A maiden for colts and fillies over 5f at Sandown where a high draw can be an advantage.
Thamos Baines is probably better known for what he hasn't achieved in his racing so far. There is little doubt he didn't look the most ardent of juveniles at Yarmouth but few would be enthusiastic to chase the gifted Misheer. I note that Bell's two-year-old is now a gelding so that may be reason for his substantial lay off. I would rather watch than back this juvenile today although he could well be a reformed character.
Richard Hannon's juveniles have the knack of progressing with racing and Tarita was quite warm order on debut in a maiden over 6f at Newmarket. The betting will give a good guide to this ones chances and she shouldn't be discounted here.
Autocracy will probably be short in the betting for his debut. This colt by Green Desert has been given an entry for the Gimcrack, the Middle Park Stakes (Group 1) and a stakes race. Clearly Haggis fancies this juvenile to have ability. The negative is a low draw and the fact his trainer doesn't have the greatest win rate on debut although fair place averages. This juvenile could win if one of the stable's better types, however, he will need to be. I can see Autocracy being placed and showing his true colours second time out.
The Ed McMahon-Fretwell combination is always worth noting especially as they have a very good place rate on debut at any price. Final Answer is one for the short list.
Old Devil Moon was heavily-backed on debut but was withdrawn before the start due to trouble at the stalls. I can't remember what distance that was but get the feeling it was beyond this 5f. I mention this juvenile because there is a fair chance this could be gambled again.
Excellent Day has been given a Lowther entry which is a sign of interest. Channon's juveniles are very interesting when backed on their second start or relatively short in the betting. If this filly is fancied in the betting a big run could follow.
A bit of a mixed bag here with a few form horse and a potentially a good horse in Autocracy. I may be tempted to put a few quid on Old Devil Moon (on the exchanges) at big prices and hope a gamble follows. Not the easiest of races to assess.
A watching race.
Portman Boy (NR)
Race review: 'This was a two-horse race from some way out. Final Answer was well backed and ran out a tidy winner. This juvenile was clearly readied for a big run and fit and well. Always travelling with ease, this colt by Kyllachy never looked troubled and held Excellent Day, who looks a lovely filly with ability to win a race or two. These had the others at their mercy. Rockabilly Rebel held third position. Autocracy was fancied to run a big race but never seemed a lively chance from his low draw. There will be better to come from the Haggis two-year-old.'
