A fillies maiden over 7f where a high draw can be an advantage.
A number of larger stables represented here and a good opportunity for Ghazwah to gain her first win.
John Gosden has had a rather indifferent year with his juveniles but this filly is going in the right direction and sets a fair level. Clearly appreciating the step up to 7f at Goodwood, and narrowing the distance between herself and Water Buscuit, she will appreciate this turning track and run a big race.
Damietta ran well on debut behind too promising juveniles. After getting a slow start Bin Suroor's filly made steady headway on the outside of the field but had nothing to offer when the leading two went clear. It may be the case that the leading pair are very talented juveniles (they are certainly good at least) and it is encouraging to see the fourth, Bonheurs Art, has run creditably since. On the balance of form, Damietta isn't without a chance but needs to improve for that debut.
Sir Michael Stoute fields a very interesting debutant in the shape of Giant's Play. A $850,000 purchase, well bred and entered for the Fillies' Mile (Group 1) are all signs of encouragement. The majority of her trainer's winners are priced 13/2 & less and there is little doubt this two-year-old will have her supporters. Never the easiest of trainers to assess with his debutantes, this will take a good performance to beat the likes of Ghazwah.
An interesting event. I would go with Ghazwah to take this.
A watching race. 'When a stable is in form you can do no better than follow them, and that is the case with Saeed Bin Suroor at present. Damietta clearly improved a good deal for her debut and won this in pleasing style. Giant's Play looks a filly with a bright future. Well backed and quickening in good style in the final furlong, she must be contesting pattern races before long. Ghazwah is an able sort but just found two better juveniles today. Very well backed and a decent-looking filly, she showed good speed but was outpointed at the finish. I don't think she would be any better at 6f. She is capable of winning a maiden without much trouble.'
