A maiden race for colts & fillies over 6f on good to firm ground.
Two debutantes are fancied to run big races.
O'Gorman has been steadily backed on the exchanges over night and likely to go off favourite. Kevin Ryan's two-year-olds have been in great form throughout the season and this son of Sleeping Indian was a breeze-up purchase costing 63,000euros. A half-brother to Temple Meads, and recent Gimcrack (Group2) entry, the betting tells a story that a big run is on the cards.
Bartolomeu (HCE Dark Horse) is another juvenile to be well supported for this maiden. This home bred has fair breeding and a Phoenix (Group1) and recent Stakes entry indicate that this bay colt has ability. Marco Botti has done quite well with his juveniles this term and the betting is generally a good gauge to their respective chances. However, it is worth noting that although he can train winning debutantes, his strike rate is relatively poor but place statistics are encouraging. There is a good likelihood this son of Footstepsinthesands will win in his two-year-old campaign. However, I would rather take a watching brief simply because Bartomoleu could well go close but may struggle to win.
Of those to have raced, Keep Swinging shouldn't be ignored. Tom Tate is lucky have Mrs Fitri Hay as one of his patrons. She certainly doesn't hold back when buying juveniles and their price tags usually catch the eye. This colt by Oasis Dream cost 250,000euros. A fine-looking juvenile, his debut at Redcar is best forgotten as he pulled very hard for at least three furlongs, if not more. That was a strong maiden with the winner clearly on route to pattern class. Keep Swinging was relatively fancied in the betting and it is encouraging that Tate has noted he likes this juvenile. A recent Gimcrack (Group 2) entry suggests that connections are hopeful of better to come. This drop back in distance should help with the pulling issue and although far from proving any ability on debut this youngster may go well at speculative odds.
The Blue Banana was second string for Brian Meehan at Newmarket on debut. In truth, he didn't show a great deal of ability but may progress with racing. Meehan's juveniles should be respected on their second start and it is worth noting this gelding has recently been entered to run at Stakes level. The betting is the best guide to this youngster and if priced 13/2 & less, he has strong win and place claims.
HCE: ''A nice win from Al Khan for Peter Chapple-Hyam. A professional display from a good-looking colt. The Blue Banana ran better than his odds and should pick up a race soon. Commanche had been outclassed on earlier runs and may hold down the form to some extent. The betting suggested O'Gorman would go well but a tardy start put pay to his chances. He and Bartolomeu are worth noting for the future.''
