It's that time of year again with the Craven Meeting at Newmarket kicking off the flat season in earnest. The track looked resplendent in the welcome sunshine and we saw some decent racing. Coordinated Cut was the pick of the winners and looks like a suitable type for the Derby. Music Show added the Nell Gwyn to her victory in the Rockfel but it was Timepiece who looked the most likely filly on show to progress. Elusive Pimpernel impressed when winning the Craven and he looks to be the standard bearer for the 2,000 Guineas in 2 weeks.
The Greenham today at Newbury sees Arcano and Canford Cliffs re oppose in an intriguing contest. Aracano won last time at Deauville and looks a nice price (9/4) to prevail again although Canford Cliffs could be anything. The fillies line up in the Fred Darling and Lady of the Desert looks the one to beat. As neither race offers any punting opportunities, one is drawn to the Spring Cup. Generally a difficult race to call, it might be worth taking a look at Sir Michael Stoute's Desert Creek and likewise with his Harbinger in the Group 3.
With Flat racing in mind, it would be remiss not to mention the passing of a great old warrior of the turf this week, namely Greville Starkey. One of my most vivid and favourite memories is investing the meagre contents of my wallet (a princely £5.00) on Kalaglow at 13/2 and watching an inspired Greville drive him home in 1982 King George. Happy Days!!
Miles away from the flat, the NH season continues at Ayr, where the Scottish National presents the usual baffling puzzle. This time I am going to go with an old friend, Lothian Falcon, who if reproducing his best form, should make a decent stab at ending Scottish trainer's drought in this event. He is lightly raced over the past 2 years, but had a nice spin in a hurdle at Bangor recently and definitely has his ground today.
best of luck.....
No comments:
Post a Comment