Another Classic day on Sunday with the 1000 Guineas taking centre stage on ITV, with two bonus races thrown in from Hamilton for good measure.
Let’s get straight to it, and the 13:50 at Newmarket is a 1m4f handicap. I reckon there will be a good gallop here, and Koeman is likely to sit off it. He’s a very strong stayer who will enjoy it if they go.
Next up at Newmarket is a Group 2 at 14:55, the Dahlia Stakes over 1m1f. Veracious was disappointing when last seen, but the Coronation third should be good enough for this. It’s hard to believe 1000 Guineas winner Billesdon Brook is as good as her rating suggests.
There’s a 6f handicap at Newmarket at 14:55. Summerghand clashed with Flavius Titus last time and there wasn’t much between them. My hope was touched off that day, but might well be able to gain revenge now.
And finally at Newmarket the big one, the 1000 Guineas over 1m (15:35). Not an original choice, but favourite Qabala will take some stopping here. She’s unbeaten for Roger Varian and looked really good in the Nell Gwyn from off the pace.
There will probably be an even stronger gallop here which she will enjoy even more.
Meanwhile, over at Hamilton ITV show the 14:05, a conditions stakes over 5f. Deputise is the one to beat and is race-fit, but I’ll take a chance with Secret Venture, who might improve this season. He ran well at York and Ayr last term and should be coming home strongly.
Lastly, the 14:35 at Hamilton is a handicap over 1m5f. Not many in form horses here, and I’ll chance Jabbaar, who gets this trip well and has been dropped a couple of pounds by the handicapper. He has every chance for Iain Jardine.
So best of luck and pray for Yeeehaaas. You hear me Paddy?
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