Glorious Goodwood

Glorious Goodwood starts today but still puzzled by events at Ascot on Saturday. Have liked Harbinger since the season started but could not foresee him improving that much to put in such a high level performance (not the only person either as he was available at 5s just prior to the off -in fact Youmzain strangely seemed to be better supported) and it was also difficult to see Workforce running so poorly. Perhaps logical explanations will surface in time but despite his ostensibly brilliant performance, I would not be supporting him at short odds for the Arc (particularly on softish going). It's worth noting that second place Cape Blanco did not stay and was under pressure a long way out.

Of all the summer festivals, Goodwood (we won't mention Galway) is possibly the most difficult to find winners but nevertheless, it always manages to engage. Today's fare looks as competitive as ever and while I will be rooting for Dandino, best bet could be Lord Shanakill in the Betfair Cup. Henry Cecil found him a nice confidence booster last time and 7 furlongs may well prove to be his forte.

good luck...

The King George 2010

Undoubtedly the highlight of summer racing, The King George takes place at Ascot today. This year's small but select field should give us an exciting renewal with solid pacemaker, Confront, making it a good test. Top of the list is Derby winner, Workforce. Although he may not have beaten a great field at Epsom, his win in record time by 7 lengths on only his third outing, suggests great potential and being under excellent tutelage, he should improve greatly. Very hard to oppose and at mooted odds of even money, he looks a great bet.

However it is a Group 1 and Sir Michael runs another progressive horse in Harbinger. His win in the Hardwicke gives him claims, but feel second place awaits. Of the others, old friend Youmzain will take advantage of any slip ups but has been thwarted too often at this level to warrant support. Daryakana travels from France, but she may only be seeking black type, which leaves us with Irish Derby victor, Cape Blanco, who actually beat Workforce (impeded by loose bit) in a speedy Dante. After that race doubts were voiced concerning his ability to prosper over 12 furlongs, which were not satisfactorily quelled by beating another non stayer (Jan Vermeer) at the Curragh. All in all, Workforce looks the winner and if he does trade at even money near the off, great value will be had.

The main supporting race is the International Stakes. Picked out Decent Fella early on in the week and now rather perplexed to see him currently the tissue favourite. Nevertheless one to keep an eye on. On a busy day, also interested in Mass Rally (Ascot 3.15) and Novellen Lad (at York).

On another note, slipped out of the office on Friday afternoon and into local bookies to have a look at a horse from my notebook, Field Day (won a back end maiden last year). She duly obliged in good style landing a decent race and is definitely worth following. However somethings never change, as I neglected to take 11/2 available at the off, only to see her returned at 9/2!!!

good luck and enjoy........