Saturday, August 6, 2011

Sunday Best

Despite interesting cards today at Newmarket and Haydock, the weekend's best action takes place tomorrow at Deauville and the Curragh. Two scintillating Group 1s dominate the picture. First up is the Maurice de Gheest where July Cup winner, Dream Ahead is challenged by Golden Jubilee winner, Society Rock, Sprint stalwarts Genki, Markab, Marchand D'Or and the very interesting back in trip, Zoffany. Value looks likely in a hot field but very hard to oppose Dream Ahead and expect him to land the spoils (impressive last time and course winner-Prix Morny).

The first Group 1 of the season for two year olds, the Phoenix Stakes is run at the Curragh. Power, from  Ballydoyle should improve for his win at Royal Ascot, but in an equally competitive contest, it is difficult to ignore the chances of English challengers, Frederick Engels, Lilbourne Lad and Gatepost, with Jim Bolger's Parish Hall worth a close look if the rain desists. There is also an intriguing two year fillies race on the card, where Maybe (another impressive Ascot victor) takes on a progressive field including Remember Alexander, who should give us a clue to Parish Hall's credentials. Value options abound but expect favourites to prevail (Dream Ahead, Power, Maybe).

Saturday's action pales somewhat, but the Sweet Solera is always informative. Godolphin's Discourse looks the likely winner, but Sir Mark Prescott usually does not waste his time at this level and Kinetica may prove to be a better bet. Meanwhile at Haydock, it appears Hot Prospect (won this day last year) has his ideal conditions in the Rose of Lancaster stakes.

good luck....

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