Multiple Group One winning trainer, Frank Maynard is a chance of adding another trophy to the mantlepiece with the RM200,000 3YO Mile Championship (Race 9) to be contested on Sunday. The affable conditioner tasted success in this race last year with Trees Of Valinor and will be entering Sunday’s listed feature with the highly talented and inform New Zealand-bred MEGA SKYE (7).
MEGA SKYE (7), for the Mega Captain Stable owners, has already posted two wins from seven starts and possesses a sharp turn of acceleration as indicated in both winning performances and the rise to the mile for the first time should not pose a problem. The gelding treated his Class 4 rivals with contempt last start and is capable of rising through the grades.
The Mega Captain Stable will also be represented by recent winners MEGA MAXIMUS (6) and MEGA FIRST (13), which is only one of two runners which have scored over the mile previously. MEGA MAXIMUS (6) is another galloper with a powerful sprint and closed off well to finish third over 1500m last start. The grey gelding’s versatility is his main asset as he can normally relax in the run and accelerate off a genuine speed. The wide draw could be a hinderance but with luck in running, he can provide the value.
FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) and MEGA FIRST (13) are the only runners with previous success over the mile. However, FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) will need to improve on his local debut where he faded to finish unplaced in a 1600m Class 3 won by Anjou Crown a fortnight ago. MEGA FIRST (13) has drawn well in gate four and actually started equal favourite with FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) when placed 2nd in that same race. MEGA FIRST (13) has done a good job considering he won a lowly maiden on debut back in January when he was known as Mirage Pegasus at the time. The gelding has matured since the name change and keeps improving with race experience. From the favorable draw with inform jockey Bernardo Pinheiro aboard, they will be a force to be reckoned with.
Leading owners, the Banker’s Stable will have strong representation with five runners engaged, including the highest rated performer in BANKER’S BOSS (1) which heads the weights with 59kg. The gelding has stamped himself as the class runner in the field following a recent Class 3 win followed by a third placing in the 1200m 3YO Sprint Championship. He over-raced last start when finishing unplaced but pole position will suit as is drawn to receive the perfect trail.
BANKER’S WARRIOR (3), 5th in the 3YO SC from a wide barrier, was placed at Class 3 level two weeks ago and like stable mate BANKER’S BOSS (1), the blinkers have been removed and replaced with the visor.
The outsider to watch is SILENT MOVE (9), which failed on local debut but caught the eye when going down by a head in a 1400m Class 3 contest last Sunday. The former Australian galloper has only a maiden win to its credit but should pick up its share of races in the country.
3YO Mile Championship Selections: (7) MEGA SKYE (13) MEGA FIRST (9) SILENT MOVE (1) BANKER’S BOSS
Although it is not a feature race on Sunday’s card, the 1400m Supreme A contest (Race 11) contains some quality performers which includes three of the top four rated horses in the country. The highly talented PLATINIUM EMPEROR (1) (115 pts) heads the weights and maintained his excellent first up record with a resounding victory in the 1200m KRA Trophy on June 14. The former Wilyah Silver Bowl winner has scored on five occasions from ten starts locally in an illustrious career which also includes eight victories in Macau.
ANTIPODEAN (2) (110 pts) is a distance specialist with six wins from eight starts at 1400m and returned to his best form when winning the Listed 1600m A-Plus Cup on June 28. The one-time Group winner will once again be partnered by Bernardo Pinheiro who has ben successful aboard the gelding seven times.
BANKER’S TWO SIX (4) has been the most progressive galloper on the Malaysian circuit this year climbing to 94 points and rated 7th in the country. The five year old may have went harder than expected when attempting to maintain the lead before winding up 4th in the A-Plus Cup last start. However, BANKER’S TWO SIX (4) has lowered the colours of ANTIPODEAN (2) previously which occurred in the 1600m Chairman’s Trophy back in May so the gelding could bounce back without surprising.
Three-time Group One winner, LUCKY MAGIC (3) (98 pts) will make his long awaited return to the race track and looks on target following his sharp trial at the end of last month. The five year old was without a doubt Malaysia’s premier performer last year which included wins in the G1 Selangor Gold Cup and G1 Perak Derby. This year’s G1 Selangor Gold Cup will be on the gelding’s agenda in September when his resumption to racing commences from the seven month break.
Race 11 Selections: (2) ANTIPODEAN (1) PLATINUM EMPEROR (4) BANKER’S TWO SIX (3) LUCKY MAGIC
Hollywoodbets Scottsville stages a competitive meeting on Sunday, with Buddy Boy shaping as one of the day’s better bets in Race 7, a Class 4 handicap over 1600m.
The Mike and Mathew de Kock-trained gelding finished a solid third behind the useful Fortress Of Fire in a polytrack sprint last time and should relish the return to turf over a more suitable trip. He looks the horse to beat and a strong banker for exotic bets. Fast And Free is the main threat after tackling longer distances of late and should appreciate the drop back in trip. Gareth van Zyl saddles I Am Invictus, narrowly beaten over this course and distance last time, and Wiccan Warrior, who improved when runner-up in blinkers.
The De Kock stable could also strike in the opener with well-bred debutantes Ibhola Lomlilo and Sparrow Man, although experienced runners Dancing Party, Mekong, and Pacific Mood bring solid form into the race.
Steamy Windows can get the Bi-Pot off to a winning start. Mike Miller’s runner has been racing in feature company since shedding his maiden and drops into easier company. Progressive Kid From The South, filly Tyme To Talk, and well-supported maiden Omkhulu Boss all have claims.
The first leg of the Place Accumulator is competitive. Theleia makes her local debut for Andre Nel after a short break and has useful Cape form. Lovecomesknocking has been improving steadily and was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time. Indignation benefits from a 4kg claim, while consistent Gimme The Power can earn another cheque.
Highveld visitor Give Me A Chance has champion-elect Craig Zackey aboard and looks capable of making an impact. Old Harry Rocks should improve from his encouraging debut, while Bai Yulu and Hadrian’s Wall also have winning prospects.
The fillies’ Middle Stakes is wide open. Tulip Fields carries top weight but arrives in good form after a recent win over the distance. Ladyofdistinction returns to a more suitable trip, while De Vlugge bids for a fifth straight victory after dominating on the polytrack. Miss World also commands respect.
Lucinda Woodruff’s Hop Hop Spinnekop was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time and can go close again. Taylor’s Version, drawn ideally, has improved since the return of blinkers, while stablemate Lilac In Winter has solid claims with a claiming apprentice aboard.
In Race 8, Flamethrower looks well treated after contesting stronger company on his first run out of the maidens. Iron Will, Lunch Money, and Diamond Maker are the main dangers.
The finale could see Arverni Princess complete four straight wins over this course and distance. Fleur De Ling, now 1kg better off after finishing close behind her last time, poses the biggest threat, while Captain Ventura and Ruby Rising also deserve consideration.
Flying Finley has gone from strength to strength this season and looks capable of taking another step up when he contests Race 8, a competitive 1000m sprint at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.
Trainer Paul Reeves has placed the son of Oratorio to perfection and a two-month break should hold no fears. Flying Finley has thrived fresh in the past, while Keagan de Melo, who boasts two wins and a second from three rides aboard him, retains the partnership. His latest victory over Gold Giboski has worked out well after that rival scored impressively at Durbanville, suggesting the five-point ratings rise may not stop Flying Finley from remaining competitive.
Sardinia Bay is a major threat. Although he has not shown his best recently, he excels at Durbanville and is unbeaten in three starts at the course. Richard Fourie takes the ride, and the return to this venue over 1000m could spark a revival. Elusive Winter is another specialist over the trip and should appreciate the likely firmer conditions. Sifiso Bungane’s 2.5kg claim also boosts his chances. Last-start winner Un Bel Di cannot be overlooked if the strong early pace sets the race up for his finishing burst.
Lucinda Woodruff holds leading chances earlier on the card. Senorita Lolita made an encouraging debut when runner-up to Dream Trip over 1200m at Kenilworth and, from gate two in Race 1, looks capable of going one better.
Woodruff also saddles Winterworldoflove in Race 2. Well bred and expected to improve with racing, she finished a promising third on debut in testing conditions. With Callan Murray taking over, she rates one of the day’s better bets.
Race 3 looks a match between Ready For The Road and Masteronthemoon. Ready For The Road finished half a length ahead of his rival when they last met and, with little to separate them, he is narrowly preferred.
Mighty Mary can go close in Race 4 after an excellent second behind Cutie Patootie over 1500m at Kenilworth. Although returning from a break, Vaughan Marshall’s runners are usually well prepared. Vroom Vroom looks the biggest danger.
Race 5 is more open, but Mon Papillon appeals after an improved second over 1600m at this course despite a difficult draw. Richard Fourie rides for Paul Reeves.
Lyrical Gangster has finished runner-up at his last two starts and should be competitive again in Race 6, while lightly raced Another Hero is an interesting runner with little weight.
Heritage Ridge can complete a double for Michelle Rix in Race 7. She produced one of the standout wins of the winter when overcoming a wide trip to score over this course and distance last month. Returning to the same track and trip under Gareth Wright, she looks the one to beat.
The Group One Juddmonte Irish Oaks takes centre stage at The Curragh on Saturday, with 11 talented three-year-old fillies set to chase Classic success over 2400 metres.
The race brings together several of the leading performers from Epsom, Royal Ascot and Chantilly, with Oaks heroine Thundering On, Ribblesdale Stakes winner Earth Shot and French Oaks placegetter Inis Mor among the headline contenders.
William Haggas is looking forward to giving Earth Shot her opportunity at the highest level following her narrow victory in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot.
The progressive daughter of Time Test has improved with each of her four starts and showed plenty of determination to run down Johanna Walsh in the closing stages at Ascot.
Haggas believes his filly may be even more effective with some give in the ground, although conditions at The Curragh are expected to remain on the quicker side.
Haggas has previously enjoyed success in the Irish Oaks, having prepared the outstanding Sea Of Class to win the race in 2018.
Earth Shot now has the chance to follow in those footsteps after progressing rapidly this season, beginning with an impressive five-length maiden victory at Newmarket before finishing second to Inis Mor at Goodwood.
She reversed that form at Royal Ascot and remains open to further improvement over the mile-and-a-half journey.
Joseph O’Brien will saddle a powerful three-runner team headed by Thundering On, who produced an emphatic performance to win the Epsom Oaks.
The daughter of Frankel was unable to repeat that display when taking on older mares in the Pretty Polly Stakes at The Curragh, finishing fourth behind Estrange.
However, she was found to be coughing following the race and was competing on the quickest ground she had encountered during her career.
Given the authority of her Epsom victory, Thundering On remains the filly they all have to beat if she returns to her best.
Dylan Browne McMonagle with Thundering On after winning the Betfred Oaks at Epsom (Pic Courtesy of PA Media)
O’Brien will also be represented by Johanna Walsh, who was denied by just a head in the Ribblesdale Stakes.
The lightly raced daughter of Sea The Stars has made significant progress this season and appeared to have the Royal Ascot contest won before Earth Shot caught her in the final strides.
With only four career starts behind her, Johanna Walsh has plenty of scope to improve and should once again be closely matched with her Ascot rival.
The unbeaten Rebel Moon completes the Joseph O’Brien challenge after being supplemented for the race.
A winner of both her starts, Rebel Moon stepped quickly from maiden company to land the Group Three Jannah Rose Stakes at Naas.
She still has improvement to find on official form, but she remains one of the most intriguing runners in the field and could be capable of taking another major step forward.
David Menuisier will be represented by Inis Mor, who has improved considerably since being stepped up in distance.
After finishing down the field in the 1000 Guineas, she defeated Earth Shot in Listed company at Goodwood before producing a strong effort to finish third in the French Oaks.
The additional distance at The Curragh should suit her pedigree and racing style, although she will need to settle efficiently if the race develops into a strongly run contest.
Jim Bolger’s unbeaten Sparan Nua also earns her opportunity at Group One level following victory in the Munster Oaks at Cork.
The homebred filly is three from three and has shown both a sharp turn of foot and a strong attitude during her unbeaten campaign.
Aidan O’Brien won his eighth Irish Oaks last season with Minnie Hauk and is responsible for five of the 11 remaining contenders.
His leading chance appears to be Amelia Earhart, who impressed when winning the Cheshire Oaks before disappointing as favourite at Epsom.
The daughter of Camelot appeared uncomfortable in softer conditions on that occasion and could improve significantly back on quicker ground.
She remains a talented but slightly quirky filly, with her combination of blinkers and a hood adding further interest to her preparation.
Cameo also arrives with something to prove after finishing fifth at Epsom and third in Group Three company at Naas.
Her victory in the Lingfield Oaks Trial showed she possesses ability, although a career-best performance will be required to win here.
Composing produced an improved effort when fifth behind Earth Shot in the Ribblesdale Stakes and may have finished closer after meeting interference at a crucial stage.
She appears suited by the mile-and-a-half distance but must find several lengths to trouble the leading contenders.
Sugar Island finished third in the Epsom Oaks and therefore brings proven Classic form into the race.
However, she was almost ten lengths behind Thundering On and has generally shown her strongest form on softer ground.
The final Ballydoyle runner is Beautify, who steps up to 2400 metres for the first time after finishing sixth in the Pretty Polly Stakes.
She has not won since her juvenile season but returns to racing against her own age group and is bred to appreciate the longer distance.
The Irish Oaks brings together several different form lines and provides an opportunity to determine the leading middle-distance filly of the season.
Thundering On brings the strongest individual performance through her dominant Epsom victory, but she must prove she has recovered from her recent setback.
Earth Shot and Johanna Walsh were separated by only a head at Royal Ascot and both remain open to improvement, while Inis Mor brings strong French Classic form.
The unbeaten pair Rebel Moon and Sparan Nua add further intrigue, while Aidan O’Brien’s powerful team can never be underestimated in a race he has won eight times.
With established Classic form, progressive Royal Ascot performers and several unbeaten challengers converging at The Curragh, the 2026 Juddmonte Irish Oaks shapes as one of the most competitive fillies’ contests of the European season.
By Scott Bailey – iRACE
Moving from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape is certainly paying dividends for the connections of five-year-old mare Heliotrope, as she has won three of her last four starts.
The Rafeef mare was trained by Candice Bass when raiding Fairview and was an impressive winner over 2000m on the turf track back in April. She beat Blackberry Blaze by 3.50 lengths that day, and that runner has gone on to win a race since then.
Switched to the Polytrack, she finished a close-up fifth in her next start. That run suggested she may be even better on the grass, but she was quick to bury that theory as she won her next start, beating the consistent Homing Pigeon by 0.75 lengths.
She picked up a seven-point penalty for that win, so it was a slight surprise when she beat that same runner by 1.25 lengths at the beginning of the month. A further rise of four points for that victory will make things tougher for her, however, jockey Craig Zackey was aboard for both of those wins and remains in the saddle.
Heliotrope could get her third successive victory when she lines up in race 4, a MR 86 Handicap over 2000m on the Polytrack. She has clearly proven her ability over this course and distance.
There was a long wait and many races between Blackberry Blaze winning his first race and scoring again. Interestingly enough, both victories came under jockey Calvin Habib.
The Silvano gelding won his fourth start back in January 2024, and it took another 23 starts before he returned to the winner’s enclosure. Purchased for R300,000, he is getting closer to justifying that price tag and has been very consistent. A confidence-boosting recent win may help him achieve further success.
Clive Robinson
William Haggas’ runner looked an unlikely winner when trapped on the rail.
Maltese Cross somehow defied bad luck in running to secure William Haggas’ first Grand Prix de Paris crown with a surging finish to complete a British one-two at ParisLongchamp.
Tom Marquand remained patient in a ride which continuously saw the son of Sea The Stars hit dead ends and it looked as though his race had been run as Charlie Johnston’s Ancient Egypt hit the front after Causeway’s front-running effort peeled off.
Ancient Egypt continued to stride on at the three-furlong pole and Causeway’s fading challenge appeared to hinder Maltese Cross who had to switch off the inside rail.
He was boxed in as the leader laid down his marker, but then the first opportunity finally came late on and an impressive turn of foot saw him squeeze through a gap to head Ancient Egypt in the final strides to land the Bastille Day Group One at a price of 14-5.
The victory marked the first British success in this race since Hurricane Lane for Charlie Appleby in 2021, with Johnston’s charge clearly outrunning his outsider status at 22-1 to be narrowly denied.
Mikel Dezangles’ Alam was a neck back in third, with Varandir, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, a further head adrift in fourth.
Assistant trainer Maureen Haggas went through all the emotions after victory in the French capital.
“I thought he did really well, I thought he did unbelievably well to win the race from a fairly difficult position and he had a horse on his outside who was trying like hell to keep him in,” she told Sky Sports Racing.
“But he does like something to aim at and he will squirm through a little hole, which he had to do today.
“He’s tough and obviously got a really strong will to win, which is one of his greatest attributes. You need that will to win and you need a good horse to get themselves out of that type of trouble.”
She added: “In a lot of ways, apart from the fact he won which was obviously the best thing, there are lots other things that were really pleasing and we always felt that the best was yet to come.
“He’s going to be, hopefully, a really nice four-year-old. So for him to win a Group One today was fantastic.”
Owner George Waud said: “That horse just time and time again delivers, and he delivers because he’s got all the ability, but he’s also got such a good brain.
“I could see Tom stuck on the rail there and trying to figure out how he was going to get out and Maltese Cross made the space for him, he knew what was going on and he made the space, and boy did he come quick at the end. Wow!”
He added: “Second in the Derby was one of the best days of my life and winning a Group One is comparable.
“The most disappointing thing about not winning the Derby was that I couldn’t give Sam Haggas, who is William and Maureen’s son and my bloodstock agent, that moment. For his parents to have their son pull off something like that would have been amazing.”
Johnston was proud of Ancient Egypt as he suffered another narrow defeat after going down by a neck to Causeway in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot last month.
“Above anything else, I’m proud of the horse. Once again he was completely underestimated, overlooked, outsider of the field,” he said.
“The point that Causeway was 9-4 and we were 20-1, I think that’s a lack of respect for this horse and how good he is, and he nearly showed them all, just the last stride.
“It was fantastic run, I’m very proud of him. He showed himself very much a Group One performer.”
By Josh Luckhurst, Press Association
Trainer Tony Peter looks set for a hat-trick on Thursday at Turffontein with two promising three-year-old fillies and a stayer who looks ready to strike.
In Race 5, a FM95 Handicap over 1600m, Rachel Venniker will be aboard Kensal Green for Peter.
This daughter of Gimmethegreenlight has won three of her last five starts. Despite carrying top weight, she can go in again and Venniker’s 1.5kg sex allowance coulkd prove vital. Venniker has ridden Kensal Green twice – for a win and a third-place finish – so shed knows the filly well.
They have drawn well in gate 4. The only concern is that Kensal Green is winless over the Turffontein Inside course in five runs, but she comes into the race primed to get it right.
In Race 6, a MR72 Handicap over 2600m, Gavin Lerena will be doing duty for Peter aboard Euphrates.
This gelded son of Wings Of Desire, who will be turning five on 1 August, will be having his third run after a break.
Last time out, in a race where only three runners went to post, he finished just 4 lengths behind Enflame. The latter boasts a merit rating of 112 compared to the 70 of Euphrates, so despite finishing last of the three, that run proved Euphrates is more than capable of winning a race of this calibre.
This time round, the average merit rating of the 11 runners is 64, so this signicant drop in class bodes well for Peter’s charge.
In Race 7 a FM94 Handicap over 1200m, Venniker partners with Hathighwaytothesky for Peter.
A two-time winner from seven runs, this daughter of Hat Puntano can be forgiven her last run when fading at the business end over 1200m at Greyville on the polytrack.
That was her first run after a four-month break, so to say that she was inm need of the run, would be an understatement.
Back on the Highveld, and stripping fitter, she ought to bounce back to close to her best.
Hathighwaytothesky also has the added advantage of jumping from pole position – a very important factor over 1200m on the Turffontein Inside course.
Clive Robinson
Star young riders Siena Grima and Braith Nock continue their compelling duel for the coveted Sydney apprentices premiership at Warwick Farm on Wednesday.
Nock has led the title race for most of the season but Grima has seized the momentum with a treble in Tazima, Perfect Justice and Benevac at Royal Randwick last Saturday that takes her to 33 wins and a three-win lead with just five meetings remaining.
Grima has the backing of the all-powerful Chris Waller stable with four rides for the champion trainer at the midweek meeting including Aurora Boom ($7) in the opener, the Racing And Sports Plate (1100m).
Her other rides for the Waller stable are Leonessa ($19) in the Robrick Lodge Plate (1100m), Snitzel Miss ($10) in the Asahi Super Dry Handicap (1400m) and Full Hao ($10) in the Ole Kirk At Vinery Stud Handicap (1600m).
Grima rides the Tracey Bartley-trained Dusty Bay ($5) in the TAB Handicap (1400m), Ciaron Maher’s Stormland ($9.50) in the Irresistible Pools and Spas Handicap (1100m) and the Theresa Bateup-trained Brannum ($71) in the Agency Real Estate Handicap (1600m).
Grima is poised to become only the fourth female apprentice after Rachel King (2017/18), Winona Costin (2014-15) and Kathy O’Hara (2004-05) to win the Sydney premiership.
But Nock will be keen to reignite his title defence with six rides at Warwick Farm, all from different trainers, with his best chances probably the Mick Price and Michael Kent Junior-trained Deep Pleasure ($6) in the Ole Kirk At Vinery Stud Handicap, and Let’s Go Again ($7.50) for the Kerry Parker stable in the Irresistible Pools and Spas Handicap.
Nock also partners Peter Snowden’s Divine Offering ($21) in the Racing And Sports Plate, Gone To Gowings ($23) for the Clarry Conners stable in the Robrick Lodge Plate, the Joel Wilkes-trained Danish Fortune ($13) in the Agency Real Estate Handicap and Voracious, trained by Mack Griffith, in the TAB Handicap.
Nock is attempting to join an elite group to win multiple Sydney apprentice premierships this century.
Zac Lloyd claimed successive Sydney titles in 2022-23 and 2023-24, as did Robbie Dolan (2018-19, 2019-20), Sam Clipperton (2012-13, 2013-14), and Mitch Newman claimed his second premiership in 2000-01 after winning the title in 1998-99.
Waller, with 176 wins already this season, is also on a record chase at the Warwick Farm meeting.
The Hall of Famer needs another 13 winners to equal his all-time record for most Sydney wins in a season when he prepared 189 winners in 2017-18.
Waller is represented in five races tomorrow including Saloon Passage, the $3 favourite in the Asahi Super Dry Handicap.
Article courtesy of Sky Racing
Hollywoodbets Greyville hosts a competitive polytrack meeting on Wednesday, with small fields but no easy winners.
The feature is the Lucky Fish Silver Run Class, where Bangkok Magic looks capable of following up his impressive maiden success despite taking on older horses. Justin Snaith’s progressive two-year-old won convincingly at his second start and has the talent to handle the rise in class. Seven No Trump has useful Cape form and deserves respect on his local poly debut, while poly specialist United Nation may find this trip testing. Red Bomber, favourite at his last two starts, has been narrowly beaten both times and should again be in the mix.
The opener is tricky, with several lightly raced Cape visitors making their local debuts. Predator’s Crown has shown promise in two starts, while Blazing Belle should improve after needing her comeback run. Yeah Baby shaped encouragingly on debut and is expected to progress, while newcomer Interstellar is one to monitor in the betting.
The first leg of the Place Accumulator is wide open. Dancing In Demark has solid polytrack form and carries a light weight, while Peace Rose can follow up after enjoying the switch to the surface and a longer trip when breaking her maiden. Treasure Island, Gold Gold Baby and consistent Blue Poppy all have winning claims.
Princess Trippi looks one of the stronger bets on the card in the opening Pick 6 leg. Wendy Whitehead’s filly has been knocking on the door and boasts consistent form over this course and distance. Chooks Kiss is reliable on the poly, while Chihiro should improve after her first run on the surface.
Ebisu can continue her progress in Race 5 after an impressive winning poly debut for Lucinda Woodruff. Although she carries a higher rating, the extra furlong should suit. Golden Angel receives 4.5kg and rates the main danger after a string of good poly performances, while Sesame is much better off at the weights with a claiming apprentice aboard.
The next handicap is open, but Pembury appeals as an outsider after dropping in the ratings. Blinkers return and a 4kg claim further boosts his chances. Run To Rio, Pleasetoseeyou and Navajo Dancer are all genuine contenders.
Another competitive handicap follows, with Meerkat Moon narrowly beaten over course and distance last time and drawn ideally. Sail To The Moon has been knocking on the door, while William Of Orange has produced two solid post-maiden efforts. Music Of Life also merits respect despite a wide draw.
The finale could go the way of Victor Rail, who meets Bless Me Fred on much better weight terms after finishing within two lengths of him previously. Cappellino, now 1.5kg better off after chasing home Bless Me Fred last time, also has strong claims, while veteran Trafalgar Square continues to race consistently and should be competitive again.
Fozzy Stack’s Jersey Stakes winner made all the running in France.
Royal Ascot hero Thesecretadversary scooped top honours in Deauville with a brilliant front-running success in the Prix Jean Prat.
Fozzy Stack’s Jersey Stakes scorer had previously fallen short when tackling Group One events, hitting trouble in running at Woodbine last year and also not showing his true colours in both the Newmarket and Curragh editions of the 2000 Guineas.
However, with his tail-up and confidence high following victory over seven furlongs at the Royal meeting, he excelled once again at that distance under Christophe Soumillon who was deputising for usual pilot, the suspended Seamie Heffernan.
Thesecretadversary was still full of running at the line as Aidan O’Brien’s running-on True Love finished strongly to make it an Irish-trained one-two. Christopher Head’s Nighttime was best of the home team in third.
Stack said: “Christophe Soumillon gave him a superb ride. We were a little concerned about the pace of the race. He told me, ‘I think we’ll have to go on because nobody else seems willing to do it.’ I replied, ‘Go ahead’. Everything worked out perfectly. He had pulled too hard in the English Guineas, and in the Irish equivalent he never got a clear run.
“We have always believed he was a good horse. When he then won the Jersey Stakes over seven furlongs at Ascot, Seamie Heffernan, who rode him that day, said he would be even better over six furlongs. Christophe Soumillon said exactly the same thing today.
“He holds entries in the City of York Stakes, a Group One at York, as well as the Sprint Cup at Haydock. I will now discuss the options with the owners to see what they would like to do. Both partners (Rupert and Magnier families) are involved in the stallion business, so I will partly be guided by their long-term objectives.”
The victory continues a fine run for Stack who also sent out exciting juvenile Nola Soul to win at Royal Ascot and Stack added: “If you said to me a month ago I would have had two Royal Ascot winners and then a Group One at Deauville I would have said ‘stop it’, it’s amazing.”
By Press Association Sport Reporters
Just seven runners will line up for Tuesday’s Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris (2,400m) at ParisLongchamp, but despite the compact field, the quality is exceptional with France, Britain and Ireland all represented in one of Europe’s premier staying tests for three-year-olds. The €600,000 feature is traditionally run on Bastille Day and has been won by champions such as Hurricane Lane, Japan, Kew Gardens, Feed The Flame and last year’s victor Leffard.
This year’s renewal shapes as a fascinating clash between proven Classic performers and rapidly improving middle-distance prospects.
British raider Maltese Cross heads across the Channel after a superb runner-up finish in the Epsom Derby. William Haggas has deliberately targeted this race since Epsom, believing the extra emphasis on stamina over 2,400 metres at ParisLongchamp could be ideal. He brings the strongest Classic form into the race and is sure to attract plenty of support.
Ireland is represented by the Aidan O’Brien-trained Causeway, who has won five of his six career starts and announced himself as a genuine Group 1 contender with victory in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot. Ballydoyle has an outstanding record in the Grand Prix de Paris, having won the race with Imperial Monarch, Kew Gardens, Japan and Mogul, making Causeway a major player.
The home team, however, is far from short of talent.
Varandir remains unbeaten in three starts and stamped himself as one of France’s brightest staying prospects when taking the Prix Hocquart over this course and distance. Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard for the Aga Khan operation, he has done little wrong and now steps onto the biggest stage of his career.
Alam has perhaps flown slightly under the radar. Trained by Mikel Delzangles, the Prix Greffulhe winner produced an eye-catching finish when fifth in a high-quality Prix du Jockey Club after overcoming a difficult barrier draw. Connections believe the return to 2,400 metres will suit perfectly, while champion jockey Pierre-Charles Boudot takes over in the saddle for the first time.
Limestone arrives as another progressive stayer after capturing the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and now gets the opportunity to test himself at the highest level over a similar distance. His proven stamina makes him an intriguing contender if the tempo is genuine.
The remaining pair, Ancient Egypt and Space Waltz, complete a field where every runner brings legitimate credentials. Ancient Egypt has consistently performed in quality company throughout the season, while Space Waltz represents connections with an outstanding historical record in this race and cannot be dismissed in what appears an open renewal.
With Derby form, Royal Ascot winners and France’s emerging staying stars all converging on ParisLongchamp, Tuesday’s Grand Prix de Paris promises to be one of the strongest editions of recent years.
Whether it is Maltese Cross looking to convert elite Classic form into Group 1 success, Causeway continuing Ballydoyle’s remarkable record, or unbeaten French hope Varandir defending home honours, racing fans are set for a fascinating international contest.
As always, iRACE will have comprehensive form, statistics and race analysis available for one of France’s premier races.
By Scott Bailey – iRACE
Champion trainer Justin Snaith continues to dominate the season and could add another winner at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Tuesday with In A Timely Manner in Race 8 over 1600m.
The four-year-old has been competing against stronger opposition than he meets here, finishing behind the likes of Anotherdanceforme, Chasingtherainbow, and Blind Date. His latest 0.4-length defeat suggests a breakthrough win is near, and from a favourable draw with JP van der Merwe aboard, this looks an ideal opportunity.
Katsu is a major danger carrying just 50kg after contesting stronger races, although his modest strike rate and three-month break temper confidence. It Is My Time is another consistent performer who should again be in the finish.
A fascinating clash awaits in Race 6 between improving youngsters Objet D’Art and Give It Laldy, with the former narrowly preferred after meeting his rival on 2kg better terms. However, Give It Laldy has the benefit of pole position and Gavin Lerena in the saddle.
Earlier on the card, Warrior Of Destiny (Race 1) should confirm recent form over Royal Light, while Le Concierge looks the standout in the first apprentice race after an encouraging last-start effort.
Trainer Adam Marcus holds a strong hand in Race 3 with Ruby Rex and Black Erika, but Craig Zackey’s decision to ride Ruby Rex swings the vote her way.
Trip To Camelot seeks a hat-trick in Race 4 over 2000m and looks well suited to the longer trip, though Chance Encounter, Fort Liam, Phantom Man, and Backinthefastlane provide stiff opposition.
Beer With The Boys has returned to form and appeals in Race 5, while Take It As Red looks well placed in the second apprentice event.
The finale promises plenty of interest with the returning Miami Summer meeting last-start winner Clark Griswold, while Signor Dante and Gold Dust add further depth to an excellent contest.
Video StarsRace 2 – 9 DRACO
He would arguably have won the race last time out had he not been held up between the 400m and 300m. Once seeing daylight in the concluding stages, he finished powerfully to go down by just a neck in fourth over this track and distance.
Remaining well weighted this week, he shapes as a leading contender to break through for his maiden victory.
Race 5 – 1 LUNAR DASH
His last-start unplaced effort is best overlooked after he raced wide and hung out throughout from an outside draw, leaving him unable to make an impact in the straight. Prior to that, he closed off well to finish seventh in a slowly run Class 3 contest, with the form since being franked.
The drop back to 1200m, the distance of his sole career victory, is a positive, and he could surprise at odds with a more economical run in transit.
Sectional StarsRace 4 – 2 RISING PHOENIX
He has likely found the competition a touch too strong in Class 3, but still produced a fast-finishing fourth over a mile three starts ago, recording the second-fastest final 400m of the race in 22.71 seconds. The drop back to Class 4 and return to 1400m are both positives, making him one to watch this week.
Race 6 – 2 PRESTIGE ALWAYS
He was disadvantaged by racing on the speed off a strong tempo last start, and it was no surprise to see him weaken late and finish 10th, beaten 7.5 lengths over 1400m. Two starts ago, he produced a creditable fifth behind the in-form MOTOR in Class 3. Having trialled well leading into this week’s race, he is expected to show improvement.
By Press Association Sport Reporters
Venetian Sun will face 10 rivals as she bids to plant her flag at the summit of the sprinting division in the Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai July Cup at Newmarket on Saturday.
Karl Burke’s filly has already made a significant impact since returned to sprinting following a Guineas campaign, winning the Group Two Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock and the Group One Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot.
But if she is to mark herself as something out of the ordinary the Starman filly now has to do it against her elders in a high-class field.
Newmarket’s July meeting feature has attracted the winners of both of the other big sprints at Royal Ascot in Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes winner Almeraq (William Haggas) and King Charles III Stakes winner Mission Central (Aidan O’Brien).
Rapidly-improving Wokingham Handicap winner Double Rush will take his chance, while Japanese raider Satono Reve, narrowly denied by Almeraq at the Royal meeting, and last year’s runner-up Big Mojo both bring strong credentials to the table.
The Haggas-trained Division, just three-quarters of a length behind Venetian Sun in the Commonwealth Cup, Donnacha O’Brien’s Comanche Brave, Coppull, reliable six-year-old Quinalt and Prince Of India complete the line-up.
Venetian Sun looks to still have a significant upside in terms of sprinting potential and gets weight from all her rivals.
Almeraq, the horse nearly killed in a fall which put a temporary halt to jockey Jim Crowley’s career at York last summer, has to give 9lb to the Burke runner, while fellow three-year-old Mission Central concedes 3lb to Clifford Lee’s mount.
Highly-rated Curragh scorer Abraham Lincoln looks set to go off odds on in the Group Two Boodles Superlative Stakes on the July Cup undercard following a promising debut victory at the Curragh at the end of last month.
He faces decent opposition in the shape of Godolphin’s Al Hudaiba, a comfortable winner over course and distance last month, and Pikachu, fifth in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot behind Nola Soul.
Just 15 go to post for the £100,000-added Betway Bunbury Cup with Ian Williams’s Aalto and Charlie Hills’ Elarak towards the front end of the betting for the seven-furlong handicap.
By Nick Robson
With Aidan O’Brien chasing down his own world record of 28 Group One winners in a year, Precise is aiming to do her bit by claiming a third top-level victory of the season in the Tattersalls Sceptre Sessions Falmouth Stakes.
While she may have disappointed when favourite for the 1000 Guineas, she looked a different proposition in the Irish equivalent, despite Ryan Moore switching to Newmarket winner True Love.
Moore got back on Precise at Royal Ascot, where she was a fairly dominant winner of the Coronation Stakes and with True Love heading to France for the Prix Jean Prat this weekend, the coast could be clear for Precise to continue her winning run on Friday.
“We always thought last year that she would be happy going further, but while it is going so well over a mile we see no reason to change it yet,” said O’Brien.
“We’ve split the two good fillies up this time. True Love is going to France for the Prix Jean Prat at the weekend so she’s dropping down in trip. We just thought she’d be comfortable doing that.
“We’ve been very happy with Precise since the Coronation and hopefully she runs well.”
Another filly to win at Royal Ascot was Andrew Balding’s Blue Bolt.
She was successful in the Duke of Cambridge Stakes and steps back up to the highest level having finished second in the Sun Chariot last autumn.
Balding told Tattersalls: “We’ve been very happy with Blue Bolt since Ascot.
“We were delighted with her performance there and she also ran very well on the Rowley Mile at the back end of last year.
“I don’t think the track will be a problem for her and she seems in great form, but it’s obviously a strong Group One, as it should be.
“We’re just keeping everything crossed that she can perform to the same level she did at Ascot.”
Donnacha O’Brien’s Balantina was a Breeders’ Cup winner at the end of last season and did not reappear until a creditable fifth in the Coronation Stakes.
“Balantina is in good form, and everything has gone to plan since Ascot,” said her trainer.
“We think she has improved a decent amount since that run. The track and trip should suit her at Newmarket, so we’re looking forward to it and think she’ll run a big race.”
Karl Burke’s Evolutionist was second to True Love in the 1000 Guineas before being stepped her up in trip for the Prix de Diane.
“Looking at the prices, I think the bookmakers have overlooked her,” Burke said.
“If she runs back to her Guineas form, and she’s a winner on the July course as well, she broke her maiden on the July course. I’m looking forward to running her.
“As well as being in season when she ran in the Prix de Diane, I don’t think she really stayed that trip either. Nothing went right.
“She was showing a lot more speed in her work leading up to the French Oaks so we sort of had a question mark going into that on trip and so we’ll find out a lot more on Friday.”
Venetian Lace filled the places in the 1000 Guineas and then headed to Epsom for the Oaks but she was beaten a long way out and was not in love with the soft ground.
Charlie Johnston said: “It was a disappointing run in the Oaks but you can put a complete line through that. She hated the ground; she’s very much a fast-ground filly.
“The owners were keen off the back of that for her to come back to a mile and this was the obvious choice. She’s been placed in two Group Ones over a mile at Newmarket so conditions should be ideal for her.
“Precise sets a very high standard, but we’re hopeful that our filly will run a big race.”
The final week of the Hong Kong racing season is upon us, and Caspar Fownes has all but secured a fifth trainers’ championship after holding his rivals at bay during a pulsating finish to the 2025/26 campaign.
While the title race was neck and neck for months, Fownes has taken control in recent weeks, and he maintains some breathing room heading into the term’s final two fixtures – this Sunday’s (12 July) 11-race card at Sha Tin and Wednesday’s (15 July) nine-race finale at Happy Valley.
Fownes, who sits on 69 victories and holds a six -win lead over nearest rival Danny Shum, has a string of opportunities to further increase his buffer this weekend.
Papaya Brose is a steady performer for Caspar Fownes.
Last-start winners Papaya Brose and Silver Spurs will chase consecutive victories, with Papaya Brose rising in grade for the Class 3 Joy And Fun Handicap (1200m) and Silver Spurs out to overcome another wide draw in the second section of the Class 4 Victory Marvel Handicap (1200m) after a string of double-figure alleys.
Daily Trophy, Sky Vino and Monarch County will also carry reasonable form into their respective assignments, while Fownes will hope Sagacious Life can take a significant step forward in the Class 1 Hong Kong Racehorse Owners Association Trophy (1600m).
Third at the course and distance in his first start for Fownes on 6 June, the Brazilian Group 1 winner looks well placed to give the late-season feature a shake after twice winning over the Sha Tin mile earlier this season.
Helene Feeling is one of the major contenders in the Class 1 Hong Kong Racehorse Owners Association Trophy.
Shum will also have a presence in the season’s final Class 1 thanks to Helene Feeling, but his weekend winning chances look to lie elsewhere.
Packing Fighter is edging towards his first Hong Kong success after doing everything but win when finishing second at his last start, and he looks well placed in the Class 4 Solar Hei Hei Handicap (1600m), while Massive Reward was a big improver last start and further progress will ensure he is a big player in the Class 4 Medic Kingdom Handicap (1400m).
Mark Newnham (60 winners) is the other trainer who holds an outside chance of sailing past Fownes late but the Australian will need to convert a handful of his seven runners this Sunday into victories.
Last-start winner Lucky Sam Gor could oblige in the Class 3 Sight Winner Handicap (1600m), while Oldtown is racing in top form ahead of his run in the Victory Marvel Handicap.
Trainers’ Ranking (Top 6) – As of 9 July, 2026
Download your daily France express form for FREE:RACE 1: PRIX CLUB MED VITTEL ERMITAGE MAIDEN STAKES (2YO) (FROM VITTEL RACE 3) – 1600M | TIME: 18:34 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 11400
Chelsea Monday (IRE) Colt by Churchill, the dam won 5 races, including 2 Listed and a Group 1 in Ireland. Choice pedigree and from a respected trainer. Bold show can be expected on racecourse bow. Sweet Rose (FR) Finished fifth in a Class 3 at Strasbourg over 1400m on 16 June on her last run. Can improve and be involved. Jackson Baileys (FR) Gelding by Victor Ludorum, the dam was placed once. From a respected trainer that can produce first time out winners. Player. Balle D’espresso (FR) Filly by Golden Horde, the dam won 1 race. Some good aspects to her profile and she is one to consider if the betting vibes are positive.
RACE 2: PRIX VITTEL THERMAL SPA STAKES (3YO) (FROM VITTEL RACE 4) – 1600M | TIME: 19:06 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 11000
Dalkola (IRE) Latest effort was a win over 1600m at Le Mans in a Maiden on 21 April. Looks capable of following up. Kendelya (FR) Finished seventh in a Class 2 at Bordeaux-Le Bouscat over 1600m on 15 June. Class 2 winner last August and has been highly tried since that success. Hard to rule out. Freeze The Moment (FR) Two unplaced runs of late, the latter over 1600m at ParisLongchamp in a Handicap on 2 July. Won a Maiden at Marseille-Borely in April. Player. Victoria Colonia (FR) Recent win over 1600m at Lyon Parilly in a Handicap on the last outing on 21 June. One to pay attention to each-way.
RACE 3: PRIX DESTINATION PALAIS DES CONGRES VITTEL HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM VITTEL RACE 5) – 1600M | TIME: 19:38 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 15400
Boavista (IRE) Placed fourth on the last run over 1400m at Saint-Cloud in a Class 3 Handicap on 5 July. Capable of getting off the mark. Prairie Glory (FR) Finished sixth last time over 1600m in a Class 3 at Compiegne on 9 June. Looking for win number 6 and is hard to rule out. Maavah (FR) Finished third in a Class 4 Handicap at Strasbourg over 1400m on 16 June. One to pay close attention to. Nikulya Fal (FR) Has struggled of late and finished eighth in a Class 3 at ParisLongchamp over 1400m on 9 July. Has eased in the ratings and can be competitive.
RACE 4: PRIX DU LION’S CLUB DE VITTEL HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM VITTEL RACE 6) – 2400M | TIME: 20:15 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 16300
Roi Du Ciel (IRE) Two placed runs of late, the latter over 1800m in a Handicap at Clairefontaine on 3 July. Live chance of scoring. Iron Triumph (FR) Unplaced in five runs, the latter in the German Derby (Group 1) over 2400m at Hamburg-Horn on 5 July. Drops in class and can be competitive. Wildstar (FR) Finished seventh last time in a Class 3 at this track over 2000m on 6 July. Ought to be in the shake-up. Linden Blossom (FR) Placed fourth on his last start over 2400m at Aix Les Bains in a Claimer on 7 July. One to consider each-way.
RACE 5: PRIX DE LA PEPINIERE LISTED STAKES (4YO+) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 2) – 2100M | TIME: 20:33 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 43900
Cankoura (FR) Recent second in the New York Stakes (Group 1) in Saratoga, USA on 5 June, and placed before that at Saint-Cloud over 2000m on 1 May. Live chance of scoring. Alla Stella Finished fifth at Newcastle in a Group 3 when last seen over 2000m on 26 June. Can be competitive. Indalimos (FR) Two unplaced runs of late, the latter in a Listed at Chantilly over 2400m on 14 June. Merits consideration. Mahiya (IRE) Finished sixth over 2800m in a Listed at ParisLongchamp on 3 May. Ought to be involved in the shake-up.RACE 6: PRIX DE BADENWEILLER HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM VITTEL RACE 7) – 2400M | TIME: 20:50 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 13400
Picnic Royal (FR) Creditable third last time over 2400m in a Class 3 Handicap at Saint-Cloud on 28 June. Player. As De Juilley (FR) Ran well to be second over 2400m at Strasbourg in a Class 4 Handicap when last appearing on 16 June. Ought to play a leading role. Pumpy Girl (FR) Finished fifth last time over 2000m at Aix Les Bains in a Class 4 Handicap on 30 June. Can make the top-three. Go For It (FR) Finished fifth over 2400m in a Handicap on 16 June last time out, a win before that over 3000m at Wissembourg in a Class 4 on 25 May. Hard to dismiss.
RACE 7: PRIX MISS ALLEGED HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 3) – 2400M | TIME: 21:15 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 50900
Another Light Nice second over 2000m in a Class 2 Handicap at Saint-Cloud on 2 June when last seen. Lightly raced and has more to come. Pretty Queen (IRE) Fair sixth last time over 3000m on 27 May, and a decent second before that at ParisLongchamp in a Class 2 over 3000m on 16 April. Hard to dismiss. Hasapiko (FR) Fair fifth over 2400m at ParisLongchamp in a Class 3 on 18 June when last seen. Among the leading contenders. Highara (FR) Two wins and a recent second over 2400m in a Class 3 Handicap on her last three runs. Hard to rule out of the top-three.
RACE 8: PRIX DU GOLF ERMITAGE HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM VITTEL RACE 8) – 2400M | TIME: 21:32 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 15400
Scat Lady (FR) Threatening to win and was runner-up in a Class 4 Handicap at Nantes over 2400m on 1 July. Live contender. Algeciras (FR) Finished fifth at Saint-Cloud over 2400m in a Class 3 Handicap when last appearing on 28 June. Can be competitive from the foot of the handicap. Waitara (FR) Placed third over 2400m at Strasbourg in a Class 4 Handicap when last seen on 16 June. Hard to rule out. Shackleton (FR) Two recent placed runs, third over 3400m at this track in a Class 4 Handicap on 6 July on the most recent. One to keep onside.
RACE 9: PRIX RIVER MEMORIES HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 4) – 2400M | TIME: 21:50 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 25900
Lady Madeleine (IRE) Honest filly, second on her last start at Saint-Cloud over 2400m in a Class 3 Handicap on 28 June. Can get a deserved success. Happy Lady (FR) Fair fourth at Saint-Cloud over 2400m in a Class 3 Handicap on 28 June when last appearing. Among the leading players. Pleasing (FR) Two wins of late, the latter over 2400m at Compiegne in a Class 4 on 25 May. On the upgrade and warrants respect. Spring Eve (FR) Fair fifth last time over 2800m at Compiegne in a Class 3 Handicap on 10 July. One to look at each-way.
RACE 10: DARLEY PRIX CHLOE GROUP 3 STAKES (3YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 5) – 1800M | TIME: 22:25 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 73200
Jennifer Jane (IRE) Is better than latest when ninth in a Group 2 over 2000m in Milan on 21 June. She won her penultimate outing with ease and has a big chance. Maintain Found one too good when runner-up in a Conditional Listed over 2000m at ParisLongchamp on 7 June. Is a threat. La Fogata (IRE) Finished fifth in a Group 3 over 2000m in Ireland on 24 June. Pierre-Charles Boudot rides and she can feature. Eklleel Successful in a Conditional Maiden at Lyon-Parilly over 1600m on 30 May. She takes on stronger but may be up to the task.
RACE 11: PRIX DE LA MARDELLE HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 6) – 2000M | TIME: 23:00 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 20200
Devil’story (FR) Threatening to win and was runner-up in a Handicap at Clairefontaine over 1800m on 3 July. Can contest the finish. Misses Lily (FR) In good form and finished third in a Handicap at ParisLongchamp over 1800m on 15 June. Cannot be ignored. Redoutable (FR) Finished fourth behind DEVIL’STORY (4) in a Handicap at Clairefontaine over 1800m on 3 July. Could strike. Fraternite (IRE) Finished fourth in a Handicap at Compiegne over 2000m on 5 June. Christophe Soumillon rides and she is a dark horse.
RACE 12: PRIX MESSIDOR GROUP 3 STAKES (3YO+) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 7) – 1600M | TIME: 23:35 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 73200
Erdenali (FR) Unbeaten in three starts. Was victorious in a Conditional Listed over 1500m at Deauville on 27 June. The horse to beat. Silius (IRE) Excellent runner-up in a Group 3 at ParisLongchamp over 1400m on 18 June. One of the leading contenders. Familly (FR) In good form and finished third in a Group 3 at ParisLongchamp over 2000m on 7 June. Was supplemented for this race and can go close. Matauri Bay (IRE) Not disgraced when third in a Group 3 at Chantilly over 1600m on 14 June. Is an honest individual and cannot be discounted.
RACE 13: PRIX SANS SOUCI II STAKES (4YO+) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 8) – 2000M | TIME: 00:10 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 17400
Happy Saxon (FR) Should have finished closer when seventh over 1800m at ParisLongchamp in a Class 2 Handicap on 15 June. Can surprise. El Pequenio Finished fifth in a Class 2 Handicap at ParisLongchamp over 1800m on 15 June. Can go close with luck in running. Avant Nous (FR) In good form and finished third in a Class 3 Handicap at Deauville over 1800m on 4 July. Merits obvious consideration. East Grey (FR) Was victorious in a Class 3 Handicap at Deauville over 1800m on 27 June. She would have come on from the run and can follow up.
Race Summary: Of those that have run, DANCING PARTY has made steady improvement and was close-up on this course last time out. MEKONG has seldom been far back and gets first time blinkers which could see her improve. PACIFIC MOOD found some market support last run when trying further in the soft and can improve. SEQUENTIAL took on males last run off a light weight and can improve. Of the unraced runners Mike and Mathew de Kock’s filly IBHOLA LOMLILO could be worth watching in the betting.
Race Summary: STEAMY WINDOWS has been trying further but his two post maiden runs have been in feature company. He looks the part here. KID FROM THE SOUTH shed his maiden last run but does look progressive and should be a factor. The filly THYME TO TALK took on males on the poly last time out and has run two smart races. She shed her maiden on debut on this course at lengthy odds. OMKULU BOSS is a maiden but has found betting support at his last two and can go close.
Selections: #8 STEAMY WINDOWS, #2 KID FROM THE SOUTH, #6 OMKHULU BOSS, #3 THYME TO TALK
Race Summary: THELEIA has had a short break and makes her local debut from a wide draw. However, she boasts some smart Cape form and should make a bold bid. LOVECOMESKNOCKING has made steady improvement and was a close-up second over course and distance last time out. A favourable draw adds to her appeal. INDIGNATION has made recent improvement and was not far back over course and distance last time out. She gets a useful 4kg claimer aboard from a good draw. GIMME THE POWER has been knocking at the door for some time now. He last two starts have been on the poly and she can run into the money again.
Selections: #10 THELEIA, #3 LOVECOMESKNOCKING, #2 INDIGNATION, #9 GIMME THE POWER
Race Summary: GIVE ME A CHANCE found some market support in his last Highveld sprint. He has champion elect Craig Zackey aboard and can pay his way for Paul Matchett. OLD HARRY ROCKS showed up well on debut although starting at long odds. The run should have brought him on a few lengths. The filly BAI YULU made marked improvement on first time blinkers over course and distance but does have a fair weight in this Open Maiden. HADRIAN’S WALL was run out of it late last start. His best two have been over course and distance and he gets a 1.5kg allowance from the saddle but still has a big weight.
Selections: #3 GIVE ME A CHANCE, #6 OLD HARRY ROCKS, #8 BAI YULU, #7 HADRIAN’S WALL
Race Summary: TULIP FIELDS has a big weight but has been in good form of late and her last win came over the distance. A wide draw does not help but horses from this yard are generally dropped out to run on. LADYOFDISTINCTION is back over what might be a more suitable trip. She is seldom out of the money. DE VLUGGE has been rocketing up the ratings as she bids for her fifth successive win. However, all have bene on the poly which is a concern. MISS WORLD has run two smart races for her new stable and now steps up in trip.
Selections: #8 TULIP FIELDS, #7 LADYOFDISTINCTION, #3 DE VLUGGE, #4 MISS WORLD
Race Summary: Open. HOP HOP SPINNEKOP came from a mile back when touched off over course and distance last time out. Her apprentice does not claim but is riding with confidence. TAYLOR’S VERSON has been much improved back in blinkers and her last three runs have been on this course. She has the best of the draw and should feature. Stable companion LILAC IN WINTER had her latest win on this course and since has put in two fair efforts on the poly. She has a more than capable claiming apprentice aboard. MISSISSIPPI SPICE has the widest draw but is seldom far back recently and has a handy weight.
Selections: #2 HOP HOP SPINNEKOP, #1 TAYLOR’S VERSION, #5 LILAC IN WINTER, #9 MISSISSIPPI SPICE
Race Summary: BUDDY BOY was a fair third behind the useful Fortress Of Fire in a poly sprint last time out. He will enjoy the switch to turf back over what looks to be a more suitable trip. FAST AND FREE has been trying much further but has not been far back. He could do better this shorter trip. I AM INVICTUS was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time out. He is lightly raced and can go one better. Stable companion WICCAN WARRIOR started at long odds when second last time out. Second recent run in blinkers and back on turf.
Selections: #2 BUDDY BOY, #1 FAST AND FREE, #7 I AM INVICTUS, #3 WICCAN WARRIOR
Race Summary: FLAMETHROWER has a big weight in spite of a claiming apprentice but he took on a strong feature race field first time out of the maidens and could prove too classy for this line-up. IRON WILL lives up to his name and bids for his eighth win from 51 starts. He is quick and with a 4kg claimer aboard he must have a strong chance. LUNCH MONEY has smart poly form and should make a bold bid in spite of switching to turf. DIAMOND MAKER showed up well first run out of the maidens and has a chance in this line-up.
Race Summary: ARVERNI PRINCESS has won her last three over course and distance and can follow up. However, she has an apprentice hunting his first winner aboard while biggest danger FLEUR DE LING a length behind her when last they met, has Rachel Venniker riding. The latter is 1kg better off in the handicap which could make the difference but it should be close. CAPTAIN VENTURA is quick and should be right there while RUBY RISING is way better than her last run and is a must inclusion in all calculations.
