After the joys of Royal Ascot, we some sort of normality once again on ITV today with seven races on the main network mixing up Newcastle, Newmarket and York.
Let’s get straight to it, and the 13:50 at Newcastle is a handicap over 6f. I’ll risk a few quid each-way on Staxton, who was fourth in this event last year off a 5lb higher mark. He’s been generally out of form this season for Tim Easterby, but this is the chance to bounce back.
Next up at Newcastle is the 14:25, the Group 3 Chipchase over 6f. Invincible Army was poor at Royal Ascot, but on an easier surface, he really should take all the beating here for James Tate. This field should suit him down to the ground.
The first of two big betting heats is at 15:00 at Newcastle with the Northumberland Plate Vase over an extended 2m. It’s easy to get loose on the front end here and I have a feeling Michael’s Mount has every chance of making all under Kerrin McEvoy for the excellent Ian Williams. He has a 5lb penalty for scoring at Pontefract last time but still has a great each-way shout.
And finally, the main Northumberland Place event is at 15:35 over the same distance. Who Dares Wins is a tough sort for Alan King and ran a fine race when second in the Chester Cup.
He goes on the all-weather and will be staying on strongly in the closing stages for Tom Marquand, who this week banged in winner at 100/1 and 50/1.
Over at Newmarket, ITV show the 14:05, the Listed Empress Stakes over 6f. Summer Romance is unbeaten in one start and looked very good when scoring at Yarmouth first time. I was there that day and she impressed for Charlie Appleby.
ITV also has the 15:15 from Newmarket, the Group 3 Criterion over 7f. Limato has to give weight away, but there is no doubt he is the class act here for Henry Candy and Harry Bentley. Not getting any younger at the age of seven, but strong claims all the same after a fourth at York behind Invincible Army.
Last but not least, ITV show the one race from York at 14:45, a handicap over 6f. This looks impossible, but I will have a few quid each-way on Lake Volta.
He was eighth in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot for Mark Johnston, which suggests he is still in good form. An each-way shout for sure.
So best of luck and pray for Yeeehaaas. You hear me, Paddy?
Tips summary:
Newcastle 13:50: Staxton – 8/1
Newcastle 14:25: Invincible Army – 13/8
Newcastle 15:00: Michael’s Mount – 8/1
Newcastle 15:35: Who Dares Wins – 12/1
Newmarket 14:05: Summer Romance – 6/4
Newmarket 15:15: Limato – 15/8
York 14:45: Lake Volta – 9/1
* Prices correct at time of publishing