Frankel; Fast or Furious?

Today's 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket sees another in a long line of hotpots putting their reputation on the line. There can be no doubting Frankel's credentials but following an interesting article in the Guardian this week, one might be tempted to question his temperament. Gallop watchers described him as a ball of fire and there must be a possibility of him boiling over and not performing.

The market however, appears to suffer no doubts about his chance, but many similar types have previously succumbed to the pressure. Under the care of the legendary and masterful Henry Cecil, I think he will prevail but not without a struggle. He is up against three Group 1 winners of which, Pathfork looks best suited to the conditions and it is Mrs Harrington's charge who may provide him with the sternest test. From a betting perspective, I have already backed Pathfork, but at this stage, Saamid (if forgiving him his Dewhurst flop) looks the best value.

Otherwise on a good card, one of last season's friends, Astrophysical Jet returns and looking forward to following her throughout the season. Finally, perhaps the most informative race of the day will be the Ganay at Longchamp where Cape Blanco, Sarafina and Planteur do battle.

enjoy....

Dewhurst Decider

The Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket today looks likely to be the best race of the flat season with 3 potential superstars taking each other on. Frankel so far has looked outstanding but has yet to meet a horse of any calibre. Nevertheless, he looked frighteningly good when coming round the bend at Ascot to bolt clear in the Royal Lodge. The manner of Dream Ahead's victory in the Middle Park was almost freakish but the conditions may have accentuated the winning distance. Despite already winning two group 1s, he will go off second favourite with doubts about ground and distance bringing out the best in him. The third protagonist, Saamid is coming into the race slightly under the radar, due to the hype over Frankel. Godolphin obviously rate him highly following a promising performance at Doncaster and he is the one who may be most comfortable over 7 furlongs. Hopefully, we will have a cracking contest and the beginning of stellar careers. While a bet is not really necessary, it will be difficult to desist if Saamid drifts to 7s or bigger.

The remainder of Champions Day is equally intriguing with a high class and competitive card. However, with winners looking hard to find, particularly at this stage of the season, I am opting for a relaxing afternoon with a sporting yankee and a speculative wager on Alwaary in the Champion Stakes

Yankee: Saamid, Vision D'Etat, Deauville Flyer + Rumoush.

good luck and enjoy....