Friday
I’m a forgiving soul and I want to give TUXEDO JUNCTION another chance today after a disappointing effort at Kempton last time out. I’m pretty sure the great Frankel might have even have disappointed at Kempton, it’s that sort of track. If you’re not up with the pace the race is over. Prior to his run there he looked a really progressive horse and a typical James Fanshawe type. His form stacks up well and I’m pretty sure he is better than his current mark.
Doncaster 4.38 – Tuxedo Junction
Saturday
Readers of the magazine will know how highly I rate SAINT PALAIS and I did fancy him for some big races over fences this year but connections have decided on a gap year and head for hurdles. These Albert Bartlett trials could be mopped up by this young, hardy horse if he takes to the discipline as he has all the credentials a good staying novice hurdler needs. On ratings he is clear and I think 4/1 is a very fair bet.
The flat is drawing to a close but there are one or two interesting horses running at Doncaster and Newbury respectively tomorrow. I’m very sweet on ISRAR who I’m sure is a Group horse in a handicap. His run at Royal Ascot was very good and the form couldn’t have worked out any better with the two horses who finished in front of him now rated 20lbs higher. I’m weary on the Fanshawe horse but I don’t think he is quite the finished article like Israr is. At 3/1 he looks a good punt.
Cheltenham 1.30 – Saint Palais
Doncaster 2.30 – Israr
