We go to Haydock this afternoon for their two feature races. The going is Good to Soft. The ground has been drying this morning in the light north-westerly breeze.
2.30 1m2½f Rose Of Lancaster Stakes (Group 3) (Class 1) (3yo+)
Numbers 4 and 9 are both out leaving 11 to post.
A competitive Group 3, in which there’s little to choose between half of the field on the best of their form.
Laraaib is the progressive performer. He takes a step up in class, having impressed when winning a handicap on latest start. His action suggests that today’s easier ground conditions shouldn’t be an issue.
Autocratic sets this seasons form standard on his performance when winning the Group 3 Brigadier Gerard at Sandown in May.
Laraaib is my marginal preference.
Difficult race to price, I would want at least 4/1 about Laraaib to get me involved.
3.35 1m Dick Hern Stakes (Listed Race) (Fillies & Mares) (Class 1) (3yo+)
Sea Of Grace takes a drop in class and sets a high standard.
Although not completely straightforward, a reproduction of either of her last two runs in Group 1 company will make her very difficult to beat.
I put Sea Of Grace in as my even money favourite and go 5/1 bar.
Our final special membership of the year is for the York Ebor meeting. By applying this weekend you will get bonus membership starting next Friday and then right through to Bank Holiday Monday 28th August. That works out at 11 days membership for just £20. More details at: http://www.slh.co.uk/special-membership/
