An EBF Maiden Stakes (Div 1) over 7f.
Melvin The Grate was a costly yearling purchase at 200,000gns racing in the familiar silks of Mrs Fitri Hay. This son of Danehill Dancer wasn't overly fancied on debut at Folkestone but ran a pleasing race, staying on in the closing stages, but never likely to catch all the way winner Banovallum. Andrew Balding is a fantastic trainer of two-year-olds. He can prime them to win on debut but many of their representative improve for their first start and put that experience to good use. From a statistical point of view I would be very surprised if this bay colt wasn't placed. The odds are nothing special but if you are looking for a good, strong, confident bet that would be my selection.
6:55 Kempton
A Median Maiden Stakes over 1m. A number of leading trainers are featured in this sizeable field of colts and fillies. Only four juveniles have race experience in what is a restricted race type, which is likely to hold down a number of the debutantes. The betting will be a key factor for those from the more fashionable yards. I wouldn't entertain any priced over 13/2 SP. Kuantan One has been relatively fancied on both starts and an expensive yearling purchase at 150,000gns. It is a positive that this son of Strategic Prince started his career at York, which is a good sign for this stable. I fancied his chances at Lingfield, late October, and witnessed a rather frustrating performance. He was outpaced over two furlongs out but rallied in the closing stages for a renewed challenge to finish 4th. Time may tell that wasn't a bad race for the grade and this looks a similar level. A wide draw isn't ideal and it will be interesting to see what De Sousa has up his sleeve. Paul Cole has said this horse will be a better three-year-old and that brings slight concerns giving the impression he needs time to progress. The betting suggested a big run last time and connections must have been disappointed. If he sits handy this looks a fair chance but I would have slight reservations. Probably best to take a watching brief unless drifting to biggish odds.