Splitting the Hannon Duo

After a busy week, today's action appears rather limited excepting the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury. This definitely looks to be between Richard Hannon's star milers Canford Cliffs and Dick Turpin. The latter has the benefit of a run but it is very hard to oppose Canford following his spectacular trio of successes last season and one looks forward to seeing him up against Frankel later in the summer. Elsewhere on the card Dominant should go well, while in the sprint handicap, Novellen Lad is worth a look on good to firm with Kieron Fallon on board. Across the shires at Newmarket, it's worth noting that Johnny Murtagh travels over for one ride, Regal Park in the Eddie Stobart Stakes (2.50).

The Classic circus moves to Longchamp on Sunday. One personal golden rule (often broken alas) is to avoid having a bet here as the draw and track conformation regularly lead to hard luck stories. However, I will be rooting for Wootton Bassett in the 2,000 to give Richard Fahey a well earned win at this level and give Maqaasid a sporting chance in the fillies version.

good luck...

Super Sprint

Despite the obvious difficulties picking the winner, 25 precocious 2 year olds flying down the Newbury straight always makes the Super Sprint a thrilling and exciting race. The season's leading trainer and traditionally the master of 2yo sales races, Richard Hannon runs six in attempt to land this for the eight time in 17 runnings. He is joined in the mob handed department by two hot trainers in Ricahrd Fahey and Kevin Ryan, making matters harder to assess than normal. The stats direct one to a filly off a low weight with a draw on the flank - Dress Up fits that bill and I will include her in shortlist of 3 with Ballista (impressive first time out) and Jaahiz who I was impressed with last Saturday (Kieron Fallon on board at his minimum weight and off course comes from the Hannon yard).

The Irish Oaks at the Curragh on Sunday looks equally competitive with the leading protagonists from Epsom re opposing. It is notable that Rosanara is making the trip from France. Her level of form appears markedly superior to the others and she could be value on the day, particularly with any further rain.

good luck..and enjoy...