Colonel to lead Cavalry Charge?

28 sprinters dashing down the hill at Goodwood is one of flat racing's most spectacular sights. The Stewards Cup is perhaps the best of the sprint handicaps, requiring a good horse to win despite it's somewhat lottery feel. Whilst there does not appear to be an evident draw bias, I am going to opt for one from either side. Colonel Mak demonstrated his ability for big field sprints at Ayr last season and returned to form last time at Hamilton. Trained by the very capable David Barron, he has not been penalised for that and one can envisage him arriving late under a typical Jamie Spencer ride. An interesting contender from the other side is Dafeef, who recorded a very smart piece of form last season. He is now with William Haggas, and although he may be a bit high in the weights, one can expect a decent effort, if handling the going. Victoire de Lyphar also merits mentioning. Highly capable with top connections, he was disappointing in the Wokingham. As then, late market moves should be informative.

The consolation race at 2.05 looks equally competitive. Novellen Lad, if handling track must have solid claims but a speculative punt on Noverre To Go entices (currently on offer at 25s).

A pity that Misty For Me was scratched from the Nassau Stakes, but very interested to see how Snow Fairy goes and if she has recovered from last season's exertions. Her run in the Eclipse should have brought her on and I expect her to beat two time winner Midday.

good luck....

Sweet on Snow Fairy in Yorkshire Oaks

Perhaps the single most visually impressive performance of the season so far was that of Snow Fairy demolishing the field in the Irish Oaks. Prior to that race, I had my doubts but subsequently vowed to keep on the right side. Today at York, she takes on two very able 4 year old fillies in the Yorkshire Oaks, but with her age allowance, scope for improvement, and finishing thrust, she must have every chance. Sariska ran well again at Epsom behind Fame and Glory but she looked a tad uncomfortable on quickish going in this race last year, while Midday (good winner of Nassau) always appears vulnerable to a good closer. Hibayeeb and Meeznah also merit consideration but in hot race, Snow Fairy is the selection, especially with 3/1 available.

The younger fillies run earlier in an interesting Lowther. Very hard to oppose Maqaasid in this, following her win at Royal Ascot, but at prohibitive odds she is best watched.

Finally another filly to watch out for is John Oxx's Zarebiya in the Galtres. This is a race which the stable repeatedly targets and while this year's entrant is very inexperienced and poor value, she is worthwhile monitoring. Furthermore there is a rather curious jockey booking as I cannot recall Jamie Spencer riding in these colours previously!!

good luck...