French 2000 Guineas hero Rayif bounced back to form to repel a strong raiding party in the Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville. Francis-Henri Graffard’s colt struck Classic gold on what was his seasonal debut in the Poule d’Essai des Poulains in early May, but his summer campaign has been interrupted, with a planned visit to Royal Ascot scuppered by a minor setback after which he ran a little below par when fifth in the Prix Jean Prat. He had plenty on his plate stepping back up to a mile, with Aidan O’Brien’s Irish 1,000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes winner Precise the hot favourite after bumping into top-class older filly Blue Bolt on her last couple of starts.

Fozzy Stack’s Prix Jean Prat victor Thesecretadversary took the field along for much of the way, closely pursued by Karl Burke’s Zeus Olympios, who looked the likely winner after quickening to the lead inside the final furlong. But Mickael Barzalona delivered Rayif with a withering late run and he got up to deny Zeus Olympios an elusive first Group One success, with Precise close up behind in third. “I’m very happy, it’s a wonderful race to win, a very hard race to win,” said Graffard. “I kept my confidence in the horse. He ran pretty well the other day with excuses and he was in top form (today). Over that course you need the perfect trip and we had the perfect trip today. “He travelled really well and picked up really nicely, he’s very tough and game.

“He won the Poule d’Essai on very soft ground so everyone was saying he’s a soft ground horse, but you need to keep trying and if these horses are to find their place at stud they need to be performing at this level. “The Jacques le Marois is a very famous race – probably the second most famous race in France after the Arc – so it’s a wonderful race to win. It means so much.” Rayif has a range of options for the second half of the season, including the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Champions Day, for which he was cut to 4-1 second-favourite from 14-1 by Coral. Graffard added: “It depends if we decide to go for the Prix du Moulin (September 6) or give him more time and the Prix de la Foret (October 4) could be an option – I wouldn’t be afraid to drop him back in distance. “There is the QEII at the back-end and we know he can handle soft ground.”

Of the gallant runner-up, Burke said: “We always thought and hoped he would produce that sort of performance in a Group One. I think physically he’s improving and he showed that today. “He quickened twice there – first time I thought we’d got it, then he got challenged and then he quickened again and I thought we’d got it and so did Cliff (Lee, jockey). “The winner, fair play to him, has come and cut us down. Francis can do no wrong, can he? “We’ll get him home and see how he is. It’s got to be discussed, but as a trainer I’m very hopeful he’ll stay in training next year and I think he’ll just continue improving physically and strengthening, so hopefully if he doesn’t win his Group One this year he’ll certainly get it next year. “I’d say the race at Longchamp (Moulin) will probably come a bit quick for him, maybe we’ll wait for the QEII at Ascot.” By Press Association Sport Reporters

Zavateri is primed for his tilt at the City of York Stakes, according to Eve Johnson Houghton, as 18 runners remained in contention for the seven-furlong Group One highlight at York on Ebor day. After a setback in the spring which ruled out a Guineas campaign and Royal Ascot, Johnson Houghton’s three-year-old colt is still looking for a first win this campaign. But a comeback race full of promise when fifth behind Bow Echo in the Sussex Stakes suggested he retained all his ability and now his trainer is keen to make up for lost time, back in trip to the seven furlongs on Saturday. “I think he was a bit ring rusty and he had a good blow at Goodwood so he probably needed it more than I thought he did,” said Johnson-Houghton. “But he has come on a bundle since and I couldn’t be happier with him. “I can’t see why he won’t run well at York. He is very, very straightforward. So absolutely it is all systems go for the race.” He could renew rivalry with Queen Anne winner Ten Bob Tony, a place and a length and a half a length ahead of him at Goodwood as well as Lennox Stakes winner Lake Forest, just under two lengths back in seventh, who was having his second run in two days. Lockinge winner Notable Speech may drop in trip while Japanese raider Satono Reve could be an intriguing runner stepping up from placed efforts in top sprints like the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes and the July Cup. Aidan O’Brien’s 1000 Guineas winner True Love spearheads a possible three-strong entry from Ballydoyle with Puerto Rico and Dorset also among the entries. Andrew Balding’s Flora Of Bermuda, Native Warrior, a Group Three winner at Leopardstown last time out, and Chipchase winner Paborus give Wathnan Racing a potentially strong hand. Lennox second Rogue Diplomat may get the chance to continue his upward progress at the highest level among the 18 who remain. Damysus will aim to go two places better than on the Knavesmire last time out following his third to Item in the York Stakes if lining up for the Group Two opener, the Sky Bet Strensall Stakes. The John and Thady Gosden-trained four-year-old will be one of the leading fancies for the nine-furlong contest which has attracted 14 entries at the five-day stage. Boiling Point (Karl Burke), Geryon (Ger Lyons), Persica (Richard Hannon) and Archivist (Hamd Al Jehani) are other notable entries. Burke and Wathnan Racing could also team up with the likely favourite when Wild Blossom bids to build on the promise of her Alice Keppel Stakes win at Goodwood in the Julia Graves Roses Stakes. Molecomb Stakes runner-up Adonius looks set to provide the stiffest competition in a race that has attracted 22 entries at the five-day stage. By Gideon Brooks, Press Association

It is 59 years since Arthur Stephenson’s Forlorn River took his place on the Nunthorpe roll of honour, but now County Durham’s Tracy Waggott is dreaming of recreating the glory days of a proud racing region with her horse of a lifetime, Heavenly Heather. Thoughts immediately turn to The Thinker and his snow-laden Cheltenham Gold Cup success of 1987 when Stephenson’s name is uttered. But 20 years prior to his Prestbury Park heroics it was in fact York and its showpiece sprint that would provide the incomparable ‘W.A.’ with his first notable success. He would enjoy further success at York’s Ebor Festival when Forlorn River’s son Rapid River stormed to Gimcrack honours in 1972, while Bishop Auckland neighbour Denys Smith only enhanced the region’s rich racing heritage with his own stellar career including Red Alligator’s Grand National triumph of 1968. However, with Stephenson and Smith’s achievements consigned to the walls of the local pubs adorned in racing memorabilia, it is Waggott – whose Spennymoor base is just a strongly thrown stone away from Stephenson’s old Crawleas centre of excellence – that is attempting to rekindle the glory days in a land that takes the utmost pride in its equine heroes. Waggott, who also trains just 13 miles from where Michael Dods sent out Mecca’s Angel to win back-to-back Nunthorpes in 2015 and 2016, said: “Every time I go to the shops someone asks me how such and such is going, or telling me don’t worry this one will win next time. There’s always someone asking a question about the horses or offering their best wishes. “I enjoy training where I am. I used to work for Denys Smith and I’ve always had a lot to do with the lads at Arthur Stephenson’s. I’ve always been really friendly with them all throughout my life so it’s good to be representing the area. “We’re just keeping our fingers crossed now they’ll have something to cheer on at York.” That something to cheer will hopefully be provided by the improving Heavenly Heather, a horse whose journey started local and one who has already secured her place in northern racing folklore thanks to her shock 200-1 All-Weather Championships Finals Day success in April 2025. Still a maiden, but with plenty of Gosforth Park experience under her belt, it was a late call from Waggott to send the horsebox on a short trip up the A1 that would not only pay dividends but also provide the biggest success of her training career to date. Remembering that unbelievable first triumph of the five-year-old’s career, Waggott explained: “I was scanning the entries at 11.45am and I was left thinking ‘this is a bad race’. “We threw her in and she won which was tremendous and then she has just gone from strength to strength. “I didn’t back her – I wish I did – but I did think we would be in the first four.” Heavenly Heather, named after part-owner Chris Rain’s late mother, would return with regularity to Tyneside as her stature began to grow, but it is since turning her attentions to turf that she has taken the bold leap into elite company, mixing it with the very best of the sprint division this term. “She was going really well and she liked Newcastle but I do think she’s a better horse on the grass now,” continued Waggott. “She’s got loads sharper and every time she has run she has needed to come further back in trip and has just been getting faster and keener and then the last one off the bridle. Now she’s just a star here.” Heavenly Heather’s progress would see her fulfil her owner’s long-held dream of competing at Royal Ascot, a first for the trainer and one that brought a whole new level of nerves and anticipation to accompany the glitz and glamour of the summer’s most regal event. Now having firmly eclipsed the achievements of Waggott’s former sprinting star Intrinsic Bond with her sixth-place King Charles III Stakes performance, all eyes turn to Heavenly Heather’s Nunthorpe bid in a race not afraid of offering up a romantic outcome. “She’s definitely got a touch of class and along with Intrinsic Bond is the best we’ve had here,” added Waggott. “She was our first runner at Ascot and the owners always wanted a runner at Royal Ascot so we had to go. It was a tremendous occasion and she deserved her chance there and she ran exceptional. We were over the moon with her. “It’s a bit more local this time, just down the road which brings a little less stress. She’s a very free sweating mare but I love going to York as the stables are out the way and she will be nice and relaxed. “We’ve really freshened her up and we’ve now just got to keep our fingers crossed. If she gets a nice draw at York and a bit of cover I really do think she will run well.” Margot Did, Jwala, Alpha Delphini and Live In The Dream have all surprised on the Knavesmire since Sole Power’s daring late dart at 100-1 in 2010 in a race that has a habit of throwing up big-priced winners. By Adam Morgan, Press Association

The Highveld’s eight-race Vaal programme on Wednesday 19 August offers punters plenty of ammunition, with potential doubles for trainers Fanie Bronkhorst and St John Gray, while jockeys Philasande Mxoli and Craig Zackey also have realistic opportunities to strike twice. Bronkhorst could make a serious impact when the Pick 6 gets underway in Race 3. Korcula has been a costly customer for punters, but five successive third-place finishes tell their own story: she is knocking loudly on the door. The four-year-old daughter of Hawwaam gets a new rider in Calvin Habib, and this could be the occasion when he finds the little bit extra required to finally get her head in front over 1400m. If Korcula delivers, stable companion Uncle Bob could complete the quickfire double in Race 4. This three-year-old has finished runner-up in his last two starts over 1600m and does not need to improve much to break through over the extra 200m. Zackey partnered him in both those races and his decision to stick with the son of Heavenly Blue is a significant positive. Punters should take the hint. St John Gray’s Olympian Gold is another runner whose recent form deserves close attention. The lightly raced Potala Palace colt made a winning seasonal return over 1600m on the Turffontein Standside track and now steps up to 1800m in Race 5. The five-point penalty is unlikely to stop his progression, particularly with further improvement expected over the extended trip. Mxoli, who produced the winning ride last time, retains the partnership and can give Gray a chance of a double in Race 7. After Hours may be nine years of age and a veteran of 109 starts, but the old warrior has been rejuvenated and is capable of making his experience count over 1600m. Mxoli knows him, and that familiarity could prove valuable. Zackey, meanwhile, is still searching for his first winner of the new season (at the time of writing) after his well-earned break, but the champion jockey has several opportunities to put that statistic right. His best chance of a second winner on the card may come in the finale aboard Quiet Winter for Lucky Houdalakis. The What A Winter filly has been nearing a return to form and now gets an appealing set-up: a career-low mark, a favourable outside draw down the Vaal straight and a rider with plenty to prove after his quiet start to the campaign. At the right price, she could be the value play that rounds off the meeting. Earlier, in the opening race, Tony Peter’s three-pronged attack sets the tone, where Master Christmas looks the one to beat. The Master Of My Fate gelding is proven at a higher level, is ideally suited by the distance and should appreciate this drop in class. Kabelo Matsunyane’s mount looks a solid banker-type option to kick-start proceedings.   Clive Robinson

Race 5 No 4 THOUSAND MILE EYE Jumping well from a wide draw last start, he was steadied to settle towards the rear before unleashing a sustained run in the straight to finish fourth over this track and distance. The stewards have since advised that a review into the running and handling of the gelding will be conducted at a date to be fixed. With more positive tactics this time, he looks capable of making his presence felt in what appears a below-par Class 4 field. Race 6 No 5 BANKER’S WARRIOR He failed to see out the mile in a Three-Year-Old feature last start, where he was also caught wide while racing on the speed, making that run best overlooked. Prior to that, he showed tactical speed to finish a close third over 1300m in Class 3 company. Highly suited by the drop back in distance, he should be able to take up a prominent position and is expected to give them something to catch. Race 10 No 9 ALL THE WAY MAE She has had little luck in both local starts, travelling wide throughout on her local debut before an awkward jump compromised her chances last time out. She may also have found the Class 4 company a touch too strong at this stage of her career, having had just four starts to date. Ideally weighted under Weight For Age conditions, she should appreciate the drop to Open Maiden company, while the rise in distance also looks in her favour. Race 13 No 11 IRON RULER Since causing a major upset five starts ago, he has shown that victory was no fluke, finishing in the Top 4 in each of his four subsequent starts. Despite being hindered by a difficult draw last time out, he still found the line strongly to finish third over 1150m. The step up in distance looks ideal this week, and he appears well placed to maintain his consistent run of form.

Fresh from a remarkable six-win haul at Selangor last weekend, Bernardo Pinheiro returns with another strong book of 12 rides across Sunday’s 13-race programme. The Brazilian has been a dominant force this season, booting home 25 winners from 125 rides at an impressive strike rate of 20%. He has also recorded 23 seconds and 17 thirds, highlighting the consistency that has made him one of Malaysia’s most sought-after jockeys. Pinheiro will again combine prominently with trainer Simon Dunderdale, beginning with The Star in Race 3 and Friend Of Honor in Race 4. He will also partner Swey City Flyer, who has drawn ideally in barrier one for Race 7. The headline booking comes in Race 9, where Pinheiro reunites with stable star Antipodean. The accomplished gelding must shoulder 60kg from barrier seven but shapes as one of the most interesting runners on the programme. His other mounts include Sunny Day, Dontellmywife, Witnessimpact, Mega First, El Chubasco, Rizzler, Northern Star and Lim’s Bestbreaker. With confidence soaring after last weekend’s six-timer, Pinheiro will be looking to maintain the momentum and further strengthen his outstanding record at Selangor. We caught up with Bernardo and he discussed his rides and how he sees their chances this Sunday. RACE 1 SUNNY DAY “First race is Sunny Day. I really love the mare, you know, she’s in good form. She ran a super race with me coming back from a longer long break. And of course, I only expect improving after her first up run. The trainer says she pulled up well and she’s good. So, I like to hear that, she’s a very good ride. But, you know, 1000-metre race and having to jump from barrier 12. We just, just need a bit of luck from that draw, you know, and that’s how. She’s one of the favorites of the race, but just makes a bit harder the, the better 12 on the track 2, you know, can be a bit tricky.” RACE 2 DONTELLMYWIFE “So race two, this horse won with me two starts ago. It went well also last start. I didn’t ride him, but he ran a good race in fourth as well. They, they offered the ride back. I’m happy to, to be back on the horse. I think the horse goes well in this race, you know, as a bit open few of a couple of horses with chances. I know the horse well. He has a good draw in the middle. So I think he’s a good chance as well.” RACE 3 THE STAR “Race three. I ride The Star. This horse is not in his best form. He’s trying to get back previous best. He already leads, but has faded in the straight. I galloped him on Tuesday. He gave me a good feeling. And I believe he can go well, you know, the same way that he’s not in his best form in a positive way to think he’s been dropping the ratings as well. So he’s still in the class for, you know, but I think caring, carrying just 56.5kgs might help him to find a good form as well.” RACE 4 FRIEND OF HONOR “Race four, we have Friend Of Honor. This horse has been very consistent since I arrived. He was my first winner back here this year. And after that he really disappointed me, he was in a good form. Gave me a good gallop, but he really disappointed. He’s a very fresh horse. Only question mark is because barrier 12 and track two and 1275 might be his limit because he’s a sprinter, you know, but he won over this distance before a while ago. So, the horse in a good form of being bribing him in a track work as well during the week. Let’s see if I managed to, to get him leading up there from barrier 12. I think he run to his form.” RACE 6 WITNESSIMPACT “Race six I ride Witnessimpact. This horse, if you go back on his form a long time ago, I am two from two on this horse. So when he was young I won on him after that, you know, he, he got sold, he got some excuses also. If you go to his veterinary record, he had a wind surgery I think. So, you know, he does have some excuses. He has also gotten old. He’s not the same horse when I rode him. But at the end of the day, I’m still two from two. The way I remember him is good. And I go for, I go for the race confident on that, that mindset, you know, very open field, very strong race. He’s the lowest handicap in the race. So 54kg might help him. Just need to be positive on him.” RACE 7 SWEY CITY FLYER “This horse has won twice with me over class five. Class four is a question mark for him. He ran a super race first time in the class for last time over 1500. His first time that he’s going to run over a mile, I believe the horse that’s been improving race by race. I have a good draw, but we need to respect the field. It’s not an easy field. A couple of good horses in the race, but the horse is going to keep running his form. I’m sure of that.” RACE 8 MEGA FIRST “It doesn’t look like a class three race; it’s a very strong field. If you come from horse to horse, you know each horse has his own merits and you’ll be very competitive and interest rates to have the number one Pacific Padrino is dropping in class. King emperor is a very capable type. Good Friend, I liked his run in the Selangor Mile, that day was impressive. You know, this Secret Phantom is a horse that comes from far behind, but his turn of foot is quite impressive. So it’s a very strong field. We need to expect. But I love my horse. Mega first run a super race with me. They start in the three years old mile. He’s one of the lowest handicapped in this race. That’s the, the weight he is carrying is going to help us out very well. So I’m very well positioned to fight it out in this strong race, you know, I will go for it. RACE 9 ANTIPODEAN “Supreme A is Antipodean. If you ask me what’s the horse I’m looking for want for the weekend? You don’t need to ask me that when I’m riding this horse. Because anytime I ride his horse, I’m looking forward to this one because this horse I can say without the words I love him! It’s my favourite horse in Malaysia. And one of my favourite horses in my career here. And fortunately, I have been riding good horses all around the world, but this horse has a special place in my heart. And it’s a horse that every time I ride him, he just gave me his all. He’s a very honest horse with me. He’s still the best horse. Carrying 60 kilo, keeping weight for all the good horses getting lightweight makes it a tough job. Pacific Energy, you know, is very, very consistent horse less time. His race looks better than it shows the result. Really looking forward this race and partnering him again.” RACE 10 EL CHUBASCO “In the Maiden I ride El Chubasco. These horses don’t have much form. I galloped him. He goes okay. The race is quite weak. He’s open maiden. So he has his chances for sure.” RACE 11 RIZZLER “Reseller, I believe 1200 can be a bit far for him. He always runs well with me. He’s a very, very fresh horse. If he finds the front, he can run well. He will run well for sure. I just believe this distance can be a bit far for him though.” RACE 12 NORTHERN STAR “The replays I saw. He’s been running well. So I’ll go to the track confident and happy with the replays I see. It has quite a few, a couple of horses coming down from class four and in good form. But, yeah, I think he has the chance to run well,” RACE 13 LIM’S BESTBREAKER “Race 13 my horse is emergency one at acceptance time, so I don’t know if you’ll get the run or not. If he has the run, I think he can run well, his races are better than the results looks like, you know, last time I got outside draw. I click him to be close to the speed, but he over raced and was on the long course. But the horse in this class he can fight for the winning for sure if he gets in.” By Scott Bailey

The 2026/27 Hong Kong racing season will feature a total of 88 race meetings, with racing taking place at both Sha Tin and Happy Valley from September 2026 through July 2027. Of the 88 meetings, 49 will be staged at Sha Tin Racecourse, while 39 will take place at Happy Valley Racecourse. The calendar includes a combination of day, twilight and night meetings, providing a full programme of racing throughout the season. Two of the major highlights on the calendar will once again be the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) and FWD Champions Day, both staged at Sha Tin. The LONGINES Hong Kong International Races will take place on Sunday, 13 December 2026, forming the 29th race meeting of the season. As one of the biggest dates on Hong Kong’s racing calendar, HKIR traditionally brings together leading horses, jockeys and trainers from Hong Kong and around the world. Later in the season, FWD Champions Day will be held on Sunday, 25 April 2027, as the 66th race meeting of the 2026/27 campaign. The meeting is another major international showcase at Sha Tin and one of the key fixtures during the second half of the season. According to the fixture schedule, the season’s 88 meetings are made up of 40 day meetings, seven twilight meetings and 41 night meetings. Sha Tin will host all seven twilight fixtures, in addition to 39 day meetings and three night meetings, while Happy Valley will stage 38 night meetings and one day meeting.

Brazilian jockey Bernardo Pinheiro is on target to break his personal Malaysian record which stands at 33 winners which was achieved back in 2019, his first season of riding in the country. Currently placed 4th on the premiership with 25 winners and striking at 20%, Pinheiro has developed a cult following with local punters who would have filled their boots last Sunday with the inform jockey steering home six winners on the eleven-race card. No doubt Pinheiro will be looking to continue that rich vein of form before he departs for Dubai where the new UAE racing season commences in October. The 30-year-old is on track for multiple winners again this weekend with six-year-old SUNNY DAY to kick off proceedings in Race 1 (1020m Class 5B). Although she does possess a low strike rate of one win from 26 starts, the mare has improved with race experience and will strip fitter from her first up effort when she closed off well to finish runner up over 1150m here three weeks ago. Pinheiro was riding the HY Cheng-trained DON’TTELLMYWIFE for the first time when the five-year-old broke a winning drought two starts back over 1200m on July 5. The pair will be reunited in Race 2 (1150m Class 5A) and will be a major player in the local markets. LEGEND SIXTY-THREE resumes from a long break on the downgrade and usually goes well first up. His 5L trial win on July 21 suggests he is primed for a forward showing on his racetrack return. SWEY CITY FLYER, for trainer Simon Dunderdale, has been racing well this year and is expected to bounce back in Race 7 (1600m Class 4). The four-year-old has scored twice in its career, with Pinheiro aboard on both occasions, and generally races best off a solid tempo. This will be the gelding’s first try at the mile but was a 1500m winner two starts back and is a chance to break through in the grade. MEGA FIRST was far from disgraced in the 3YO Mile Championship on July 19 and appears well weighted with 55kg in Race 8 (1600m Class 3), Finishing 3rd, 3L behind the winner, MEGA FIRST was sent out favorite following his prior run at Class 3 level when finishing 2nd behind Selangor Mile place getter ANJOU CROWN on July 5. Another horse to watch in this race is GOOD FRIEND, which raced above expectations when placed 4th in the mile feature. Coming from 10th at the 400m mark, GOOD FRIEND was able to weave a passage between runners and close off well in a race that suited the back markers. Pinheiro has combined to win aboard talented six-year-old ANTIPODEAN on eight occasions and the pair look the testing material in Race 9 (1600m Supreme A). The G1 Selangor Gold Cup winner two years ago is on track to contest the second leg of the Triple Crown on September 27. However, this race will be highly competitive with some progressive types engaged including 3YO Selangor Mile winner ACQUITAINE, stable mate ANJOU CROWN and also BANKER’S HONOR. These three gallopers all performed well in the mile feature and whereas nothing could be taken away from the winner who like the other pair reeled off a fast final sectional, ANJOU CROWN and BANKER’S HONOR came from wide barriers. OMNIARCH cannot be left out of calculations either despite finishing 2nd and 3rd behind ANTIPODEAN in his last two outings over the mile trip. OMNIARCH is also on target to contest the Selangor Gold Cup next month.

Punters seeking a profitable Sunday on the Highveld should look to Turffontein’s Inside track on 16 August, where trainer Paul Matchett and jockey Kabelo Matsunyane hold several of the better betting aces.

The eight-race programme offers plenty of wagering opportunities, with Matsunyane an attractive each-way proposition in the opener aboard Reece’s Wish over 1600m. The Candice and Tammy Dawson-trained daughter of Vercingetorix arrives in compelling form, having finished outside the first two only once in seven starts and winning twice.

She comes off a smart 1450m success on the Vaal Classic track. A resultant five-point penalty makes this tougher, while the rise in class against male opposition are obvious negatives. Nevertheless, she remains open to improvement and, with just 52kg to shoulder, is exceptionally well treated from a weight perspective.

Reece’s Wish could therefore represent the value against likely favourite Calla Lagoon. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained British import has respectable credentials, having won once and placed three times from six starts in Britain, including a runner-up finish in a Listed race at Pontefract.

However, Calla Lagoon returns from a lengthy layoff and must overcome the effects of international travel. Reece’s Wish, by contrast, arrives race-fit, progressive and attractively weighted.

Matchett’s first major chance comes in Race 3 over 1200m with Mocha Magic, who returns after an encouraging debut over this course and distance. The Rafeef colt showed considerable promise when finishing third despite an alarming market drift, and the booking of Craig Zackey is particularly noteworthy. The reigning champion jockey retains the ride, indicating that Mocha Magic has continued to please the Matchett stable. He should be sharper for that initial experience and looks capable of making a winning return.

Matchett has another interesting runner in Race 4 over 1200m when Elusive Dragon drops back to maiden company. She was hopelessly outclassed in Grade 2 company over this trip at Hollywoodbets Greyville, but this represents a substantial reduction in class. Philasande Mxoli is reunited with the filly and, judged on earlier form, she has enough ability to make a significant impact.

Matsunyane and Tony Peter have developed into a potent partnership, and Star Magnolia could provide another winner in Race 8 over 1200m.

The Danon Platina filly has taken significant strides since equipment changes were introduced. She improved with earmuffs when runner-up before going one better with pacifiers added, opening her account in a Work Riders’ maiden last time.

Her handicap debut is tougher, particularly against male opposition, but she remains lightly raced with plenty of scope for improvement. The rise in class is a concern, but underestimating a filly getting better with every start could prove costly.

Star Magnolia could complete a potentially lucrative Matsunyane double.   Clive Robinson

The winner of last year’s Listed Southeaster Sprint, The US Of A has been hinting that he is capable of taking the next step up the ladder. He comes into race 2 over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday weighted to be very effective and, if allowed to use his biggest weapon, his turn of foot, he could claim career win number six. Take note that this race could be run over 1250m around the turn, with a decision to be taken after Wednesday’s racing.

Trainer Paddy Kruyer has shrewdly placed him to utilize a pleasing swing at the weights. His last run came over 1250m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, where he finished 2,8 lengths fourth behind Gold Giboski, carrying 51kg. He finished ahead of Dumbledore and Dance Variety and is now 1,5kg better off with both. The handicapper also gave him a two-point reduction, putting him in a lower band of this A Stakes.

Callan Murray takes the ride. The US Of A is most deadly when left alone to find his feet and power home. He does not need to be last but can switch it on and loves to run them down.

The opposition is talented, but most have reasons for not being at their peaks. Dance Variety has beaten The US Of A before, but this task looks tougher. Dreamworld showed huge ability as a two-year-old but returned from an eight-month rest last time and may need another run. Winter Snap is also likely to need the run after not being seen since December.

There is pleasing form in race 1. Red Flag improved when second behind Juliet Of Verona over 1250m and looks to be on the right track. Onthewingsofadove was a beaten favourite last time but finished second behind World Of Secrets.

Chinwag looks nailed on to win race 3 over 1600m after a fine run in the Listed Iridescence Stakes, finishing less than a length behind Grapes Of Wrath. She should get the job done under Murray for Michelle Rix.

Born To Master ran a career best when second behind Ready For The Road and will need to show that was no flash in the pan in race 4 over 1800m. Masteronthemoon was just behind him and little should separate them.

Fort Liam turned over the promising Trip To Camelot last time and could complete back-to-back wins in race 5 over 1800m, although the drop in trip is a concern.

In race 7, Major Apollo got back on track when second behind Moody Blue and looks ready to win soon. Magical Place had everything go wrong last time but represents huge value in race 8.

Ruby Rex has plenty in her favour in race 9 over 1000m. She beat William’s Woman by two lengths last time and, despite a 0,5kg deficit, should stay ahead.

A powerful international field is assembling at Deauville for Sunday’s Group 1 Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques le Marois, where Classic winners Precise and Rayif could face leading milers from Britain and Japan. The €1 million feature is staged over 1600m on Deauville’s straight course and remains one of Europe’s defining contests for three-year-olds and older horses. This year’s renewal lost its headline attraction when unbeaten British champion Bow Echo was retired after sustaining an injury in training. His absence has opened the race considerably, however, with 12 horses remaining at the latest confirmation stage. Five members of the Classic generation are still engaged, headed by Irish 1,000 Guineas winner Precise and French 2,000 Guineas hero Rayif. They are joined by accomplished older milers More Thunder and Zeus Olympios, while Japanese stars Sixpence and Strauss add further international depth to a fascinating renewal. Precise brings outstanding Group 1 record The early market has installed Precise as the horse to beat following another consistent campaign at the highest level. Trained by Aidan O’Brien, the daughter of Starspangledbanner has already won four Group 1 races, including the Irish 1,000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes this season. Her Royal Ascot victory confirmed her position among Europe’s leading three-year-old fillies, while subsequent defeats have done little to diminish her reputation. She finished behind Blue Bolt in both the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket and Prix Rothschild at Deauville, maintaining a remarkably consistent record without managing to reverse the form. Sunday’s race would require her to meet colts and older horses, but her experience on Deauville’s straight mile is an advantage. She also receives the allowances available to a three-year-old filly, which strengthens her claims in a race containing several closely matched contenders. O’Brien has also left Puerto Rico in the contest. A dual Group 1 winner as a juvenile, Puerto Rico has yet to reproduce that level across three appearances this season. His best form would make him relevant, although he arrives with more to prove than his stablemate. French hopes are led by Rayif, who represents trainer Francis-Henri Graffard and race sponsor Aga Khan Studs. The son of Sea The Moon produced the most important performance of his career when overcoming an interrupted preparation to win the Poule d’Essai des Poulains at ParisLongchamp in May. That victory came on testing ground, although his connections have long believed that a sounder surface may allow him to show his best acceleration. His season has not unfolded entirely to plan. A mild fever prevented him from travelling to Royal Ascot for a clash with Bow Echo in the St James’s Palace Stakes, forcing connections to redirect him to the shorter Prix Jean Prat. The drop to 1400m did not play to his strengths. Rayif settled too far behind a moderate tempo and was unable to make sufficient ground, finishing fifth behind Thesecretadversary. Returning to 1600m should be much more suitable. Rayif has also won at Deauville, having scored on the corresponding Jacques le Marois programme as a juvenile. His preparations for Sunday have reportedly progressed smoothly, giving him a more conventional build-up than he had before either of his previous starts this year. Graffard and the Aga Khan team are attempting to claim Deauville’s feature Group 1 for a second consecutive weekend following Samangan’s victory in the Prix Maurice de Gheest. The presence of Prix Jean Prat winner Thesecretadversary would add another significant dimension to the race. Trained by Fozzy Stack, the three-year-old defeated Samangan and Rayif over 1400m at Deauville last month, earning his first Group 1 success. The Prix Jacques le Marois would require him to stretch back to a mile and meet stronger international opposition, but his Jean Prat performance established him as a leading member of his generation. His participation is not yet certain, with connections also considering the Group 1 City of York Stakes the following weekend. That race is staged over 1400m, which may be viewed as a more natural fit. Power Blue holds the same two options. The Robson Aguiar-trained colt returned to winning form in the Group 2 Minstrel Stakes at the Curragh and has the speed to be effective over shorter distances. His ability to reproduce that performance over Deauville’s straight mile remains the key question. Japan launches a two-horse challenge Japanese interest centres on Sixpence, winner of the Group 1 Yasuda Kinen at Tokyo in June. The Hiroyasu Tanaka-trained runner arrives as a proven elite miler and will attempt to emulate Taiki Shuttle, who completed the Yasuda Kinen–Prix Jacques le Marois double in 1998. His presence gives the race considerable international significance. Japanese horses have become increasingly prominent at Europe’s major meetings, and Sixpence brings form strong enough to test the best European milers. Adapting to Deauville’s straight course will be crucial, but his combination of tactical speed and top-level experience makes him one of the most intriguing runners. Strauss also offers a contrasting profile. Trained by Ryo Takei, Strauss produced an impressive international performance when winning the inaugural US$1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup in February. The son of Maurice is yet to establish himself at the same level as Sixpence, but he possesses enough ability to warrant respect. Both Japanese horses have already arrived in Deauville, allowing them time to settle before Sunday’s assignment. The race will also be offered to Japanese punters through the JRA, underlining the growing international importance of the meeting. The three-year-olds face an experienced British challenge led by More Thunder and Zeus Olympios. William Haggas prepares More Thunder, who has developed into a high-class older miler and is prominent in early betting. His maturity and experience could prove valuable against younger horses stepping outside their own age group. Zeus Olympios represents Karl Burke and the late Sheikh Mohammed Obaid’s breeding operation, the same connections responsible for Bow Echo. Like the retired champion, Zeus Olympios is a son of Night Of Thunder. A victory would provide an emotional conclusion to a difficult week for the team, although he will need to produce a career-best performance in this company. The remaining French-trained contenders are Dreamliner, No Lunch and Sir Tommy Cen. All three would be making their first appearances at Group 1 level. Dreamliner represents Stéphane Wattel, while No Lunch runs for Christophe Ferland. Spanish-trained Sir Tommy Cen completes the possible line-up and would be one of the outsiders if taking his place. The jump from domestic or lower Group company into one of Europe’s strongest mile races is substantial, but a truly run straight-course contest could give one of them an opportunity to outperform expectations. The retirement of Bow Echo removes the horse who would almost certainly have started favourite. The unbeaten 2,000 Guineas, St James’s Palace Stakes and Sussex Stakes winner appeared ready to take his campaign to France after defeating Gstaad at Goodwood. His absence means there is no undisputed leader among Europe’s three-year-old milers. Precise offers the strongest record and proven Deauville form, while Rayif should be better suited returning to 1600m after his unsuccessful drop in distance. More Thunder brings the strength and experience of the older generation, and Sixpence could be the runner capable of changing the established European order. The final composition of the field will also be important. If Thesecretadversary and Power Blue are redirected to York, the complexion and likely tempo of the race may change considerably. What remains certain is that the Prix Jacques le Marois will again deliver an important confrontation between generations and racing jurisdictions. By Scott Bailey

Prix Maurice de Gheest winner thrives on fast ground.

Connections of Samangan will consider supplementing last weekend’s Prix Maurice de Gheest hero for the Betfair Sprint Cup if conditions remain quick at Haydock.

There are some decent races on the card at Fairview on Friday 14 August and hopefully they all be contested on the turf. There are two feature races on the programme, and Race 5, the Memorial Mile (Listed), is the first of them. Trainer Alan Greeff has a very strong record in this race, and Zinovi will be a short-priced favourite. Zinovi has won seven of his last nine starts and is the defending champion. The Heavenly Blue gelding has won five times since then, including his last four starts. Usual pilot Richard Fourie is away again and is replaced by jockey Andrew Fortune. Fortune rode this gelding when third back in May last year and will be keen to show he is capable of winning with him. The class act on this card is undoubtedly the Greeff-trained Golden Palm, who runs in Race 6, a Conditions Plate over 1200m. The Master Of My Fate filly returns from a break and drops back to sprinting, but she should prove hard to beat. Race 7, the Jockey Club Stakes (Listed) over 2000m, is the other feature race and looks a very open contest. Greeff has five of the 11 runners carded, and Fortune is on the very consistent Enchanting Choice, but the Rafeef mare tries this distance for the first time. She is well drawn but may be stretched by the trip. Stable companion Silvan Mistress may provide better value at the likely odds. This Master Of My Fate filly has shown a dislike for the Polytrack and struggled last time out. She had won two solid races before that, including over this course and distance in April, and has a decent draw in stall 4. There are also a couple of Western Cape-trained runners in the race, and the best of them could be Beware The Bomb. Trainer Justin Snaith has an excellent record when visiting this course, and this filly tries 2000m for the first time. It is worth noting she won over 1800m, which is the furthest she has gone so far. Jockey Kabelo Matsunyane is in good form and takes the ride.   Clive Robinson

British racing has lost its most exciting young star after unbeaten champion Bow Echo was retired following an injury sustained in training. The brilliant three-year-old leaves the racecourse with a perfect record of six victories from six starts, including a remarkable Group 1 treble in the 2,000 Guineas, St James’s Palace Stakes and Sussex Stakes. His retirement brings a premature end to a career that had generated comparisons with Frankel and established Bow Echo as arguably the most exciting prospect to emerge in British racing since Sir Henry Cecil’s unbeaten champion. Trained by George Boughey and ridden throughout his career by Billy Loughnane, Bow Echo was being considered for Sunday’s Group 1 Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville. Instead, his thrilling victory over Gstaad at Goodwood will stand as his final appearance. The injury is understood to involve his left fore fetlock. Although it prevents him from racing again, the colt is otherwise reported to be in good health and will now begin preparations for a stallion career. His precise stud destination and introductory fee have not yet been confirmed. A perfect rise through the ranks Few horses have progressed from maiden company to the summit of European racing as quickly and convincingly as Bow Echo. He announced himself with a four-and-a-half-length debut victory at Newbury before stepping into stakes company and winning the Listed Ascendant Stakes at Haydock. A victory in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket completed an unbeaten juvenile campaign and established him as one of Britain’s leading Classic contenders. Despite his growing reputation, Bow Echo began the 2,000 Guineas at decimal odds of 5.50, the only occasion during his six-race career that he did not start favourite. Any doubts surrounding his ability at the highest level disappeared spectacularly on the Rowley Mile. After settling behind the leaders, he produced an explosive change of pace to defeat Gstaad by two and three-quarter lengths, with Distant Storm another eight lengths away in third. The victory delivered a first British Classic for Loughnane and confirmed that Boughey had an exceptional colt in his stable. Racing Post Ratings awarded Bow Echo a figure of 127 for the performance. Among 2,000 Guineas winners this century, only Frankel, who recorded 133 in 2011, and King’s Best, who earned 128 in 2000, had produced a higher figure. His Topspeed performance of 120 was also the best recorded in the race since Frankel, reinforcing the impression that British racing had discovered a potentially extraordinary miler. The final months of Bow Echo’s career were shaped by his compelling rivalry with Gstaad. Having finished behind him at Newmarket, the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt strengthened the form by winning the Irish 2,000 Guineas before returning to challenge Bow Echo in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot. Their second encounter was considerably closer. Bow Echo endured interference early, raced wide and was forced to make his challenge sooner than ideal. Despite those difficulties, he found enough under pressure to withstand Gstaad in a dramatic finish. The victory demonstrated a different side to him. Newmarket had showcased his acceleration and superiority, while Ascot revealed his determination and ability to overcome adversity. Their rivalry resumed in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, where Bow Echo faced older horses for the first time. Once again, the race did not unfold smoothly. He was caught among runners as the contest developed and appeared to have considerable ground to recover inside the closing stages. Loughnane remained patient before asking for the colt’s decisive effort. Bow Echo accelerated through a narrowing opportunity and wore down Gstaad, prevailing by half a length to preserve his unbeaten record. That victory made him the first horse since Frankel in 2011 to complete the 2,000 Guineas, St James’s Palace Stakes and Sussex Stakes treble in the same season. He became only the sixth horse of the Pattern era to achieve the feat. It proved to be a fitting, if unexpectedly final, demonstration of his talent. A career intertwined with Loughnane The emergence of Bow Echo was closely connected to the rapid rise of Billy Loughnane. The young jockey partnered him in all six starts and was entrusted with the colt throughout his development from an inexperienced juvenile into Europe’s outstanding three-year-old miler. Loughnane displayed composure during each of their major victories. He allowed Bow Echo to use his acceleration at Newmarket, recovered from a difficult passage at Ascot and held his nerve when briefly trapped behind runners at Goodwood. For a jockey still in the formative stages of his career, finding a horse of such quality was an opportunity few riders experience so early. Their association gave British racing a compelling partnership between an unbeaten star and one of the most talented members of a new generation of jockeys. A lasting tribute to Sheikh Mohammed Obaid The story carries additional emotion because Bow Echo was bred by the late Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, who died before seeing the colt fulfil his potential on the racecourse. The owner-breeder spent decades developing successful thoroughbred families, and Bow Echo emerged as one of the finest products of that breeding programme. By champion sire Night Of Thunder, he is a grandson of influential stallion Dubawi and is out of the three-time winner Aristocratic Lady. His dam is by Invincible Spirit and is a half-sister to two stakes winners, including Group 1-placed Royal Rhyme. The combination of elite racecourse performance, an unbeaten record and an established international pedigree makes Bow Echo an exceptionally attractive stallion prospect. He also represents an important extension of the Dubawi sire line. Night Of Thunder has established himself among Europe’s leading stallions, and his son now retires as one of his finest performers. Darley described Bow Echo as an outstanding representative of his sire and one of the most exciting horses to enter the breeding ranks in recent years. However, the organisation has stated that his formal stud plans will be confirmed later. The unanswered question The frustration surrounding his retirement comes from what remained possible. Bow Echo had completed the defining three-year-old mile programme in Britain and remained unbeaten after defeating high-class opposition under contrasting circumstances. A potential appearance in the Prix Jacques le Marois would have offered another international test, while later targets could have included races such as the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes or Breeders’ Cup Mile. Those opportunities have now disappeared, leaving racing followers to wonder how far his ability might have carried him. It would be premature to place Bow Echo alongside Frankel on pure performance. His peak Racing Post Rating of 127 remained six pounds below the figure produced by Frankel in the 2,000 Guineas and beneath the highest ratings achieved by champions such as Baaeed and Kingman. The comparison instead reflects the excitement he created. Like Frankel, he won the 2,000 Guineas with a performance that immediately separated him from his generation. He then travelled to Royal Ascot and Goodwood to complete the same historic Group 1 treble while maintaining his unbeaten record. The difference is that Frankel was able to race on and demonstrate the full extent of his greatness. Bow Echo’s career ended before his ceiling could be discovered. That unanswered question will always form part of his legacy. Six starts, six victories and three Group 1 triumphs represent a career without defeat or disappointment on the racecourse. He conquered Newmarket, Royal Ascot and Goodwood, defeated his strongest rival three times and provided British racing with its most captivating new star. His time on the track was desperately brief, but Bow Echo achieved enough to be remembered as one of the outstanding milers of his generation and one of the most exciting unbeaten horses Britain has produced since Frankel. By Scott Bailey

It is back to the Polytrack at Fairview on Monday, and there are some decent runners on show, with three in particular catching the eye. The best of them could well be the improving and impressive Kleinzee in Race 7, a Middle Stakes over 1600m. This Gimmethegreenlight mare has struck form since joining trainer Alan Greeff. The five-year-old made her local debut back in March and won that race, and she has added another four victories since then, making it five wins in a row. Those successes have seen her merit rating rise from 70 to a current mark of 98, but she could hardly have been more impressive in her last two wins. In her penultimate start, jockey Richard Fourie tested her by dropping her out and challenging down the inside on a day that did not favour that type of ride, yet she still won with ease. In her latest outing, she produced her most impressive performance to date. Sitting off the pace, she quickened up early in the straight and streaked clear to score by 4.50 lengths. Regular jockey Richard Fourie is not at Fairview for this meeting, but Andrew Fortune should suit her and takes the ride. Earlier on the card, Fortune could also score with Detailed Forecast in Race 4, a FM 86 Handicap over 1000m. Detailed Forecast heads a team of three runners for Greeff in this race. This Gimmethegreenlight filly has won two of her last four starts and has finished in the first two in all three outings since joining the yard. She is clearly effective on this surface and should enjoy the run of the race from a good draw. In Race 3, a MR 80 Handicap over 1000m, the recently turned three-year-old Master Mtoto should prove hard to beat in a small field of six runners. After beating rival US Ranger the first two times they met, that rival has since improved past him and gave him a decisive beating last time. Master Mtoto was not disgraced, however, as he had the rest of the field well beaten, and the drop back to 1000m looks a smart move. Calvin Habib can get the job done on this Real Gone Kid gelding.   Clive Robinson

Class has never been difficult to identify with The Equator. The impeccably bred import has competed at Royal Ascot, carried expectations into South Africa’s richest race and reached a merit rating of 118. At Turffontein on Saturday, however, his quality comes with a considerable cost. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained runner heads the Dianne Stenger Pinnacle Stakes over 1800m with 60kg, conceding 8kg to King’s Express and 10kg to each of his other five opponents. It creates an intriguing seven-runner contest in which The Equator is comfortably the highest-rated horse but must give away a substantial weight advantage to some capable opposition. A son of the outstanding Galileo, The Equator is the first foal of Quiet Reflection, the brilliant daughter of Showcasing who was crowned Europe’s champion three-year-old sprinter. Quiet Reflection won the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup and Haydock Sprint Cup during a high-class career, making The Equator an attractive stallion prospect before he had even reached the racecourse. Despite the speed on his dam’s side, The Equator developed into a middle-distance performer under Aidan O’Brien at Ballydoyle. He raced five times in Europe for one victory and one second, winning a Leopardstown maiden over 2000m by 3.25 lengths. That performance earned him a place at Royal Ascot, where he finished fifth in the Group 2 Queen’s Vase over approximately 2800m. He later finished second at Navan before again filling the runner-up position at York. His European campaign suggested he possessed stamina and ability, even if he had not developed into the top-level performer his pedigree once promised. South African owners Willem Ackerman and Advocate Nigel Riley purchased him for 55,000 guineas at the Tattersalls Horses in Training Sale in October 2024. It was an attractive price for a Galileo colt out of a dual Group 1-winning mare, particularly after his close relative Lake Victoria enhanced the family further at the highest level. The Equator completed quarantine and spent time acclimatising at Heversham Park before joining Tony Peter’s stable in March 2025. Connections initially considered a possible Durban July campaign, but his preparation did not leave enough time to qualify comfortably for the race. He eventually made his South African debut in the Durban July itself, finishing more than nine lengths behind Otto Luyken over 2200m at Greyville. Although disappointing as favourite, the performance came after an extended absence and under very demanding circumstances for a horse having his first local start. The response was immediate. Returning to Turffontein over 1800m in August, The Equator recorded his first South African victory, defeating King’s Express. He then dropped to 1600m and produced another success in October, beating Beynac while starting favourite. Those performances propelled him towards the Group 1 Summer Cup, and his European pedigree, progressive local form and profile made him one of the most discussed runners of the build-up. He was the ante-post favourite shortly before the race and continued to attract strong support after an impressive piece of work. He was considered as the early favourite during the final stages of preparation. The Summer Cup did not produce the expected result. Starting at 7-2, The Equator travelled prominently but was unable to finish strongly enough, crossing the line fifth behind Mocha Blend and beaten 4.9 lengths. It was not a complete failure, but it fell short of the expectations surrounding one of the race’s most prominent contenders. His subsequent campaign proved less convincing. He finished behind Callmegetrix over 1600m before travelling to Cape Town, where he was beaten 4.25 lengths over 1800m and then nearly 20 lengths in the 2000m Cape Town Met. A return to Turffontein for another 2000m assignment also ended in defeat. A change of stable eventually followed, with The Equator moving from Tony Peter to Stuart Pettigrew. His first appearance for the new yard produced a third over 1800m in June, before he returned to winning form over the same Turffontein course and distance on July 5. That latest performance was important. It demonstrated that The Equator remained capable of producing his best after a difficult sequence and confirmed that 1800m at Turffontein is one of his most suitable assignments. All three of his South African victories have come at the track, with two recorded over Saturday’s distance. The conditions of the Pinnacle Stakes now place his rating under examination. The Equator is rated 118, giving him a 13-point advantage over second-rated King’s Express. He meets that rival at an 8kg weight disadvantage, while Palace Prince, Royal Invitation, Hawkbill, Fire ’N Flames and Hotarubi each receive 10kg. King’s Express presents a particularly interesting threat. He was beaten by The Equator over this course and distance in August 2025, but Saturday’s substantial weight difference gives him an opportunity to reverse that result. Hawkbill also has a direct line through the favourite, having finished behind The Equator in his latest victory. Palace Prince and Royal Invitation are rated above 100 and carry only 50kg, while Fire ’N Flames receives an additional 2.5kg apprentice claim. Hotarubi completes the field from the outside draw with the same 50kg allocation. The small field should reduce the risk of traffic problems, but it may turn the race into a tactical examination. The Equator cannot afford to concede an easy lead to a lightly weighted rival, yet asking him to work too hard early could expose the burden of 60kg in the final stages. His class, pedigree and recent return to winning form make him the horse the others must beat. The challenge is that he will not merely need to defeat six rivals, he must overcome the significant advantage the conditions hand to every one of them. Saturday’s Pinnacle Stakes should therefore reveal whether The Equator is ready to rebuild towards another major summer campaign or whether the weight of expectation, quite literally, will prove too much. By Scott Bailey – iRACE