the betting.

Sweet Green rates one of the better bets on the card. The Justin Snaith-trained filly was a beaten favourite after an encouraging debut but remains progressive. Pacific Mood should improve significantly after a green first outing, while Queraristinyferrari may benefit from switching back to turf.

Former champion trainer Ricky Maingard has enjoyed immediate success since relocating to KZN and his runner in the opening PA leg warrants respect. Light The Fire brings strong recent form, while Barry’s Boy remains a danger after a solid polytrack effort.

The Pick 6 opener is wide open. Wendy Whitehead’s Definitely Yes looks the stable elect despite a wide draw, aided by a 4kg claim. Little Boy Blue and Bangladesh are key rivals, while Gorgeous Guy could improve on the switch to polytrack.

Mohave Prince seeks a fourth win from his last five starts and remains the one to beat in race five despite a penalty. Gimmefabulous, Uzwano and Office In Command all have claims.

Day Two, No Pressure and outsider Intuitive Spirit head the selections in a competitive sixth race. Later, class performer Cats Pajamas looks capable of overcoming top weight despite a drop in trip. Circumbendibus and King Of The Gauls are respected rivals.

In the finale, Black Eagle brings strong Cape form and can make amends for a recent defeat. Serengetti Sun and the consistent Miss World also have strong winning claims.