Lockinge Stakes 2012

Looking forward to seeing Frankel return to the track today in the Lockinge at Newbury. Racing's superstar had a satisfactory racetrack gallop on Guineas Day and is fully expected to maintain his unbeaten record. However a few shrewd observers are questioning his chance. Perhaps taking into consideration his recent injury scare or the fact that his seasonal bow on this track last season was less than inspirational. However I doubt his formidable connections would be taking any risks and expect him to overcome his old rival, Excelebration now domiciled at Ballydoyle. Of more interest is what route he will take throughout the summer?

Got to see plenty of York this week and two worthy Epsom candidates emerged. The Fugue impressive in the Muisidora now heads the Oaks market but she will have her work cut out to beat whoever represents Aidan O'Brien. Bonfire did enough to justify his place in the Derby but can't see him thwarting Camelot at this stage.

Nothing stands out for a bet this afternoon so watching brief will continue ....

good luck..

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...

Lockinge '10

Today's feature is the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury. Paco Boy, based on his Sandown run, looks hard to oppose, but recalling his flop in this last season, he looks poor value at 10/11. Zacinto certainly has the potential to win (second to Rip Van Winkle in the QE11) but at the prices would like to suggest Lord Shanakill as a value bet (14/1). A group 1 winner last season, he is now with a top trainer (Henry Cecil), whose horses are currently running very well. It is also worthwhile keeping an eye on the 3yo handicap (London Cup) as this is usually very informative. The top three in the market all look to have considerable potential with Right Step, possibly a better price on the day.

The quick ground during the week at York resulted in lots of exciting racing with Rainbow Peak and Showcasing entering the notebook. I am not sure if the Dante brought any clarity into the Derby picture. The winner looks capable but definitely the stable's second string if Murtagh and O'Brien's comments are to be taken at face value, while Workforce looks as he if will come on a lot, but maybe not in time.

cheers......

Lockinge 09

Paco Boy is very hard to oppose in today's Group 1 mile at Newbury (oddly the track's only Group 1 race). Rated well ahead of the remainder, he should improve from recent Sandown run. A slight negative would be more rain. Virtual and Dream Eater should like soft going but they have to overturn a previous beating and weight concession although the latter looks as he might run into a place.

There are interesting races on the supporting card and at Newmarket but none elicit any strong opinions. However will keep a watching brief on the following: Tropical Strait, Legislate, Main Aim, Clowance House and Sevenna.

Ballydoyle's 1-2 in the Dante was notable and obviously strengthens their hand and gives us plenty to think about for the next 3 weeks! It also worth noting an interesting debutant at Naas, Steinbeck who should turn up at Ascot in June.

Enjoy.....