Analysis of the Epsom card on Saturday based on the Timewise rankings.

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12.50 Epsom (6 runners)
Betfred Diomed Stakes (Group 3)
1m½f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the race:

  1. Highland Avenue (IRE) – Total Rating: 514.4
  2. Regal Reality – Total Rating: 472.5
  3. Kolsai – Total Rating: 434.3
  4. Imperial Fighter (IRE) – Total Rating: 408.2
  5. Maries Diamond (IRE) – Total Rating: 404.0
  6. Escobar (IRE) – Total Rating: 359.6

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Highland Avenue (IRE):
    Highland Avenue has the highest total rating and has shown good form with an excellent effort when finishing second in the Gordon Richards Stakes at Newmarket. With his recent performance and strong overall rating, he is considered a top contender in this race.
  2. Regal Reality:
    Regal Reality hasn’t had as much success as expected given his talents but showed promise with a standout victory in the Winter Hill Stakes at Windsor last summer. He may have been unsuited by the ground in his last race and this race provides a slightly easier challenge.
  3. Kolsai:
    Kolsai confirmed his debut promise with a second-place finish in the listed Fielden Stakes after winning a maiden at Newmarket. Despite not seeing the best of him in his last race at Goodwood, he remains a strong contender based on his overall rating.

Special Mention:
Highland Avenue, with the highest total rating and a strong recent performance, is considered to have an exceptional chance in this race. Regal Reality, with his previous standout victory and a potentially easier challenge in this race, is also worth noting as a strong contender.

Overall, Highland Avenue, Regal Reality, Kolsai, Imperial Fighter, and Maries Diamond are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

1.30 Epsom (14 runners)
Betfred Derby (Group 1) (British Champions Series)
1m4f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the race:

  1. Military Order (IRE) – Total Rating: 669.8
  2. Arrest (IRE) – Total Rating: 665.5
  3. The Foxes (IRE) – Total Rating: 619.0
  4. Artistic Star (IRE) – Total Rating: 578.0
  5. Passenger (USA) – Total Rating: 544.2
  6. Auguste Rodin (IRE) – Total Rating: 524.3
  7. Sprewell (IRE) – Total Rating: 505.2
  8. White Birch – Total Rating: 492.4
  9. Dear My Friend – Total Rating: 484.1
  10. San Antonio (IRE) – Total Rating: 483.9
  11. Adelaide River (IRE) – Total Rating: 458.4
  12. Waipiro (IRE) – Total Rating: 429.9
  13. Dubai Mile (IRE) – Total Rating: 415.8
  14. King Of Steel (USA) – Total Rating: 330.4

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Military Order (IRE):
    Military Order, a full brother to Derby and King George VI winner Adayar, has been impressive in his performances so far. With a strong total rating and recent victories, including the Lingfield Derby Trial, he is considered the top contender in this race.
  2. Arrest (IRE):
    Arrest has shown significant progress as a juvenile and continued that form into his return as a 3-year-old with a dominant victory in the Chester Vase. With stamina assured and a high total rating, he is expected to make a bold bid in the Derby.
  3. The Foxes (IRE):
    The Foxes, a progressive colt by Churchill, has displayed promise with wins in the Royal Lodge and the Dante Stakes. With a solid return and suitability for the longer trip, he is firmly in contention for the Derby.

Special Mention:
Military Order, with the highest total rating and impressive recent form, is considered to have an exceptional chance in the Derby. Arrest, with his dominant victory and high total rating, is also worth mentioning as a strong contender.

Overall, Military Order, Arrest, The Foxes, Artistic Star, and Passenger are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

2.10 Epsom (6 runners)
Princess Elizabeth Stakes (Fillies
And Mares Group 3)

1m½f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the Princess Elizabeth Stakes:

  1. Prosperous Voyage (IRE) – Total Rating: 524.8
  2. Roman Mist (IRE) – Total Rating: 505.5
  3. Potapova – Total Rating: 494.7
  4. Astral Beau – Total Rating: 455.7
  5. Shaara – Total Rating: 573.1
  6. Random Harvest (IRE) – Total Rating: 374.9

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Prosperous Voyage (IRE):
    Prosperous Voyage, with a solid total rating and a career-best performance when winning the Falmouth Stakes, is expected to resume her winning ways in this race. The ground in the Dahlia Stakes may have been unfavorable, but dropping down in grade gives her a good chance.
  2. Roman Mist (IRE):
    Roman Mist has shown improvement in her recent performances, including a win in a listed race at Goodwood. With a competitive total rating and her debut for a new yard proving successful, she deserves consideration as a top contender.
  3. Potapova:
    Although Potapova had an irregular heartbeat and was pulled up in her return race, her previous Group 3 win at Sandown highlights her ability. It’s worth not writing her off based on one blip and considering her potential.

Special Mention:
Prosperous Voyage, with the highest total rating and a strong record in high-profile races, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the Princess Elizabeth Stakes.

Overall, Prosperous Voyage, Roman Mist, Potapova, and Astral Beau are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

2.45 Epsom (14 runners)
Aston Martin 3YO Dash Handicap
5f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the Aston Martin 3YO Dash Handicap:

  1. Can To Can (IRE) – Total Rating: 440.4
  2. Grace Angel – Total Rating: 419.7
  3. Democracy Dilemma (IRE) – Total Rating: 409.4
  4. Estate – Total Rating: 399.8
  5. Jm Jungle (IRE) – Total Rating: 393.4
  6. Russet Gold – Total Rating: 373.9
  7. Miss Brazen – Total Rating: 373.3
  8. Zuffolo (IRE) – Total Rating: 368.8
  9. Tatterstall (IRE) – Total Rating: 356.9
  10. Betweenthesticks – Total Rating: 338.9
  11. Tallulah Myla (IRE) – Total Rating: 317.2
  12. Swift Asset (IRE) – Total Rating: 313.2
  13. Dickieburd – Total Rating: 287.0
  14. Minnesota Lad (IRE) – Total Rating: 283.4

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Can To Can (IRE):
    With the highest total rating, Can To Can showed improvement with the addition of blinkers and a recent win at Newcastle. The 10 lb rise in the handicap may not hinder her chances, and if the blinkers continue to have a positive effect, she should be considered a top contender.
  2. Grace Angel:
    Grace Angel has displayed improvement with each outing this season, including a recent win at Redcar. Although the form may be difficult to assess, her current form suggests she is back at her best and should be regarded as a strong contender.
  3. Democracy Dilemma (IRE):
    Although Democracy Dilemma’s recent performance at Chester was underwhelming, his previous win at Thirsk showcased her ability. A return to 5f may suit him better, and it’s worth considering her potential for improvement in this race.

Special Mention:
Can To Can, with the highest total rating and a recent win with blinkers, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the Aston Martin 3YO Dash Handicap.

Overall, Can To Can, Grace Angel, Democracy Dilemma, Estate, and Jm Jungle are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

3.20 Epsom (20 runners)
Aston Martin Dash Handicap (Heritage Handicap)
5f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the Aston Martin Dash Handicap:

  1. Ancient Times – Total Rating: 496.7
  2. Lihou – Total Rating: 456.0
  3. Silky Wilkie (IRE) – Total Rating: 449.7
  4. Vintage Clarets – Total Rating: 447.6
  5. Navello – Total Rating: 428.0
  6. Clarendon House – Total Rating: 422.9
  7. Angle Land – Total Rating: 398.5
  8. Alligator Alley – Total Rating: 389.5
  9. Mountain Peak – Total Rating: 387.5
  10. Sampers Seven (IRE) – Total Rating: 378.4
  11. Look Out Louis – Total Rating: 375.8
  12. Came From The Dark (IRE) – Total Rating: 369.9
  13. Zarzyni (IRE) – Total Rating: 355.1
  14. Recon Mission (IRE) – Total Rating: 351.1
  15. Live In The Moment (IRE) – Total Rating: 343.2
  16. Mokaatil – Total Rating: 342.7
  17. Lord Riddiford (IRE) – Total Rating: 342.6
  18. One Night Stand – Total Rating: 335.8
  19. The Thin Blue Line (IRE) – Total Rating: 327.4
  20. Papa Dont Preach (IRE) – Total Rating: 289.2

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Ancient Times:
    With the highest total rating, Ancient Times has shown good form on the all-weather during the winter and an impressive win in the Scottish Sprint Cup at Musselburgh. While he didn’t perform at the same level in recent Group 3 races, a return to handicap company could see him bounce back strongly.
  2. Lihou:
    Lihou has been in resurgent form this year, with three wins on the all-weather and a creditable effort in his last two races. The addition of a visor seems to have had a positive impact, and he should be considered a strong contender.
  3. Silky Wilkie (IRE):
    Silky Wilkie displayed good form on the all-weather during the winter and returned with a strong win in the Scottish Sprint Cup at Musselburgh. Although his performance in Group 3 races since then was below par, reverting to handicap company may help him regain his winning form.

Special Mention:
Ancient Times, with the highest total rating and a previous impressive win in the Scottish Sprint Cup, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the Aston Martin Dash Handicap.

Overall, Ancient Times, Lihou, Silky Wilkie, Vintage Clarets, and Navello are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

3.55 Epsom (14 runners)
Betfred Lester Piggott Handicap
1m2f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the Betfred Lester Piggott Handicap:

  1. Maasai Mara – Total Rating: 524.0
  2. Torito – Total Rating: 484.0
  3. Perfect Play – Total Rating: 435.1
  4. Cite Dor (FR) – Total Rating: 410.9
  5. Lose Your Wad (IRE) – Total Rating: 401.2
  6. Fox Journey – Total Rating: 400.6
  7. Kadovar (IRE) – Total Rating: 387.3
  8. Forca Timao (IRE) – Total Rating: 355.2
  9. Sol Cayo (IRE) – Total Rating: 353.7
  10. Balance Play (IRE) – Total Rating: 352.5
  11. Blue Universe (IRE) – Total Rating: 348.6
  12. Silver Sword – Total Rating: 331.7
  13. God Of Fire (IRE) – Total Rating: 309.6
  14. Promoter – Total Rating: 283.2

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Maasai Mara:
    With the highest total rating, Maasai Mara has shown improvement with the addition of blinkers, winning both a Kempton novice and an Ascot handicap. Despite a higher weight in a stronger race, further improvement can’t be ruled out for this horse from a top stable.
  2. Torito:
    Torito, a half-brother to a very smart 1¼m-1½m winner, has displayed promising form with a debut win at Nottingham and a second-place finish at Sandown. With potential for more to come, his opening mark of 95 may not be a hindrance.
  3. Perfect Play:
    Following a good second-place finish at Beverley, Perfect Play made all in a Chester handicap. While he may not have the same opportunity to dictate in this stronger race, further progress can’t be discounted for this horse from a leading yard.

Special Mention:
Maasai Mara, with the highest total rating and a record of improvement with blinkers, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the Betfred Lester Piggott Handicap.

Overall, Maasai Mara, Torito, Perfect Play, Cite Dor, and Lose Your Wad are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

4.30 Epsom (9 runners)
Rio Ferdinand Foundation Northern Dancer Handicap
1m4f

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the Rio Ferdinand Foundation Northern Dancer Handicap:

  1. Caius Chorister (FR) – Total Rating: 536.2
  2. Scampi – Total Rating: 480.8
  3. Max Mayhem – Total Rating: 458.1
  4. Sheer Rocks – Total Rating: 451.3
  5. Sea King – Total Rating: 415.2
  6. Lucander (IRE) – Total Rating: 351.6
  7. Jungle Cove (IRE) – Total Rating: 319.5
  8. Haliphon – Total Rating: 318.3
  9. Green Team (FR) – Total Rating: 297.8

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Caius Chorister (FR):
    Caius Chorister is a rapid improver who had a successful run in handicaps last year. After a break, he resumed progress with a second-place finish over the same course and distance in April. With solid claims, he has a good chance in this race.
  2. Scampi:
    Scampi has demonstrated good form with three wins over 1½m last season, including a victory over this course and distance. He confirmed his improvement with a comfortable win in the Jorvik Handicap at York. Despite a 6 lb rise, he should still be competitive in this race.
  3. Max Mayhem:
    Max Mayhem has shown promise in his return/yard debut success in the Rosebery at Kempton. Lightly raced for his age, there is potential for further improvement for this horse, and his Kempton win may not be his limit for this yard.

Special Mention:
Caius Chorister (FR), with the highest total rating and a record of rapid improvement in handicaps, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the Rio Ferdinand Foundation Northern Dancer Handicap.

Overall, Caius Chorister, Scampi, Max Mayhem, Sheer Rocks, and Sea King are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

5.05 Epsom (14 runners)
JRA Tokyo Trophy Handicap
6f 

Based on the total ratings provided, here is the rankings in totals order for the JRA Tokyo Trophy Handicap:

  1. Probe – Total Rating: 506.9
  2. Mr Wagyu (IRE) – Total Rating: 436.1
  3. Apollo One – Total Rating: 430.0
  4. Spring Bloom – Total Rating: 435.7
  5. Haymaker – Total Rating: 428.7
  6. Badri – Total Rating: 416.9
  7. Many A Star (IRE) – Total Rating: 395.9
  8. Indian Creak (IRE) – Total Rating: 390.6
  9. Count Otto (IRE) – Total Rating: 373.5
  10. Venturous (IRE) – Total Rating: 371.4
  11. Strike Red (IRE) – Total Rating: 370.9
  12. Baldomero (IRE) – Total Rating: 366.1
  13. Night On Earth (IRE) – Total Rating: 344.1
  14. The Defiant – Total Rating: 308.5

Analysis and Assessment:

  1. Probe:
    Probe has been in excellent form since joining a new yard this year. He recorded a career-best performance in a 21-runner handicap at Newmarket on soft ground. Despite an 8 lb rise in the weights, he remains unexposed as a sprinter and should be competitive once again.
  2. Mr Wagyu (IRE):
    Mr Wagyu is an admirable sprinter who had a successful campaign last season, including a victory in this corresponding event. Although he started slowly this year, he seems to be coming into form and is likely to make a bold bid.
  3. Apollo One:
    Apollo One ended a long losing run with a win in a 6f handicap at Kempton in November. On his return to turf after a 6-month break, he finished third in a competitive race at Newmarket, indicating that he still retains his ability. He should remain competitive.

Special Mention:
Probe, with the highest total rating and a career-best performance in his last outing, is deemed to have an exceptional chance in the JRA Tokyo Trophy Handicap.

Overall, Probe, Mr Wagyu, Apollo One, Spring Bloom, and Haymaker are the top contenders based on the total ratings provided.

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