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....

Nice One!!

Great to see Genki emerge through the mist to land the Stewards Cup at Goodwood on Saturday - nice way to end a frustrating week!! Hopefully he will go on to better things from here in the capable hands of Roger Charlton. Midday also enhanced her reputation in the Nassau although not sure if it was the dramatic pictures of her motoring downhill through the enveloping mist that made her look so impressive. The rest of Goodwood was less exciting aside from Rip Van Winkle's coming of age in the Sussex. Other noteworthy mentions go to Kingsgate Native, Zacinto, Monsieur Chevalier, Beyond Desire, Xtension and Mark Johnston.

cheers....

Stewards Cup

The Stewards Cup at Goodwood is one of racing's greatest spectacles. This year's renewal with a compressed handicap appears more competitive than usual. Despite the random nature of the race due to the downhill track, variable draw bias, and a large field, it is normally won by a horse with a touch of class and a bit in hand. To that end would suggest Genki as the most likely to fit the bill. Under the radar since a disappointing run in the Wokingham, his two recent performances suggest he is good form and ready for a big run. Pearly Wey ran well enough in the Wokingham and with a good record on the course is worth consideration as a saver.

The Group 1 Nassau Stakes is very tight with Sariska's rivals all seeking black type. Intrigued to see John Oxx accept the challenge bringing over Katiyra, who could be very interesting with a drop of rain. She has good form in the book and could go close if improving slightly. Currently 7s on Betfair but may drift to a nice price in a competitive field.

good luck...