A maiden race for fillies over 5f2y.
Clive Brittain is reaping the rewards of an increased string from Saeed Manana with a number of talented two-year-olds - Elshabakiya fits that bill. This filly by Diktat comes from a strong Sandown race and was one of many fancied juveniles that day. On form she has the beating of Countess Ellen although Dascombe's youngster is likely to improve for that debut, running on quite well. Brittain's Elshabakiya will take the beating here but it would be a significant sign if Countess Ellen was fancied in the betting.
Peter Chapple-Hyam does well with his juveniles on debut (they feature better statistics on debut than on their second start which is unusual) and Crying Lightening, a relatively cheap purchase, has been backed on the exchanges. This bay filly will need to be good to challenge the likes of Brittain's favourite with experience onside.
Brendan Duke is an eternal optimist and he must have been thinking that his prayers had been answered when Catalinas Diamond cruised to an easy lead in a Bath auction only to throw her chances away when showing signs of inexperience and to some extent stopping in front. It is most likely the Bath race was pretty poor although you cannot knock the front two as they were well clear of the third. This filly by One Cool Cat travelled with ease that day and it wouldn't be beyond the realms she has a fair level of ability. From a more fashionable yard, this runner would be much shorter price. A nice prospect for the Duke stable.
Brian Meehan had his first two-year-old winner yesterday (well backed) and Star Today is worth noting for this event. Meehan won this race last year with the talented debutante Lady Of The Desert. Star Today, a 60,000gns foal and 80,000gns yearling, has to be respected although seems rather weak on the exchanges at present. Meehan often struggles to win on debut, with only the most talented bucking such a trend. The betting will indicate the chances of this one and if backed it would be a sign of encouragement.
Beyond these five, the rest would seem to have little chance.
Other races:
2:30 Redcar
4:45 Leicester
5:45 Yarmouth