Tuesday 16 June 2009

5:30 Ascot (16th June)

The Windsor Castle Listed race over 5f.

The normal cavalry charge here and there will be no hiding place. Never an easy race to find winners but it is very important to have something at the finish as most of these juveniles will be be struggling with a furlong to go.

I think Star Rover is most likely of these to run a consistent race although it will be no easy task. He has plenty of speed and a dogged determination which is a trait needed here. It is difficult o know whether the draw will be a plus or minus. A tentative choice.

Angel's Pursuit is a lovely-looking type and won well on debut. Hannon knows what it takes to win at the higher level and this juvenile is an interesting runner. The big question is whether he is this class, and at relatively short odds I wouldn't be tempted myself.

Mister Manannan could be very good, after an effortless victory at Pontefract.

Of the rest The Hermitage and Little Scotland are both capable of better.

The kind of race where you need a speculative bet to give you some hope.

A watching race.

Race review: 'A difficult race to assess and the American-trained Strike The Tiger crossed the pond to take a second win from the battling Fratellino. Wesley Ward deserves much credit for bringing his juveniles to Royal Ascot and will certainly be a novelty when going back home. An excellent run. Fratellino ran a race and a half here. Blazing a trail and then plugging on to chase the leader once more. McCabe's little horse has the attitude of a lion and this was a striking performance. Di Stefano was struggling to go the pace for most but powered home and would have won in a few more strides. Little Scotland, Hearts Of Fire and Star Rover ran well.'