start of Ascot´s July meeting

the 3-day Ascot July meeting starts today, and although obviously tomorrow´s card, featuring the "King George", has the best racing, today´s card is also highly interesting. The listed mile race for fillies at 16.50 CET should go to the improving Strawberrydaiquiri (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore), although top-weight Rosaleen (Brian Meehan/ Frankie Dettori), as well as Balaagha (Michael Jarvis/ Richard Hills) and Lady Francesca (Willie Muir/ Darryll Holland) should also be involved. The Brown Jack handicap over 2 miles at 17.25 always attracts some useful stayers, and although there are only 6 runners, it looks quite open. Mark Johnston´s front-runner Alanbrooke (Greg Fairley), who made all to win over this CD last time, is stepping up in grade but should be able to hold off Hendersyde (Walter Swinburn/ Adam Kirby), 4th in the Northumberland Cup last time. There is also racing this afternoon at Thirsk and over jumps at Southwell, where Irish raider Gordon Elliott once again looks the trainer to follow. At Thirsk, Munich punters will be hoping to see Dorn Dancer (Mark Brisbourne/ Tony Hamilton) in the 6 furlongs fillies handicap at 17.15, and Grudge (Ollie Pears/ Matthew Lawson), in the 5 furlongs apprentice handicap at 18.20, finish in the money.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Zubova - Battlemaiden - Seeking Dubai
2. Race: Sea Lord - Pounced - Gene Autry
3. Race: Strawberrydaiquiri - Lady Francesca - Damaniyat Girl
4. Race: Alanbrooke - Hendersyde - Ermine Sea
5. Race: Last Three Minutes - Fanjura - Resurge
6. Race: Credit Swap - Sarah Park - Effigy