An EBF Maiden Stakes for colts and fillies over 6f on soft ground.
Glen Moss made a promising start to his career at Acot. In a field of debutantes, this son of Moss Vale ran a storming race but couldn't quite handle the sustained effort of Sir Michael Stoute's Zumbi. Barry Hills two-year-olds have been in good form and this bay colt has a number of fancy Group entries suggesting that brighter lights are beckoning. There was much to like about that introduction and by all accounts he should take some beating. However, it is worth noting that, as yet, the form has not been tested and reason why winning a race of this nature - in soft ground - shouldn't be taken for granted.
Gusto probably deserves to have the prefix ''Great'' in acknowledgement of his fine, battling display on debut at Salisbury chasing a fair sort in Gerfalcon. Brian Meehan's winner is held in some regard and it was encouraging to see the first four pull many lengths away from the field. Quite expensive at 120,000euros, this son of Oasis Dream looks straightforward and has win and place claims.
Pea Shooter has had a rather stop-start season with only two runs in April. Clearly there must have been an injury along the way. He ran very well on debut at Doncaster, when outpointed by the talented Lilbourne Lad. Ryan sent him to Dundalk for his next start when finishing third. Connections has always held this juvenile in some regard and at one time he had an engagement for the Gimcrack (Group 2). After such a lengthy spell on the sidelines it will be interesting to see if this son of Piccolo is sharp enough to do himself justice on testing conditions. The betting is probably the best guide.
Magic Destiny ran well on debut and is likely to improve for that initial performance. Although one of only three fillies in the field, Burke's stable should always be respected on their second start and could run a big race.
Conclusion: Glen Moss will be all the rage and Hills' strike rate at the course is second to none. On testing conditions, and one or two fair sorts in opposition I wouldn't be tempted at short odds but respect his chances. Gusto ran well at Salisbury and has a battling attitude. He has fair win and place claims. Pea Shooter could be a tough nut to crack but has something to prove after a lengthy absence. Magic Destiny could go well at a price.
HCE: ''A comprehensive win for (''Great'') Gusto, who franked the form of Gerfalcon et al at Salisbury. Highclere will be happy with the progress of this colt who may have claims at a higher level. Glen Moss set a fair pace - seemingly going well - but couldn't compete with the eventual winner. Magic Destiny was being niggled some way from home but plugged on well under a considerate ride. ''