This course will suit ALAMSHAR much better than Leopardstown did last time when he was only 4th to High Chapparal. Sadly he is to be retired after this race and John Oxx will be keen to send hin on his way to Japan as a winner. He would appear to have most to fear from Nayef and Russian Rhythm with Indian Haven overpriced at 33/1. However, I am more than hopeful that ALAMSHAR will win.
At 1.40 the Jockey Club Cup appears to be between Millenary and Persian Punch. If Millenary gets the go ahead to race I believe he will have too much speed for the old boy.
If TRADE FAIR runs in the 2.10 then look no further for the winner. He has won 3 out of 4 races this year and 7F appears to be his optimum distance.
The Dewhurst at 3.25 is very interesting indeed. There are many potential improvers in the race and many of the ante post fancies for next year’s 2’000 gns. THREE VALLEYS has the best public form and bids to achieve the rarely achieved double of Middle Park and Dewhurst victories. There are others with chances including A. O’Brien’s selected, recent Sandown winner Duke of Venice and Marcus Tregonnig’s Snow Ridge. I hope to see THREE VALLEYS lead them home.
The big betting race of the day is the Tote Cesarewitch over the marathon trip of 2M2F. Do not underestimate the effect of the draw on this race as in recent year’s it has been essential to be drawn high. There are plenty with chances and Martin Pipe loves to win this race so his charges are always worth a second look. Hurdlers have a good recent record and Landing Light looks to have a major chance. I also like TEES COMPONENTS and although his fitness has to be taken on trust I do not believe that Mary Reveley would run him if he were not 100% fine. Shabarnak, Numitas, who will be bidding along with 2 or 3 others, to give trainer Sir Mark Prescott a £100,000 bonus, and Ten Carat will also have their followers but I will be having a bit each way on TEES COMPONENTS.
Selections
ALAMSHAR (NAP) 4.00
TRADE FAIR (NB) 2.10
MILLENARY (if abs Persian Punch) 1.40
THREE VALLEYS 3.25
TEES COMPONENTS (each way) 2.50
THE SHEIK