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.

By Press Association Sport Reporters Charlie Appleby’s top-class pair of Notable Speech and Opera Ballo are among 10 confirmations for the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot on Tuesday. The traditional curtain-raiser for the five-day meeting always attracts a quality field and this year’s renewal is no exception, with Appleby responsible for the top two in the betting. Notable Speech finished fourth last year renewal after encountering trouble in running, but is a warm order to set the record straight following an impressive victory in the Lockinge at Newbury last month. His stablemate Opera Ballo has really come of age this year, with a couple of high-profile wins in Dubai during the winter followed by a successful return to Britain in Sandown’s bet365 Mile, where he claimed the notable scalp of multiple Group One winner Field Of Gold. Appleby could also saddle possible pacemaker First Conquest. The defending champion and Ascot specialist Docklands will return to the Berkshire circuit to defend his Queen Anne title for Harry Eustace, while the William Haggas-trained More Thunder and Karl Burke’s Zeus Olympios could renew rivalry with Notable Speech after finishing second and third respectively in the Lockinge. John and Thady Gosden’s Lockinge sixth Damysus and the Charlie Hills-trained seventh Cicero’s Gift also feature along with Ed Walker’s recent Tattenham Corner Stakes winner Ten Bob Tony and Expanded, who is Aidan O’Brien’s sole representative. Australian raider Overpass is the headline act in the King Charles III Stakes, for which 27 sprinters have stood their ground. His biggest challengers appear to be Burke’s Temple Stakes winner Night Raider, Francis-Henri Graffard’s Rayevka, O’Brien’s three-year-old Mission Central, Jim Goldie’s 2025 hero American Affair and the 2024 winner of this race, Asfoora. As expected George Scott has supplemented his dual Lingfield winner Behike, while at bigger odds George Boughey is looking forward to saddling Rosy Affair, who has won three of her last four starts and was last seen claiming a Listed prize at Haydock late last month. “She drops back to five furlongs and I’ve been wanting to do that for a while. She’s shown loads of pace at home and the quickest we’ve ever had a horse go over five furlongs was her yesterday, which gives me confidence to run five furlongs with her,” said Boughey. “She used to miss the kick but she’s matured as a five-year-old now and she’s just starting to learn how to sprint.” Another horse expected to outrun his price is Simon and Ed Crisford’s Cover Up, who won two of his four winter starts at the Dubai Carnival. Simon Crisford said: “Cover Up is going to run in the King Charles III Stakes. He’s had a nice break since Dubai, he looks fantastic and I really think that race is going to suit him. He’ll go there fresh and well. “He’s looking like a bull, he’s fresh and well and I think he will go nicely in a race like this.” Thirty-one two-year-olds have been entered for the Group Two Coventry Stakes, a race Aidan O’Brien has won on a record 11 occasions. The Ballydoyle handler appears intent on adding to his tally, with Confucius, Great Barrier Reef and Sergei Diaghilev giving him a strong hand.

Trainer Alan Greeff has not been at his best on the Polytrack over the last few weeks, but if they remain on the turf this Friday, then he should have a good meeting. The best of his two runners could be Slash ‘N Burn in Race 5 and Homing Pigeon in Race 7. Jockey Richard Fourie will be aboard both those runners. Homing Pigeon takes on eight other rivals in the Wedgewood Handicap over 2400m. The Hawwaam filly has been very consistent since blinkers were applied, and she has already won twice in just four starts at this course. She was a wide-margin winner on her local debut on a soft track over 1600m back in March. The second runner that day, Missouri Flame, has won since. The three-year-old filly did score on the Polytrack over 2200m in April when Fourie was riding her for the first time. Homing Pigeon was beaten last time out at short odds, finishing third behind stable companion Green Isle over the Fairview Polytrack over 1900m. This longer distance does look ideal for her. Blinkers have also clearly made a difference to her stable companion Slash ‘N Burn and he could win Race 5, a MR 74 Handicap over 1200m. The Irish-bred gelding scored in his sixth start, which was in a handicap at Kenilworth over 1100m. A three-point penalty followed that win and it was a solid performance from him as he gave a filly that has won a couple of times this season 4.5kg and a beating by a head. Fourie has ridden him in all of his starts, and now he makes his local debut. Greeff could also win the last race with the filly Kleinzee. Kleinzee is unbeaten in two starts. Both were on the Polytrack and were narrow wins, but it is noticeable that Greeff has given the ride to 4kg apprentice Eduan Muller.   Clive Robinson

Eagle Farm takes centre stage this Saturday with two major Group 1 contests shaping a high-quality afternoon of racing in Brisbane. The two-year-olds will step out in the $1 million J.J. Atkins over 1600 metres, a race that often identifies the emerging staying and classic prospects of the next season. Later on the card, the $3 million Stradbroke Handicap brings together a deep field of established stars, local heroes, weight-for-age performers and emerging handicap chances over 1400 metres. Both races carry very different profiles, but each has the feel of a genuine championship event. $1 Million G1 J.J. Atkins 1600m The J.J. Atkins has drawn together a fascinating mix of proven Queensland form, Sydney raiders and improving juveniles ready to test themselves at a mile. The obvious starting point is Berzelius, who stamped himself as a serious Group 1 player with his win in the BRC Sires’ Produce Stakes at Eagle Farm. Trained by Michael Freedman and ridden again by Tommy Berry, the Extreme Choice colt showed he could settle, travel and finish off strongly over 1400 metres. That performance suggested the step to 1600 metres should be within reach, particularly from barrier five, which gives Berry options to find cover and build into the race at the right time. Berzelius had been beaten in the Ken Russell Memorial at the Gold Coast before producing a much sharper performance in the Sires’ Produce. That progression is important because the J.J. Atkins often rewards horses peaking at the end of a campaign rather than those who have shown their hand too early. His Eagle Farm win showed both toughness and adaptability, and he now gets the chance to turn that Group 2 success into a Group 1 title. Martist is another major player. The Tony Gollan-trained colt has been around the mark throughout his short career and brings a strong local profile into the race. He chased home Vantorix in the Spirit Of Boom Classic before finishing third behind Berzelius in the Sires’ Produce. Mark Zahra sticks with him, and while barrier 12 is not perfect, he has shown enough closing quality to be a genuine winning chance if the race opens up late. Chris Waller has a strong presence through Tron Bolt and Stormy Marco. Tron Bolt arrives with a progressive profile, having won at Kensington before producing another strong performance at Rosehill. He has been effective from off the speed and gives the impression that the mile will suit. The Waller stable knows exactly how to place and prepare young horses for this type of assignment, and Tron Bolt’s form through Sydney should measure up well. Stormy Marco is the more intriguing Waller runner. He was a debut winner over 1400 metres at Hawkesbury before finishing midfield in the Sires’ Produce. That run may not tell the full story, as he was still inexperienced and appeared capable of better than the bare result. From barrier two, he could get a much softer run this time and should not be dismissed. Voynichese adds another layer of interest. The Nick Olive-trained filly has quickly moved through the grades, winning a country maiden before stepping up sharply to take out the Phoenix at Eagle Farm over 1500 metres. That win showed she is already comfortable around the circuit and gives her a strong platform for the mile. She faces a tougher task against the boys and a deeper Group 1 field, but her timing is good and she arrives with momentum. Glenorchy also exits the Phoenix, where he chased Voynichese home after starting favourite. He is still a maiden, but his closing effort over 1500 metres gives him some claims if the tempo is genuine. Cormier brings a lightly raced profile and comes through a strong Rosehill placing behind Tron Bolt, while Kickup Rocky has local experience and was far from disgraced when fourth in the Sires’ Produce after getting well back. The J.J. Atkins looks likely to revolve around whether Berzelius can repeat his Sires’ Produce performance at the mile. If he can, he sets a high standard. Martist has the right form to turn the tables, Tron Bolt brings the Waller polish, and Voynichese is the fast-rising filly trying to complete a remarkable rise. $3 Million G1 Stradbroke Handicap 1400m The Stradbroke Handicap again has all the ingredients of a classic Eagle Farm grand final: a capacity field, proven Group 1 performers, progressive lightweight hopes and a genuine spread of winning chances. Headley Grange enters as one of the key runners after his breakthrough win in the Kingsford Smith Cup. The Joseph Pride-trained gelding proved he could match it at the highest level when successful over 1300 metres at Eagle Farm, and the rise to 1400 metres looks suitable. He drops into the Stradbroke with 55kg and has drawn barrier eight, which gives Adam Hyeronimus the chance to hold a midfield position without being forced too far back. That combination of recent Group 1 winning form, a suitable draw and a workable weight makes him one of the most important runners in the race. Fangirl brings the class factor. The Chris Waller-trained mare has been one of Australia’s best weight-for-age performers for several seasons and comes into the Stradbroke after running third in the Kingsford Smith Cup. She has won multiple races at 1400 metres and 1600 metres, and James McDonald taking the ride is a major positive. The challenge is the weight: 56.5kg is a significant impost in a Stradbroke, especially against younger or lighter-weighted rivals. Even so, her closing sectionals and proven Group 1 quality make her impossible to ignore. Rothfire gives the race a strong Queensland storyline. The Robert Heathcote-trained warrior returned to the Group 1 winners’ circle in the Doomben 10,000 before finishing seventh in the Kingsford Smith Cup. He has been a crowd favourite for years and remains capable of producing a big performance when conditions fall his way. Eagle Farm is familiar territory, and although the 1400 metres is a question compared with his best sprinting form, his toughness and class keep him in the conversation. Private Eye is another seasoned Group 1 performer who commands respect. Trained by Joseph Pride, he has built a career around high-level performances from 1200 metres to 1600 metres and has run well in elite company across multiple campaigns. His sixth in the Kingsford Smith Cup was better than it may read on paper, with only a small margin separating several key runners. From barrier four, Nash Rawiller can have him closer to the speed than some of the other main chances, which could prove important. Another Wil also comes through the Kingsford Smith Cup, where he finished fourth and was beaten less than a length. The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding has always looked a high-class 1400-metre to mile horse, and he now gets another chance to land a major Group 1. The draw in barrier 17 is the obvious concern, but his tactical speed gives Ryan Maloney options if he can slide across without doing too much early work. Among the lighter-weighted chances, Spicy Martini is especially interesting. She was runner-up to Rothfire in the Doomben 10,000 and carries just 51.5kg here from barrier two. That gives her a genuine map advantage if she can hold a position and conserve energy. Her Eagle Farm record is also strong, which makes her one of the more attractive lightweight runners in the field. Abounding is another local with claims, especially after earning her way into the race through strong winter carnival form. She carries 52kg and has enough tactical versatility to be competitive, although barrier 15 means she will need luck early. Transatlantic, King Of Roseau, Estadio Mestalla and Warnie add further depth to a race where the tempo and track pattern could play a major role. Sixties sits as Emergency 1 as Jamie Melham bypassed other offers to stick with the Chris Waller trained runner and connections will be nervously refreshing the racing page to see if any runner comes out before Saturday morning in hope of gaining a start. The Stradbroke sets up as a clash between established class and race-shape advantage. Fangirl is the headline mare, Headley Grange is the in-form Group 1 winner, Rothfire is the Queensland hero, and Private Eye brings proven big-race credentials. But with the light weights and wide barriers adding layers of complexity, this year’s edition has all the hallmarks of a truly competitive Stradbroke. By Scott Bailey – iRACE  

French jockey Mickaëlle Michel continues to make headlines in South Africa following her historic Grade 1 victory aboard Star Major in the Daily News 2000. She heads to Thursday’s Turffontein Inside meeting with another strong book of rides and realistic prospects of adding further success.

Champion sire Vercingetorix could also dominate the card, with two of his offspring holding leading claims in the opening races.

Race 1 sees Snowblade emerge as a standout contender. The Mike Azzie-trained juvenile caught the eye on debut when finishing second over 1000m despite drifting to 25-1 in the betting. He finished strongly and shapes as though the step up to 1600m will suit perfectly. Rachel Venniker’s 1.5kg claim further enhances his chances and natural improvement could be enough to see him break through.

Another Vercingetorix runner, Feast Of Berries, looks poised to improve sharply in race 2. The Mike and Mathew de Kock-trained filly showed promise when fourth on debut over 1160m and now steps up to 1600m. Her pedigree strongly suggests the extra distance will suit, with her dam Redberry Lane a multiple winner over the trip, including the Grade 1 Garden Province Stakes.

Michel’s strongest ride may come in race 4 aboard Future Gamble. The progressive James Crawford-trained daughter of Futura seeks a fourth consecutive victory over 2000m after an impressive four-length win against male rivals. Michel has partnered the filly to two victories already and, despite an eight-point penalty, the manner of her latest success suggests she remains ahead of the handicapper. With Crawford’s stable in top form and Michel riding with confidence, another win looks within reach.

Michel could complete a double in race 7 on Power Of Pearls. The Candice and Tammy Dawson-trained filly opened her account over the Durban Polytrack last month and now enters handicap company off what appears a workable mark. Her previous Turffontein form is solid, the 1000m trip suits, and Michel’s claim adds further value.

National jockeys’ championship leader Craig Zackey is also expected to feature prominently. He has strong claims aboard Falconfly in race 5 and Ringa Ringa Roses in race 8, both trained by Lucky Houdalakis. The stable could easily emerge with a double of its own on a card where Michel, Zackey and the offspring of Vercingetorix are likely to command most of the attention.

Clive Robinson

Punters face a competitive polytrack card at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Wednesday, headed by a Progress Plate over 1400m where Powerandtheglory looks a leading contender. Despite a wide draw, the Justin Snaith-trained runner brings strong Cape form and could improve further with first-time blinkers. Hah Lah Lah, unbeaten in two starts for Dean Kannemeyer, has impressed on the poly and remains progressive, while Vapour Trail and Good For You are both capable of significant improvement and cannot be overlooked. One of the stronger bets on the card may come in the opener with Meeksha, who has performed well in both starts and showed promise on the poly last time. Tiger Kody, who improved markedly with blinkers, rates the main danger. In the first leg of the Place Accumulator, Gimme The Power has been consistent over course and distance, while Greek Heiress and Queen’s Bounty both appeal from favourable draws and suitable race conditions. Race 3 sees Lilting Song take on males after a solid effort from a wide draw last time. Polytrack specialist Pied Piper and Cape visitor Hunga Tonga, a recent winner for Ricky Maingard, are major threats. The fourth race is wide open. Send Me has shown improvement in blinkers, Ragnar The King comes off a better effort, and Gardner’s Pride returns to his preferred surface. In Race 5, Take Your Place gets first-time blinkers and a reduced handicap mark, making him a serious contender against the reliable Trafalgar Square and the improving Victor Rail. Siberian Winter looks overdue for success in Race 7, though Princess Goldie, Landonne, and Last Car To Pass all have claims. In the finale, Navajo Dancer can improve after a needed comeback run. Meerkat Moon is progressing well, while Dapper gets a chance to reverse recent form with Ultra Quick on more favourable weight terms.

By Josh Luckhurst, Press Association Jim Goldie is excited for American Affair’s return to Royal Ascot as he prepares to defend his King Charles III crown. The six-year-old stable star provided Goldie with the first Group One success of his long training career last summer before a leg issue ruled him out for the rest of the 2025 season and derailed any autumn ambitions and a return to Ascot on British Champions Day. He finished down the field on his reappearance over six furlongs in the Minster Stakes at York, but the son of Washington DC returned to form in the Temple Stakes at Haydock last month with only Karl Burke’s Night Raider proving a length too good. “We were delighted with the way he ran. Possibly the ground didn’t suit him on the day, but he liked Ascot last year and if we get similar ground I think he won’t be far off,” the Uplawmoor handler said ahead of a likely rematch with his Haydock conqueror. “You’d like to think he may improve a bit for that (Haydock) and better ground would suit him as well, providing that’s what we get. “We know he likes it there at Ascot and we can make a plan thereafter, like York for the Nunthorpe. If you win the King Charles III, the world kind of opens up for you and you get invited to wherever. “We thought we were going to America (Breeders’ Cup) last year and then we got a problem. He’s a nice problem to have so watch this space.”