EPSOM DERBY MEETING - SATURDAY 5th JUNE 2021

The Derby Festival (now sponsored by Cazoo) enters it's second day this Saturday with the 242nd running of the historic blue ribbon event The Derby. Delayed until July last year due to the pandemic it's great to see the races return to their traditional date in the calendar and also for there to be a limited attendance too. Not the 100k+ that we'd usually see descend upon the downs but it's a step forward. 

Today is the colt's turn and who will take the title from last years runaway winner Serpentine trained by Aiden O'Brien (right), and ridden by Emmet McNamara, who may well line up in Friday's Coronation Cup (wasn't declared sadly). There is a strong supporting card on both days, today will also see the renewal of the Group 3 Diomed Stakes [3:10pm] as well as the 5f Epsom Dash handicap while the feature race itself is due off at 4:30pm, live coverage will be on ITV channel in Uk. Epsom's five furlongs course, which is downhill until the last 100 yards, is reputed to be the fastest of its kind in the world, the current world record for five furlongs, 53.69 seconds, was set by Stone of Folca in this race in 2012.

Going / Weather
Going - Good to soft (Updated Saturday morning from Good)
Weather for Saturday is for another dry day and a maximum temperature of 22C. 

Here are our selections for today's card, our feature race is off at 4:30pm. 

14:00  Cazoo Handicap (3yo)
1m 2f 17y  [Class 2  8 runners]
Mark Johnston runs three here which clouds things a little though looks like King Frankel would be the pick of his, several of these step up in grade and PATIENTS DREAM was a winner here last time out and conditions will help again. An outsider of interest to me is ZHANG FEI and David Egan is riding well of late might be able to squeak a place at 20/1.
Winner - (9) Solent Gateway @28/1 [Hayley Turner].

14:35  Princess Elizabeth Stakes (Group 3)
1m 113y  [Class 1  8 runners]
First of the supporting group races, for fillies and mares, where we will side with the pair of MAAMORA (S&E Crisford) along with STATEMENT (M Meade). Maamora has already won a similar event last year at Sandown and has been racing in Dubai with some credit in group two company. While Statement stepped forward after winning her maiden to be runner up in the Fred Darling stakes at Newbury and a repeat of that level should see her get involved again.
Winner - (3) Parent's Prayer @4/1 [Oisin Murphy].

15:10  Cazoo Diomed Stakes (Group 3)
1m 113y  [Class 1  7 runners]
The next group three race could see a double for the Crisford yard with CENTURY DREAM back in class after competing in the group one Lockinge stakes at Newbury. Having won the Celebration Mile at Goodwood (group two) it was therefore no surprise to see him try the highest level. Sir Michael Stoute runs MAXIMAL [Non Runner] and it's around this time before Royal Ascot that the yard begins to thrive. Chased home a decent winner at Chester last time, this long straight should give him plenty of time to make a positive move.
Winner - (6) Oh This Is Us @18/1 [Tom Marquand].

15:45  'Dash' Handicap (Heritage Handicap)
5f  [Class 2  16 runners]
The huge field for the fastest 5f sprint in the country, twenty declared and this is a minefield. top weights Stone of Destiny and Exalted Angel will find it hard to give weight and are both drawn high, ORNATE is one of a few that have a good record here and despite the advancing years should go well from a low draw (6). BLUE DE VEGA is another with good experience here and would be interesting to see what the market says about his chances from stall 3. 

Outsider - The 12yo DUKE OF FIRENZE still has races in him even at this late stage in his career reminds me a lot of Borderlescott and at the bottom of this handicap priced  up 33/1 could place if the gaps come, is always played rather late, but at the price is worth a small risk.
Winner - (17) Mokaatil @25/1 [David Egan].

16:30  Cazoo Derby (Group 1)
1m 4f 6y  [Class 1  11 runners]
And at last we get to the big race of the weekend, the 3yo colts have their one and only chance of glory in The Derby. Twelve declared, surprised that this year Aiden O'Brien only has the sole runner (usually has 5, 6+) but it's the favourite BOLSHOI BALLET winner of the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown, already very short in the ante post markets since that success and clearly the one to beat. His son Joseph has a runner too with SOUTHERN LIGHTS at 20/1 was only 6th in that race but was also just his 3rd run. Jim Bolger runs the Irish 2000 Guineas winner MAC SWINEY the question is whether he'll get the extra half mile around this unique track. 

The home challenge is led by Charlie Appleby who runs three in the Godolphin blue silks, ADAYAR [Adam Kirby] HURRICANE LANE [William Buick] ONE RULER [James Doyle] with Hurricane Lane perhaps the pick of the trio and the only unbeaten runner here. JOHN LEEPER has Frankie Dettori on board and is named after the trainers late father John Dunlop. Ed Dunlop's contender, bred as a son of Frankel out of the trainer's 2010 Oaks heroine Snow Fairy, named after his late father, himself a dual-Derby winning trainer with Shirley Heights in 1978 and Erhaab in 1994, would certainly be the most emotional story today if he is successful.
Winner - (1) Adayar @16/1 [Adam Kirby].

17:15  Northern Dancer Handicap
1m 4f 6y  [Class 2  10 runners]
A handicap over the Derby trip, AUSTRALIS should run better over this trip instead of recent efforts over two miles, has wins on the all weather during the winter season and if he can find some turf form on the fast going shouldn't be too far away. Going to have two against the field here so MIDNIGHTS LEGACY (WON 12/1) comes into our reckoning too Alan King's 4yo can show a similar form to his two wins over this trip at Haydock last summer, couple of recent runner up efforts makes him interesting again in a wide open race.
Winner - (5) Midnights Legacy @12/1 [William Buick].

17:50  Epsom Welcomes Cazoo Handicap
6f 3y  [Class 2  9 runners]
the finale is a decent six furlong sprint, a winner already at Kempton and Goodwood this season DESERT SAFARI looks a typical Mark Johnston improver were it'll be no surprise if he picks up another handicap or two along the way this term. Do also like EJTILAAB (WON 3/1) trained by Ian Williams ran well when runner up at Chester and steps back a furlong for this we'll pick that pair against the field.
Outsider - TINTO (A Perrett) sliding down the handicap and has a chance despite the long losing run, blinkers tried again and good chance of a place despite the no show in the Victoria handicap at Ascot last time (no chance with the draw).
Winner - (9) Ejtilaab @3/1 [David Egan].

Results from today's meeting will be update later throughout the afternoon. Have a great weekend. 

EPSOM OAKS MEETING - FRIDAY 4th JUNE 2021

The Derby Festival (now sponsored by Cazoo) includes Oaks Day, previously known as Ladies' Day, and Derby Day returning to Epsom Downs Racecourse on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th June. Delayed until July last year due to the pandemic it's good to not only see the races return to their traditional date in the calendar but also for there to be a limited attendance too. Not the 100k+ that we'd usually see descend upon the downs but it's a step forward. 

Friday is Oaks day for the fillies, a race won last year by the impressive LOVE (pictured left) trained by Aiden O'Brien, and ridden by Ryan Moore. There is a strong supporting card on both days, Friday will also see the renewal of the Group 1 Coronation Stakes [3:10pm] while the feature race itself is due off at 4:30pm, live coverage will be on ITV channel in Uk.

Going / Weather
Going report - Good [Good to firm in places].
Weather forecast for Friday, expecting some rain today but a high of 21C makes it a June to enjoy if you lucky enough to be there. 

14:00  Cazoo Woodcote Ebf Stakes
6f 3y  [Class 2  10 runners]
The meeting gets underway with a 2yo contest and a field of ten, while DUSKY PRINCE might not have won a huge event at Brighton on debut that track does display some of the downhill helter skelter nature that will be needed here at Epsom so certainly of interest under Hollie Doyle. 

OSCULA [WON @15/2] also victorious at Brighton and her trainer is having a good season so far with their 2yo's certainly should be able to handle the track so will make that our pair against the field.
Outsider - Maybury needs to settle better but plugged on at Yarmouth on debut, expected to come on for that and at 33/1 could reach a place - Yes 3rd @33/1!
Winner - (8) Oscula @15/2 [Mark Crehan].

14:35  Coral 'Beaten By A Length' Free Bet Handicap
1m 113y  [Class 2  10 runners]
Ten runners, older horses, and IRISH ADMIRAL having moved across the seas to join William Haggas still looks the one to follow. Was third recently at York and that was over a two furlong longer trip, the step back looks fine and ought to be in the finish. A lack of course experience for most here although CORAZON ESPINADO [WON @12/1] is a course and distance winner in the past, has been busy on the all weather tracks but has kept his form in general and capable around this mark so included. Mick Channon sent Storting up to win at Thirsk and although up 5lb for that should still be winning this term somewhere, but maybe a return to Yorkshire would do the trick having won at Pontefract too also unsure if the extra furlong will be suitable now on this tricky course.
Winner - (9) Corazon Espinado @12/1 [Hollie Doyle].

15:10  Coronation Cup (Group 1) (British Champions Series)
1m 4f 6y  [Class 1  7 runners]
A decent renewal of this group one although we don't see last year's Derby winner sadly, but we do have last years winner of this again AL AASY turns up and looks hard to beat having returned this season and picked up a pair of group three's at Newbury prior defending this. Japan and Mogul will not make life easy and Aiden O'Brien's runners here are always respected but I would be interested to see how the market takes to PYLEDRIVER [WON 8/1] a decent set of runs last year including a win at Royal Ascot and third in the St Leger the trip is no problem, though the only run was in last year's Derby finished 11th but the whole field disappointed that day.
Winner - (5) Pyledriver @8/1 [M Dwyer].

15:45  Cazoo Handicap
1m 2f 17y  [Class 2  11 runners]
Open handicap now headed by Sky Defender who continues to run consistently for Mark Johnston might place but finding things hard to win with off this mark. A winner here last time out Victory Chime beat the aforementioned runner but up another 4lb taking him into the 100s so a repeat might be unlikely. Johnston also runs DREAM WITH ME who is improving all the time winning three of his last four and ought to remain competitive again. Hms President won at Windsor last time beating Water's Edge in third this looks a lot tougher.
Winner - (4) Blue Cap @9/2f [Oisin Murphy].

16:30  Cazoo Oaks (Group 1)
1m 4f 6y  [Class 1  14 runners]
Friday's feature race and the fillies turn to shine, not sure there's anything of the calibre of last year's winner Love but Aiden O'Brien does send five runners in this fourteen runner line up. Of these the 1000 Guineas fourth SANTA BARBARA looks the most interesting one if capable of staying the extra trip having found the mile at Newmarket a bit too much, inexperienced but clearly is fancied by the connections the pick by Ryan Moore. Snowfall is probably the second choice of the yard and has Frankie Dettori on board.
Away from Aiden's runners Sherbert Lemon won the Oaks trial at Lingfield and this represents her first chance of a Classic while Zeyaadah ran a good race when runner up at Chester in the Cheshire Oaks although unsure if the ground conditions are ideal now that the sun has come out, her trainer Roger Varian also has Save a Forest and Teona in the field.
Winner - (10) Snowfall @11/2 [L Dettori].

17:10  Play Coral 'Racing-Super-Series' For Free Surrey Stakes (Listed)
7f 3y  [Class 1  4 runners]
The meeting concludes with a pair of 7f events, the Surrey Stakes first which is for three year olds, we'll side with RUN TO FREEDOM [N/R] (H Candy) was only lightly raced as a 2yo but managed a win at Kempton on final start so it's hard to judge their limits hence the price. Also MAMBA WAMBA (Adrian Nicholls) has had more runs, a decent third in the big 2yo race at Redcar and a winner at York, looked to keep improving and another to consider against the field.
Winner - (2) Mehmento @11/8f [Hollie Doyle].

17:40  Cazoo Derby Festival Handicap
7f 3y  [Class 2  12 runners]
Our finale is a decent handicap for older horses headed by Above who has his first turf outing for a while, we'll look at DULAS / PAWS FOR THOUGHT against the field in this fairly open affair. Dulas won a nice handicap at Goodwood and only up 2lb for that effort, while Paws for Thought a winner at Chester last time goes up 7lb for this though has shown improvement in the past and could still have a bit more while clearly in a good mood.
Winner - (11) Rhoscolyn @9/2 [James Doyle].

Results will appear here later in the afternoon while The Derby meeting should be available for tomorrow too. We've started well with a few nice winners in the opening races and a big priced advised place bet too, I hope you enjoy a great weekend.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING - 1000 GUINEAS MEETING SUNDAY 2nd MAY 2021

1000 Guineas Meeting - Sunday 2nd May 2021

The second 'Classic' of 2021 takes place this Sunday afternoon, where the fillies take the stage with the 1000 Guineas the feature event at 15:40. Live TV coverage of the meeting's feature events will be available in the Uk, and some supporting races from Hamilton and Salisbury too this Sunday afternoon. Santa Barbara trained by Aiden O'Brien is favourite for the 1000 Guineas on the strength of her victory last September at the Curragh. While Andrew Balding’s Cheveley Park winner Alcohol Free, who returned this season with a win in the Fred Darling, is the shortest-priced of the British-based runners.

SUNDAY 2ND MAY (1330 - 1600) ITV Races

Coverage of seven live races on television today;

NEWMARKET

13:50 The Back and Lay on Betfair Exchange Handicap Stakes

14:25 The Betfair Pretty Polly Stakes (Listed Race)

15:00 The Betfair Dahlia Stakes (Group 2)

15:40 The Qipco 1000 Guineas Stakes (Group 1) British Champions Series

HAMILTON

14:40 The Hampton by Hilton Hamilton Park Buttonhook Handicap

15:15 The EBF Tangerine trees Conditions Stakes

SALISBURY

14:05 The AJN Steelstock 'Delivering Steel Expertise' City Bowl Handicap Stakes

Last years 1000 Guineas winner was LOVE, for trainer Aiden O'Brien who then went on to win the Oaks at Epsom. No surprise that Aiden has the ante post favourite this season too.

Going and Weather forecast:

Newmarket officials confirm that the Going is currently - Good to Firm. Weather forecast for Sunday is not looking too good with plenty of rain showers expected and a max temperature of only 13C.

Newmarket 1000 Guineas Race-card. 
Today's Races and Selections;

13:15  Better Odds On Betfair Exchange Handicap (3yo)

1m 2f  [Class 3  6 runners]

Sunday's Classic card begins with a small field handicap for three year olds headed by Richard Hannon's River Alwen. Godolphin's Western Symphony looks the paper favourite for this but will be opposing with the pair of Francesco Guardi and Kehailaan against the field the latter may well improve from the switch to turf.

Result - (1) River Alwen @5/1 [J P Spencer].

13:50  Back And Lay On Betfair Exchange Handicap

1m 4f  [Class 2  6 runners]

Another small field handicap for older horses is next on our card, headed by Sky Defender one of two for Mark Johnston (also runs Zabeel Champion) while they are respected here I think I will take them on with the pair Grand Bazaar (John Gosden) and Rodrigo Diaz n/r (David Simcock). A fairly quiet start to the meeting with small fields today. 

Result - (2) Zabeel Champion @9/4 [B A Curtis].

14:25  Betfair Pretty Polly Stakes (Listed)

1m 2f  [Class 1  8 runners]

Just the eight fillies here but decent quality, A'Shaari won on her only start here last year, sure to have been well prepared and upped into Listed class immediately the one to beat. Alba Rose should win races this season for Mark Johnston though was struggling on soft/heavy going last year, this is more suitable and ought to stay the trip. Sea Karats (W Haggas) another to follow this season as an expensive purchase, better than the third position she filled at Newbury last time was only beaten a nose and head having been denied a clear run.

Result - (5) Mystery Angel @13/2 [B A Curtis].

15:00  Betfair Dahlia Stakes (Group 2)

1m 1f  [Class 1  8 runners]

A group two to consider prior to the 1000 Guineas itself, the older fillies and mares now, Fooraat will be one of those that I keep an eye on this season, with better ground and this trip sure to suit. Indie Angel will have a big run in here for John Gosden and Frankie, but might have to play second best to QUEEN POWER who has been racing in top quality events and her third at Royal Ascot last year gives her a big shout today.

Result - (4) Lady Bowthorpe @6/1 [K Shoemark].

15:40  Qipco 1000 Guineas Stakes (Fillies' Group 1)

1m  [Group 1  12 runners]

Today's feature has a field of twelve declared, Aiden O'Brien supplies the short priced favourite with Santa Barbara (yard also runs Mother Earth) but for a little bit of value will keep an interest with Newbury's Dubai Duty Free winner Alcohol Free (Andrew Balding) along with Newmarket Nell Gwyn victor Sacred (William Haggas) against the field despite some reservations about this trip. 

There have been some big price winners of this in recent years so Thunder Dream and Vadream will have some place interest for us too.

Result - (4) Mother Earth @10/1 [L Dettori].

16:15  Betfair British Ebf Maiden Stakes

5f  [Class 3  5 runners]

After the big event, we come back to earth with a small five runner maiden for 2yos, Berkshire Phoenix was fourth on his debut having been well supported and should improve for that run, Dig Two also had an easy introduction at Windsor and with War of Courage who only ran a few days ago at Ascot should also find races. To be honest the two newcomers My Dubawi and Secret Strength wouldn't have to be anything out of the ordinary to take this thus we take that pair against the field.

Result - (2) Dig Two @17/2 [James Doyle].

16:50  Betfair Weighed In Podcast Handicap

1m 4f  [Class 3  4 runners]

A four runner handicap hopefully will not end up becoming a crawl; Echo Point (C Appleby) a Kempton debut winner in February who progressed again when finishing runner-up on handicap debut at this track, should appreciate this further step forward but it's ANNANDALE (Non Runner) (Mark Johnston) for me already progressed well in three runs as a 2-y-o and didn't need to improve from his Doncaster reappearance second when going one better at Nottingham the yard is in great form and looks the one to beat here. 

Parachute (Ed Walker) unable to justify favouritism on handicap debut when third at Redcar on return expecting better to come upped in trip. Our quartet are completed by Defined (John Gosden) who finally got off the mark at the sixth attempt at Kempton in February.

Result - (3) Parachute @3/1 [Tom Marquand].

17:20  Betfair Racing Only Bettor Podcast Handicap

7f  [Class 4  9 runners]

Ending with another handicap, all three year olds, Inveigle runs for HM The Queen and improved to get off the mark in good style in 7f novice at Chelmsford in October. Subsequently gelded and could have more to offer in handicaps this year. Also interest for Sayifyouwill (Amanda Perrett) seems consistent and improved to land a first win back at 7f at Lingfield last week, should continue to be competitive. 

An outsider too for the place bet would bring in Mere Green (20/1) has experience, in good hands as far as trainer and jockey are concerned, drops back in trip and against her own age group might out run her odds (Non Runner).

Result - (2) Tawleed @4/1 [Jim Crowley].

Results to be posted here during the course of Sunday, and we'll have another blog ready to publish on Monday for our regular twilight meetings at Kempton Park this Wednesday.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING - 2000 GUINEAS MEETING SATURDAY 1st MAY 2021

2000 Guineas Meeting - Saturday 1st May 2021
After last season's deferred meetings at least we are able to return to some sort of normal calendar with the opening 'Classics' for 2021 this weekend. Starting Saturday with the 2000 Guineas won last year by Kameko for trainer Andrew Balding creating history by recoding the fastest time over the 'Rowley Mile'. There are other feature events on the eight race card too, including the Palace House Stakes over 5f and the Jockey Club Stakes over 12f prior to the feature event. ITV racing will be covering the action over the weekend live as always.

Who will follow last year's 2000 Guineas Winner 'Kameko' (left) into the record books and win the first of this years' Classics. This years ante post favourite appears to be One Ruler trained by Charlie Appleby and will run in the famous blue silks for Godolphin. Looks a lot more open than some of the recent renewals and no doubt plenty of dangers especially from the Aiden O'Brien yard who accounts for 12 of the 72 entries left in the Qipco 2,000 Guineas at the five day declarations stage, these are headed by Dewhurst Stakes first and second St Mark’s Basilica (not declared) and Wembley, looks like the latter stands his ground now and is joined by Van Gogh and Battleground. His son Joseph O'Brien also has a strong hand including Thunder Moon, winner of the National Stakes at the Curragh he also finished third in the Dewhurst. 

Going and Weather forecast:

Newmarket officials confirm that the going is currently - Good to Firm. The weather outlook for the weekend is for it to become much cooler than recent weeks, a significant chance of showers and a top temperature of 13C.

Click on this link for today's Newmarket 2000 Guineas Race-card. 
Today's Races and Selections;

13:15  Read Ryan Moore On Betting Betfair Handicap (3yo)
6f  [Class 2  4 runners]
Opening race for 2000 Guineas day is a decent sprint handicap for 3yo horses though only five have been declared led by CREATIVE FORCE the Godolphin runner trained by Charlie Appleby won here on debut was then bumped up to Royal Ascot's Coventry Stakes and then returned this year to win another handicap back over this course. Should prove popular in the better and the one they have to beat. 

Opposition includes Uncle Jumbo [Non Runner] who doesn't look like a ready winner here but will surely find a handicap later in the season, Perotto could be the main danger having raced well as a 2yo, including a third in a big field 'sales' race over this course / distance, while Bickerstaffe is respected though might return to the northern tracks for further success and If You Dare represents Mark Johnston but has been racing on the all weather and this appears to be quite a leap up for his first run on turf.

Result - (1) Creative Force @4/5f [W Buick].

13:50  'My Oddsboost' On Betfair Suffolk Stakes
1m 1f  [Class 2  10 runners]
Could well go to the boys in blue here who run both Bright Melody, a lightly raced 4yo who was successful at Meydan and also Dubai Legacy who has also run some big races over there during the winter and if seeing out this slightly longer trip could be there once more. 

Big prices available for ex Andre Fabre GRAPHITE (50/1) didn't land a blow in the Lincoln handicap and this is a bit easier, showed plenty of good form in France the year before and if retaining some ability should out run his odds.

Result - (2) Bell Rock @13/2 [William Carver].

Far Above - 2020 Palace House Winner.

14:25  Betfair Palace House Stakes
5f  [Group 3  9 runners]
The next supporting race a Group 2 for the fillies and mares is headed by Lazuli another Godolphin runner (C Appleby) won a Group 3 at Newbury and was placed in a decent race in Dubai over the winter, has to carry a penalty but respected. Came From The Dark had Garrus a neck back in second when they last run and it should be close between the pair once more. 

I'm going to side with one of the older horses though, JUDICIAL runs in the famous Elite Racing Club colours, won twice last year and has been placed in this event too with a rating around 108 continues to defy his age and the experience will aid him today.

Result - (1) Lazuli @3/1f [W Buick].

15:00  Betfair Exchange Jockey Club Stakes
1m 4f  [Group 2  5 runners]
The next Group contest for middle distance horses, with the big race not far away, sadly also has a small field of five declared with Al Zaraqaan heading them and has been progressing well with all weather wins this might be another step up but certainly not out of things. 

Pablo Escobar has been off for eight months and might need this, so we thing PYLEDRIVER is the one to follow having had success at Royal Ascot and York was then third in the St Leger is rated min 7lb higher that the nearest runner here. Sir Ron Priestly returned from a lay off to win at Nottingham but Thunderous is the interesting one now back up to his preferred trip and has Ryan Moore on board.

Result - (4) Sir Ron Priestly @15/8jf [F Norton].

15:40  Qipco 2000 Guineas Stakes
1m  [Group 1  15 runners]
Finally we are ready for the first classic of the 2021 season, of the fifteen runners Aiden O'Brien has three in the same ownership, WEMBLEY seems his main pick with Ryan Moore riding but would not discount Van Gogh nor Battlement for the trainer that has already won ten times. As previously mentioned his son Joseph has a live contender with Thunder Moon and I'm sure he'll be looking to get one over on his father with this his first 2000 Guineas runner. 

Godolphin are also represented by three here, ONE RULER beat Van Gogh when they met here last October, that was on soft ground though, and might be different here today though support for Craven Stakes winner MASTER OF THE SEAS would be interesting as pick of the three by William Buick, their other contender is Naval Crown who at 50/1 might be the pace maker but a Group class horse in his own right. 

Elsewhere some big prices available LUCKY VEGA (25/1) is an each way shot for us a winner of a Group One last year and runner up last time the question is the trip but if he stays the mile has speed to make his presence felt? THIRD!

Result - (12) Poetic Flare @16/1 [K J Manning].

16:15  Betfair Exchange Handicap
6f  [Class 2  7 runners]
Very little between the seven declared runners here but will be interested to see how 4yo RAAEB continues to progress having easily won last time out and the owners colours should be having a busy day here while I also like the looks of COUNT OTTO who was keeping busy winning on the all weather over the winter and the six year old returned to turf to take a course win here beating Chil Chil last time who also reappears today but will take that pair against the field today.

Result - (2) Chil Chil @11/4jf [S De Sousa].

16:50  Betfair Newmarket Stakes (Listed) (3yo)
1m 2f  [Class 1  4 runners]
Slightly disappointing end to the card with just a four runner listed event where Secret Protector looks the one most likely to win here for Godolphin but at the short odds expected for Charlie Appleby's inmate I will chance the Sir Michael Stoute runner INIGO JONES against them with improvement surely expected after recent all weather runs. Mohaafeth (William Haggas) and Percy's Lad (Eve Johnson Houghton) make up the quartet.

Result - (2) Mohaafeth @2/1 [Jim Crowley].

17:25  Betfair Weighed-In Podcast Handicap (3yo)

1m  [Class 2  6 runners]
A small field handicap to end the card with today, six three year olds set forth, all nicely bred and could find plenty of winners here for the future, I prefer the form of ZWELELA has improved on her 2yo efforts winning twice this season already gets a little weight allowance too and the Richard Hannon yard are in good form (they also run Longlai). The main danger will probably be from the Godolphin team who could well have a profitable day and Magical Land should end his run of seconditis soon enough.

Result - (5) Crossford @7/2 [R L Moore].

Results should appear here later and please come back for tomorrow's card which of course includes the Qipco 1,000 Guineas.

EPSOM DERBY / OAKS MEETING 2020 - SATURDAY 4th JULY

The Epsom Derby, which normally attracts more than 100,000 racegoers, is being held without spectators this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Postponed from its original date on 6 June, this year's Derby fixture will also stage the fillies classic The Oaks. 

The Derby market is headed by 5-2 favourite English King (pictured) for whom Frankie Dettori has now been booked to ride, he carries the same colours as Champion Stayer and Ascot Gold Cup winner Stradivarius, the next one in the market is the 9-2 chance Kameko. It's been reported this week that Military March, third favourite for the Derby at Epsom on 4th July, will now miss the race. Saeed bin Suroor, who trains the horse for the Godolphin team, said he had suffered a setback. "We will give him plenty of time and hopefully he will be back racing later in the season".

The Oaks betting is dominated by Love (Aiden O'Brien) the 6/4f and winner of this years 1000 Guineas will be extremely hard to beat again along with Frankly Darling (right, winning at Royal Ascot) trained by John Gosden this 11/4 2nd fav is stepping up in class from her Royal Ascot victory but at least proved that she'll see this trip out easily. We shall also update the rest of the card with selections and comment, the meeting is of course without the usual massive crowd, but will be featured on ITV throughout the afternoon for live terrestrial coverage in Uk.
Going and Weather
The going at Epsom is presently reported as Good (7.6)
The weather has deteriorated as you might have noticed, regular showers throughout the week and further chances of rain on Saturday morning. This afternoon's racecard and selections including the big races will be updated here, The Oaks will be the first of the two Classics today off at 3:40pm, while The Derby is later on the card at 4:55pm.

1:50  The Investec Woodcote Stakes (2yo)
6f  [Class 2  5 runners]
A race won last year by Pinatubo so will be interested to see who comes out of this renewal, our small and select field of five runners has a Godolphin representatives with MODERN NEWS looking to get back into the winning ways after a disappointing run when 5th in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot. While support for Mark Johnston's MUTAZAWWED who steps into this grade after couple of all weather runs should be noted seriously. The un-raced CALCUTTA CUP gets 5lb from the field but would have to be decent to win first time up here, with a field of five this could turn into a tactical race and a sprint finish on this cambered track needs a little experience.  [Winner - 4.  Twaasol 9/4 jf]

2:25  The Investec Surrey Stakes [Listed]
7f  [Class 1  6 runners]
Another small field but a good opportunity for SHINE SO BRIGHT to secure a nice prize, sired by a Derby winner hopefully will be fine on the track for the King Power Racing team. DARIK has been a successful servant on the all weather tracks till now, this is very different, also VALE OF KENT has yet to show his class this year but was 4th in the Hunt Cup at Royal Ascot and then outclassed in a Group 3 race last week so this field should be more his sphere. [Winner - 4  Safe Voyage 6/5f]

3:00  The Investec Handicap Stakes
1m 2f  [Class 2  16 runners]
This looks a big field handicap but in reality it should be comfortable for DESERT ICON [Non Runner] following his 8L+ win last Sunday at Newmarket, assuming that he doesn't meet any traffic problems should scoot clear in the last furlong again and despite top weight does look well in here with only a 6lb rise for that emphatic win (take 3/1 now, should go shorter). The pair of Sky Defender [Won 22/1] and Certain Lad can chase him home at decent odds too so could play them to place. late news - sadly Desert Icon is now a non runner so it's far more open. [Winner - 5  Sky Defender 22/1] a nice success for us. 

3:40  The Investec Oaks [Group 1]
1m 4f  [Class 1  8 runners]
Two Classic's being run today, the ladies line up first where we've already been backing FRANKLY DARLING even before their latest win at the Royal meeting, with Dettori booked is sure to be popular too and I wouldn't be surprised if she goes off favourite at race time. Current favourite is LOVE the 1000 Guineas winner for Aiden O'Brien who as usual is mob handed here with three runners in a field of only eight, and hopefully all eight will stand so we can have a little place wager with QUEEN DAENERYS at 33/1 and while not the class of the front two in the market it is possible she'll stay the trip well and sneak a place late on. [Winner - 5 Love 11/10f]

4:15  The Princess Elizabeth Stakes [Group 3]
1m 113yds  [Class 1  6 runners]
Time for a Group Three race before the next main event today, small field again only the six appear all three year old fillies, still a shame to see Hayley Turner sidelined by injury and replaced by Ryan Moore on ONASSIS given her big win at Ascot. This looks a big leap for LOVE AND THUNDER but you ignore any Gosden/Dettori runner here at your peril, while FOORAAT has only had two all weather wins to show so far but seems likely to go off favourite for this and has some high profile entries too. [Winner - 6 Summer Romance 9/1] 

4:55  The Investec Derby [Group 1]
1m 4f  [Class 1  16 runners]
The famous Epsom Derby, running about a month later than usual, but still a fascinating contest with a large field of sixteen but with no less than six Aiden O'Brien so there shouldn't be any hype if he's successful given the way they swamp the entries and declarations. Hopefully it'll be a third Derby for Frankie Dettori on board ENGLISH KING in the same colours as the Ascot Gold Cup winner Stradivarius. We've classic form here with 2000 Guineas winner KAMEKO stepping up in trip, shouldn't be far away if staying the extra four furlongs, and then we are into the O'Brien horses with MOGUL the choice of Ryan Moore and he has been well supported this week. Interesting outsiders with a nice back story too, I'd want to see how PYLEDRIVER goes here with Derby winning jockey Martin Dwyer (Sir Percy, 2006).
[Winner - 6 Serpentine 25/1] Shock winner led them all way and they never got close enough, one of Aiden's many entries but not the one that everyone expected, big prices take the places too, maybe not going to be seen as a high quality renewal of the Derby. 

5:35  The Investec Zebra Handicap
7f  [Class 3  15 runners]
Our finale on Derby day is competitive enough but had I have been attending the meeting I think I'd have left before now and made the walk down the hill ... anyway for the purpose of a complete card this would be a race to take the two course and distance winners against the field, CORAZON ESPINADO won this last year and beat our other selection HATEYA by a short head perhaps there will be a reverse here this afternoon. A big price selection for each way players is DIRTY RASCAL with the in form Tom Marquand in the saddle, has won on this one at Goodwood earlier and this does look like an easier race than recent options. [Winner - 12 Muntadab 7/2f]
 
Hope you had a few winners too, and that's nearly the Classic season over with just the St Leger to come for 2020. 
Have a great weekend. stay safe and well.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING - 1000 GUINEAS MEETING SUNDAY 7th JUNE

1000 Guineas Meeting - Sunday 7th June

Delayed from early May we have the second Classic of the season on Sunday with a ten race card here at Newmarket. The ITV cameras will be present to broadcast four live races here as well as three from Haydock Park. The Group One 1000 Guineas is of course today's feature event, due off at 15:35, while the feature race over at Haydock is the Brigadier Gerard Stakes, which has been re-routed from Sandown.

Sunday 7 June, ITV, 1.30-4pm

Newmarket

1.50 The Buckhounds Stakes (Listed)

2.25 The Barrow Handicap Stakes

3.00 The Ebf Pretty Polly Fillies’ Stakes (Listed)

3.35 The Qipco 1000 Guineas Stakes (Group 1)

Haydock Park

2.05 The Pinnacle Stakes (Group 3)

2.40 The Brigadier Gerard Stakes (Group 3)

3.15 The Spring Trophy Stakes (Listed)

Last years 1000 Guineas winner was HERMOSA, securing a 1000/2000 double for trainer Aiden O'Brien following the success of Magna Grecia the previous day.

Going and Weather forecast:

Newmarket officials confirm that the Going is currently - Good to Firm. Weather forecast for Sunday is not looking too good with plenty of rain showers expected and a max temperature of only 15C.

Click on this link for today's Newmarket 1000 Guineas Race-card. 
Today's Races and Selections;

13:15  Watch Racing For Free On Betfair EBF Stallions 2yo Maiden Stakes

6f  [Class 5  12 Runners]

We begin the meeting with a modest looking maiden event, absolutely no form of course with little racing opportunities before the lock down, so the stable picks could be Richard Hannon's pair BURRISTO / COOPERATION while market support for either of Charlie Appleby's Godolphin runners MODERN NEWS / NOBLE DYNASTY should also be noted but more than likely a race to watch and take in for the future.

1st - MODERN NEWS 4/1  [M Barzalona]

13:50  Betfair Exchange Buckhounds Stakes (Listed)

1m 4f  [Class 1  10 Runners]

Godolphin's SECRET ADVISOR has been running over further when winning at Meydan and is expected to be found out by the likes of COMMUNIQUE from Mark Johnston who was a ready winner of a Group 2 contest here over course and distance and likely to improve as an older horse is in good hands plus the benefit of Ryan Moore in the saddle today. An interesting runner at a big price today could be RAAKIB ALHAWA hasn't had much racing, but twice winner and an each way chance.

1st - DASHING WILLOUGHBY 17/2  [O Murphy]

14:25  Betfair Exchange Bet In-Play Handicap 

1m 2f  [Class 2  9 Runners]

Interesting little handicap now led by DAVYDENKO [NAP] (Sir Michael Stoute) who enjoyed a very successful 3yo campaign winning four of his five races, could be able to defy his penalties here. Mark Johnston sends both WEST END CHARMER / SKY DEFENDER and both seem equally matched on form while the amount of weight that PALAVECINO receives gives him a chance although only had four career starts and will need to show that he's improved for experience.

1st - WEST END CHARMER  7/2  [W Buick]

15:00  Betfair EBF Pretty Polly Fillies' Stakes (Listed)

1m 2f  [Class 1  9 Runners]

Nine three year old fillies appear, no less than five are unbeaten after their solo debut run last year so it's not going to be easy to solve this puzzle. The fact that John Gosden saddles three of these doesn't help, although I do have TIEMPO VUELA in my horses to follow list so she can be the pick of the trio today however the call is to take the Michael Stoute horse SNOW SHOWER along with QUEEN DAENERYS for Roger Varian against the field today in another race that is likely to prove more useful in the future.

1st - RUN WILD  11/2  [O Murphy]

15:35  Qipco 1000 Guineas Stakes (Fillies' Group 1)

1m  [Class 1  15 Runners]

A cracking renewal and looks a little more open than the Colts race although QUADRILATERAL [NB] does stand out on 2yo form for Roger Charlton and this filly by Frankel won the Fillies Mile here last term so must be on the short list. Aiden O'Brien can never be dismissed and he sends LOVE [Won 4/1] who was third in that same Group 1 and shouldn't be too far away, fellow Irish raider MILLISLE (Jessica Harrington) was a big price winner of the Cheveley Park race here. An outsider with plenty of class is UNDER THE STARS, is out of a 2000 Guineas winner (Night of Thunder) can be expected to improve further for experience possibly even over bit further later, about 20/1 worth a look for the place should be running on.

1st - LOVE  4/1  [R L Moore]

16:10  Setting Odds On The Betfair Exchange Handicap

1m  [Class 2  10 Runners]

A field of ten but so many come here with ordinary handicap form on the all weather tracks, few exceptions and we shall side with BELL ROCK [Won 4/1] (Andrew Balding) along with BALTIC BARON (David O'Meara) against the field today. Support for the lightweight OUZO would also be attractive since this 4yo does receive a lot of weight from most of the field and won three times last season at contrasting tracks but one was around here.

1st - BELL ROCK 4/1  [O Murphy]

16:45  Betfair Exchange More Ways To Win EBF Stallions Novice Stakes (Div One)
1m  [Class 5  12 Runners]

Another one difficult to call with most of this 3yo field having their debut, so of the few that have run previously the clear selection would be KING LEONIDAS [Won 6/4] for Gosden/Dettori this colt by Kingman was a winner of a 7f maiden here. In a race this is best watched the likes of LATE ARRIVAL could be interesting as an offspring of a 2000 Guineas winner Night of Thunder.

1st - KING LEONIDAS 6/4 2f  [L Dettori]

17:20  Betfair Exchange More Ways To Win EBF Stallions Novice Stakes (Div Two)

1m  [Class 5  12 Runners]

No real surprise that the second division of this contest is very similar to the first, only three with previous experience Roger Varian's MONTATHER a winner on sole outing last year. So we'll try two newcomers against the field with SUNRAY MAJOR / MY OBERON our choice in a wide open affair.

1st - SUNRAY MAJOR 8/11f  [L Dettori]

17:55  Betfair Weighed In Podcast Handicap (3yo)

1m 2f  [Class 3  11 Runners]

An intriguing contest now made more so by the presence of four Godolphin horses, thought there would be some limits on how many entries owners could have in a single event, still the bigger yards have their way and HUKUM has the potential to take this a progeny of See The Stars will appreciate the trip and course. Both BRONZE RIVER and VINDICATE have won on the all weather over a mile and will need to see out the extra distance now transferred to turf.

1st - GLOBAL STORM  8/1  [Cieren Fallon]

18:30  Betfair Each Way Edge Handicap

5f  [Class 3  11 Runners]

We shall conclude Guineas weekend with a sprint handicap which could go to Richard Hughes' TOP BREEZE returned to the track earlier in year to win first time up, should go well again. Several here with decent all weather form, NATIONAL ANTHEM in particular, will be interesting to see how their turf form holds up in comparison. Possibilities for DIAMOND DOUGAL who won well at Ripon last year while trained by Mick Channon and is now in the hands of Robert Cowell.

1st - JABBAROCKIE  7/1  [W Buick]

Results to be posted here during the course of Sunday, and we'll have another blog ready for Monday morning to celebrate the return of racing over in Ireland with the meeting from NAAS.