A fillies' median auction over 5f 10y on good ground.
Not the strongest race.
Amis Reunis may just about set the form standard. This daughter of Bahamian Bounty was relatively fancied on debut at Lingfield over 6f but found herself in a very competitive race. With inexperience and limitations somewhat exposed, it was a creditable effort to finish 5th. Dropping back to 5f at Windsor - 11/4f - she was readily outpointed by Red Art, who has since gone on to win a conditions race. Hannon's juvenile may not come against such opposition today in a weak race. However, there may be one or two who give her something to think about. Ryan Moore was originally booked to ride all of the Hannon juveniles so you have to consider this is the pick of the stable's two-year-old here.
Royal Red (HCE Dark Horse) will not get a better opportunity of winning. This filly by Holy Roman Emperor is an attractive, fluent mover, who in many ways simply hasn't had much luck. Beckett commented that he liked this juvenile and although fancied on debut running on the outside and inexperience probably counted against her. It was notable that Crowley took the ride second start, before going to an evening meeting. Once again, well backed, this bay filly touched favouritism at points and was shorter price than Meloneras, who had beaten her some way on debut. That was a sign that a big run was expected. But it didn't happen. The reason - probably - because there seemed to be a track bias at Warwick, which favoured horses running down the centre of the course. Royal Red didn't have much luck in running as it was and then running down the far rail put pay to any chances of winning. She still managed to beat Dream Whisperer by a number of lengths and that was a fair effort. This would be a great bet if touching an an each way price.
Of the rest, Poker Hospital may have a chance but would needs to be priced 13/2 & less. This 20,000gns purchase was quite well backed on debut but looked very awkward throughout - holding her head high - and would need an excuse for such an indifferent performance. The betting is the best guide to George Baker's representative.
Conclusion: A short and sweet review of today's race, which most probably regards two horses - Amis Reunis & Royal Red. The former has a level of ability and will be primed for today. The latter, would be a cracking each way bet if prices allow. Beckett's filly has had no luck so far and I would expect a big run today. Poker Hospital may be the surprise candidate if backed to 13/2 & less.
HCE: ''It was a battle to the line and Amis Reunis prevailed under a good ride from Ryan Moore with a never say die attitude. Royal Red done nothing wrong and looked to have stolen the race everywhere but the line.''
