Monday 30 April 2012

The Short List




Barracuda Boy [Tom Dascombe]

A good-looking colt by Bahamian Bounty who cost £68,000 as a yearling. This powerful juvenile was a beaten favourite on debut at Doncaster but lost his chance by showing his inexperience. A recent Stakes race entry may indicate this February foal is held in some regard and he will improve considerably for his first run. 

La Sylphe [David Barron]

Just an ordinary-looking filly but a cheap purchase which means she can take advantage of limited auction races. She is a speedy type and much too fresh on debut, fading in the closing stages. Barron's juveniles often improve for racing and I can see her taking some catching on better ground.

Lady Phill [Bill Turner]

Bill Turner has been in cracking form with his two-year-olds and he likes this full-sister to The Lord. She blew her chance with a ponderous start at Brighton and will be much wiser next start.


Beyond The Frame by Edward Whitaker



Modern Lady [Richard Guest]

Sometimes it pays to take a closer look at those two-year-olds who finish last! Modern Lady was quite well supported on debut and this filly has size and strength. She will improve with racing. Guest's juvenile was fire-up after becoming unsettled in the stalls and simply ran out of energy after showing good pace. The stable isn't known for debutante winners and she is likely to strip fitter next time. It is encouraging that this daughter of Bertolini has been entered for a Stakes race and I can see her running a big race at speculative odds.

Dust Whirl [Richard Hannon]  

This colt ran in an EBF Maiden at Newbury which often feature a good, few talents. Originally earmarked for the Brocklesby, he is a compact, straightforward and speedy juvenile. He tired in the closing stages simply due to the soft ground conditions and will be a tough horse to beat next start. I think this is a decent two-year-old, who may have Royal Ascot on the agenda.

Hats Off [John Best]

One of the best-looking two-year-olds I have seen this season. This strapping colt was pretty fancied on debut at Kempton, a race which the form has been franked a number of times. He will improve for that initial start and probably better suited to the grass rather than a turning track.