Richard Hannon is a master with his two-year-olds and especially so with horses owned by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing. This February foal was purchased as a yearling for 60,000gns. There seems to be money for Oriel on the exchanges, which is a positive. I often find the Hannon debutantes difficult to assess. However, a general, logical, rule is that the shorter the price the bigger the run. For all the latest news about Richard Hughes' rides take a look at his personal racing preview.
Prize looks to be second string for the stable. Hannon is a cunning trainer and they are not against inflating a horse's odds with this ploy. This daughter of Exceed And Excel was a costly foal at 135,000gns.
Just to add to the mix they also field Corncockle. Money talks with this stable and if the perceived second and third string are substantially backed they are worth noting.
Atlantic Affair is a big filly trained by Mark Johnston. She has tried to lead in her last two races but failed to stay and looks weak. I wouldn't back this horse who will be a better prospect in handicaps later in the season.
William Haggas started the two-year-old season with an impressive winner. The betting is the best guide to Lady In Blue, a daughter of Iffraaj's chances. If priced 13/2 & less this horse has fair win and place claims.
Simple Magic may need a greater test of stamina although the stable have fair win and place claims with horses priced 13/2 & less on debut. This stable do particularly well with debutantes starting 11/4 & less.
The betting is the best guide to Caletta Bay. Mick Channon has very few horse win priced over 8/1 when making their racecourse bow.
Red Lady hails from Brian Meehan's stable. He does well at this course and if fancied in the betting would bring greater confidence. However, the stable do not feature the best strike rate on debut and generally run well on their second start.
Conclusion: Oriel has been backed on the exchanges which could be significant, especially owned by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing. The shorter the price the bigger the run. However, this could be a blessing for those interested in Rizeena. This filly showed great promise on debut from a race that has been franked by numerous winners. If available at each way odds this must be a great bet. The betting is the best guide to the others. Unless they are priced 13/2 & less, I would take a watching brief.