An EBF median auction over 6f on good to soft ground.
A sizable field of colts and fillies, the majority debutantes.
Red Aggressor didn't show much ability on debut at Newmarket but sets a fair level of form after finishing second at Leicester next time at odds of 40/1. The winner of that contest - Arnold Lane - went close in the Brian Yeardly and a few others have franked the form but without winning. This son of Red Clubs steps up to 6f for the first time. He showed decent pace on that second start and wasn't stopping at the line, so it is wise to consider the trainer knows best. Brittain has been quiet this term with his juveniles and this is by far the best seen as yet. There is always a worry that after such a poor debut and then being priced at huge odds that he may have been flattered. However, this is an attractive colt and potentially a progressive juvenile who should go well today.
Jane Chapple-Hyam is a capable trainer and Cockney Rocker shaped well in a competitive race over 6f at York. To finish behind the likes of Brocklebank and Apostle was a fine introduction and Michael Hills gave him a considerate ride, giving the impression there was improvement to come. Jamie Spencer has a good strike rate when riding for the stable although it is interesting to note that Hills was originally booked but probably takes the mount on Cashmere Or Caviar because he is riding for his father. A half-brother to Sand Vixen, this youngster looks to have sound place claims.
As noted above, it is worth keeping an eye on Cashmere Or Caviar because it could well be the case that Hills had the option of both rides and money for this son of Tagula would bring further hope. The stable have done very well at Windsor, especially with their debutantes this season, and although, in general, they do not feature the best strike rate with juveniles making their race course bows, they have a decent string of two year olds and for that reason money would be a positive.
Of the others, Rebellious Guest is an interesting runner. Margarson doesn't feature the best win rate on debut but has introduced some nice two year olds at Windsor over the past few years and being backed is an indicator that something is expected. It is worth noting that this 54,000gns purchase has recently been entered to run in a stakes race. If Margarson has a decent prospect it is usually owned by John Guest and one to be respected, especially if continued to be backed throughout the day.
The debutantes are best judged by the betting although many of the juveniles from more high profile trainers are likely to need the run.
Conclusion: With the ground changing to good to soft it will be interesting to see whether a high or low draw is a positive. Cockney Rocker and Red Aggressor set the form standard and at this grade it will take a fair debut effort to lower their colours. Both have sound win and place claims. Rebellious Guest is worthy of note especially if heavily backed although it is never easy to win on debut.
HCE: ''Nice to see George Margarson with thoughts of Royal Ascot and the Coventry in mind after the success of Rebellious Guest taking this first race at Windsor in style. Margarson said they had been waiting for the better ground but would be taking the above engagement whatever the ground conditions. Good luck to connections. Red Aggressor was misbehaving in the paddock and unseated Robinson on the way to the start. He looks on the verge of being temperamental. Brittain's youngster took time to get into his running but finishes with some purpose and has enough ability to win a race. A few of the debutantes faired well.''
