A restricted median auction over 6f.
Red Alpha & Rooknraspberryripple set the standard.
The former trained by Jeremy Noseda is a good-looking colt by Red Clubs. He cost 30,000gns as a yearling and slips nicely into this race which by its nature is likely to be much weaker than a conventional maiden. Being hampered on his race course bow made for a tough task and Moore must have resigned himself to making this an enjoyable introduction. To be fair, Red Alpha finished with some zeal and was making significant progress towards the line and was clearly crying out for this extra furlong. The Susan Roy silks have been associated with many talented juveniles and a big run can be expected in this grade. The only concern is that this colt may take his time to get into stride. This extra yardage will probably resolve that concern and experience should see a more professional performance. There is little doubt Red Alpha will be flying at the finish.
On proven form Rooknraspberryripple sets the standard. She has plenty of size and scope for a filly and will sit handy.In truth she has had little luck bumping into the likes of Norse Gold and Bubbly Ballerina. Both are talented juveniles. Her second at Kempton - beating a number of juveniles which have since run or been entered at plating class - illustrates her limitations. If there is a weakness in this contest, she is likely to take advantage. In fact, for much of this race she will hold every chance and certainly has place claims and a fighting chance of the win. However, I just get the feeling there will be someone to beat her.
Of the debutantes, Redact, Eastern Sun & Fire Ship and worthy of consideration.
The betting is probably the best guide to Redact. Drawn well in stall one, not the most expensive at 25,000euros - but fair for this grade. Owners Kennet Valley Thoroughbreds are a great syndicate and their juveniles often go well and should be respected. A difficult horse to assess but one for the short list, especially if backed.
The betting is the best guide for Eastern Sun. Gosden has the potential to win any race and can go well on debut. If priced 13/2 & less his runners feature good win and place statistics. However, in what must be classed as a weak race by his standards it would be a negative if a marked drifter near the off.
Fire Ship is an outsider with a chance. Peter Winkworth is a capable trainer and it is interesting to see one of his making their debut on the all-weather. Already a gelding and a high draw are not the best start but the stable can win on debut and worthy of note.
Conclusion: Red Alpha is likely to take all the beating but needs to improve on his debut performance. Noseda's two year old will appreciate this 6f and will be much more professional, which speaks well. Rooknraspberryripple is a big filly who will not look out of place against the colts. She has enough ability to win at auction level and will travel well and battle hard. She has good place claims and may win if the major fancies falter. I just can't help but think one of these will be too good. The betting will be the best guide to the chances of Redact (who is the most likely of the debutantes) and Eastern Sun.
HCE: ''A changeable race - to say the least. Rooknraspberryripple and Red Alpha were battling for the lead but making it look hard work as Illustrious Lad (66/1) tried to spoil the plot. Then, from nowhere, arrived Redact, finishing with more vigour than an a favourite in a Dick Francis novel, to win with ease. After a tardy start - many lengths adrift - this didn't look his day but he fairly swooped past his rivals in the final furlong. Not sure what price this Kennet Valley Thoroughbred went to in running (had a power cut at the time) but it must have been huge. Eventful race.''
