Ascot Races & Results Tomform Thursday 22nd June 2023
There were 43 Races on Thursday 22nd June 2023 across 6 meetings. There was 7 races at Chelmsford-City, 7 races at Ripon, 7 races at Ascot, 8 races at Leopardstown, 7 races at Uttoxeter, 7 races at Lingfield, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Thursday 22nd June 2023
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(2) Baheer 100/1, Mehmas gelding who made an encouraging start amidst signs of inexperience when runner-up to 150/1-shot Zoulu Chief in Newbury maiden (6f, good) last month. Significant step forward required. Second on 6f Newbury debut; went off 5-4, so well regarded, but big improvement is needed.
16
1st (16) (150/1 -50%) Valiant Force
150
150/1(-50%)
(16) Valiant Force 150/1, Made an encouraging start to career when runner-up to His Majesty on debut but not quite in the same form when 5 lengths fifth of 6 to Givemethebeatboys in Marble Hill Stakes at the Curragh (6f, good) 26 days ago. Others look stronger and Kevin Stott prefers Thunder Blue. Has shown promise behind His Majesty (twice) and Noche Magica at the Curragh this spring.
7
2nd (7) (66/1 -164%) Malc
66
66/1(-164%)
(7) Malc 66/1, Calyx colt who cost plenty and justified support first time up in 5-runner novice at Carlisle (5f, good) last month, leading final 1f and well on top finish. Will need to take a big jump forward but yard have taken the last couple of renewals with outsiders. Stylish winner on 5f Carlisle debut in May and his yard has strong recent record in this.
4
3rd (4) (1.75/1 -27%) Elite Status
1.75
1.75/1(-27%)
(4) Elite Status 1.75/1, Sales prices increased markedly from foal to yearling stage and justified short odds in the mud at Doncaster on debut. Took record to 2-2 in devastating fashion in listed National Stakes at Sandown (5f, good to firm) 4 weeks ago and looks sure to take all the beating. Very much the one to beat here after his striking 5l National Stakes win at Sandown.
6
4th (6) (5.5/1 +39%) His Majesty
5.5
5.5/1(+39%)
(6) His Majesty 5.5/1, Got the hang of things late to land 5-runner listed race at the Curragh (5f, soft) on debut and shaped similarly when neck third of 6 to Givemethebeatboys in Marble Hill Stakes there next time. Back down to the minimum trip and Aidan O'Brien's sole representative is capable of better still. Closely matched with Noche Magica on latest 6f form but may not benefit from return to 5f.
14
5th (14) (20/1 +20%) Thunder Blue
20
20/1(+20%)
(14) Thunder Blue 20/1, Blue Point colt who confirmed the significant promise of his debut when scoring in fine style in a Goodwood novice (6f, good to firm) 11 days ago, that effort supported by a sharp timefigure. Open to further improvement. Smooth winner over 6f at Goodwood recently; should be fine at 5f; more to come from him.
3
6th (3) (14/1 +22%) Devious
14
14/1(+22%)
(3) Devious 14/1, Starspangledbanner colt who looked a good prospect when taking 9-runner maiden at Naas (5f, good) on debut early last month, quickening to lead over 1f out and just kept up to work. Should have more to offer. Comfortable winner of 5f Naas debut; looks at least useful.
11
7th (11) (33/1 +0%) Reveiller
33
33/1(+0%)
(11) Reveiller 33/1, Soldier's Call colt who became the sixth from his stable to make a winning debut in Salisbury novice (5f, good to firm) 26 days ago, largely knowing his job for all there were hints of greenness when pressure was first applied. Big step forward needed. 3l winner on 5f Salisbury debut; more to come but that form needs improving upon.
8
8th (8) (25/1 -14%) Mon Na Slieve
25
25/1(-14%)
(8) Mon Na Slieve 25/1, Exceed And Excel colt who clearly caught the eye at the Breeze-Ups and knew exactly what was required to make a winning debut in 7-runner novice at York (5f, firm, 17/2) just over 5 weeks ago. Will improve. Showed bright speed to win on 5f York debut five weeks ago; capable of better.
10
9th (10) (6.5/1 +7%) No Nay Mets
6.5
6.5/1(+7%)
(10) No Nay Mets 6.5/1, No Nay Never (who won this in 2013) colt who made a winning debut in 10-runner non-graded event at Gulfstream (5f, firm) just under 6 weeks ago, making all and drawing clear in straight. Sure to be popular with the services of Frankie Dettori enlisted and he will progress. Won 5f Gulfstream conditions race on debut; sold for £800,000 on Monday.
13
10th (13) (22/1 +12%) The Fixer
22
22/1(+12%)
(13) The Fixer 22/1, Useful performer who bolted up on second start at Saint-Cloud in April and having had an excuse next time, got back to winning ways in cheekpieces in a listed race at Chantilly (5f, good to firm) earlier this month, travelling strongly up with pace. Will need to progress again. Listed win over 5f in France last time still leaves him with something to find.
15
11th (15) (66/1 +0%) Toca Madera
66
66/1(+0%)
(15) Toca Madera 66/1, Confirmed debut promise when scoring decisively in a Bath novice (5.7f, firm) 13 days ago, despite not necessarily doing things in an efficient manner. Remains with potential but unlikely he will be good enough to feature in this company. Recent Bath novice winner; plenty to find but yard has tasted success in this before.
12
12th (12) (200/1 +0%) Shayekh
200
200/1(+0%)
(12) Shayekh 200/1, First past the post but subsequently demoted on debut and he didn't look entirely straightforward again when second at Wetherby next time. Out of his depth in listed National Stakes at Sandown (5f, good to firm) 4 weeks ago so easy to look elsewhere. Cheekpieces applied. No match for Elite Status at Sandown; first-time cheekpieces need to make a big difference.
1
13th (1) (4/1 +27%) American Rascal
4
4/1(+27%)
(1) American Rascal 4/1, Boasts a cracking pedigree (dam Lady Aurelia won Queen Mary and Prix Morny at 2 yrs) and was fully clued up as he made a most taking debut in 9-runner maiden at Keeneland (4.5f) in April, storming clear by 10¼ lengths. Tongue tie added to the blinkers and he's a major player. Out of Lady Aurelia and easy winner on debut; player for yard with winning form in this.
9
14th (9) (8.5/1 +6%) Noche Magica
8.5
8.5/1(+6%)
(9) Noche Magica 8.5/1, Looked potentially smart when making a winning start in 6-runner maiden at Cork (5f, heavy) in April and denied on the nod after cruising to the front 1f out in Marble Hill Stakes at the Curragh (6f, good) 26 days ago. Worth his place in this. Travelled strongly when close 2nd in 6f Curragh Group 3 latest; return to 5f is good move.
LTO Selection:
14:30 Ascot Group 2 (Class 1) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Richard Fahey has won the last two renewals of this contest, so his sole contender Malc surely warrants a market check. His price increased from 34,000 guineas as a yearling to 140,000 guineas as a two-year-old, but DEVIOUS can get the better of him here. He kept on well to score on his racecourse debut at Naas last month and left a strong impression that he has a good deal more to give. His dam is a half-sister to the exceptional 1000 Guineas winner Attraction, and the fact he holds an entry for the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in August must suggest he is showing plenty of encouragement at home. American Rascal adds strong international flavour to an engrossing line-up, while the unbeaten Elite Status is another to consider.
ELITE STATUS looked potentially out of the top drawer when bolting up in the National Stakes at Sandown and, with further progress surely in the pipeline, Karl Burke's colt is fancied to remain unbeaten. Wesley Ward has won this race twice in the last decade and his American Rascal looks an obvious danger having scored by double-digits at Keeneland on debut. Noche Magica and His Majesty met last month and are another couple to look out for.
Easy National Stakes winner ELITE STATUS has already achieved an RPR which would have been good enough in eight of the last ten years.
(5) Desert Hero 18/1, Plenty of promise at 2, finishing third in Sandown Group 3 in between 2 novice wins. Shaped as if he possibly just needed the run when 2¾ lengths eighth of 14 to Bertinelli in London Gold Cup on 1¼m Newbury reappearance. Remains capable of better and 1½m should be within range. Drawn wide. Made most when eight of 14 in London Gold Cup, beaten only 3l; looks bred more for 1m4f.
11
2nd (11) (7/1 +13%) Valiant King
7
7/1(+13%)
(11) Valiant King 7/1, Improved when narrowly denied in 1¼m Leopardstown handicap on reappearance and readily landed short odds in maiden company at Navan 6 weeks later. Steps up to 1½m now. Has the potential for better again. Staying on strongly at 1m2f; into a hot race but he's a striking candidate for 1m4f.
1
3rd (1) (6/1 +20%) Bertinelli
6
6/1(+20%)
(1) Bertinelli 6/1, AW maiden winner last November and has taken his form up another notch back on turf this year, recording a smart effort to win London Gold Cup at Newbury (1¼m, good to firm) last month. Group-class performance needed under clear top weight but no surprise were he up to the task. Will stay 1½m. His 1m2f London Gold Cup win came in a bunched finish but 1m4f is calling loudly.
18
4th (18) (22/1 -10%) Cloudbreaker
22
22/1(-10%)
(18) Cloudbreaker 22/1, 7f novice winner last summer and has advanced her form in defeat this year, finishing good 2½ lengths fourth in 1¼m Newbury listed race 33 days ago. Cheekpieces on first time now stepping up in trip. Her trainer is no stranger to handicap success at this meeting. Due to go up another 4lb after Listed 4th; tries new trip (sire gives hope) and headgear.
6
5th (6) (4/1 +53%) Perfuse
4
4/1(+53%)
(6) Perfuse 4/1, Second on debut and has looked very useful when winning both starts since, firstly on soft ground at Nottingham. Proved himself on a firmer surface and over 1½m at Doncaster since and there's surely more to come from him. Won novice races at Nottingham (1m2f, heavy) and Doncaster (1m4f, good to firm); promising.
3
6th (3) (6/1 -9%) Tagabawa
6
6/1(-9%)
(3) Tagabawa 6/1, Won on Wolverhampton debut in November. Only third at Kempton (1m) the following month but a different proposition when stepped up to 1½m for his handicap debut there in April, scoring by 4 lengths. Respected for last year's winning stable. Late foal with smart pedigree; lots of potential after scooting clear at Kempton (1m4f AW).
15
7th (15) (16/1 +0%) Land Legend
16
16/1(+0%)
(15) Land Legend 16/1, Off the mark in good style upped to 1¼m for his handicap debut at Newcastle in March. Went up 11 lb for that and improved a good chunk again when second in 1½m handicap at York's Dante meeting 5 weeks ago. Likely more to come and one of 2 solid contenders for his owner/trainer. Second of 11 from off the pace at York (1m4f, good), continuing his steady improvement.
7
8th (7) (8.5/1 -6%) Wonder Legend
8.5
8.5/1(-6%)
(7) Wonder Legend 8.5/1, Promising individual who built on his AW maiden success when scoring easily on his 1¼m handicap debut at Doncaster (heavy) in April. Looks like he's been saved for this since by yard which saddled the very smart Deauville Legend to finish a close second in this race in these colours last year. Up 13lb since 1m2f handicap win at Doncaster (soft) but he looked an exciting prospect.
10
9th (10) (7.5/1 -25%) Burglar
7.5
7.5/1(-25%)
(10) Burglar 7.5/1, A typically progressive type from his yard. Didn't look all out when taking career record to 2-3 in 1¼m Redcar handicap 23 days ago and there's more to come with this longer trip promising to suit. 2-3 in novices; bred to stay; this opening mark should be manageable at some stage soon.
16
10th (16) (33/1 -18%) Inquiring Minds
33
33/1(-18%)
(16) Inquiring Minds 33/1, Not up to the Lingfield Derby Trial on the back of a Newcastle AW debut success at the start of May but he was quickly back on track when 2 lengths second to the reopposing Perfuse in a 1½m Doncaster novice 3 weeks ago. Receives 5 lb from that one this time. Likely capable of better. Has a 5lb pull for 2l defeat by Perfuse and should still be capable of better.
9
11th (9) (66/1 +0%) Crackovia
66
66/1(+0%)
(9) Crackovia 66/1, Fairly useful juvenile who scored twice around 1m last summer. Creditable fourth in listed/Group 3 events over 1¼m this year but might be vulnerable to less-exposed types here. Not totally discredited at 1m2f in Listed race or Group 3 but needs much better than that.
20
12th (20) (50/1 -100%) Greysful Storm
50
50/1(-100%)
(20) Greysful Storm 50/1, Much improved to win easily on handicap debut in a 17-runner race at Newbury (1¼m, good) 34 days ago, suited by increase in trip. Will need to find another slab of improvement if she's to follow up here from 15 lb higher. RESERVE. 25-1, upped to 1m2f for handicap debut at Newbury (good) and won easily despite 16 rivals.
4
13th (4) (16/1 +27%) Struth
16
16/1(+27%)
(4) Struth 16/1, Posted a career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Chester (1½m, heavy, 7/1) in May. Improved again when stepped up to 14.5f at Doncaster since, finishing second in a competitive 3-y-o event. Yard no stranger to success in this. Up another 4lb but finished clear of the third last time (14.5f) and is on the upgrade.
14
14th (14) (100/1 -100%) Lieber Power
100
100/1(-100%)
(14) Lieber Power 100/1, AW novice winner at Kempton (7f) last year. Respectable sixth of 7 in a 1m conditions event there on his reappearance but down the field in the London Gold Cup at Newbury (1¼m, good to firm) since. Up in trip. Others are more obvious. 2023 runs suggest limitations; may well stay; tongue-tie and cheekpieces are enlisted.
19
15th (19) (50/1 -52%) Double March
50
50/1(-52%)
(19) Double March 50/1, Off the mark at Southwell last October and added to her tally in 1¼m course handicap last month. This a good deal tougher than that 0-80 but she was only kept up to her work to prevail and there may be more to come. Won comfortably here (1m2f, soft) last time but she's not as stoutly bred as some.
13
16th (13) (66/1 -32%) Duke Of Oxford
66
66/1(-32%)
(13) Duke Of Oxford 66/1, Winner of 2 AW novices this spring, looking very useful when scoring by a wide margin over this trip at Wolverhampton in April. Didn't cope with very testing ground in the Chester Vase last month but retains potential now handicapping. Impressively at 1m4f for second AW win; 16-1, showed little in Chester Vase (1m4f, soft).
12
17th (12) (40/1 +0%) Mr Mistoffelees
40
40/1(+0%)
(12) Mr Mistoffelees 40/1, Siyouni colt who progressed nicely last year, culminating with 1m Kempton novice win in December. Has advanced his form in defeat this term, finishing a good 2½ lengths seventh of 14 to Bertinelli in London Gold Cup at Newbury (1¼m, good to firm) last time. Claims are less obvious than most but, after London Gold Cup, he needs a second look.
17
18th (17) (40/1 +20%) Sisyphus Strength
40
40/1(+20%)
(17) Sisyphus Strength 40/1, Reportedly lost her action when pulled up in heavy-ground Cheshire Oaks on her reappearance. Showed she was none the worse when a creditable fifth of 11 in Goodwood listed 16 days later but it's hard to argue her opening handicap mark looks generous. Returned to form in Listed race at Goodwood (1m2f) but needs to resume her 2yo improvement.
8
19th (8) (7/1 +7%) Davideo
7
7/1(+7%)
(8) Davideo 7/1, Bred to be useful and has improved with each start, winning very nicely in maiden company at Newmarket (1¼m, good) on his reappearance 5 weeks ago. One to consider for a yard which has won this race in recent years. Made all in maiden at Newmarket (1m2f, good) and 1m4f looks sure to suit.
LTO Selection:
15:05 Ascot Handicap (Class 2) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Bertinelli needed every yard of the mile and a quarter to lift the London Gold Cup so should be even better at this distance, although he does have to concede weight to some unexposed sorts. One who fits that bill is TAGABAWA, who saw off a couple of subsequent winners with ease at Kempton. The form of Wonder Legend's Doncaster triumph has also worked out, while an initial mark of 94 isn't exactly lenient for Perfuse but he looked smart when accounting for Inquiring Minds on Town Moor. Burglar put a costly Kempton defeat behind him at Redcar and is just one more to enter the equation.
Stacks of potential improvers in what is invariably one of the hottest handicaps of the season. WONDER LEGEND gets the nod to gain some compensation for the narrow defeat of the same connections' Deauville Legend in this race last year but there are any number of possible dangers, headed by London Gold Cup winner Bertinelli, who promises to relish the step up to 1½m. Perfuse, Burglar and Davideo also make the shortlist.
The pick may well be VALIANT KING, who looks open to big improvement over the new trip given the way he's been finishing his 1m2f races.
(19) Warm Heart 6.5/1, Galileo filly who is improving at a rate of knots, off the mark at the third attempt in a Leopardstown maiden (10f) in May and proving fully effective on a sounder surface when defeating Bluestocking by a head in Newbury listed contest 33 days ago. Will stay 1½m and respected up further in class. 1m2f Listed winner at Newbury and could continue to progress for top Irish trainer.
10
2nd (10) (14/1 +58%) Lumiere Rock
14
14/1(+58%)
(10) Lumiere Rock 14/1, Saxon Warrior filly who built on exploits in maidens when landing a Curragh Group 3 on final start as a 2-y-o. Stepped up on reappearance effort when keeping on for second in Naas Group 3 (10f) and this longer trip may bring about further progress. Kept on well for 1m2f Group 3 second latest; she's an each-way possible now up to 1m4f.
2
3rd (2) (4.5/1 +25%) Bluestocking
4.5
4.5/1(+25%)
(2) Bluestocking 4.5/1, Bred in the purple and overcame inexperience to make a striking winning debut in 1m Salisbury novice in September. Shaped well in coming from a disadvantageous position when second behind Warm Heart on return at Newbury (10f, listed) last month and of firm interest with prospect of more to come. 1m2f Listed runner-up on second start and open to further improvement now upped to 1m4f.
4
4th (4) (16/1 +43%) Crown Princesse
16
16/1(+43%)
(4) Crown Princesse 16/1, Improving daughter of Zarak who built on her maiden victory at Chantilly (9.5f) when landing a Saint Cloud Group 3 in April. Improved further when third in Group 1 Prix Saint-Alary, keeping on well. Well worth her place in this field with step up to 1½m worth exploring. Form of 1m2f Group 1 third has taken some knocks but this step up in trip may suit.
16
5th (16) (66/1 +0%) Sea Of Roses
66
66/1(+0%)
(16) Sea Of Roses 66/1, Useful filly who returned to action with a good second in Group 3 at Saint Cloud. Never threatened on firmer ground in Musidora at York thereafter and again found wanting in the Oaks at Epsom 3 weeks ago. Likely set for another struggle in this company. Only fifth in the Musidora then well beaten in the Oaks; others are preferred.
1
6th (1) (0.83/1 -34%) Al Asifah
0.83
0.83/1(-34%)
(1) Al Asifah 0.83/1, Frankel filly who ran out an easy winner on debut in a Haydock maiden (10f) in May and took the rise in class in her stride with an impressive success in listed company at Goodwood (9.9f) 11 days ago, hard held. Rates a most exciting prospect and big player upped to Group 2 level. Exciting Frankel filly who is 2-2; leading claims for yard with fine recent record in race.
3
7th (3) (80/1 +47%) Climate Friendly
80
80/1(+47%)
(3) Climate Friendly 80/1, Modest form first 2 starts (7 months apart) and having seemed to excel herself when seventh in Oaks Trial at Lingfield (possibly flattered) she capitalised on drop in grade to land Newmarket novice (12f) later in May, leading close home. This a whole lot tougher, however. Off the mark in Newmarket novice last month but she's likely to struggle in this grade.
8
8th (8) (50/1 +38%) Lmay
50
50/1(+38%)
(8) Lmay 50/1, Frankel filly out of an unraced half-sister to high-class 1¼m-14.5f (St Leger) winner Logician. Didn't need to improve when readily justifying cramped odds on third start in a Newbury maiden (12f) 15 days ago, well on top finish. Likely more to come but this rates a tough ask. Down pecking order on form but lightly raced and may take a big step forward at some point.
6
9th (6) (100/1 -25%) Ghara
100
100/1(-25%)
(6) Ghara 100/1, Frankel filly who surpassed previous form when fourth in Oaks Trial at Lingfield in May. Didn't need to be at best when landing small-field Yarmouth maiden (11.5f) 3 weeks ago but yard look to hold much stronger claims with Al Asifah. Off mark at fourth attempt in Yarmouth maiden; improvement possible but very much needed.
18
10th (18) (18/1 -13%) Village Voice
18
18/1(-13%)
(18) Village Voice 18/1, Winner on debut at Thurles (1m) last autumn and she improved when third in Leopardstown Group 3 on final start at 2 yrs. Continued theme of race-by-race progress when landing Navan listed event (10f) on return in April and remains with a good deal of potential. Respected. 1m2f Listed win on reappearance and her strong finish bodes well for 1m4f; respected.
13
11th (13) (125/1 -56%) Perfect Prophet
125
125/1(-56%)
(13) Perfect Prophet 125/1, Fairly useful form at 2, winning an AW novice before 4½ lengths third of 8 to Polly Pott in May Hill Stakes at Doncaster (1m) on final start. Ran some way below best when eighth of 9 in Oaks Trial on return last month and much more needed back up at Group 2 level. Down the field in the Lingfield Oaks Trial; it's hard to be confident on the back of that.
17
12th (17) (40/1 +39%) Understated
40
40/1(+39%)
(17) Understated 40/1, Built on promising AW debut over the winter when landing 5-runner Windsor novice (10f) in April and stepped up once more when second in Goodwood listed event (9.9f) 4 weeks ago, running on. Feasible to think she can do better again at this sort of trip but this rates much tougher. 1m2f Listed runner-up last time; could do with settling better & others have stronger form.
12
13th (12) (40/1 -82%) Midnight Mile
40
40/1(-82%)
(12) Midnight Mile 40/1, Doncaster novice winner (6f) on debut and followed up in the Oh So Sharp in October. Acquitted herself well when fourth in Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies on final start and ran up to best when fourth in the Musidora on return, plugging on final 1f. May do better again up in trip. Fourth in the Musidora and this step up in trip could elicit some improvement.
15
14th (15) (150/1 +0%) Rocha Do Leao
150
150/1(+0%)
(15) Rocha Do Leao 150/1, Footstepsinthesand filly who improved on debut form despite not being ideally placed when third in 5-runner maiden here (10f) 6 weeks ago. Remains with potential, including over this sort of trip, but this is a tough assignment. Showed ability in maidens in spring but not enough to suggest she'll make any impact here.
14
15th (14) (80/1 -21%) Red Riding Hood
80
80/1(-21%)
(14) Red Riding Hood 80/1, AW maiden winner. Posted a useful effort when third in Group 3 Blue Wind at Naas (1¼m) last month but struggled to make an impact (raced wide) when last of 9 in the Oaks 3 weeks ago. Hood added to blinkers now. Close third in Group 3 last month but well beaten in the Oaks three weeks ago.
5
16th (5) (28/1 +72%) Ferrari Queen
28
28/1(+72%)
(5) Ferrari Queen 28/1, Won first 2 starts as a juvenile but had her limitations exposed in pattern company in the second half of the season. Noted doing best work finish when third in Lingfield Oaks Trial (12f) 6 weeks ago but more on her plate back up at Group level. Form suggests she's vulnerable but stable's 3yos often worth a second look at this meeting.
11
17th (11) (25/1 +0%) Maman Joon
25
25/1(+0%)
(11) Maman Joon 25/1, 400,000 gns Sea The Stars filly who made a promising start when second in a Newbury maiden (10f) in April. Inexperience still evident but shaped well when fourth in the Oaks at Epsom 3 weeks ago and she can improve again. About 10l fourth in the Oaks but that was just her second start; could have more to offer.
LTO Selection:
15:40 Ascot Group 2 (Class 1) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Al Asifah is likely to be a red-hot favourite for this prestigious contest, as she was only supplemented for the race last week on the back of her facile victory at Goodwood over 1m2f earlier this month. The daughter of Frankel romped home by six lengths in the Listed Agnes Keyser to maintain her unbeaten record and she is likely to have a big shout. However, a chance can be taken on INFINITE COSMOS, after she was beaten four and a half lengths into third by subsequent Oaks victor Soul Sister in the Musidora at York last time. The Sir Michael Stoute-trained filly kept on well and shaped as if the step up to this distance could unlock any amount of improvement. Warm Heart beat Bluestocking (second) by a head last time in the Haras De Bouquetot at Newbury and she would be foolish to dismiss for her powerful connections.
An impressive winner on debut at Haydock, AL ASIFAH looked special when producing a commanding display to follow up in listed company at Goodwood 11 days ago. A most exciting prospect, she's fancied to maintain her 100% record. Bluestocking and Warm Heart are closely matched on their Newbury form and head the dangers, along with Infinite Cosmos and Village Voice.
The Gosden-trained AL ASIFAH has superstar potential in view of her commanding Listed win at Goodwood 11 days ago and can make it 3-3.
(11) Courage Mon Ami 7.5/1, Highly promising son of Frankel who is 3-3, looking a smart prospect when easily landing 12f minor events at Kempton and Newcastle in the autumn. Maintained unbeaten record in 8-runner handicap (6/4) at Goodwood (14f, good to firm) 26 days ago, Fascinating contender up in grade. 3-3 at much lower levels but his handicap win was smart form and stack full of promise.
3
2nd (3) (2.75/1 +17%) Coltrane
2.75
2.75/1(+17%)
(3) Coltrane 2.75/1, Progressive last season, winning Ascot Stakes at this meeting before adding a Sandown listed event and the Group 2 Doncaster Cup to his tally. Even better form when readily winning Sagaro Stakes here (16f, good) 50 days ago by 4¾ lengths from Wise Eagle and he's a leading player. C&D Royal Ascot handicap winner who now looks ready to hold his own at the top level.
6
3rd (6) (4.5/1 +50%) Subjectivist
4.5
4.5/1(+50%)
(6) Subjectivist 4.5/1, Top-class performer in 2021, successful in Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan before following up with a decisive success in this race. Missed all of last season with injury but shaped as if retaining all ability in Dubai in March and he can't be ruled out. Formidable in 2021 (won this); might have needed his two runs since return from injury.
14
4th (14) (11/1 -69%) Emily Dickinson
11
11/1(-69%)
(14) Emily Dickinson 11/1, Looked a stayer going places when winning Group 3 Loughbrown Stakes at the Curragh late last season and resumed progress when winning the listed Vintage Crop Stakes at Navan on return. Disappointing on quicker ground last time, but that may well prove a blip and she's respected. Peak efforts on softer than good; Listed win was good form and the trip may well suit.
5
5th (5) (50/1 +38%) Nate The Great
50
50/1(+38%)
(5) Nate The Great 50/1, Newmarket listed winner on his final start last season and ran up to his best when a close second in Group 3 Henry II Stakes at Sandown (16.2f, good) 28 days ago. Flying too high in this grade, however. Best efforts on good or firmer but has doubtful stamina and is up against it at this level.
10
6th (10) (8/1 +43%) Yibir
8
8/1(+43%)
(10) Yibir 8/1, High-class performer who signed off for 2022 with victory in the Group 2 Princess of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket. Looked rusty when only fourth of 7 to Haskoy in Aston Park Stakes (9/4) at Newbury (12f, good to firm) 33 days ago. Has stamina to prove but few in this possess his class. It's hard to be confident that going 7f further will see him back in the best light.
12
7th (12) (6/1 -33%) Eldar Eldarov
6
6/1(-33%)
(12) Eldar Eldarov 6/1, Queen's Vase winner at this meeting last year before landing the St Leger at Doncaster. Ran well when a close second in the Yorkshire Cup on his return, not the first time looking as if he'd appreciate a marathon trip, and this classy stayer ranks high on the shortlist. Forgiven his 2m run here in October; three big runs at about 1m6f look very promising.
13
8th (13) (10/1 +17%) Echoes In Rain
10
10/1(+17%)
(13) Echoes In Rain 10/1, Talented performer on the Flat and over hurdles, winning a Galway handicap last summer before a fine second in the Irish Cesarewitch. Won Mares Champion Hurdle at Punchestown on most recent outing but this is by far the toughest task she's faced on the level. Very smart hurdler; did well in two Flat handicaps (2m/2m1f) and might do better still.
4
9th (4) (22/1 +45%) Lone Eagle
22
22/1(+45%)
(4) Lone Eagle 22/1, Irish Derby runner-up in 2021 for Martyn Meade and shaped with some encouragement when second in the Ormonde Stakes (13.4f, heavy) last month. This rates as a difficult ask though for one untested over staying trips. Pipped in 2021 Irish Derby; troubled time since but latest start was a partial revival.
2
10th (2) (12/1 +14%) Broome
12
12/1(+14%)
(2) Broome 12/1, Resumed winning ways in 15-runner Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan (2m) in March and wasn't disgraced when 1½ lengths third of 6 in Yorkshire Cup at York (13.8f, good to firm, 9/4) 34 days ago. First try beyond 2m but he certainly has the ability to go close. 2m Dubai Gold Cup win augured well; failed to back that up in the Yorkshire Cup.
1
11th (1) (40/1 +39%) Big Call
40
40/1(+39%)
(1) Big Call 40/1, Dual Group 3 winner in France, making a winning return to European action in the Prix de Barbeville (15,4f) in April. Took strong hold when only third in the Prix Vicomtesse Vigier at Longchamp (15.4f, good) 24 days ago and he'll likely need to improve for the longer trip to land a blow. Two French Group 3 wins over an extended 1m7f; stamina might not have come fully into play.
9
12th (9) (28/1 +15%) Wise Eagle
28
28/1(+15%)
(9) Wise Eagle 28/1, Most progressive sort, winning 5 times in 2021 before adding another 4 victories to his tally in 2022. Picked up where he left off at Musselburgh on return before chasing Coltrane home in the Sagaro here last time. Hard to see him turning the tables. Notably progressive but he received weight and a 5l beating from Coltrane here last time.
LTO Selection:
16:20 Ascot Group 1 (Class 1) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Coltrane threw his hat into the staying division ring when defeating Trueshan in the Doncaster Cup last September, before going down by a head to that same rival in the Long Distance Cup here the following month. The talented son of Mastercraftsman, who reappeared with a bloodless success in the Sagaro last month, should be thereabouts, though a chance is taken on SUBJECTIVIST. Having bolted up in this contest two years ago, Charlie Johnston's entire picked up an injury that ruled him out for all of last season. Drawn wide when finishing third in the Dubai Gold Cup 89 days ago, he looked to retain plenty of ability and is likely to have been trained with this contest in mind. St Leger hero Eldar Eldarov merits respect having finished a good second in the Yorkshire Cup last month, while Courage Mon Ami, who seeks to extend his unbeaten record, could find further improvement for a yard that landed this three years on the trot with staying great Stradivarius. Others to note include Broome and Echoes In Rain.
ELDAR ELDAROV relished the emphasis on stamina when winning the St Leger last season and again did his best work at the finish when a close second in the Yorkshire Cup last time. Still with fewer miles on the clock than most in this field, he's taken to gain a second Royal Ascot success at the chief expense of the much-improved Coltrane, who has to be viewed positively after a tidy success in the Sagaro. 2021 winner Subjectivist and relatively unexposed Emily Dickinson complete the shortlist.
Coltrane and ELDAR ELDAROV (nap) are worth their places at the head of the betting and preference is for the 2022 St Leger hero.
(9) Docklands 6/1, Highly progressive colt who tanked through the race and readily went clear when landing a C&D handicap 41 days ago. More to come and worth taking a chance on in a race that should suit his style. Bolted up in a C&D handicap last month; up 14lb for that but could be Group class.
8
2nd (8) (22/1 -38%) New Endeavour
22
22/1(-38%)
(8) New Endeavour 22/1, Still unexposed and doubled his tally in ready fashion at Kempton last time. Slight concern that both wins have come on polytrack, but definite claims if he's as good on turf for yard that took this in 2020. Both wins have been over 7f on the AW and he's got an 11lb rise to overcome.
26
3rd (26) (50/1 -52%) Urban Sprawl
50
50/1(-52%)
(26) Urban Sprawl 50/1, Likeable type who signed off for 2022 with back-to-back 7f nursery wins and progressed again this term, making all returned to firmer ground at Goodwood in May. Might have found the race coming too soon at Epsom last time. Balance of form leaves him vulnerable off this mark and he smacks of a 7f specialist.
22
4th (22) (66/1 -65%) Thunder Ball
66
66/1(-65%)
(22) Thunder Ball 66/1, Has done most of his racing on AW but proved better than ever when landing a minor event at Newbury last time. Hard to know if he'll replicate that form in such a highly-competitive environment. Bolted up in a Newbury novice but that was his tenth start and he's gone up 16lb.
23
5th (23) (66/1 -136%) Tempered Soul
66
66/1(-136%)
(23) Tempered Soul 66/1, Off the mark in most impressive fashion at Chelmsford on penultimate run and didn't seem ideally suited by the track in listed contest at Goodwood last month. May yet prove better than a mark of 90. It's hard to enthuse over this sort of mark and he's well down the pecking order.
27
6th (27) (20/1 -25%) Royal Cape
20
20/1(-25%)
(27) Royal Cape 20/1, Gleneagles colt who is going the right way, winning easily at Windsor (1m, heavy) in May and backing it up with a creditable effort in second at Haydock. More to come and can get involved if drawn on the right side. Won his novice by 10l and bumped into a Group horse on his handicap debut; interesting.
16
7th (16) (12/1 -9%) Surely Not
12
12/1(-9%)
(16) Surely Not 12/1, Dual winner last season and, in line with yard's good start to the season has already added to that tally twice in as many starts this term, again finishing well to score at Chester in May. One to consider. Strike-rate of 4-8 and unbeaten in two runs since gelded; not sure he'll be good enough.
12
8th (12) (16/1 +36%) Bless
16
16/1(+36%)
(12) Bless 16/1, Useful winner in France who travelled strongly when third at Longchamp last time. Type to be suited by the nature of this race, so worth monitoring in the betting. Some of his French form reads well and this mark shouldn't be beyond him.
10
9th (10) (25/1 +0%) Ramazan
25
25/1(+0%)
(10) Ramazan 25/1, 9/1, creditable length third of 14 to Dark Thirty in handicap at York (7f, good to firm) 36 days ago. Holds his form well and has long since looked worth a try over this distance, so could be arriving with a strong late run. 1m is worth exploring but, given his current mark, others are far more intriguing.
20
10th (20) (40/1 +0%) Physique
40
40/1(+0%)
(20) Physique 40/1, Had a bit up his sleeve to score second time up in a race lacking depth at Newmarket (7f, good to soft) in October and has resumed progress this term, again running well when a staying-on third at Goodwood 11 days ago. Run of the race should suit. Third in both handicaps; worth another crack over 1m but others are more intriguing.
21
11th (21) (33/1 -83%) Good Karma
33
33/1(-83%)
(21) Good Karma 33/1, Looked a good prospect 6 weeks on as he stormed clear in 7f Wolverhampton maiden and comfortably followed up in novice at Newbury a month ago. Interesting handicap debutant for all that the assessor has taken no chances with opening mark. Took his time to get on top when penalised at Newbury and that form has not worked out.
18
12th (18) (12/1 +45%) Saxon King
12
12/1(+45%)
(18) Saxon King 12/1, Progressive colt who made it three wins from his last four starts at Chester 5 days ago. Had a bit in hand so worthy of respect under a penalty. Coming along nicely having won three of his last four; penalised but likeably versatile.
19
13th (19) (6.5/1 +7%) Quantum Impact
6.5
6.5/1(+7%)
(19) Quantum Impact 6.5/1, Workmanlike colt who enhanced an excellent strike rate when improving to score in gutsy style at York last time. Should give another good account with Dettori booked. Recent York winner; clearly going the right way and Frankie takes over for the first time.
24
14th (24) (50/1 +0%) Metal Merchant
50
50/1(+0%)
(24) Metal Merchant 50/1, 22/1, good third of 11 in handicap at Haydock (8.2f, good to firm) 26 days ago. Should give his running again but he's vulnerable to less-exposed types. Developing into a solid handicapper but Royal Cape should have his measure on Haydock form.
15
15th (15) (33/1 -18%) Betterdaysrcoming
33
33/1(-18%)
(15) Betterdaysrcoming 33/1, Arrives on the up having got up late at the Curragh last time. Race should be run to suit, so could get involved if low draws prove advantageous. Dual 7f winner; should be better at 1m; unlikely to have enough boot under bonnet in this.
30
16th (30) (33/1 +34%) Mustajaab
33
33/1(+34%)
(30) Mustajaab 33/1, Well-bred colt who got back on the up to double his tally at Southwell last month. Could progress further and strongly-run race would play to his strengths. 5lb higher than at Southwell and the placed horses have done nothing for that form.
3
17th (3) (20/1 +20%) Panic Alarm
20
20/1(+20%)
(3) Panic Alarm 20/1, Useful sort who has run with credit on each of his three runs this year, third to Cosmic Vega in a listed contest at Naas a month ago. Longer trip should suit but others are more progressive. Will need his best yet to defy highish mark in this hot handicap.
13
18th (13) (50/1 +0%) Dark Thirty
50
50/1(+0%)
(13) Dark Thirty 50/1, Lost his way a bit after debut win last May but firmly back on the back on the up when scoring at York in May. Not disgraced behind Urban Sprawl at Goodwood last time but others are more likely to improve. Solid handicapper but a shade exposed now and probably placed at best.
5
19th (5) (40/1 -82%) Starnberg
40
40/1(-82%)
(5) Starnberg 40/1, Form has taken off lately, winning at York before readily making all at Nottingham 15 days ago. Similar tactics will be much more difficult to pull off in a race like this. 2-3 since being gelded, though this is a severe rise in class from Class 4s.
14
20th (14) (28/1 -100%) Carracci
28
28/1(-100%)
(14) Carracci 28/1, Hasn't had much racing and, having opened his account on his reappearance, shaped better than the result when ninth at the Curragh last time. Trainer/jockey combination always respected. AW maiden winner; didn't offer much on handicap debut and doesn't leap off the page.
29
21st (29) (14/1 +30%) Fort Vega
14
14/1(+30%)
(29) Fort Vega 14/1, Progressive sort who arrives on a hat-trick having showed a good attitude at Naas a month ago. Open to further improvement but hard to know if stall 33 will be advantageous or not. Has won his last two and connections have chosen this race ahead of the Group 3 Jersey.
28
22nd (28) (20/1 +50%) Naxos
20
20/1(+50%)
(28) Naxos 20/1, Promising sort who made a winning debut and got back on track to make it two from three in a novice at Newcastle 70 days ago. Handicapper has taken no chances but shrewd yard should have him ready to go. Didn't beat much at Newcastle and is thrown into the furnace for his handicap/turf debut.
25
23rd (25) (25/1 -25%) Just An Hour
25
25/1(-25%)
(25) Just An Hour 25/1, Offered plenty of encouragement on both outings prior to comfortably opening his account in a maiden at Killarney last time. Open to improvement on handicap debut. Won his maiden off slow fractions at Killarney (1m); strong yard and dangerous to dismiss.
4
24th (4) (22/1 +12%) Highbank
22
22/1(+12%)
(4) Highbank 22/1, Well-bred gelding who ran up to his best when third at Meydan 118 days ago. Opening mark doesn't look all that lenient but he's likely to be well prepared. 0-5 since last summer's successful debut and now contesting his first handicap.
1
25th (1) (22/1 +56%) Finn's Charm
22
22/1(+56%)
(1) Finn's Charm 22/1, Made the frame in the Chesham last year and returned with an emphatic display in a Musselburgh handicap. Second in the German 2000 Guineas since, so not a forlorn hope. Has some class about him but top weights have a poor record in the Britannia.
6
26th (6) (9/1 +36%) Racingbreaks Ryder
9
9/1(+36%)
(6) Racingbreaks Ryder 9/1, Off the mark at the fourth attempt at Brighton on final start on 2 yrs and unbeaten so far this term, well on top at the finish when landing a 4-runner event here last month. Solid claims. Fast improver who is seeking a five-timer and has course experience in the bag.
17
27th (17) (80/1 -60%) Forca Timao
80
80/1(-60%)
(17) Forca Timao 80/1, Useful sort who ran well when seventh at Epsom last time, making his effort earlier than ideal. Others look better treated, however. Close up in a strong Newbury handicap but struggled at Epsom latest; others appeal more.
7
28th (7) (33/1 -18%) Benacre
33
33/1(-18%)
(7) Benacre 33/1, Successful 3 times from 5 starts during 2-y-o campaign and positive start to this season when fourth of 11 in a Newcastle listed race (1m). Bit disappointing in German 2000 Guineas last time but too soon to completely write off. 2-3 in handicaps and has been holding his own in Listed/Group races this season.
2
29th (2) (28/1 -27%) One Nation
28
28/1(-27%)
(2) One Nation 28/1, Dual winner last season and acquitted himself well from the front twice at Meydan so far this year. Off 118 days prior to this and is likely to face competition for the lead. Highly likely to give his running but couldn't call him well handicapped.
LTO Selection:
17:00 Ascot Handicap (Class 2) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Docklands is improving at a rate of knots and made a sparkling handicap debut over C&D. Racingbreaks Ryder is also on a steep upward curve, while Starnberg has bounced off quick ground to score as he liked at York and Nottingham. Expensive purchase Just An Hour beat a subsequent winner at Killarney but perhaps a chance is worth taking on fellow Irish raider PANIC ALARM, who made the frame in the Madrid Handicap won by Paddington, since when he has held his own in good company. His compatriot Fort Vega showed excellent resolution to hang on at Naas, with Betterdaysrcoming back in third. The latter franked the form with a Curragh victory, in a race in which Carracci didn't get the smoothest of passages.
DOCKLANDS boasts a likeable profile and made a taking impression when successful over C&D last time, so he gets the vote in a typically open renewal. The progressive Fort Vega is another one to consider and Quantum Impact seems likely to go well also if low draws are seen to good effect.
A typically open Britannia. French raider BLESS is interestingly handicapped on some of his French form. Royal Cape is next best.
(15) Waipiro 7/1, Proved a different proposition to debut when making all in novice at Newmarket on return. Again showed significant improvement when runner-up in Lingfield Derby Trial and not discredited when sixth from a less-than-ideal position in the Derby. Can give a good account back down in trip. Respectable sixth in the Derby and could be thereabouts now back down in grade.
10
2nd (10) (12/1 -71%) Exoplanet
12
12/1(-71%)
(10) Exoplanet 12/1, Looked good prospect when scoring at Newbury on debut before finding the Autumn Stakes at Newmarket too much 3 weeks later, However, has got back on the up this season, third in the London Gold Cup also at Newbury last month. Can continue his progress to return to winning ways. Very solid efforts in defeat on both starts this year and could have more left in the tank.
3
3rd (3) (9/1 +0%) Bold Act
9
9/1(+0%)
(3) Bold Act 9/1, Improved again to make it 4 in a row in a valuable conditions race at Chelmsford in April. Not in the same form in Newmarket listed race next time, but resumed his progress (had been gelded) upped further in trip when only narrowly denied in London Gold Cup at Newbury. Merits consideration. Went close off top weight in prestigious Newbury handicap and he's firmly in calculations.
14
4th (14) (4/1 -14%) Torito
4
4/1(-14%)
(14) Torito 4/1, Bred to be smart and has been going the right way in his 3 starts so far this year, getting off the mark in a Nottingham minor event and improving again when making a winning handicap debut at Epsom 19 days ago, impressing with the way that he went through the race. Major contender. Comfortably won Epsom handicap on Derby day and bred to do better still.
5
5th (5) (25/1 -56%) Canberra Legend
25
25/1(-56%)
(5) Canberra Legend 25/1, Justified market confidence with comfortable debut win at Newcastle in February. Took the jump up in class in his stride when following up in Feilden Stakes at Newmarket in April, but disappointing on much firmer ground in Dante at York last time. Any rain would help his chances. Disappointing in Dante but retains potential in view of previous Listed win at Newmarket.
16
6th (16) (8.5/1 +15%) Caernarfon
8.5
8.5/1(+15%)
(16) Caernarfon 8.5/1, Progressed well last autumn, ending the campaign with listed success at Newmarket. Nearest at the finish when fourth of 20 to Mawj in 1000 Guineas back at Newmarket on her return, before excelling herself upped in trip when a fine third in the Oaks. Respected on her first try at 10f. Much improved when 40-1 third in the Oaks and holds leading form claims now against males.
2
7th (2) (4/1 +33%) Drumroll
4
4/1(+33%)
(2) Drumroll 4/1, Looked useful prospect when winning at Navan on debut before finding only stablemate Paddington too strong in listed race at the Curragh next time. Resumed winning ways (promoted from second having suffered interference) in Gallinule Stakes back at the Curragh on latest outing. Not taken lightly. Awarded Group 3 at the Curragh last time and could have more to offer; player.
7
8th (7) (40/1 +20%) Dancing Magic
40
40/1(+20%)
(7) Dancing Magic 40/1, Remains a maiden but has been highly tried, showing improved form on reappearance when 3-lengths third of 7 in Craven Stakes at Newmarket. However, not in the same form when well held in the Dante last time and hood/tongue strap now reached for. Looks to be up against it. Well beaten in the Dante but the hood could help him settle better; not a forlorn hope.
12
9th (12) (20/1 +39%) Oviedo
20
20/1(+39%)
(12) Oviedo 20/1, Useful form at 2 yrs, following a winning debut with third in Acomb Stakes at York. Made a solid start to his 3-y-o campaign when mid-field in Newcastle listed race (1m) and suited by step up in trip when successful on handicap debut at Redcar (10f) last time. Further progress required. Won Redcar handicap last month; needs another step forward but did it cosily last time.
4
10th (4) (28/1 -56%) Bolster
28
28/1(-56%)
(4) Bolster 28/1, Made successful debut in good style at Leicester (1m) in October and, after 8 months off, powered away from his rivals when following up under a penalty in 10-runner minor event (10f) at Windsor 10 days ago. Will go on improving, so he's an interesting contender now upped in grade. 2-2; takes a steep rise in grade here but it remains to be seen where his limitations lie.
11
11th (11) (50/1 +38%) Killybegs Warrior
50
50/1(+38%)
(11) Killybegs Warrior 50/1, Won 2 of first 3 starts on the July Course at Newmarket last summer. Better form in defeat at listed/Group 2 level this year, but below form on his second outing in handicap company when well held at Haydock last month. Step back up in trip not enough to tempt. Fair runs in Group and Listed races this spring but improvement is needed today.
6
12th (6) (28/1 +15%) Captain Winters
28
28/1(+15%)
(6) Captain Winters 28/1, Novice winner at Thirsk last summer who excelled himself when third in listed race at Haydock in September. Only fourth at Musselburgh making handicap debut on return, but much improved when landing a listed prize at Sandown last month (cheekpieces wore on previous outing left off). More needed. Beat just three rivals for Sandown Listed win but could have even more to offer.
9
13th (9) (6.5/1 -30%) Epictetus
6.5
6.5/1(-30%)
(9) Epictetus 6.5/1, Smart form at 2 yrs, winning at Newmarket on debut before runner-up in Autumn Stakes there and Futurity Trophy at Doncaster. Scored with a bit in hand in Blue Riband Trial at Epsom on return and ran up to best when fifth in both the Dante and Prix du Jockey Club. Can go well back at Group 3 level. Creditable fifth in Dante and Prix du Jockey Club; unlikely to be far away.
13
14th (13) (33/1 +34%) Tony Montana
33
33/1(+34%)
(13) Tony Montana 33/1, 425,000 gns Kingman colt who made a promising start to his career when second in a strong 1m Salisbury novice last September. Couldn't build on that effort 8 months later when third in maiden at Newbury (10f) 34 days ago, so he looks to face a tough task now upped in grade. 0-2 and bundles to find on form, but this 425,000gns yearling is in top hands.
1
15th (1) (40/1 -21%) Brave Emperor
40
40/1(-21%)
(1) Brave Emperor 40/1, Has developed into a useful performer with 6 wins to his name, the latest in a German Group 3 in April. Ran well in another Group 3 on his travels when third in Stockholms Stora Pris at Bro Park 11 days ago. However, will need to find more to get involved in this contest. Won 8.5f German Group 3 in April but suspicion he's vulnerable under a 4lb penalty.
8
16th (8) (28/1 +44%) Dear My Friend
28
28/1(+44%)
(8) Dear My Friend 28/1, Won minor events at Carlisle and Beverley on first 2 starts and acquitted himself well at a higher level on his subsequent 3 outings of the campaign. After 6 months off, made a winning return in listed race at Newcastle but has found it tougher in the Dante and Derby since. Listed winner in April but down the field in the Dante and the Derby since.
LTO Selection:
17:35 Ascot Group 3 (Class 1) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Drumroll makes a lot of appeal based on the pick of his form and Aidan O'Brien's inmate was promoted to first having initially been beaten a short head in a Group 3 at the Curragh last month. However, preference lies with EPICTETUS, who struggled in deeper waters in the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly last time out and the son of Kingman can take advantage of a drop in grade here. He ended last season losing little in defeat behind subsequent Derby hero Auguste Rodin in the Vertem Futurity Trophy and he remains open to further improvement. Bold Act rates a big player having only been narrowly denied at Newbury most recently, while 1000 Guineas fourth and Oaks third Caernarfon also warrants respect.
EXOPLANET improved again when third in the competitive London Gold Cup at Newbury last month, shaping well having had the worst of the draw, so he can continue his progress to take the step up in grade in his stride and resume winning ways. Heading the list of dangers is Torito, who impressed when scoring at Epsom on his latest outing, while Caernarfon and Bold Act also merit consideration.
The well-bred TORITO took a big step forward when a smooth winner of a handicap at Epsom on Derby day and is taken to follow up.
(2) Witch Hunter 50/1, Career-best effort when second in a good-quality minor event at Newcastle returned to 6f in April. Habit of missing the break isn't ideal but he's shaped as though in top form both starts since and this straight track will suit him. In good form on AW in recent times; surprise if he broke turf duck in this top handicap.
15
2nd (15) (7/1 +13%) Croupier
7
7/1(+13%)
(15) Croupier 7/1, Improved to win at Windsor in September and back on the up when signing off with further success at Chelmsford on final outing last season. Seemed to get bogged down in the Lincoln bur he tanked along when regaining the winning thread at York last month. 3 lb rise very fair. Suited by good or quicker; useful record when getting his conditions at 7f and 1m; claims.
21
3rd (21) (16/1 +0%) Northern Express
16
16/1(+0%)
(21) Northern Express 16/1, Consistent sort who confirmed the encouragement of his reappearance when landing a 15-runner event at Thirsk, always doing enough. Cracking third at York since and he's a most likeable type, but doesn't appear to have anything in hand of his current mark. Good 4th over C&D last July; step forward over 1m of late; likely needs more back at 7f.
24
4th (24) (25/1 -39%) Spangled Mac
25
25/1(-39%)
(24) Spangled Mac 25/1, Most progressive in handicaps last year, completing 4-timer at Yarmouth in July. Continued the good work since upon being reassessed, better than the result when last seen at Meydan in February. Off since but represents a successful mark. Tongue tie off. Five wins at up to 7f in 2022; this race is more competitive than he's used to.
27
5th (27) (28/1 +44%) Spanish Star
28
28/1(+44%)
(27) Spanish Star 28/1, Caught the eye on return at Newbury and confirmed promise of that run when adding to his tally at Goodwood (6f) in May. Hammered home fact he's in the form of his life for latest success over 7f at Epsom and he's a credit to connections. Better than ever when Epsom winner latest (7f); defeats here have come in lesser races.
8
6th (8) (40/1 +0%) Bopedro
40
40/1(+0%)
(8) Bopedro 40/1, Irish Cambridgeshire winner in 2021 who struck in 1m Newmarket handicap in April. Stuck to his task when second at York a month ago and this stiffer track will play to his strengths. Suited by big-field handicaps at 7f and 1m; improvement needed on overall handicap form.
20
7th (20) (50/1 +0%) Percy's Lad
50
50/1(+0%)
(20) Percy's Lad 50/1, Bounced back to form with a career best when scoring at Chester in August. Solid fourth at York on final outing last year and positives to glean from both outings at former track last month. Three wins for this yard in 2022 but looks too high in the weights for a race like this.
13
8th (13) (80/1 -142%) Silent Film
80
80/1(-142%)
(13) Silent Film 80/1, Completed a hat-trick in winter of 2022 but suffered a heavy defeat in this race a year ago and patchy form since. That said, he was probably a shade unlucky not to win when last seen in Meydan in February. Since left Godolphin. Strong C&D form in September; unknown quantity for new yard after recent £120,000 sale.
14
9th (14) (6.5/1 +35%) Biggles
6.5
6.5/1(+35%)
(14) Biggles 6.5/1, Most progressive last year, winning 5 times on different ground over 7f. Holding form extremely well, sticking to his task when best of the rest behind Rebel Territory over C&D latest and he's a must for the shortlist from the same mark. Role model in 7f handicaps; good 2nd over C&D in May; Ryan Moore up for first time.
4
10th (4) (9/1 +50%) Vafortino
9
9/1(+50%)
(4) Vafortino 9/1, Victoria Cup winner over C&D in May 2022 and added to tally at Goodwood (1m) in September. Continued the good work with a trio of placed efforts this term (including trying to win here again last month) but rider no longer able to claim. Won big C&D handicap last May; mid-division in this after; needs more than latest 3rd.
25
11th (25) (50/1 +38%) Tylos
50
50/1(+38%)
(25) Tylos 50/1, Career best when ploughing through the mud to win easily at Leicester (7f, heavy) in April but that was a 4-runner race and he was readily brushed aside in the Victoria Cup. Wide-margin 7f winner in April (heavy); well held over C&D since; high in the weights now.
1
12th (1) (40/1 +39%) Gorak
40
40/1(+39%)
(1) Gorak 40/1, Kept busy for this yard and suddenly thriving, landing a 9-runner handicap at Haydock in May and he excelled himself when fourth of 6 in Group 3 back company back there 12 days ago. Inflated mark to deal with as a result. Wrecked handicap mark with close 4th in Group 3 latest; now 22lb higher than May win.
22
13th (22) (50/1 +50%) Great Max
50
50/1(+50%)
(22) Great Max 50/1, Useful performer for Michael O'Callaghan last year. Positive start for new stable when 5¼ lengths fourth of 10 to Jimi Hendrix in Spring Cup at Newbury (1m) but recoiled from that in a big way at Newmarket since. Drops back in trip. Third in 7f Chesham at this meeting as 2yo; mixed since, including for new yard in 2023.
11
14th (11) (33/1 -106%) Spirit Of Light
33
33/1(-106%)
(11) Spirit Of Light 33/1, It's now 19 starts since his last win in 2021 but he arrives in good nick, short of room briefly but keeping on nicely for fourth over 6f at York last month. Versatile regarding trip and same mark here. Down the field in both C&D handicaps; useful effort over 7f in April; not dismissed.
6
15th (6) (7/1 +36%) Montassib
7
7/1(+36%)
(6) Montassib 7/1, Low-mileage 5-y-o who was progressive last year (fifth in this race from 5 lb lower) and better than ever when justifying strong support at Newmarket a month ago. Up 4 lb but he's in expert hands and his limit may not have been reached. Beaten favourite when creditable 5th here in 2022; good Newmarket win in May; can improve.
18
16th (18) (18/1 -29%) Lir Speciale
18
18/1(-29%)
(18) Lir Speciale 18/1, Progressive 3-y-o who picked up where he left off when a ready winner of 6-runner handicap at Kempton in May. Up 7 lb in a better race but ceiling not yet reached and he's in top hands. Progressive 4yo; dual turf winner at 6f; won in good style on AW in May (7f); on the rise.
23
17th (23) (40/1 -43%) Ropey Guest
40
40/1(-43%)
(23) Ropey Guest 40/1, Regular in this race and down in grade, he outclassed the opposition in 9-runner handicap at Goodwood last month. Hit with a 7lb rise, which may well anchor him. Recent winner who often distinguishes himself in top 7f handicaps, 2nd in this last year.
16
18th (16) (50/1 +0%) Toimy Son
50
50/1(+0%)
(16) Toimy Son 50/1, Listed winner over 7f in France for Yann Barberot last spring but hasn't shown enough in his 3 outings for current yard this spring to suggest he'll play a prominent role here. That said, blinkers fitted for the first time and Oisin Murphy takes over so there's some cause for optimism. Won 7f Listed in France last May; has not yet come up to scratch in Britain; headgear on.
19
19th (19) (25/1 -39%) Baradar
25
25/1(-39%)
(19) Baradar 25/1, Back to form with a bang for new yard when winning 7f Doncaster handicap (heavy) last November. Travelled well long way when third of 22 in Lincoln there on reappearance and he was a pretty big eye-catcher in the Victoria Cup over C&D (tongue tied), forced to switch. Very interesting. Best on soft and heavy; winning debut for yard (7f); down the field over C&D in May.
7
20th (7) (18/1 -29%) Totally Charming
18
18/1(-29%)
(7) Totally Charming 18/1, One of the most progressive handicappers around last season and shaped well enough to think he may have even more to offer in 2023 when seventh of 27 in Irish Lincoln on reappearance. Strong in the betting and wasn't ideally placed in the Victoria Cup over C&D last month. Did not do himself justice in 2 big handicaps here but talented and has nice prize in him.
26
21st (26) (22/1 +67%) The Gatekeeper
22
22/1(+67%)
(26) The Gatekeeper 22/1, Missed 2022 but this prominent racer has made up for lost time this spring, winning at Newcastle and at Newmarket. Shade disappointing at latter venue last time and no easy task dominating this field. Missed 2022; two 7f wins this year but latest 6th leaves him with something to prove.
10
22nd (10) (40/1 -43%) Warrior Brave
40
40/1(-43%)
(10) Warrior Brave 40/1, Cashed in on a falling mark in 14-runner contest at Listowel and better than even when following up at Fairyhouse 6 days later (both 6f). Tactically versatile but this may not be the race to try 7f for the first time. Back to form at about 6f in Ireland this month; much bigger question here in first 7f run.
28
23rd (28) (14/1 -27%) Rhoscolyn
14
14/1(-27%)
(28) Rhoscolyn 14/1, Smart handicapper at best who is on a lengthy losing run but his mark has eased and better for return when tenth in last month's Victoria Cup over C&D. Bit disappointing at Epsom 3 weeks ago but that steadily-run race was against him and this environment much more suitable. Below best in 2023; obvious weights chance off 10lb lower than when 3rd in this last year.
5
24th (5) (16/1 -33%) Kingdom Come
16
16/1(-33%)
(5) Kingdom Come 16/1, Highly progressive 4-y-o who completed a 7f Kempton AW hat-trick in impressive style in April. Seemed to find 1m testing his stamina at Newbury last month but that run augurs well for his prospects on turf returned to 7f. Big player. Highly progressive at 7f on AW; not at his best upped to 1m latest; interesting contender.
9
25th (9) (33/1 +18%) Accidental Agent
33
33/1(+18%)
(9) Accidental Agent 33/1, Queen Anne winner in his prime and his second to Vafortino in last year's Victoria Cup shows he's still capable of really smart handicap performances. Shaped quite well on reappearance but brushed aside here last month. Fine record here and a very good 2nd off 8lb higher in big C&D handicap last May.
17
26th (17) (8/1 -14%) Unforgotten
8
8/1(-14%)
(17) Unforgotten 8/1, Low-mileage 5-y-o who landed back-to-back 1m Lingfield handicaps in February. Seemed unsuited by the track on his turf debut at Newmarket but confirmed he's as effective on grass when third at Newbury a month ago. Sparingly raced; progressive AW form; creditable 3rd in second turf run (1m); more to come.
29
27th (29) (66/1 +34%) Redarna
66
66/1(+34%)
(29) Redarna 66/1, Thirteen-time winner who hit the frame 4 times in a row during the middle of last season. Won on last season's reappearance from 2 lb lower but some training performance to land a handicap of this nature from 8 months off. C&D winner; made a winning return last April but this reappearance could hardly be tougher.
12
28th (12) (66/1 -32%) Documenting
66
66/1(-32%)
(12) Documenting 66/1, Dual winner last term who is in the veteran stage of his career but nothing wrong with both comeback runs this spring. 1 lb above last successful mark but probably vulnerable to anything with scope. Still capable of useful 7f form over C&D; drying ground a help; could go well at a price.
3
29th (3) (33/1 -18%) Rhythm Master
33
33/1(-18%)
(3) Rhythm Master 33/1, Gelded and better than ever in a re-fitted visor when making all at Newcastle a year ago. Sound return to action when second at Kempton in March and this classy sort was fourth in the Jersey on his previous C&D outing. Fourth in the Jersey here in 2021; had few chances in handicaps; needs new skills today.
LTO Selection:
18:10 Ascot Handicap (Class 2) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Many will fancy their chances in what looks a typically wide-open renewal, so only a tentative vote can go to BARADAR. George Boughey's gelding was arguably an unfortunate third in the Lincoln having been positioned on the wrong side of the track, and was luckless once again over this C&D in the Victoria Cup last month after being slowly away and short of room at a crucial stage. Biggles, who finished in front of the selection in second that day, has to be considered from an unchanged mark, along with the progressive Croupier. Second in this off 3lb lower last year, the loveable Ropey Guest could outrun his lengthy odds and makes each-way appeal. Montassib and Vafortino must also enter the reckoning, while Rhoscolyn finds himself on a workable mark judged on last season's exploits and should not be underestimated either.
Any number to consider, with BARADAR topping the shortlist having shaped with a lot of promise in a brace of good-quality handicaps this term, latterly in the Victoria Cup when forced to switch. Biggles was an excellent second in that aforementioned race over C&D and he seems sure to give it a good go, with low-mileage 4-y-o Kingdom Come capable of a bigger performance and highly respected also.
This can go to MONTASSIB who didn't have this race go his way last June but can now add to his recent Newmarket win.
Racecard Key
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How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
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Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
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