Wednesday 17 June 2009

2:30 Ascot (18th June)

The Norolk Stakes Group 2 consisting entirely of colts.

Richard Hannon has been hitting the heights at Royal Ascot, especially with the impressive Canford Cliffs. Monsieur Chevalier has shown class in all his performances and there seems little reason why another great run will not be on the cards. This two-year-old always finishes his races and this is a strength in these high-class races.

Kevin Ryan hasn't had much luck with his juveniles this year - most have been very out of form. Here Now And Why is a lovely colt with a superb attitude. He hasn't really been tested on his last two wins and even on debut, against Archers Road, there was much to like about this juvenile. I can see Ryan's two-year-old running a consistent race but he needs to improve on what we have seen so far.

The way Wesley Ward has captured the imagination of Royal Ascot - as a hunting ground for USA - Yogaroo could display another sparkling performance. It is difficult to assess this juveniles form, but few would say he can't win.

More of a watching race that betting for me. Monsieur Chevalier has a chance to make it five wins from five. I will be cheering on Hannon's juvenile and Here Now And Why as Kevin Ryan deserves a change of luck.

A watching race.

Race review: 'An eventful race with Yogaroo hampering many horses as he tired in the final two furlongs. On reviewing this race it is clear that the leaders went much too fast and set this up for those waiting off the pace. Jamie Spencer gave Radiohead an excellent ride and would have won by a wide margin if he hadn't been badly hampered. Reignier ran a great race for Karl Burke and deserves credit as does Tawaabb. Monssieur Chevalier was hampered by Yogaroo, which clearly stopped Hannon's impressive colt from showing more here. I don't think he would have got close to Radiohead and along with many of those who led, went a shade to fast and was struggling to last home. This juvenile would have been much better suited by sitting off the pace.'