group race at Fairyhouse this evening

easily the best race to be run today in the U.K. and Ireland is the Group Three Brownstown Stakes for fillies and mares over 7 furlongs at 20.30 CET this evening at Fairyhouse. This has attracted a good field, with two runners from England - Distinctive (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves) and Sent from Heaven (Barry and Michael Hills). The latter had no chance last time in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot, but obviously this race is much easier and the distance probably more convenient. Of the locals, the in-foal Miss Gorica (Joanna Morgan/ Wayne Lordan) is best of the older brigade, while of the 3yo´s we like Bewitched (Charles O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) -possibly better as a sprinter- Kitty Kiernan (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) and Queen of Troy (Aidan O´Brien/ Seamus Heffernan). However Sent from Heaven has some good form to her credit and is the selection.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Isis Song - Nuba - Watch The Birdie
2. Race: Academic Accolade - By The Sea - All In Clover
3. Race: Full Title - Daring Man - Desert Romance
4. Race: Sent From Heaven - Distinctive - Kitty Kiernan
5. Race: Hujaylea - Ask Jack - Spelterini
6. Race: Accidental Outlaw - La Chassotte - Cheval Rouge
7. Race: Dance On By - Sindiyma - Stephen`S Green

Catterick, Worcester and Perth this afternoon

jumps racing is in the limelight this afternoon with N.H. racing at Perth and Worcester, while the only flat meeting is at Catterick. Perth stages the first of a two day meeting with a strong Irish challenge in almost every race. Gordon Elliott in particular has a tremendous record at the Scottish tracks and we can easily imagine his winning several races. Paul Carberry partners all his runners, of whom Abbey Lane at 15.20 CET, Grand Opera at 15.50, Millrock Lady at 16.20, King Roonah at 17.20 and Wikaala at 17.50 all have winning chances. It is by no means inconceivable that Irish trainers will go through the card here.
The team to follow at Worcester, as so often, is trainer Jonjo O´Neill and jockey Tony McCoy. Chsapeake at 15.40, Khazar at 16.10, Kilshannig at 17.40 and Good Harvest at 18.10 are their runners, and O´ Neill can also score with Space Telescope at 15.10 with Richie McLerrnon, and McCoy has prospects on SRB Crawford´ s Now This is It, who has top-weight in the handicap hurdle at 17.10.
The card at Catterick is not inspiring. Paul Hanagan, who has ridden 7 winners already this week and is now clear leader in the jockeys´ table, has a full book of rides, but not many of them have winning chances; his best hope is probably Glenridding in the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.30.

Betting forecast Worcester:
1. Race: Space Telescope - Grand Award - Sparkling Brook
2. Race: Chesapeake - Downward Spiral - Knar Mardy
3. Race: Khazar - Uffa Fox - Morning Sunshine
4. Race: Roznic - Seaquel - Tora Petcha
5. Race: Tzora - Now This Is It - Whenever
6. Race: Wizards Dust - Naughty By Nature - Hoof It Harry
7. Race: Thenameescapesme - Petroupetrov - Good Harvest
8. Race: Jump Up - Grey Gold - Misstaysia

Grand Prix de Compiegne

big race in France today is the listed Grand Prix de Compiegne for 4yo´s and up over 2000 metres at 15.40 CET. There could well be a German winner here as both Falun (Andreas Trybuhl/ Ioritz Mendizibal) and Budai (Waldemar Hickst/ Dominique Boeuf) are in good form. The former in particular made a most positive impression when winning the Sachsen-Preis at Dresden last time. Best of the French-trained runners are German-owned Superstition (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Gerald Mosse´) and Via Col Vento (Jean-Marie Beguigné/ Olivier Peslier). Plenty of German runners on the undercard as well, with Werner Baltromei sending a strong team. His best chance, in our view is Wise Boy (Frankie Leroy) in the 1400 metres claimer for 3yo´s for apprentices and jeunes jockeys.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Zarly - Celebrity Choice - Fylarchos
2. Race: Water Bells - Kyrnollia - Ghor
3. Race: Fire Up - Atrevida - Fooladha
4. Race: Amarak - Ensaya - Jo All The Way
5. Race: Via Col Vento - Three Bodies - Lake Palace
6. Race: Darielli - Wise Boy - Refuse
7. Race: So Oder So - Sendrillon D`Or - Dikta Melody
8. Race: Rosas A Sandra - Misterthir - Maita

Tuesday´s racing

Again, plenty of racing today. but all of it at low level. Indeed, every race at Hamilton and Brighton this afternoon is class 5 or 6. At the Scottish track we expect Paul Hanagan to extend his lead in the jockeys´ championship. He should win the opening 2yo maiden at 15.15 CET on Mayson for his boss Richard Fahey and follow up for the stable with Gritstone in the 9 furlongs handicap at 16.45, where German-bred Daring Dream (Jim Goldie/ Gary Bartley) is the one to beat. Hanagan also has chances on Howard Johnson´ s North Central at 15.45 and Dubawi King for Nigel Tinkler at 17.15, before rushing off to the evening meeting at Thirsk.
At Thirsk, Hanagan can also be among the winners with Ruth Carr´ s Moheebb at 20.30 and Jeremy Noseda´s High Importance an hour later. However our best bets at Thirsk are Godolphin´ s Battle of Britain (Ahmed Ajtebi) at 20.00 and recent CD winner Mey Blossom (Richard Whitaker/ Michael Stainton), who can follow up in the 5 furlongs handicap at 22.00.
The jockey to follow at Brighton should be Seb Sanders. He has two very promising rides for Sir Mark Prescott, Sumerian in the 9 furlongs maiden at 16.00 and Rock Island, top-weight in the mile handicap half an hour later, both of whom will probably start favourite. Sanders can also score on Dean Ivory´s Novastasia and Peter Makin´s Green Velvet in the sprint handicaps at 7.30 and 18.00 respectively.
There is also jumps racing this evening at Stratford, and ex-German Raptor (Mark Rimmer/ Richard Collinson) is an interesting runner in the maiden hurdle at 19.40. He makes his debut over sticks here, but on his old flat form would be the best horse in the field. The 2 1/2 mile handicap chase half an hour later is tricky, with all 8 runners holding a chance. We go for top-weight Pilgrims Lane (Milton Harris/ Peter Toole), but any of them could win.

Betting forecast Brighton:
1. Race: Goldtrek - Allannah Abu - Tom Wade
2. Race: Sumerian - Plus Ultra - Bitter Fortune
3. Race: Rock Relief - Lady Lam - Stargazy
4. Race: Ramamara - Mini Max - Barlaman
5. Race: The Jailer - Novastasia - Dualagi
6. Race: Multahab - Green Velvet - Highland Harvest

Monday´s U.K. racing

nothing very exciting on the menu at today´s 4 meetings in the U.K. - Pontefract and Wolverhampton (a.w.) in the afternoon, and Musselburgh and Windsor in the evening. The vast majority of the races are class 5 or 6. Best event is the Spindrifter Conditions Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 16.15 CET at Pontefract, where all 7 runners are previous winners. Only one of them is unbeaten- Drawing Board (Kevin Ryan/ Richard Mullen), but we prefer the third place in better company of Premier Clarets (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan), while Planet Waves (Clive Brittain/ Neil Callan), who had no chance in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, is taking a significant drop in class here and could well come out best, with the stable´s juveniles in great form. Brittain and Callan also have chance in the fillies handicap half an hour later with Yawary, but here we prefer top-weight Kerry´s Requiem (Mick Channon/ Sam Hitchcott), a winner at Goodwood last time and pulled out of a tougher race last week to wait for this.
Frankie Dettori has two rides at Wolverhampton for trainer Michael Jarvis. Toolain, in the 2yo maiden at 16.30, can make up for his mishap last time at Sandown, where he looked like winning easily before his saddle slipped and he deposited Frankie on the ground. An hour later Yashrid, runner-up at Newbury but now running for the first time on the all-weather, can take the 1 1/2 handicap for 3yo´s, but this is quite a tricky race.

Betting forecast Pontefract:
1. Race: Call Of Duty - Rub Of The Relic - Haljaferia
2. Race: Abu Dubai - Silly Gilly - Tomintoul Star
3. Race: Premier Clarets - Drawing Board - Planet Waves
4. Race: Kerrys Requiem - Misplaced Fortune - Emerald Girl
5. Race: Lauberhorn - Meetings Man - Cheyenne Chant
6. Race: Kielder - Clare Harrier - Pelmanism
7. Race: Desert Hunter - Avonrose - Diamond Daisy

Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud

the Curragh is not the only track staging a top Group One race today - in France the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud for older horses over 2400 metres at 15.45 CET is one of highlights of the summer. The big question here is the performance of Youmzain (Mick Channon/ Richard Hughes), at 7 the oldest horse in the field, and with almost 5 million euros in prize-money to his credit, the biggest earner. However most of this money has come from his three second places in the "Arc", and a feature of his career is that he rarely wins these big races, but is usually placed. His career record reads 6 wins from 31 starts, and 15 places. He won this race in 2008 and was a close third last year, and if in the right mood, could score again, but somehow we doubt it. He finish behind High Heeled (John Gosden/ William Buick) when 4th in the Coronation Cup last time, but we feel that the 3 French-trained 4yo fillies could be more dangerous. The Aga Khan´s Daryakana (Alain de Royer-Dupre/ Christophe Lemaire) won her first 7 races, including the valuable Hong Kong Vase, and met her only defeat when third to Plumania (Andre Fabre/ Olivier Peslier) and Celimene (Carlos and Yann Lerner) over a slightly shorter trip here in May. She now meets them on better terms, but we would still not be surprised to see Plumania, whose trainer continues in tremendous form, beat her again.
There are quite a few German-trained runners on the undercard at Saint-Cloud, but they mainly face a difficult task in large fields. In our opinion El Vettorio (Christian Sprengel/ Blanche de Granvilliers), in the claiming race for lady amateur riders at 17.00, has the best chance of winning.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Dardor - Timelord - Armanty
2. Race: Brampour - Lancelot - Zack Hall
3. Race: Shamanova - Lady`s Purse - Peacoat
4. Race: Airwoman - Dream Youn - Lost Soldier Three
5. Race: Youmzain - Daryakana - Mores Wells
6. Race: Nayef Al Khalidiah - Cambrydge - Damis
7. Race: Kibaar - El Vettorio - Sledmere
8. Race: Vernazza - Miss Reel - La Barquera
9. Race: Courthouse Steps - Gyrona - Slipshod

rest of the Curragh

the remaining 7 races at the Curragh are also highly interesting and very competitive. The Group Two Railway Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 16.15 is one of the best juvenile races to be run so far this year. Aidan O´Brien saddles only one runner here, Samuel Morse (Johnny Murtagh), who finished fourth in the Coventry at Royal Ascot. Chilworth Lad and Oor Jock also ran at Ascot but need to improve on the form they showed there. High Award and Clondinnery are both easy listed winners last time out, while Formosina and Longhunter are now moving up in grade after a very easy maiden win. More spice is added to the mix by the debutant Glor Na Mara, whose trainer Jim Bolger certainly knows the time of day with two-year-olds.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Petronius Maximus - Sydney Harbour - A Word Apart
2. Race: Benbaun - Arctic - Spin Cycle
3. Race: Charminamix - Maundy Money - Lord Kenmare
4. Race: Samuel Morse - Clondinnery - Glor Na Mara
5. Race: Hawkeyethenoo - Air Chief Marshal - Flipando
6. Race: Keredari - Gold Bubbles - Emperor Claudius
7. Race: Cape Blanco - Monterosso - Jan Vermeer
8. Race: Behtarini - Ceannline - Celtic Dane

Irish Derby at the Curragh

the racing at the three British tracks this aftenoon is not inspiring (athough the 18 runner Summer National at 15.40 CET at Uttoxeter is quite an interesting affair), so we shall concentrate on the big Irish meeting at the Curragh, featuring the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at 18,10. This is quite late for such an important race, but at least it gives football fans time to watch England win first. With added money of 1.25 million euros, it is also one of the richest races of the year in Europe, and in many previous seasons the form here has worked out better than the form at Epsom or Chantilly.
7 of the 11 runners are trained in Ireland, but only two trainers are responsible- Aidan O´Brien with 5 runners and Jim Bolger with two. Bolger´s pair have little chance on the form book, but O´Brien has excellent chances of winning this race for the 5th year running (and 8th time in all). Stable jockey Jihnny Murtagh has chosen to partner Cape Blanco, winner of the Dante from subsequent Derby winner Workforce, but disappointing at Chantilly next time, and he will therefore start favourite. However he himself admits it was a difficult decision, and history shows that these big races are often won by the second or even third string. This could well be the case today, and Jan Vermeer (Seamus Heffernan) and Midas Touch (Colm O´Donoghue) have almost as big a chance. They finished 4th and 5th in the Epsom classic, where the former started favourite and lost two shoes. However Jan Vermeer has shown his best form with cut in the ground, and despite constant watering, the ground wil l ride very fast today after a month of dry and warm weather. Of O´Brien´s other runners, At First Sight, ridden by son Joseph, will probably make the running, and Bright Horizon (Sean Levey) is also presumably in as a pacemaker.
Of the British entries, Monterosso (Mark Johnson/ Frankie Dettori) is easily the most interesting. He has had a most unorthodox preparation, hvaing started out the year with 3 races on polytrack in the winter at Lingfield. However he has shown continual dramatic improvement, winning 5 races so far this year, including the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot only 9 days ago, following which he was supplemented for this race. But he must improve further to win here , and although that possibility cannot be dismissed, we feel that this could be a bridge too far.
Godolphin´s Chabal was well behind Cape Blanco in the Dante and is another who probably wants softer going, while Coordinated Cut looks well held on Epsom form. O´Brien´s season has so far not gone to plan - although his horses have been running much better in the last 2 weeks- but we expect him to win here, and at the likely odds make Midas Touch (each-way) our selection.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Petronius Maximus - Sydney Harbour - A Word Apart
2. Race: Benbaun - Arctic - Spin Cycle
3. Race: Charminamix - Maundy Money - Lord Kenmare
4. Race: Samuel Morse - Clondinnery - Glor Na Mara
5. Race: Hawkeyethenoo - Air Chief Marshal - Flipando
6. Race: Keredari - Gold Bubbles - Emperor Claudius
7. Race: Cape Blanco - Monterosso - Jan Vermeer
8. Race: Behtarini - Ceannline - Celtic Dane

Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh

the Irish Derby meeting at the Curragh has its first highlight today, with the Group One Pretty Polly Stakes over 10 furlongs for filliies and mares at 15.20 CET as the main feature. 4 of the 9 runners are older fillies and 5 are 3yo´s, who also dominate the betting, with Remember When (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) a warm favourite. She is still a maiden, but ran a great race in the Oaks, where she looked the likely winner at the distance. This trip could be more suitable, but she has little in hand of Akdarena (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning), sixth at Epsom after making the running. She will also like the shorter distance, and will also be better suited by the track. Best of the older brigade are Chinese White (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen), third to Fame & Glory last time, and Flying Cloud (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), third to Sariska at York on her only 2010 start. At the likely odds we think that Akdarena is good each-way bet.
Two Group Three races, both with only 5 runners, back up the Curragh´s big race. The International Stakes at 14.45 looks a bít substandard and we expect Recharge (Kevin Prendergast/ Chris Hayes), winner of a listed race last time and before that three times runner-up, twice to Fame & Glory, to score here. The Curragh Cup over 1 3/4 miles at 17.00 looks more tricky. Profound Beauty (Weld/ Smullen) defeated Age of Aquarius last time, which is smart form, but Roses for the Lady (John Oxx/ Fran Berry), runner-up in last year´s Irish Oaks, and the two British raiders Tactic (John Dunlop/ Tagdh O´Shea) and Saptapadi (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) will not go under without a fight.
Best bet at the Curragh, in our view, is Wild Wind (O´Brien/ Murtagh) in the opening maiden for 2yo fillies at 14.15. This filly, foaled in Germany but with nothing German in her pedigree, was runner-up in a huge field to Seeharn on her debut here, and the latter was a listed winner here last night.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Wild Wind - Puttore - Light Footsteps
2. Race: Recharge - Shintoh - Precious Gem
3. Race: Remember When - Chinese White - Akdarena
4. Race: Drombeg Dawn - Chorus Of Angels - Anam Chara
5. Race: Master Of Hounds - Velesgo - Roderic O`Connor
6. Race: Profound Beauty - Roses For The Lady - Saptapadi
7. Race: Spinning Wings - Essex - Zarinava

Northumberland Plate at Newcastle

the Northumberland Plate,aka the Pitman´s Derby, is not only the biggest race of the year at Newcastle but also one of the hottest handicaps of the entire season. Today´s edition at 16.05 CET is as open as ever, with 20 runners. Tim Easterby has two well-backed entries, with Deauville Flyer (Robert Winston) the likely favourite. He has won his last two races very easily, both at York, but to us he represents little value at 4-1 or less, as today´s race is much tougher, the ground may be firmer than he likes and his jockey will struggle to make the weight. His stable companion Crackentorp (David Allan) has just as good a chance, although he does not win very often. The two mile trip seems too far for Drunken Sailor (Luca Cumani/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert), but holds no fears for Mamlook (David Pipe/Seb Sanders), who won the Chester Cup with Halla San (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) third and Bernie the Bolt (Andrew Balding/ David Probert) well back; all 3 could be involved today. Overturn (Donald McCain/ Eddie Ahern) has been well backed on the strength of his excellent form over hurdles, but his outside draw is a big disadvantage. Aaim to Prosper (Brian Meehan/ James Sullivan) ran a great race at Ascot and has a nice weight, but this race comes very soon after that effort. We shall take a chance and hope that Bernie the Bolt shows his Chester running to be all wrong.
The Newcastle card starts off with two very tricky 6 furlong races. The Group Three Chipchase Stakes at 15.00 should in theory go to Himalya (Jremy Noseda/ Ahern), who ran an excellent race last week at Royal Ascot. Knot in Wood (Fahey/ Hanagan), who won this race last year, also ran well at the royal meeting, and holds Barney McGrew on that form, but is himself held by Sir Gerry (John Best/ Robert Winston) on Haydock form, although he had no chance later in the Golden Jubilee. We shall defy logic and hope that Knot in Wood´s liking for the track will prove decisive.
The handicap at 15.30 is another puzzle. Damika (Richard Whitaker/ Daragh O´Donohoe) has won his last two races, including this CD and must be on the short list. Johnny Mudball (Tom Dascombe/ Sanders) was runner-up in a similar event at Doncaster, with Poet´s Place fifth; however the latter was having only the third race of his life, and we expect this unexposd type to reverse the placings here. Kerry´s Requiem (Mick Channon/ Chris Catlin) won nicely at Goodwood and must also be considered.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Himalya - Knot In Wood - Mister Hughie
2. Race: Jonny Mudball - Damika - Kerrys Requiem
3. Race: Deauville Flyer - Mamlook - Chiberta King
4. Race: Hajoum - Camerooney - Game Lad
5. Race: Dortmund - Arabian Star - King Of Aquitaine
6. Race: Tepmokea - Kingsdale Orion - Pendragon
7. Race: Be Invincible - Law To Himself - Antoniola

German runners in France today

Plenty of German runners this afternoon at Maisons-Laffitte, where the main event is the Prix Hampton, a listed race over 1000 metres at 15.35. A large field, but Mood Music (Mario Hofer/ Maxime Guyon), who has run several good races in France over this trip, must have a good chance in this company. Best Joking (Werner Hefter/ Johan Victoire) is very speedy and could also run into the money.

Hofer also runs Sexxan (Guyon) in the race for 3yo debutants at 14.05 and Three French Hens (Dominique Boeuf) in the conditions race over a mile for 4yo´s at 16.35. Other German-trained runners here are Titus Claudius (Werner Baltromei/ Boeuf) in a 2400 metres conditions race for 3yo´s at 14.35, Mayflair (Hefter/ Mikael Barzalona) - who won at 42-1 in Strasbourg last time- in the fillies´equivalent race at 15.05, and Rostov (Erturk Kurdu/ Guyon) in a 3yo mile handicap at 17.05. All of these could run well, but in our view Mood Music has the best chance of winning.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Helleborine - Kiss Doll - Pontenuovo
2. Race: Yarubo - El Matador - Manhaj
3. Race: Han Shan - Cartesien - Prince Pretender
4. Race: Ludiana - Licky Star - Casta Diva
5. Race: Orpen Shadow - Moorhouse Lad - Delvita
6. Race: Charmeur - Shining Sun - Anemos
7. Race: Nid d`Amour - Barlovento - Good Bye My Friend
8. Race: Dieten - Miss Kamikaze - Glasclune

Doncaster, Folkestone and Marklet Rasen (N.H.)

Once again, modest sport this afternoon, but the top jockeys are at Doncaster. Ryan Moore can win the 3yo handicap at 16.25 CET on Sir Michael Stoute´s Timeless Stride, a disappointment last time, but best judged on his earlier form; he has Hot Spark (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan) to beat. Moore can also win the novice race for 2yo´s at 17.00 on Dean Ivory´s Whoateallthepius, who won in canter at Windsor last time. Another jockey with good rides is Kieren Fallon, and we like his chances on Andy Haynes´ Poppet´s Lovin (a half-sister to Overdose) in the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.35. It is extremely unusual to find valuable races run at Folkestone, but today they do stage a 20,000 pounds race, the "Folkestone Hammer", a class 4 handicap over 6 furlongs at 16.40. Obviously with this prize-money it has attracted a large field and looks very open as a result. The 3yo´s Duster (Hughie Morrison/ Steve Drowne) - a recent CD winner- and Glen Shiel (Mark Johnston/ Eddie Ahern), are on our short list, together with Cornus (Alan McCabe/ Declan Cannon), who holds top-weight Hamoody (Dandy Nicholls/ Billy Cray) on their Thirsk running, and Lujeanie (Dean Ivory/ Fergus Sweeney), runner-up in a similar race at Windsor last time.

There is also jumping this afternoon at Market Rasen, where the best event is the 2 3/4 miles handicap chase at 17.25 . Tempsford had good form in these races last summer, including a CD win, but has been off since October, so we prefer the current form of Nothingbutthetruth (Tim Pitt/ Dougie Costello) and even more Chorizo (Richard Guest/ Paddy Aspell), a recent CD winner now moving up in grade. The most interesting runner at Market Rasen could be Barney Curley´s Savaronola (Paul Moloney), who runs in the novices handicap hurdle at 16.15 off a very low rating. This is justified by his poor performances over hurdles, but he was a winner on the flat in May (landing a huge gamble) and is undoubtedly capable of much more than he has so far shown over sticks.

Hamilton, Leicester and Tipperary (Ireland) this evening

Frankie Dettori travels north to Scotland this evening for just two rides at Hamilton, and the tip should be taken. He partners Yamal for Saeed bin Suroor in the mile conditions race at 21.00 CET. Yamal has not been seen out since finishing a close third to Premio Loco (twice a Group Two winner in Germany since) in a listed race at Goodwood 13 months ago, and that form should be good enough, even though the unbeaten Inqaath (Sir Michael Stoute/ Richard Hills) could be troublesome. Frankie´s other mount Cockney for trainer Mark Johnston in the 9 furlongs maiden at 21.30, has been runner-up on both his starts so far, last time over this CD at 5-1 on!

Most interesting event at Leicester this evening is the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo fillies at 21.10. Some useful fillies engaged here, including top-weight Maid in Heaven (Walter Swinburn/ Shane Kelly), a CD winner last time, Love Match (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne), a winner at Newbury last time, and Copper Penny (David Lanigan/ Ted Durcan), an easy Beverley winner. The last-named meets better opposition now but is still our tip.

In Ireland, John Oxx and his stable jockey Fran Berry can score with both their runners at Tipperary - Julie´s Jet in the fillies race at 20.50 and Zanoubiya in the 1 1/2 mile maiden at 21.20.

Newcastle, Warwick and Goodwood

There are listed races for fillies this afternoon both at Warwick and Newcastle, where it is the start of a big 3-day meeting. At the latter track, the race is over 10 furlongs at 17.30 CET, and although there are 8 runners, it looks a match between Lady Jane Digby (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) and Sajjhaa (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robínson). Ldy Jane Digby sts the standard he, having won this race lst yr, nd a similar vnt lst tim out t Warwick.

Howver she is penalised for winning a Group Three in Germany last year, and it is doubtful whether she is capable of giving 16 lbs to the younger Sajjhaa, who ran in the Oaks on only her second career start. Although she dropped out there to finish last, she is regarded as very smart by her shrewd trainer and can get back on the winning trail here. Consistent Pachattack (Gerard Butler/ Tom Eaves) rarely wins, but usually runs well and can take third place. The mile handicap at 16.20 loos very open; last years winner The Osteopath (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin) was just touched off by Dubai Dynamo (Ruth Carr/ Robert Winston) but can reverse the form on slightly better terms, but we fancy bottom weight Justonefortheroad (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan), who won his only 2010 start in good style and is now moving up in grade.

The listed race at Warwick is for 3yo fillies over 7 furlongs at 17.05. Seta (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon) looks the obvious favourite here. She was outclassed in the 1,000 Guineas but the rest of her form is good enough, and she finished well in front of Sir Mark Prescott´ s Virginia Hall (Seb Sanders), now making he seasonal debut, in last September´s May Hill Stakes. Best betting race here is the 6 furlongs handicap at 15.55, in which Favourite Girl (Tim Easterby/ Ted Durcan) and Alfresco (John Best/ Fallon) are our two against the field.

It is by no means inconceivable that Michael Jarvis can win races at all 3 afternoon meetings, as Parvaaz (Neil Callan) looks a good thing to win the 7 furlongs maiden at 16.30 at Warwick, while Best Intent (Richard Hughes) also has good prospects in a fillies maiden over 1 1/2 miles at 15.30 at Goodwood. However this is quite a tricky race despite the small field, and Scorn (John Gosden/ William Buick), runner-up in her last 4 races, and Ship´s Biscuit (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) must also be respected.

Bath, Kempton and Naas (Ireland) this evening

Plenty of runners at Kempton this evening, with several of the 8 races with a maximum field of 14 runners. The exception is the race for 2yo novices at 20.50 CET, in which Sir Mark Prescott´ s Coeus has only 3 opponents. It could be a good day for the in-form Prescott/ Sanders team, and they can also take the 2 mile handicap with last week´s CD winner Ultimate Quest at 19.20, and the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 20.50 with Speed Dating.

The 2yo maiden at 20.20 could well go to Godolphin, who have two engaged- Postscript (Ahmed Ajtebi) and debutant Deep South (Frankie Dettori). Dettori also has two promising rides for Mark Johnston- Honest Broker in the 3yo handicap at 19.50 and Solicitor over a mile at 22.20.

The going will be firm at Bath (they have no watering system) and the fields are small. The 3yo handicap over 5 furlongs at 20.40 could mainly concern Humidor (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne) and Leleyf (Mick Channon/ Sam Hitchcott), recently second and fourth in a similar race at Windsor. The latter is now better off at the weights, so there could be little in it this time.

There is also racing at Naas in Ireland, but less classy than usual at this track. Aidan O´Brien has now come back to form with a bang, and can wscore an imperial double with his only two runners of the evening, Ice Empress (Sean Levey) in the fillies maiden at 21.30, and Emperor Claudius (with son Joseph in the saddle) in the 3yo conditions race at 22.00, who has only 2 opponents to beat.

Carlisle, Salisbury and Worcester (N.H.)

Carlisle stages its most important fixture of the year this afternoon, featuring the historic Carlisle Bell and Cumberland Plate, two of the oldest races in the calendar. Although they are now just class 4 handicaps, they are still quite valuable and there are 17 runners in each. The former, at 16.05 CET, goes over a mile and top-weight Major Phil (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon) is likely to start favourite after winning at Doncaster last time.

However he has little in hand of German-bred Raptor (Mark Rimmer/ Nicky Mackay), who was listed class when with Mario Hofer in younger days. Sir George (Ollie Pears/ Barry McHugh) and Mount Hadley (Gerard Butler/ Tom Queally) also have chances. There could also be a victory for an ex-German horse in the race over 1 1/2 miles at 16.35, as Agapanthus (Barney Curley/ Tom Queally), having showed nothing for two years after his acquisition from Schlenderhan, has struck form with a vengeance this year and won both his starts in good style (landing a tremendous gamble first time). Last-time-out winners Proud Times (Alan Swinbank/ Peter Mcdonald), Some Sunny Day (Hughie Morrison/ Robert Winston) and Sir Royal (Swinbank/ Neil Callan) are the main dangers.

Another historic race is the Bibury Cup, run this afternoon at 16.50 at Salisbury. Although there are only 7 runners in this 1 1/2 mile handicap for 3yo´s, it is still a tricky race as all 7 have winning form this season. Top-weight Mataaleb (Michael Jarvis/ Tagdh O´Shea) is a smart performer, but it could be significant that Tajaarub (Barry and Richard Hills) is running in Sheikh Hamdan´s first colours. Comedy Act (Sir Mark Prescott/ Seb Sanders) is a big threat. The Hills family could also be on the mark with Huzzah (Barry and Michael) in the mile handicap here at 16.15, who probably has the 3yo´s Avon River (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and Karaka Jack (Mark Johnston/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) to beat.

There is also jumping at Worcester, where the best race is the 3 mile handicap hurdle at 17.00. The Jigsaw Man (Rebecca Curtis/ Aodhagan Conlon) is smart, but has a huge weight and is trying this distance for the first time, so we prefer Jonjo O´Neill´s two runners, recent CD winner Two Miles West (Tony McCoy) - who probably has the best pedigree in N.H. racing - and Tarvini (Richard McLernon).

Newbury, Newton Abbot (N.H.) and Ballinrobe (Ireland) this evening

The two most interesting races this evening at Newbury are reserved for fillies. The 2yo maiden at 20.25 has several well-bred fillies from big stables entered; 8 of the 14 runners are debutants, which makes a selection difficult. Of those that have run, Cape Dollar (Sir Michael Stoute/ Richard Mullen) and Zanazzi (John Gosden/ Robert Havlin) are the pick, but the newcomers Sahafh (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori) and Celebrity (Richard Hannon/ Pat Dobbs) could be very dangerous. The same teams could also be involved in the 3yo handicap at 21.30, with top-weight Nafura (bin Suroor/ Dettori), Heavenly Dawn (Stoute(/ Mullen) and Namaskar (Gosden/ Havlin) all with a chance; the one to beat could be Sea of Heartbreak (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne), who has won both her 2010 starts in good style, but has gone up e lot in the weights as a result.

Paul Nicholls keeps a low profile in the summer, but could be among the winners today at Newton Abbot, where Prince Tom (Robert Thornton) in the maiden hurdle at 19.30 and Al Amaan (Ian Popham), top-weight in the novice handicap hurdle at 21.10, both have good prospects. He also saddles Conflict of Interest (Harry Skelton) in the novice chase at 20.35, but recent winners Gee Dee Nen (Gary and Jamie Moore) and Smack That (Milton Harris/ Peter Toole) are probably stronger, and Now Listen to Me (Thornton) in the handicap chase at 21.40, but here we prefer German-bred Alroyal (PC Dando/ DG Pritchard).

Another leading jumps trainer to have runners this evening is Willie Mullins, who saddles Angela´s Lashes (great name!) (Katie Walsh) in the 1 3/4 mile maiden at 18.40 at Ballinrobe and De Senectute (Pat Smullen) in a handicap over the same trip half an hour later. Both have good chances, and we also like Gra Gael da mo Chroi (Augustin Leahy/ EJ McNamara) in the 9 furlongs handicap here at 20.50.

Beverley and Brighton this afternoon

Typical Tuesday sport this afternoon at Beverley and Brighton, i.e. very low grade indeed. The best event at the former track is the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.15 CET, which looks quite tricky. Danehillsundance (David Brown/ Robert Winston) was runner-up in a similar contest last time and is obviously one for the short list, but it is not certain that he can give weight to the consistent Fujin Dancer (Kevin and Amy Ryan) and Ahlawy (Frank Sheridan/ Lee Vickers). Iron Out (Reg Hollinshead/ Phillip Makin) is the best outsider; he has not won on grass for ages but is slipping down the weights. Half an hour later, the much improved Polish World (Peter Midgley/ Barry McHugh) can complete a June hat-trick in the 7 furlongs handicap. However German-bred Northern Flyer (John Quinn/ Paul Hanagan) meets him on better terms than when they met over this CD a fortnight ago and can reverse the placings this time, while Mister Jingles (Richard Whitaker/ Michael Stainton) is another possibi lity in an open race.

At Brighton, trainer Michael Wigham can land a double with the top-weights Yourgolftravel Com (Steven Craine) over 1 1/2 miles at 16.30 and Multahab (Toby Atkinson) over 5 furlongs at 18.00. Both are course specialists, a huge advantage at this track, although the former is now moving up in distance. Multahab is our best bet of the afternoon; although now 11 years old, he seems as speedy as ever judging by the style of his CD success last week. Another CD winner last week who can go in again under top-weight is Choreography (Jim Best/ Pat Dobbs) in the 7 furlongs hndicap at 16.00.

Windsor, Chepstow and Kilbeggan (Ireland) this evening

Frankie Dettori travels on from a successful afternoon (we hope) at Wolverhampton to Windsor´s evening meeting and can take the fillies´ handicap at 19.45 on Michael Bell´s tongue-twister Shesells Seashells. He also teams up with Jeremy Noseda in the two 3yo races, with Dance East in the mile handicap at 21.10 and on Rule Maker in the maiden half an hour later, both with good chances.


The jockey to follow at Chepstow could be Kieren Fallon, who has some promising rides for Mark Johnston. They can score with debutant Amity in the mile maiden at 21.50, and with Emerging Artist, who gave a promising debut, in the 1 1/2 mile maiden an hour earlier.

There is jumps racing this evening at Kilbeggan in Ireland. German-bred Dancera (Mervyn Torrens/ Paul Townend) has a chance in the hurdle race at 20.30, although both The Rocking Dock (Gordon Elliott/ Davy Condon) and Campbonnais (Charlie Byrnes/ Barry Geraghty) offer strong opposition. Another ex-German with each-way prospects is Manhattan Boy (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara), who runs an hour later in a handicap chase, but he might need more cut in the ground.

Lingfield and Wolverhampton this afternoon

It´s a bit like winter racing this afternoon when the only action is at Lingfield and Wolverhampton- although to be fair, at the former track only the first 3 races are on the all-weather and the last 5 on turf. Frankie Dettori is not a regular visitor to Woverhampton, but he has good chances of landing a treble in the first 3 races there. In the opening 2yo maiden at 15.30 he partners Godolphin´s debutant Hokoumah; with the stable now in good form, this son of a Group One winner could well score at the first time of asking. Half an hour later Frankie is on John Gosden s Point Out in a 3yo maiden over the extended mile; this one has been a beaten favourite on both his starts so far - the last occasion in March- but was runner-up in large fields both times and could get off the mark now. At 16.30 Dettori s mount , Ian Williams´ Il Forno, comes fresh from a win Yarmouth, and can take this 3yo claimer, where Bubbly Bellini (George Baker/ Matthew Davies) - in excellent form in th e winter but not seen since- is the danger. German-bred Carmenero (Conor Dore/ Barry McHugh) could be an interesting each-way bet in the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.00. He is not the most consistent, but is back to his mark when winning over this CD in January.

At Lingfield, the 5 furlongs handicap on polytrack at 15.45 looks quite tricky. Top-weight Captain Carey (Malcolm Saunders/ Robert Winston) had no chance at York last time, but this looks easier. Sutton Veny (Jeremy Gask/ Tom Queally) has won his last 3 races, but the last one was in February. We prefer course specialist Garstang (John Balding/ Alan Munro). The 10 furlongs handicap on turf at 17.45 is another open race. Seeking the Buck (Ralph Beckett/ Crowley) has the most class in the field but has a lot of weight. King´ s Masque (Bernard Llewellyn/ David Probert) is very consistent; he has been first or second on his last 5 starts and was only just touched off last time. Norwegian Dancer (Ed McMahon/ Neil Callan) is next best..

N.H. racing at Hereford, Hexham and Gowran Park (Ireland)

There are some quite large fields at today´s 3 .H. meetings, but summer jumping is rarely very competitive. At Hereford, the most interesting race could be the mares handicap hurdle at 17.20 CET, in which three recent winners cross swords- Letham Island (Tony Carroll/ Lee Edwards), Ruby Crown (Kim Bailey/ Sean Quinlan) and Miss Saffron (Sue Gardner/ Aidan Coleman), with slight preference for the first-named.

Evan Williams has his string in good form and can land a double with the consistent Acrai Rua (Paul Moloney) in the beginners chase at 17.50 and half an hour later with Ajman (Donal Fahy), who was still in contention when unseating his rider last time. Trainer Gary Moore does well on both codes and scored his first ever Royal Ascot winner yesterday, when ex-German Bergo won the Queen Alexandra, ridden by son Ryan. He can follow up here with another ex-German Weststern in the 2 mile handicap chase at 18.50, this time with his eldest son Jamie in the saddle.

Donald McCain and his stable jockey Jason Maguire look the team to follow at Hexham. They have good chances with Always Bold in the novice chase at 16.30, Danny Zuko in the handicap hurdle at 17.00 and top-weight Our Jim in the handicap chase half an hour later.

There is an all-hurdles card at the Irish jumps meeting at Gowran Park. The race for 4yo´s at 16.35 looks the most interesting event, with Cabernet Sauvignon (Gordon Elliott/ Barry Geraghty) and Saponara (Dessie Hughes/ DP Kennedy) in opposition.

Pontefract and Down Royal

After the superb performances seen at Royal Ascot last week, today´s action seems very dull. Best race is the listed Pontefract Castle Stakes over 1 1/2 miles at Pontefract at 16.40 CET. 7 runners, but most of them are out of form and will in any case prefer softer going. The exception is the 8yo gelding Nanton (Jim Goldie/ Kieren Fallon), who loves this fast ground and has been running well over a variety of distances.

Next best is probably King´s Destiny (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robinson), whose stable is in form, but is arguably better at 10 furlongs.Kieren Fallon could be in for a good afternoon, as he also holds winning chances on Luca Cumani´ s Luc Jordan, top-weight in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.10, and Peter Bowen´s Markington in the marathon handicap at 17.10; Markington won this race last year, and is also a recent winner over hurdles. Frankie Dettori travels to Yorkshire for just one ride, Godolphin´s Zabeel Park in the maiden race for 2yo fillies at 15.10; she is a half-sister to classic winners Finsceal Beo and Frozen Power (recent winner of the German 2,000 Guineas), and has most to fear from the equally well-bred Mama Lulu (Michael Bell/ Jamie Spencer).

The only other flat racing today is at Down Royal in N. Ireland, where the main feature is the grandly- named Ulster Oaks over 10 1/2 furlongs at 16.45. This is actually a handicap for 3yo and older fillies and mares, so similarities with the real "Oaks" are hard to find. Vivacious Vivienne (D.Kinsella/ PB Beggy) has won her last 3 races, but we do not believe that she can give the weight to the two Aga Khan-owned 3yo´s Shareen (John Oxx/ BA Curtis) and Daliyra (Mike Halford/ Sean Foley). The latter meets Vivienne on 9 lbs better terms for half a length, and as Shareen is out of the handicap, Daliyra is the selection.

rest of Royal Ascot: day five

The fifth and final day of Royal Ascot with large fields, some exciting finishes guaranteed and some very tricky problems for punters to solve. The opening Chesham Stakes for 2yo´s over 7 furlongs at 15.30 CET has 13 runners, 5 of them winners of their only start, including Jackaroo (Aidan O´Brien/Johnny Murtagh), King Torus (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and Zaidan (Clive Brittain/ Seb Sanders); one of them might win, but this is not really a race to bet heavily on. The Group Two Hardwicke Stakes over 1 1/2 miles at 16.05 on the other hand offers the best bet of the day in our opinion: Harbinger (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) has won both his starts this year in convincing fashion and now moves up to this level with every chance of winning again. Jukebox Jury (Mark Johnston/ Royston Ffrench) is a very tough and consistent performer, and winner of the Preis von Europa last year. He carries a Group One penalty for that win, so has a tough task, but could still finish in th e money.

The Wokingham Handicap over 6 furlongs at 17.25 is always one of the most difficult races of the meeting and with 28 runners today is no exception. We think a high draw is essential here, and winning form in other big sprint handicaps is also an advantage, so we have narrowed the race down to two: Jimmy Styles (Clive Cox/ Frankie Dettori), who won the Ayr Gld Cup last year with Frankie aboard, and Genki (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne), winner of the 2009 Stewards Cup. However the other 26 runners are also not simply running for the hell of it, so anything could happen.

The Duke of Edinburgh Handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 18.00 looks equally tricky. For a change we expect the winner to come from one of the top weights, with Drill Sergeant (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who won this last year off the same rating, lightly-raced Imposing (Stoute/ Moore) and Classic Vintage (Amanda Perrett/ Johnny Murtagh) all on our short list, together with Johnston´s other runner Submariner (Dettori), who has 3 of his 4 career starts but has never run in such a fierce race before.

The last race of the meeting is traditionally the Queen Alexandra Stakes at 18.35 over almost 2 3/4 miles. Sometimes this attracts a small field, but this time it looks a really hot event with 18 runners. Our favourite horse Caracciola (Nicky Henderson/ Alan Munro) won this last year at the age of 12, and tries again today under top weight. He should run well this time, but in theory he cannot give weight to better-rated horses such as Aajel (Marcus Tregoning/ Richard Hills) or Munsef (Ian Williams/ Jamie Spencer). Another German-bred Bergo (Gary and Ryan Moore) has - like several of these- been showing good form over hurdles, but the best N.H. performer in the field is probably Sentry Duty (Henderson/ Fallon). We shall be cheering on Caracciola but it will not be easy.

Golden Jubilee at Royal Ascot

Another sensational afternoon´s racing at Royal Ascot on the final day of the meeting, with the Group One Golden Jubilee Stakes over 6 furlongs at 16.50 CET as the highlight. Rarely has such a strong field been assembled, with runners from all over the world. Very difficult indeed for punters, who have weigh up form lines from Hong Kong and Meydan, as well as from closer to home, and even from Hoppegarten, where German-bred Amico Fritz (Henri-Alex Pantall/ Maxime Guyon) set a new course record earlier in the month. Much as we would like him to score, we fear that he will be outclassed here, and his inside draw is also a disadvantage - results so far this week show that the far side has a clear advantage.

Bookies go 7-1 the field, which in a group race is really unusual, but sums up the nature of this race. Another one badly drawn (we think) is the ex-Australian Starspangledbanner (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh), but with the stable back in form, he cannot be altogether discarded. Joy and Fun (Derek Cruz/ Brett Doyle) won on Dubai World Cup Day at Meydan from Fravashi (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), with German-owned Goldene Peitsche winner War Artist (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Olivier Peslier) 4th, and all 3 are possibles, but U.S. -trained Kinsale King (Carl O´Callaghan/ Kieren Fallon) probably put up the better performance when winning the Golden Shaheen that day. Happy Zero (John Moore/ Darren Beadman) is another HK raider and must also be respected.
Best of the locals could be Main Aim (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore), the 3yo Showcasing (John Gosden/ William Buick) and the 5yo mare Fleeting Spirit (Jeremy Noseda/ Richard Hughes). The last-named likes this track, runs her best races when fresh and is our tentative suggestion.

Rest of Royal Ascot: day four

Once again, some huge fields and very competitive racing at Royal Ascot this afternoon. Thje card starts with the Albany Stakes (Group Two, 2yo fillies, 6 furlongs) at 15.30 with 22 runners, 14 of which are last-time-out winners and 7 still unbeaten. 5 Irish-trained runners, and one U.S. filly make it even tougher to assess. The commentator will probably be hoping that Radharcnafarraige (Jim Bolger/ Kevn Manning) does not get involved, but she is the form pick, having won a Group Three at Naas last time. Her two most dangerous opponents in our view are Hooray (Sir Mark Prescott/ Seb Sanders) and Memory (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes), both easy winners of their only start.

The King Edward VII Stakes (Group Two, 3yo´s , 1 1/2 miles) at 16.05 has the smallest field of the meeting so far, with only 8 runners. At First Sight (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) was the surprise of the Derby two weeks go; theoretically pacemaker for two more fancied stable companions, he finished well in front of them both, and after making the running, was only beaten by hotpot Workforce. He must now show that this form was no fluke, but if he repeats it, should certainly score here, Green Moon (Harry Dunlop/ Jamie Spencer) has won all his 3 starts this year, all over 10 furlongs, but only just holds Monterosso (Mark Johnston/ Frankie Dettori), but the Derby form looks much stronger.

The Queen´s Vase (Group Three, 3yo´s, 2 miles) at 18.00 sets another problem, as not a single one of the 12 runners has ever tried this distance, so their stamina must be taken on trust. Mark Johnston has an excellent record here and has won it already 5 times this century, so his Corsica (Dettori) must be taken seriously, but Mikhail Glinka (O´Brien/ Murtagh) looks the class horse in the field.

The two handicaps today look as tricky as ever. The Wolferton Handicap over 10 furlongs at 17.25 has a clear favourite in Michael Jarvis´ lightly-raced Rainbow Peak (Neil Callan). He won all his 3 starts last year and started 2010 with a good second place. However he is handicapped up to the hilt and may not relish the fast ground; he could certainly win, but does not appeal as a good bet at the likely odds.

The Buckingham Palace Stakes over 7 furlongs at 18.35 closes todays card. A mammoth field, with 26 runners, this race is for 3yo´s and up but Treadwell (Jamie Osborne/ Fergus Sweeney) is in fact the only 3yo in the field. He has decent form, but it is really difficult for a 3yo to beat older horses at this level at this time of year. Our shortlist here comprises Penny´s Gift (Hannon/ Hughes), winner of the German 1,000 Guineas last year and now dropped in the weights, Bangalore Gold (David Marnane/ Dettori), winner of a similar race at the Curragh last time, and Prime Exhibit (Richard Fahy/ Paul Hanagan), but it is wide open.

Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot

Top race on the fourth day of Royal Ascot is the Coronation Stakes for 3yo fillies over a mile at 16.50 CET. This looks tricky race, with form from the English, Irish and French 1,000 Guineas - all 3 of them very messy affairs- represented. Jcqueline Quest (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) would certainly be the most popular winner, having been disqualified at Newmarket and in view of the really tough luck so far endured by her owner Neil Martin.

Sent from Heaven (Barry and Michael Hills) was a close fourth.The French Guineas also saw the winner disqualified (in favour of the same horse, Special Duty, who misses this race); Lady of the Desert (Brian Meehan/ Kieren Fallon) was one of those who finished close up then, but it is still not certain that she properly stays a mile. The Irish Guineas also had a bunched finish, with Anna Salai (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Frankie Dettori) caught on the line after going to the front too early, with Music Show (Mick Channon/ Ryan Moore) and Lillie Langtry (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) only inches behind, while Giles na Greine (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) was hampered. Evading Tempete (Francois Rohaut/ Olivier Peslier) won the Italian Guineas, but this race looks much tougher. Puff (Ralph Beckett/ Jim Crowley) has not been since winning a Guineas trial at Newbury in April, but the form of that race looks very solid.

Any of the above could win today, but we will go for the Godophin runner, as she should have won at the Curragh and with Frankie replacing Ajtebi in the saddle (no disrespect intended) she will now have the help of the best Ascot jockey.

Rest of Royal Ascot: day three

Today´s card kicks off with the Group Two Norfolk Stakes for 2yo´s over 5 furlongs at 15.30 CET. 12 runners, 8 of them last-time-out winners and very little collateral form to go on. Richard Hannon is having a great run with his 2yo´s (older horses too!) so unbeaten Zebedee (Richard Hughes) obviously has a chance, but he has not run for two months, and we prefer juveniles with recent form, such as Godolphin´ s Al Aasifh (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), an easy winner last week at Haydock, and Dinkum Diamond (Henry Candy/ Dane O´ Neill), who has won both starts in good style, including at Sandown 3 weeks ago.

The field for the Ribblesdale Stakes for 3yo fillies over 1 1/2 miles at 16.05 includes several fillies that ran in the Oaks, with 5th-placed Gertrude Bell (John Gosden/ William Buick) doing the best of them. Hibaayeb (bin Suroor/ Dettori), 3rd to the smart Sarafina in France as well as Middle Club (Hannon/ Hughes) and Principal Role (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) must also be considered.

Balding has another good chance in the Britannia Stakes, the big handicap of the day for 3yo´s over the straight mile at 17.25. In fact he has four of them, but Balducci (Fortune) seems the best of them after his good win at Haydock from Al Farahidi (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley), who is now better off at the weights but has been beaten again since. Balducci has plenty of scope for improvement, but it is hard to say if his draw in the middle is a problem; yesterday the far side (high numbers) had a huge advantage, but that may not be the case again as the track has been watered since.

The final two races are also restricted to 3yo´s. The listed Hampton Court Stakes is over 10 furlongs, and the Queen has possibilities of winning this with Quadrille (Hannon/ Hughes), who has never yet been out of the first two. Fencing Master (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) has the highest rating here, having run in the English and Irish Guineas, but we are wary of this stable´s runners at present, and Afsare (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon) and Film Score (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Dettori) probably have better prospects. Victories for the Queen at " her" meeting are always very popular, and she has another chance in the King George V Stakes at 18.35, a 1 1/2 mile handicap, with Tactician (Michael Bell/ Hayley Turner). This is another tricky race, and London Stripe (Stoute/ Moore) and Life and Soul (Amanda Perrett/ Paul Hanagan) also come on to our short list.

Gold Cup at Royal Ascot

it´s Ladies´ Day at Royal Ascot and the Gold Cup over 2 1/2 miles at 16.50 CET is the traditional main feature. This has been won for the past 4 years by the magnificient Yeats, certainly the best stayer we have seen so far this century, but he is now retired and his trainer Aidan O´Brien now tries to continue the sequence with Age of Aquarius (Johnny Murtagh). He would have a chance on his best form, but his stable is having a bad run, and he is in any case unproven over the distance. That is also the problem with several of the fancied horses, notably the Newmarket-trained pair Manifest (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) and Ask (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore). Both stables are in great form, but neither has ever run beyond 15 furlongs, and these extreme distances can often find them out. Ask is at least proven Group One performer and has the highest rating in the field, but the lightly-raced Manifest is much improved and looks safer over this distance; his owner Khalid Abdullah can do no wrong this season. Last time out he won the Yorkshire Cup virtually in a canter from Purple Moon (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon). Cecil has a good record with stayers, but his last win in this race was back in 1987.

Saeed bin Suroor also has a good record here, and his two runners Kite Wood (Frankie Dettori) and Darley Sun (William Buick) must be considered. Kite Wood was runner-up in last year´s St. Leger and has put up several good staying performers, while Darley Sun certainly gets the trip, having won the Cesarewitch last year with the greatest of ease. However that was a handicap and this is much tougher.

Our two fancies are Spanish-trained Bannaby (Delcher Sanchez/ Christophe Soumillon) and French hope Kasbah Bliss (Francois Doumen/ Thierry Thulliez). Bannaby is actually the only distance winner in the field, having won the Prix du Cadran in 2008, while Kasbah Bliss was an unlucky runner-up in the same race last year. In a tricky event they could well outstay the British and Irish runners.

Rest of Royal Ascot: day two

The card begins with the Group Three Jersey Stakes for 3yo´s over 7 furlongs, which attracts mainly runners not regarded as good enough to run in yesterday´s St. James´s Palace. Free Judgement (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning), runner-up in the Irish 2,000 Guineas, and Shakespearean (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), an easy all-the-way winner at Epsom, both have a 3lbs penalty but are still the class acts here.

Field of Dreams (Luca Cumani/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) was a narrow winner at Newmarket from Red Jazz (Barry and Michael Hills), Rodrigo de Torrs (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) and Kaptain Kirkup (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin), and there should be litle in it now, but Free Judgement, whose Irish form was given a boost when Canford Cliffs won yesterday, is the selection.

The Windsor Forest Stakes for 4yo and older fillies over a mile at 16.05 is a Group Two event and could see a German-bred winner, as Antara (Bin Suroor(/ Dettori) won well at Epsom last time and the opposition here does not look any stronger. Strawberrydaiquiri (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) has won 5 of her 7 starts, but needs to improve again, while Spacious (James Fanshawe/ Johnny Murtagh) won this last year. Sahpresa (Roderic Collet/ Olivier Peslier) has not run since finishing third in a valuable Japanese race last autumn; earlier she had taken a Group One at Newmarket bur she is now lumbered with a 7 lbs penalty, which makes things much tougher.
The Royal Hunt Cup at 17.25 is the big betting race of the day, but with 30 runners thundering down the straight mile, this is exceptionally difficult. Forgotten Voice (Jeremy Noseda/ Murtagh) won this in good style last year but now has top-weight, and we believe the winner will come from further down the handicap. According to the betting, Irish-trained Dandy Boy (David Marnane/ Colm O´Donoghue) and Acrostic (Cumani/ Fallon) are the favourites, but our four against the field are Riggins (Andrew Balding/ Jimmy Fortune), Mull of Killough (Jon Spearing/ Steve Drowne), Docofthebay (Jeremy Glover/ Robert Winston) and St. Moritz (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning).

The Queen Mary Stakes (2yo fillies, 5 furlongs, 18.00) has 18 runners, 13 of whom won last time out. This again is pure guesswork, but Irish hopes Meow (David Wachman/ Murtagh) and Moonlit Garden (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) could get involved, as well as Richard Hannon´s pair Pennys Pearl (Dettori) and The Sydney Arms (Richard Hughes)

Royal Ascot: Prince of Wales´s Stakes (Group One, 1 1/4 miles)

Todays´ card at Royal Ascot is not quite as glittering as yesterday´s, but looks much harder for punters. Every race yesterday was won by a strongly backed runner, but it will be a surprise if the same thing happens today. Main event is the Prince of Wales´s Stakes at 16.50 CET, the only Group One event today. The Ullmann family won this in 2007 with Manduro and has another chance now with Wiener Walzer (Jens Hirschberger/ Adrie de Vries), last year´s German Derby winner. He ran an excellent race last time in the Prix d´Ispahan, when 3rd to Goldikova and Byword; he was 10 lengths behind the latter, who is likely to start favourite today, but is expected to finish much closer this time. The distance is more suitable and Byword was fitter in Paris. The fast ground will cerainly suit Wiener Walzer and he could be a nice each way bet at the likely long odds. Byword (Andre´Fabre/ Maxim Guyon) is trained in France for Khalid Abdullah and the same owner also has Twice Over (Henry Ce cil/ Tom Queally) engaged. This one won the Champion Stakes last year, defeating Mawatheek (Marcus Tregoning/ Richard Hills) by half a length, and ran another good race whn third in the Breeders Cup Classic; he flopped on his only start since, in the Dubai World Cup, but that form should not be taken seriously although he did finish a long way behind Allybar (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Ahmed Ajtebi). Godolphin´s other runner Cavalryman (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori) was third in the Arc last year for Fabre and should go well now, despite a disappointing effort last time.

Presvis (Luca Cumani/ Kiern Fallon) is another problem horse, as he needs to be held up until the last possible moment and normally gets himself into trouble as a result. He certainly has the ability, but has been racing all over the world and possibly needs a break now.

Glass Harmonium (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore)was a winner at this distance at the 2009 Royal Ascot meeting, but this is a much tougher race, while the Aga Khan´s Shalanaya (Mikel Delzangles/ Christophe Lemaire) has a chance if she can repeat the form shown in the Prix de l´Opera last October, but Byword seems the main French hope. and wherever he is, the German runner should not be far behind.

Rest of Royal Ascot

The remaining 3 races are also of the greatest interest, starting with the Group Two Coventry Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 17.25 CET, always one of the best juvenile events of the year and won last time by Canford Cliffs. His trainer Richard Hannon now saddles Strong Suit (Richard Hughes), who won his dwbut at Nwbury on good style. The problem is, most of the others can boast similar form. 6 of the 13 runners are still unbeaten, and 11 of them won last time out. Aidan O´Brien has an excellent record in this and has two runners- Zoffany, the choice of stable jockey Johnny Murtagh and Samuel Morse (Ryan Moore), both unbeaten in two starts. Zoffany´s wins came in small fields and probably modest company, but presumably Murtagh knows what he is doing. Elzaam (Michael Jarvis/ Richard Hills) must also be considered after a comfortable win at York, but this is not really a race to bet on.

The Ascot Stakes over 2 1/2 miles at 18.00 is the only handicap of the day and with 20 runners presents its usual problem, compounded by the fact that several of them have been running over hurdles, including likely favourite Ghimaar (Nicky Henderson/ Kieren Fallon), an easy winner at Worcester 9 days ago. He was listed class when with Dermot Weld and despite this rather unorthodox preparation has an obvious chance in this company. We also like Woolfall Treasure (Gary and Ryan Moore) - also a hurdler, and Som Tala (Mick Channon/ Richard Hughes), who has finished in the first 5 in this race for the past 3 seasons and is now on a very nice weight. Jane Chapple-Hyam saddled the winner last year and has two runners now, of whom we prefer Rangefinder (Jamie Spencer).

The final race is the listed Windsor Castle Stakes for 2yo´s over 5 furlongs at 18.35. American trainer Wesley Ward sent over Strike the Tiger to win this last year and now sends another speedball Metropolitan Man (Elvis Trujillo), a spectacular winner of his only start. The dangers are Chilworth Lad (Channon/ Moore) and Oor Jock (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen), but this is another race where almost anything can happen.

Royal Ascot: St. James´s Palace Stakes (Group One) 16.50 CET

The St. James´s Palace Stakes is one of the most competitive races of the week and is certainly the best 3yo mile race of the season, with the first 3 from the English 2,000 Guineas, the first and fourth from the Irish equivalent, and the beaten favourite from the French version. That was the Aga Khan´s Siyouni (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Christophe Lemaire), who was badly hampered and is strongly fancied to put the matter straight this afternoon.

His compatriot Makfi (Mikael Delzangles/ Olivier Peslier) is undefeated and comes here after his convincing victory at Newmarket. He is difficult to assess but clearly very smart. Richard Hannon´s pair Dick Turpin (Ryan Moore) and Canford Cliffs (Richard Hughes) finished second and third and Newmarket, with the former runner-up again in the French Guineas and the latter then winning the Irish version very impressively. Steinbeck (Aidan O´ Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) finished fourth there on his seasonal debut; he is bound to come on for that and we make him our speculative choice. He has always been highly rated but has so far not been able to show his true form because of various setbacks. he is accompanied by two pacemakers and may prove today just how good he is.

Royal Ascot: King´s Stand Stakes (Group One, 5 furlongs) 16.05 CET

The second race, the King´s Stand for the top sprinters, is another humdinger with an international field. Since the Australians started coming to this meeting they have cleaned up in this race and it does seem that Australian-breds are the best sprinters in the world. Here they are represented by Nicconi (David Hayes/ Frankie Dettori) and Gold Trail (G Portelli/ Michael Rodd) and the former is our fancy.

He has been beaten twice (on softer ground than he likes and over 6 furlongs) but his win in the top 5 furlongs event Down Under, the Lightning Stakes, gives him a great chance here, especially with the best Ascot rider in the saddle. Gold Trail is blindingly fast, but may possibly not last home.

Equiano (Barry and Michael Hills) won this race in 2008 for a Spanish stable and has come back to form this season, while Kingsgate Native won the Golden Jubilee, but after failing to fire at stud has come back into training with Sir Michael Stoute and will have the assistance of Ryan Moore in the saddle. He looks the best British chance of beating the Aussies. Henry Candy always does well with his sprinters, but his two runners Amour Propre (Dane O´Neill) and Markab (Pat Cosgrave) look held on form, and the same goes for the consistent Borderlescott (Robin Bastiman/ Neil Callan). More dangerous could be Stan Moore s Total Gallery (Richard Hughes), who won last year´s Prix de l´Abbaye, but he - like Equiano and several more of these -was behind Kingsgate Native last time.

Royal Ascot: Queen Anne Stakes (Group One), one mile, 15.30 CET

Royal Ascot begins today and one can confidently state that this is the world´s best flat meeting - better than the Breeders Cup, Longchamp´s Arc weekend or Dubai and Hong Kong. The very first race of the meeting, the Queen Anne Stakes, named after the monarch who built the track in 1711, looks like the best race of the week, with the three best milers in Europe and probably the whole world in the opposition.

Favourite is the wonderful 5yo mare Goldikova (Freddie Head/ Olivier Peslier), winner already of 8 Group Ones, including the Breeders Cup Mile twice, and unbeaten over this distance for the past 2 years, in which she has easily beaten the best that could be thrown at her. She is notoriously difficult at the start, but otherwise she has no flaws and if she is in her usual form (and Freddie thinks so) then she should win.

The opposition is headed by Paco Boy (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and Rip van Winkle (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh). With two easy wins this season, Paco Boy seems better than ever - but he needs to be as he finished behind both Goldikova and Rip van Winkle last season. He won this race last year, when the field was weaker, but seems clearly the best British hope. It was earlier felt that he was best over 7 furlongs, but his win here in 2009 and last time in the Lockinge Stakes show that he gets a mile in top company, but even so we would be suprised to see him win this.

Rip van Winkle is a different matter and on last season´s form he would go close. He was the best 3yo miler in Europe last year, winning the Sussex Stakes and the QE II Stakes (this CD) before flopping in the Breeders Cup Classic. The problem is that he has not run since that race in November. It should also not be forgotten that he gave Sea the Stars a race in the Eclipse - something no other horse was able to do last year. All this suggests that he can bustle up Goldikova, but the lack of a recent race is obviously a problem, especially a the O´Brien runners so far have all needed their first run of the season.

It will frankly be amazing is another horse wins the Queen Anne, but the Aga Khan´s Dalghar (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Christophe Lemaire) is clearly the best of the rest. This half-brother to Dalakhani and Daylami is improving - but needs to improve further to trouble the top three here. However he could well run into the frame. The lack of pace in the race could be a problem, but whatever the pace and the tactics, Goldikova is the class act here and our selection.

The lull before the storm

Royal Ascot starts tomorrow, so clearly today´s U.K. racing is very low level. Best race this afternoon at Carlisle is the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo fillies at 16.45 CET. Timeless Elegance (Howard Johnson/ Ian Brennan) has won both her starts this year in good style and although she has gone up in the weights she can take this at the main expense of consistent Emerald Girl (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan).

There is a listed race at Warwick this evening, the grandly-named Warwickshire Oaks over 11 furlongs at 20.55. Cassique Lady (Lucy Wadham/ Eddie Ahern) won this last year with Lady Jane Digby (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) third, but the latter was very unlucky that day and can take her revenge. The lady has won twice in the meantime, including a group race in Germany. Bequ Adoree (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon) looks next best.

Another one hoping to repeat last year´s win is Memphis Man (David Evans/ Kevin Lundie) in the 6 furlongs handicap at 20.40 at Windsor. After some poor performances he came back to form last week by winning at Nottingham, the same day that Requisite (Ian Wood/ Richard Hughes) scored at Yarmouth, and that one looks the main danger, although German-bred Gwilym (Derek Haydn Jones/ Jim Crowley) ran well at Sandown on Saturday and could be in the frame again.

There is also N.H. racing this afternoon at Sedgefield and a mixed meeting (3 flat races, 4 over hurdles) at Roscommon in Ireland. The best event here is the hurdles race at 20.20 with some useful types entered; our selection is Grey Soldier (Gordon Elliott/ Paul Carberry)

French Oaks at Chantilly

The Aga Khan has an excellent chance of improving his already outstanding record in the Prix de Diane (French Oaks) at Chantilly at 16.04 CET today, with 3 of the 9 runners in his colours. Sarafina (Christophe Lemaire) is the obvious favourite, but stable companion Rosanara (Gerald Mossé), also trained by Alain de Royer-Dupré, should not be overlooked, as she was running on strongly when a close 5th in the French 1,000 Guineas despite being badly hampered early in the straight. André Fabre has his string in brilliant form, and saddles the main danger in Deluxe (Maxime Guyon), while the supplemented Sandbar (Francis Rohaut/ Olkivier Peslier) can also make the frame. There are no foreign runners in the Diane, but Mario Hofer has two chances of being placed in the supporting group races, with Lamool (Dominique Boeuf) in the Prix du Lys for 3yo´s over 2400 metres at 14.35 and Noble Alpha (Mosse´) in the Prix Paul de Moussac for 3yo´s over a mile at 16.50. However Werner Baltromei ´s König Bernard (Guyon) is only an outsider in the mile race for older horses at 17.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Willywell - Question Day - Forthe Millionkiss
2. Race: Goldwaki - Prizefighting - Into Wain
3. Race: Han Shan - Royal Bengali - Le Bosphore
4. Race: Sarafina - Deluxe - Rosanara
5. Race: Chasing Halos - Emerald Commander - Foreteller
6. Race: Fuisse - Elusive Wave - Sweet Hearth
7. Race: Chicago May - Mashuk - Tinder Ball
8. Race: Mindbend - Corconte - The Joe Mcardle

Group race in Cork

With Royal Ascot starting on Tuesday, there is obviously no point in expecting high class racing today in the U.K., but there is a decent Irish card at Cork, headed by the Group Three Noblesse Stakes for fillies and mares over 1 1/2 miles at 17.50 CET. Grace o´Malley (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) can take this, as her fourth place in the 2009 Irish Oaks is the best form on offer. A big danger could be Unity (David Wachman/ Johnny Murtagh), an easy maiden winner last time and stepping up in class, who is very well-bred and clearly stays well. Weld and Smullen also have a chance in the main supporting race, a listed event for 2yo´ s over 6 furlongs at 16.10, with Triple Event, but here we prefer Clondinnery (Ger Lyons/ Keagan Latham), who holds the Weld juvenile on earlier form, and represents last year´s winning team.

Best race in England is the listed Cathedral Stakes over 6 furlongs at 16.40 at Salisbury. This looks wide open, although in-form trainer Richard Hannon launches a strong challenge with 3 of the 10 runners, the pick of whom has to be Richard Hughes´ mount Angel´s Pursuit. However he faces a tough task for a 3yo against experienced older sprinters, and Godolphin´s Sirocco Breeze (Saeed bin Suroor/ Ted Durcan), already a winner twice in Meydan this year, is the highest-rated runner and has an obvious chance. Palace Moon (Hughie Morrison (Steve Drowne) and Swiss Diva (David Elsworth/ Jimmy Fortune) are both seasonal debutants but very dangerous on the best of last year´ s form. There was only a neck between them when they met at Newmarket last August, and there could be little in it again today.

Tipps für die Rennen:
1. Rennen: Joe Eile - Expire - Little Fairy
2. Rennen: Clondinnery - Eastern Light - Triple Eight
3. Rennen: Iron Major - Silk Slippers - Toparch
4. Rennen: Zayaan - Full Of Hope - Nanotech
5. Rennen: Unity - She`S Our Mark - Grace O`Malley
6. Rennen: Full Title - Dawn Eclipse - Dash Back
7. Rennen: Prayer Boat - Silas Mariner - Super Say

Rest of the U.K. and Ireland today

There is plenty more racing today and theoretically the best event of the day is the Scurry Stakes for 3yo´s over 5 furlongs at Sandown at 16.30 CET. This is a listed race, although to be honest, very few of the 9 runners are up to genuine listed class. In a poor race, we hope that Reignier (John Weymes/ Ryan Moore) can get the better of Duchess Dora (John Quinn/ Ian Brennan). Ryan Moore could well be in for a profitable afternoon, as he has rides, most of them with good chances, in every race, usually for his father Gary or for his boss Sir Michael Stoute. He should certainly take the 10 furlongs maiden at 17.40 on Stoute´s Direct Answer (although Henry Cecil s well-bred debutant Channel Squadron, in the colours of Hoppegarten boss Gerhard Schöningh) could be a danger), while Amanda Perrett´s Coasting is an interesting outside ride. He was a useful 2yo but then was off the track for almost 3 years before making an excellent comeback at Newmarket last month; if he doesn´t "bo unce", he can follow up here.

There is also flat racing this afternoon at Bath (Seb Sanders the jockey to follow here), and this evening at Leicester, Lingfield (all-weather) and Limerick (Ireland), and N.H. racing at Hexham. The best race at these meetings is the 5 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 19.30 at Leicester, in which all 7 runners have a chance; Stoute´s Racy (Louis-Philippe Beuzelin) may be able to confirm his latest running with top-weight Monsieur Jo (Walter Swinburn/ Eddie Ahern).

Sandown - betting forecast:
1. Race: Revered - Beachfire - Nazreef
2. Race: Muwakaba - Bohemian Melody - Syrian
3. Race: Coasting - Crown Choice - Bullwhip
4. Race: Duchess Dora - Reignier - Tawaabb
5. Race: Spring Green - Brynfa Boy - Ajjaadd
6. Race: Direct Answer - Channel Squadron - Balatoma
7. Race: Highland Legacy - Abayaan - Hallstatt

Top handicaps at York´ s big charity meeting

Today´s big meeting is at York, where all races are run in support of charity, but the card consists mainly of handicaps, all of which look very tricky. The card begins with the traditional Queen Mothers Cup for lady amateur riders over 1 1/2 miles at 15.05 CET with 19 runners. It is usually the safest option in such races to stick with the most experiencd riders, which in this case clearly means the two Irish stars Nina Carberry, who rides Mark Johnston´s consistent Spirit is Needed, and Katie Walsh on Steve Gollings´ Conquisto, who has not run on the flat for a while but has been in good form over hurdles. Both are badly drawn, but the expertise of the riders can perhaps negate this problem. Mark Johnston is one of several Yorkshire trainers who could dominate proceedings and his two runners in the 9 furlongs handicap at 15.40, Tartan Gunna (Richard Hills) and Opus Maximus (Joe Fanning) belong on the short list, together with consistent Distant Memories (Tom Tate/ Jamie Spe ncer).

It could be the turn of the Easterby family in the 6 furlongs race for 3yo´s at 16.15, with Mick saddling Hoof It (Graham Gibbons), owned by golfer Lee Eastwood and winner of his last 3 races but all at 5 furlongs, and Tim represented by Midnight Martini (David Allan), first or second in all recent starts. Swilly Ferry (Barry and Michael Hills) won a similar race at Newmarket last time, but has it all to do under top weight and a better alternative could be lightly-raced Madam Macie (John Hetherton/ Kieren Fallon), who landed a gamble at Haydock last time. The 10 furlongs event for 3yo´s at 16.50 is another difficult one, and our 3 against the field are Cultivar (Barry and Michael Hills), Thaahira (Michael Jarvis/ Richard Hills) and Ejteyaaz (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan). Fahey is the top trainer here and saddles 3 in the 2yo maiden at 17.20. Sir Reginald is the choice of stable jockey Hanagan and is our best bet of the meeting.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Spirit Is Needed - Crackentorp - Siberian Tiger
2. Race: Distant Memories - Elliptical - Opus Maximus
3. Race: Hoof It - Swilly Ferry - Madam Macie
4. Race: Thaahira - Rebel Soldier - Ejteyaaz
5. Race: Sir Reginald - Rojo Boy - Frankish Dynasty
6. Race: Soviet Secret - Zakiy - Ezra Church
7. Race: Averoo - Wyatt Earp - Misplaced Fortune

Sandown, York and Market Rasen

Both Sandown and York have big race days tomorrow, but today´s cards are very modest by the standards of these tracks. Main event at York is the 2 mile handicap at 16.25 CET, whch is very tricky, especially as some of the leading candidates have never yet raced over this distance, for example Sirgarfieldsobers (Brian Rothwell/ Paul Pickard) and The Last Alzao (Richard Fahy/ Paul Hanagan). If they get the trip, both look very dangerous, but we prefer the proven stamina of Bollin Felix (Tim Easterby/ David Allan). Ex-German Backbord (Lucy Wadham/ Alan Munro) is well handicapped but hard to fancy, not having run for a year and not run on the flat for 2 years. Easterby and Allan have a chance of doubling up in the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.35 with Favourite Girl, but this is another very open race and we like the chances of last year´s winner Equuleus Pictor (Jon Spearing/ Jack Dean). Curiously enough, although almost all the14 runners are distance specialists, he is the only CD winner in the field and is back below his 2009 winning mark.

Most of the top jockeys will be at Sandown (and moving on to Goodwood´s evening fixture). Frnkie Dettori could be in for profitbe afternoon. He rides top-weight Special Quality for Robert Cowell in the opening 5 furlongs handicap at 15,40, and he has a decent chance after his easy win last time at Southwell; sprint specialist Henry Candy saddles the main danger in Final Turn (Dane O´Neill). He can also take the 3yo handicap over 10 furlongs at 17.55 on Mark Johnston´s Cloudy City, who has not troubled the judge in his 4 starts so far but meets fairly poor opposition here. He partners Newmarket winner Ellemujie for Ken Ivory in the 10 furlongs handicap for older horses at 17.25 but this is a really tough race; Jo´Burg (Lady Herries/ Martin Lane) put up an amazing performance to win over this CD last time, despite missing the break and although now worse off at the weights he can score again. Godolphin´s Ecliptic is our best bet of the day here in the 2yo maiden over 7 furlong s at 16.15, but he will be partnered by Ahmed Ajtebi. He made an excellent debut at Newmarket and although there are several well-bred debutants in the field, it will take a smart one to beat him.

Market Rasen has just about the best summer jumping in the U.K. but today´s card is also below average. Any rain (which is forecast) would help the chances of German-bred Sadlers Star (Michael Blake/ Timmy Murphy) in the opening novice hurdle at 15.00 and we also expect Saltagioo (Milton Harris/ Jimmy Derham) to follow up his easy Newton Abbot victory in better company at 16.35.

Ireland this evening

Leopardstown stages a good card this evening, with the Group Three Ballyogan Stakes over 6 furlongs for fillies and mares at 20.05 CET as the main feature. 3 of the 10 runners are trained in Britain, with Beyond Desire (Michael Jarvis/ Pat Smullen), an odds-on listed winner at Haydock last time, as possibly the best of them. But the home team looks strong, with Miss Gorica (Joanna Morgan/ Wayne Lordan) one of their main hopes.

She won a listed race at Naas only on Monday but she is in foal and should run well again. However we prefer Atasari (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning), back in distance after making no show in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. David Wachman´s Glorified is another interesting runner. She won her only start very easily, a modest maiden at Dundalk, but it could be significant that Johnny Murtagh prefers to partner her rather than two Aidan O´Brien runners in the same ownership.

Main supporting feature is the listed mile race at 20.35. Recharge (Kevin Prendergast/ Chris Hayes) is our choice here; he has been runner-upo 3 times running, but the last time was to Fame and Glory, arguably the best older horse in Europe, and that form - even though he was beaten a long way- should suffice here. The Aga Khan´s consistent Rayeni (John Oxx/ Fran Berry) looks next best.

There is also N.H. racing at Clonmel, with mainly large fields. However there are 6 runners in the novice chase at 20.45, which could go to Warcraft (Michael Hourigan/ AP Heskin).

Listed race at Newbury

There are 6 meetings today in the U.K. but the only better class event is the listed Lord Weinstock Memorial for 3yo fillies over 10 furlongs at 16.05 CET at Newbury. Top-rated here is Stan Moore´s Lady Darshaan (Richard Hughes), who ran in both the English and Irish 1,000 Guineas and was not disgraced in either. This is a drop in grade and move up in distance, and we prefer the sponsor´s Eleanore Duse (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore), third last time in the Musidora Stakes, with Pink Symphony (Paul Cole/ Jamie Spencer) - who prefers to run here than in the French Oaks on Sunday- in fourth. Kithonia (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) won her only start - at Salisbury last September-. easily enough, but this is a different kettle of fish, while consistent Deirde (John Gosden/ William Buick) looks likely to make the frame.

At Nottingham , the 3yo handicap over a mile at 17.00 looks the hottest race, even with only 6 runners. Bottom weight Count Bertoni (Steve Gollings/ Paul Hanagan) won a handicap over this CD last time, but the opposition looks much stronger this time, and we prefer Bintalwaadi (Ed Dunlop/ Richard Hills), an easy all-weather winner two months ago.

The Yarmouth card is uninspiring, but Motrice, runner-up at Lingfield last time, can keep up Sir Mark Prescott´s and Seb Sanders´ successful strike rate stepped up to 13/4 miles at 18.00. Frankie Dettori has just one ride today, Godolphin´ s Al Aasifh in the opening 2yo maiden at 20.20 at Haydock´s evening meeting, and the hint should be taken, although he will be at very short odds. He was hampered when third on his debut at Newmarket.
There are also two N.H. meetings this evening, and Jonjo O´Neill could possibly score at both; his best chances are Knock em Dead and Spate River, at 20.40 and 22.10 rspectively at Uttoxeter, and Khazar in the handicap hurdle at 20.30 at Fontwell. Tony McCoy rides the first two and Richie McLernon the last-named.

Lanark Silver Bell at Hamilton this evening

The Lanark Silver Bell dates back to the 12th century and is regarded by some historians as the oldest horse race in the world. The racecourse at Lanark, near Glasgow, closed down over 30 years ago, but the race is now run at nearby Hamilton Park and is now a valuable handicap over 1 1/2 miles. Tonight´s edition at 21.05 CET looks wide open, but it is certainly significant that Ryan Moore travels up from Haydock to partner Sir Michael Stoute´s Jedi. Mark Johnston ´s pair Record Breaker (Royston Ffrench) and bottom-weight Lady Eclair (Paul Mulrennan) are dangerous, as are Managua (Mick Channon/ Chris Catlin) and Veloso (Jeremy Glover/ Phillip Makin).

Best bet at Kempton´s evening meeting should be Dever Dream (William Haggas/ Richard Hughes), who has top-weight in the 6 furlongs handicap (another one!) at 20.20. He trotted up last week at Lingfield, and a 6 lbs penalty should not stop him from following up. Haggas and Hughes may complete a double with Flouncing in the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo fillies at 21.50.

Haydock, Beverley and Yarmouth

The best racing this afternoon is at Haydock and most of the top jockeys will be there. Frankie Dettori teams up with Mark Johnston on Below Zero, top-weight in the 3yo 6 furlongs handicap at 16.20CET, and Pentominium in the mile handicap for 3yo´s at 16 .50. The latter is difficult to assess, having scrambled home in a modest all-weather affair when last seen in February, and it could be that top-weight, Brian Meehan´s Seafarer, winner of his only start so far, will prove stronger, while Spoken (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne) also looks dangerous. It is not clear who rides Seafarer, as Martin Dwyer has an ankle injury. However we fancy Below Zero, who ended in mid-field in a hot Newmarket handicap last time, in his race, where the main danger comes from Diman Waters (Eric Alston/ Ryan Moore), first or second in all 4 starts this season. Jeremy Noseda has been having a quiet season up to now, but we think he can take the 10 furlongs handicap at 17.55 with the very well-bred b ut lighly-raced Plymouth Rock (Ryan Moore).

Noseda can also be on the scorecard at Beverley with Advertisement (Tom Eaves) in the 7 1/2 furlongs maiden at 17.00; Fifty Moore (Jedd O´Keeffe/ Pat Cosgrave) and Rule Breaker( Mark Johnston/ Silvestre de Sousa), both runners-up last time, are the obvious dangers. It could be the second leg of a double for the jockey, who also has a good chance with Green Poppy in the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.30. However these sprint handicaps at Beverley are always tricky, and we would not be surprised to see long-shot Tournedos (Ruth Carr/ James Sullivan) run well here. he has been way out of form in recent starts, but the handicapper has dropped him an amazing 40 lbs since last summer.

The best race at Yarmouth is another sprint handicap, over 6 furlongs at 17.10. Lightly-raced Deacon Blues (James Fanshawe/ Jamie Spencer) is the obvious favourite here, but top-weights Street Power (Jeremy Gask/ Adam Kirby) and Angus Newz (Mick Quinn/ Seb Sanders), both dropping in grade, look threatening.

German runners in France today

Flat racing in France today at Longchamp and Lion d´Angers, and we expect some more German-trained winners. At Longchamp, Mario Hofer´s Royal Pepper (Gerald Mosse´) can start the ball rolling in the opening tiercé handicap over 2000 metres at 13.35, although this is as always a very difficult race. In the following race at 14.05, race over 2000 metres for 3yo maiden fillies, Werner Baltromei saddles two runners:

Tunis (Davy Bonilla) and Königstreue (Dominique Boeuf), with clear preference for the latter. In the equivalent race for colts half an hour later Baltromei and Boeuf are represented by Teka Maki, while the jockey also partners Don´t Rebel for Waldemar Hickst in the mile race for 3yo´s at 15.05. Uwe Ostmann sends Valdino for the 3000 metres seller at 16.40 with top young jockey Maxime Guyon aboard, while Grazilla (Andreas Trybuhl/ Christophe Lemaire) and Naxon (Baltromei/ Boeuf) both run in the second division of the 2000 metres handicap at 17.10. In our opinion, Königstreue and Don´t Rebel have the best chances.

Hickst also has chances of winning the top race at Lion d´Angers, the listed Prix Urban Sea for 4yo and older fillies and mares at 15.20 with Rubiana (Gaetan Masure), who won last time in France by half a length from Fleur Enchantée, who looks one of the main dangers again, with Catalina Sunrise another threat. She is the only German runner at this meeting,

N.H. racing at Bangor and Southwell this evening

Welsh trainer Evan Williams always does well in the summer and he has excellent chances this evening of saddling winners at both tracks. At Bangor he runs Beyond (Tony McCoy) in the first 3yo hurdle race of the year at 19.50 CET. Obviously there is no form to go on, but Beyond was just about the best of these on the flat, winning twice for Jeremy Noseda, and with the champion jockey aboard he can start off a successful evening for the stable, who can follow up with Ajman (Donal Dahy) in the handicap hurdle at 20.20. Tzora (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) was a non-runner yesterday in order to go for this easier event, but he has to concede a lot of weight to Ajman, who has already won twice this season, and this is probably beyond him; Paul Nicholls´ Marc Aurele (Ryan Mahon), also a recent winner, looks next best.

Evan Williams sends his usual jockey Paul Moloney to Southwell for four rides and it is by no means inconceivable that all four could score. Mutual Respect in the 3 1/4 mile handicap chase at 19.05, Cannon Fire (an easy winner at Worcester on Sunday) in the handicap hurdle an hour later, Oursininlaw in the novice hurdle at 20.35 and top-weight Silverburn in the handicap hurdle at 21.35 are the stable´s runners, and it will be disappointing if they travel home without a couple of winners.

Salisbury and Redcar this afternoon

Rain is forecast, so punters are advised to keep an eye on the weather and possible changes in the going. Salisbury stages quite a good card, with the 10 furlongs handicap for 3yo fillies at 17.30 the main event, This is a very open contest, in which all 9 fillies can be given a chance as they all come here in good form. On Her Way (Henry Cecil/ Pat Cosgrave) and Sea of Heartbreak (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne) both won last time in good style and go on the short list, togethe with Scorn (John Gosden/ William Buick) - runner-up 3 times running - but our main fancy is bottom-weight On Khee (Hughie Morrison/ Travis Block), as the trainer´s family sponsors the race. The two divisions of the 3yo maiden at 16.20 and 16.55 have attracted some well-bred types from top stables. Poltergeist, from the powerful Hannon/ Hughes team, can take the first on his seasonal debut, while Sir Michael Stoute´s Give Your Verdict (Ryan Moore), 4th at Goodwood on his debut, can take the second. Ex-Ge rman All the Winds (Sam Lycett/ Liam Keniry), not seen out since running third at Dresden in November, makes his British debut in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 18.30. It is hard to know whether he can run to this mark, but the rain, if it comes, would certainly be in favour of the Samum gelding.

At Redcar, the main event is the handicap over the straight mile at 16.35, another very open race. Karaka Jack (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley), the only 3yo in the field of 12, must have a chance here, but hat-trick chasing Charlie Cool (Ruth Carr/ Robert Winston) and especially top-weight Collateral Damage (Tim Easterby/ David Allan) look dangerous. The latter won 6 rces last season, including twice this CD, and is now dropping in class after running in some hot races. With Sir Mark Prescott´s team now in top form, we fancy that Lutine Bell (Seb Sanders) can continue the stable´s winning run in the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s here at 16.00.

Irish racing today

Today is an Irish holiday and Naas stages a good card, headed by the Group Three Coolmore Stud Fillies Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 17.10 CET. The sponsor won this last year with Lillie Langtry and try again with Catherineofaragon (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh), an easy winner at Dundalk last time, but like most of the field moving up sharply in class. The only filly proven at a better level is the sole British raider, Kevin Ryan´s Geesala (Pat Smullen), who won the listed Hilary Needler over 5 furlongs at Beverley last time. If she gets the extra distance, she should win. The listed Sprint Stakes at 16.40 is over 5 furlongs and looks quite tricky, as several of these have met before. Rain Delayed (Ger Lyons/ Keagan Latham) won narrowly from Miss Gorica (Joanna Morgan/ Wayne Lordan) at Cork over 6 furlongs, with Wrong Answer 4th and Snaefell 5th. The form may well be reversed this time and we fancy that the consistent Snaefell (Mike Halford/ Murtagh) may come out best . especially if there is some juice in the ground.

There is also jumping at Listowel, where the most interesting runner could be Sarteano (Dessie Hughes/ Roger Loughran) in the 2 mile handicap hurdle at 15.20. He has come back to form recently, winning a chase at Down Royal a month ago and then on the flat at Tramore on Saturday. He can complete an unusual hat-trick today.

U.K. racing today

A normal Monday programme today, with flat racing this afternoon at Folkestone and this evening at Pontefract and Windsor, while there is also jumping from Newton Abbot. Andrew Balding is an infrequent visitor to Folkestone, both his two runners there this afternoon, both with Liam Keniry in the saddle, should run well: Brave Bugsy in the 2 mile handicap at 16.45 CET, who won over this trip at Bath last time and probably has Goodwood scorer On Terms (Simon Dow/ Tom Queally) and last year´s winner, top-weight Sweetheart (Jamie Poulton/ Steven Donohoe) to beat; and Mecox Bay in the maiden race over 10 furlongs an hour later, he showed some ability in his two starts last year but has not raced since. Well-bred debutant Cockney (Mark Johnston/ Frankie Dettori) and Blitzed (Gary Moore/ Fergus Sweeney)are the dangers here.

Gary Moore can also get on the scorecard at Newton Abbot´s N.H. card with Alhaque, with son Jamie riding, in the novice hurdle at 16.30. A couple of German-breds here whose chances will depend a bit on the weather, are Alroyal (PC Dando/ Mr. DG Pritchard) in the handicap chase at 17.00 and top-weight Moon Star in the handicap hurdle half an hour later. Alroyal needs form going, while any rain would help the chances of Moon Star.
At Windsor this evening, the 5 furlong handicap for 3yo´s t 21.00 looks interesting; Kingscote Choice (John Best/ Robert Winston) won in good style at Ffos Las last time in good style and is the selection here. Otherwise it should pay to follow Richard Hannon, who is by a big margin the top trainer at this track and has fancied runners in several races.

Mr. Wolf (John Quinn/ Tony Hamilton) is a real Pontefract specialist and can improve his record here in the 5 furlongs handicap at 22.15, where the fourtimer-chasing Chosen One (Ruth Carr/ James Sullivan) is an obvious danger. Mr. Wolf is such a standing dish here that the main event this evening, a 6 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 20.45, is named after him. This can go to top-weight Bated Breath (Charlton/( Jimmy Fortune), who won his onöy start in promising fashion. Fortune also has chances in the other 3yo handicap, this time over 10 furlongs at 21.15 with Clive Brittain´s Azlak, but Godolphin´s Pass Muster (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Ahmed Ajtebi), another once-raced colt with top weight, may prove his master.

Classic weekend coming

This column is taking 3 days off, but before that happens we shall look at the big races coming this weekend. The Epsom Derby and The Oaks have both been run since the late 18th century and have been imitated in every racing nation, from Kentucky to Hamburg to Hong Kong, but the Epsom versions are the originals. They are no longer the most important races in the world, and far from the most valuable, but are still of huge significance.

The 3 big races of the meeting, Friday´s Coronation Cup (for older horses) at 15.45 CET and Oaks (3yo fillies) at 17.05, and Saturday´s Derby at 17.00 are all run over the classic distance of 1 1/2 miles. The Coronation Cup often has a small field, but it looks a strong renewal this time, headed by Fame and Glory (Aidan O´Brien/ Jhnny Murtagh), 2nd in last year´s Derby and winner of the Irish version, and Sariska (Michael Bell/ Jamie Spencer), winner of the 2009 Oaks. Youmzain (Mick Channon/ Kieren Fallon) - runner-up in 3 "Arcs" and also here last year, Godolphin´s Cavalryman, now with Saeed bin Suroor and ridden by Frankie Dettori, and Jukebox Jury (Mark Johnston/ Royston Ffrench) also have their chances. Logically Fame and Glory should win, but the odds are not appealing (11/10 at the time of writing). If you can bet place only, our suggestion is Youmzain for a place.
The Oaks looks wide open this year with 15 runners, and it is not even clear who will start favourite. Henry cecil has a good record in this race and his pair Aviate (Tom Queally) - unbeaten in 3 starts- and Timepiece (Eddie Ahern) have obvious chances, while Frankie rides Michael Jarvis´ once-raced Sajjhaa, highly-rated but taking a huge leap in class. Marcus Tregoning´ s Rumoush (Richard Hills) has been well-backed, while there are som strong Irish candidates including Remember When (O´Brien/ Murtagh) and Akdarena (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning).
There are another half-dozen with chances in a race where nothing really stands out, and we give a very tentative vote to Akdarena.

12 are expected to run in Saturday´s Derby, where the betting market was thrown into confusion this week by the uncertainty regarding Aidan O´Brien´s runners. It is now clear that he will saddle 3 starters, with Murtagh riding Jan Vermeer, who will be a warm favourite and is the clear form choice. Godolphin also have 3 runners, with Frankie riding Mahmoud al Zaroon´ s Rewilding and Kieren Fallon on Saeed´s Al Zir. Ther has been a lot of support this week for Workforce (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore), despite his latest defeat, while Henry Cecil´s Bullet Train (Queally), easy winner of the Lingfield trial, and Azmeel (John Gosden/ William Buick) are also fancied.
However Jan Vermeer must hold an outstanding chance here, although the likelihood of the ground firming up is not in his favour, with Bullet Train the next best in our opinion.

The classic weekend continues on Sunday at Chantilly with the Prix du Jockey Club (French Derby) over 2100 metres. Here a maximum field of 20 is expected and again the race looks wide open. The O´Brien/ Murtagh team have another good chance with Cape Blanco, while the best of the locals could be Pascal Bary´s Blue Ice, for whom Ryan Moore has been booked. Rather surprisingly, Dettori rides Pain Perdu for Nicolas Clement, while Godolphin´ s Simon de Montfort, just before him last time, will be partnered by Ahmed Ajtebi. German interests are represented by Andre Fabre´s Lope de Vega (Maxime Guyon) in the Ammerland colours, winner of the French Guineas last time.

Nottingham, Kempton and Ripon

The only flat racing this afternoon is at Nottingham, although there is jumping at Cartmel and Fontwell, but there is also racing this evening at Ripon and on the all-weather at Kempton. The staying handicap for 3yo´s at 17.15 CET is a re-run of a similar race over this CD almost a month ago, which was won by Captain Cool (Richard Hannon/ Pat Dobbs) from Dream Spinner (John Dunlop/ Jimmy Fortune).

At the revised weights, the latter may be able to take his revenge. The most interesting race here could be the conditions event over a mile at 17.50. Frankie Dettori is at Nottingham to partner Rio de la Plata for Godolphin here; he was a top-class 2yo, winning the Grand Criterium at Longchamp on October 2007, but has not won since and has put up some very puzzling performances, if anywhere near his best however, he should take this. Another who has been disappointing in his recent starts is the ex-German Aspectus, winner of the Union-Rennen in 2006 and several other good races in Germany. He is now in training with Jamie Osborne and will be ridden by Fergus Sweeney.

Frankie moves on to Kempton´s evening meeting, where he can possibly take the first division of the 2yo fillies maiden at 20.20 on Godolphin´s well-bred Zabeel Park. However this quite a tricky race; the second division half an hour later looks more straightforward and should go to Richard Hannon´s Jumbo Bibi (Richard Hughes), beaten favourite on both his starts so far but capable of making it third time lucky this time. The 10 furlongs handicap here at 19.50 looks the best betting race of the day; our main fancies here are the lightly-raced Submariner (Mark Johnston( Dettori) and Sohcahtoa (Hannon/ Hughes).

The 6 furlongs handicap at 21.10 at Ripon is another very open race; our two against the field are Tajneed (David and Adrian Nicholls) and Esprit de Midas (Kevin Ryan/ Ryan Moore), both runners-up last time. Another regular runner-up is Rae Guest´s Gaselee, who runs in the 2 miles handicap at 22.10. Indeed he has been second five times in his last 6 starts, but possibly he can score today with the assistance of Ryan Moore in the saddle.