2:30 Doncaster – Betfred City Of Doncaster H’cap (C2, 3yo, 7f, Soft, 19r, stalls centre)
Pace & Draw Angles: Expect an honest-to-strong gallop. Sarab Star (6) made all LTO and is a natural pace angle; El Matador (4), Lakers (19) and possibly Andesite (1) can be handy/keen. With stalls centre and 19 runners, they’ll likely split and look for a pace group; on soft here, stamina at 7f matters and a tow towards the higher numbers (15–19) could be a plus if that’s where the pace clusters. Hold-up types should sit off the burn and come late.
Strongest Contenders
- God Of War (9) – Proven (p): Sandown win on soft reads well; up 3lb to career-high mark but profile is solid and he’s been consistent away from the Britannia blot. Trip/ground ideal, middle draw workable.
- Indian Springs (15) – Promising (P): Two facile 7f wins (good) and a smart RPR; unexposed, gelded before latest spike. Soft is unproven but pedigree suggests it’s likely fine; big danger if he travels the same on this surface.
- Defence Minister (3) – Progressive (p): Strong Goodwood 7f form (deep race; winners franked Ascot). Now looks a 7f horse. Draw low not fatal if he gets cover; handles a bit of ease.
Main Dangers
- Spell Master (14) – Proven (p): Consistent 7f handicapper; ran well behind Back In Black in April and handles soft-ish; absence since April but track/trip suits and he’s well drawn high.
- Pietro (18) – Progressive (p): Improver who “acts on any ground”; back up to 7f from a slick 6f Brighton win; light weight and high draw attractive if they race that side. Class rise but still on the up.
Interesting Outsiders
- Up The Pace (17) – Progressive (p): Big step forward this season; C&D winner, wanted stronger pace when denied the hat-trick; soft looks fine (handled testing at Goodwood last year). Profile screams place player at a price.
- El Matador (4) – Promising (P): Forgive Glorious Goodwood (found trouble) on G/S; mark looks workable but true soft a small question; still a lightly-raced danger.
- Brighton Boy (2) – Risky stayer but interesting: Back to cheekpieces; excuses this term; peak form at sprint trips but worth the 7f re-try on soft if ridden cold.
Runner Scores & Suitability ( /10 )
- God Of War (9): 8/10 – Proven on soft, strong 7f; career-high mark but solid profile.
- Indian Springs (15) (P): 8/10 – Unexposed; big RPR; soft unknown the only knock.
- Defence Minister (3) (p): 7.5/10 – 7f now looks ideal; strong form; bit to prove on proper soft.
- Spell Master (14) (p): 7/10 – Reliable 7f type, layoff 150+ days, but draw/ground okay.
- Pietro (18) (p): 7/10 – Up in class, acts on any ground, well-weighted; high draw nice.
- Up The Pace (17) (p): 7/10 – C&D and soft okay; pace set-up could play to late kick.
- El Matador (4) (P): 6.5/10 – Handicapping potential; deeper ground a query.
- Back In Black (16) (p): 6/10 – Fresh and progressive but best on good/quicker; soft a negative.
- Rogue Diplomat (12) (p): 6/10 – In form, but up 5lb and needs another career best.
- Lakers (19) (p): 6/10 – Capable, high draw, but soft a worry and can race freely.
- Angel Hunter (7): 5.5/10 – York nursery winner; fitness/7f on soft queries; can step forward 2nd run.
- Morte Point (10) (p): 5.5/10 – Found form at 7f; unproven on soft and this is deeper.
- Sarab Star (6) (P): 5.5/10 – Front-runner; heavy defeat on heavy last year; soft a risk up in class.
- Andesite (1): 5/10 – Stamina at 7f on soft not convincing; place at best.
- Showering (8): 5/10 – Mostly a sprinter; 7f on soft a clear stamina test.
- Intrusively (11): 4.5/10 – Better than figures, but wants quicker than soft.
- Brighton Boy (2): 6/10 – Value angle with headgear; stamina the question.
- Tiger Mask (5): 3.5/10 – Regressive this year; hard to fancy.
- The Waco Kid (13): 3.5/10 – Classy at 2yo but out of sorts; big turnaround needed.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Watch out for in-form sprinters returning quickly; they can be hot.
Each-Way Angles (19 runners, EW terms apply)
- Up The Pace (17) – Solid course tick, soft no issue, pace collapse could suit.
- Pietro (18) – Light weight, strong place chance if he stays the extra class rise.
Private Tissue (my view)
- Indian Springs 7/2
- God Of War 5/1
- Defence Minister 7/1
- Pietro 11/1
- Up The Pace 11/1
- Spell Master 12/1
- El Matador 14/1
- Back In Black 14/1
- Rogue Diplomat 16/1
- Lakers 16/1
- Angel Hunter 20/1
- Morte Point 20/1
- Sarab Star 20/1
- Brighton Boy 20/1
- Andesite 25/1
- Showering 25/1
- Intrusively 33/1
- Tiger Mask 50/1
- The Waco Kid 50/1
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Soft ground, likely honest pace, and a big field make this a test of 7f stamina with a premium on settling and seeing it out. God Of War brings the best soft-ground handicap credential; Indian Springs is the classy unknown on the surface; Defence Minister has rock-solid form claims. At prices, Up The Pace and Pietro map well to the likely race shape drawn high.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: God Of War – proven soft-ground 7f, form stacking up, fair mark despite rise.
- Each-Way Saver: Up The Pace – C&D winner with a finishing kick; soft no issue; high draw handy if they gravitate that way.
2:40 Curragh – Moyglare Stud Stakes (G1, 2yo fillies, 7f, Yielding, 7 runners)
Pace/Draw: Small field and tactical. Suzie Songs (3) has made the running the last twice and is the most likely leader; Composing (4/6) typically tracks the pace and can control the race if allowed first run. Venetian Sun (1) has tactical speed but faces a new stamina test at 7f. Draw is of minor importance on the straight 7f here; positioning and when they press the button will decide it.
Strongest Contenders
- Composing (6) – Progressive (p): Unbeaten in three since debut; already an emphatic C&D G2 winner and beat Suzie Songs readily at 7f. Dam handled soft, so any ease is fine. Stays 7f strongly and brings the most reliable setup.
- Venetian Sun (1) – Promising (P): Top-class speed filly (Albany, Duchess of Cambridge, Prix Morny). Class edge on RPRs but 7f stamina is the question here. If she relaxes behind an even pace, she’s the danger.
- Beautify (6) – Promising (P): G2 winner at 6f here; pedigree says 7f is fine and she’s been finishing off her races. Slightly below the top two on achieved form at 7f but still solid place claims.
Others:
- Precise (5) – Progressive (p): Rapid improver (Cork 7f maiden, Goodwood G3). Needs another step to match Composing/Venetian but stays and handles ease.
- Suzie Songs (3) – Progressive (p): Anglesey winner; ran a bit keen when turned over by Composing at 7f. Hood on could help relax, but must reverse clear form.
- Skydance (2) – Proven: Honest but has been well held by Composing/Suzie; place hopes depend on pace collapsing.
- Pivotal Attack (4) – Promising (P): Galway maiden winner on yielding over 7f; big class hike.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability today)
- Composing: 9/10 – Proven at 7f C&D, versatile ground, tactical edge; the standard.
- Venetian Sun (P): 8.5/10 – Class standout; stamina test the only query.
- Beautify (P): 7.5/10 – Strong G2 profile, 7f should suit; just a notch below top two on paper.
- Precise (p): 7/10 – Stays, progressive; needs another personal best.
- Suzie Songs (p): 6.5/10 – Likely leader; headgear helps, still has Composing to beat.
- Skydance: 5.5/10 – Reliable but exposed versus principals.
- Pivotal Attack (P): 5/10 – Likeable type; steep rise in grade.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Watch out for in-form sprinters returning quickly; they can be hot.
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Private Tissue (my prices)
- Composing 6/4
- Venetian Sun 2/1
- Beautify 8/1
- Precise 10/1
- Suzie Songs 12/1
- Skydance 25/1
- Pivotal Attack 33/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
This looks a class vs stamina duel: Venetian Sun brings the highest top-end 6f form but is unproven at 7f; Composing is the rock-solid 7f filly, already dominant over C&D and tactically well drawn to stalk Suzie Songs and kick. Beautify is the most credible for minor money if the big two underperform; Precise has place claims if she progresses again.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Composing – bankable 7f/C&D credentials and the right tactical setup.
- Saver (small): Venetian Sun – raw class; if she stays, she can still win.
3:00 Doncaster – Betfred “The Classic Bookmaker” H’cap (C2, 6½f, 4yo+, Soft, 17 runners; stalls centre)
Pace/Draw: Likely honest to solid gallop. Desert Falcon (8) is a natural pace angle; Baldomero (11) can lay up handy; Spangled Mac (14) often sits close; Purosangue (17) can track the speed. With stalls centre and pace clustering middle-to-high, that side could be marginally favoured on soft, where efficient travel and 7f stamina matter.
Strongest Contenders & Angles
- Commanche Falls (2) – Proven (p): Big-field ace; charging 2nd of 20 at York (6f) last time. Handles ease; extra 111y a small query but he finishes strongly. Rock-solid place/win claims.
- Purest Time (3) – Progressive (p): French wins include 6.5f on g/s; two recent staying-on 2nds at 6f suggest this extra yardage on soft is ideal. Nicely weighted; drawn low but pace should come back.
- Purosangue (17) – Proven class (p): Down to 96 and better than recent bare figures; slow-ground placed last year and a high draw near likely pace is a plus. Dangerous if it turns into a slog.
- Akkadian Thunder (1) – Course specialist (p): Donny figures 131 (incl. on soft). Three quiet runs since a June win suggest return to track can spark him; well treated if bouncing back.
- Baldomero (11) – Track talisman (Proven): Won this race on soft last year and scored over 5f here in June. Two poor runs since, but visor back on and he’s 2-2 at Donny; course angle is strong at a price.
- Pocklington (5) – Promising (p): Three narrow defeats in hot 6f handicaps; extra 111y looks a plus. Main unknown is slow ground.
- Royal Velvet (14) – Progressive (p): In form and strong at 7f; unproven on soft is the question, but she travels well and is drawn to the pace.
Runner Scores (suitability today)
/10 = profile fit (ground/trip/mark/draw/pace)
- Commanche Falls (2): 8/10 – In form, strong finisher; small trip query but soft fine.
- Purest Time (3) (p): 7.5/10 – 6.5f/soft profile screams for today; knocking on door.
- Purosangue (17) (p): 7.5/10 – Well handicapped; slow-ground angle; high draw sweet.
- Akkadian Thunder (1) (p): 7/10 – Course horse, soft okay; needs rebound but tempting.
- Baldomero (11): 7/10 – Defending champ; visor back; track specialist counterbalances recent dips.
- Pocklington (5) (p): 7/10 – Extra yardage a plus; ground an unknown.
- Royal Velvet (14) (p): 6.5/10 – Progressive; soft a doubt.
- Ten Pounds (7): 6.5/10 – Classy runs at 6/7f; unproven slow ground.
- Desert Falcon (8): 6/10 – Likely pace; unraced on slow; could stick on if it isn’t too deep.
- Spangled Mac (14): 6/10 – Back in form; ran well in this race off 6lb higher last year on soft.
- Vafortino (6): 6/10 – Capable in big fields; 2nd run back; mixed soft record.
- Aleezdancer (12): 5.5/10 – Course/soft bits in the book; trip stretch beyond 6f a worry.
- Aalto (15): 5.5/10 – Classy at 7f/8f; drop to 6.5f on soft is a niche test.
- Oliver Show (10): 5.5/10 – Lincoln 2nd here; needs revival; ground okay.
- Indian Run (13): 5/10 – Sliding mark; needs a big upturn.
- Russet Gold (16): 5/10 – Well handicapped if it turns properly deep; current form modest.
- Saint Lawrence (4): 4.5/10 – Falling mark but long losing run.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Watch out for in-form sprinters returning quickly; they can be hot.
Each-Way Angles (17 runners)
- Purest Time (3) – Best soft/6.5f fit, hitting the line over 6f; appealing EW shape.
- Purosangue (17) – Classy back-form, soft helps, drawn by the pace.
- Baldomero (11) – Course specialist and last year’s winner; visor back could spark.
Private Tissue (my prices)
- Commanche Falls 5/1
- Purest Time 7/1
- Purosangue 8/1
- Akkadian Thunder 9/1
- Pocklington 10/1
- Royal Velvet 10/1
- Ten Pounds 12/1
- Baldomero 12/1
- Desert Falcon 14/1
- Spangled Mac 16/1
- Vafortino 16/1
- Aleezdancer 20/1
- Aalto 20/1
- Oliver Show 20/1
- Russet Gold 25/1
- Indian Run 28/1
- Saint Lawrence 33/1
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Soft ground + 6½f + centre stalls should favour strong travellers who stay 7f. Commanche Falls brings the most reliable big-field, soft-capable credentials. Purest Time is tailor-made for 6.5f on cut and is peaking. Purosangue is handicapped to strike if the ground bites; Akkadian Thunder/Baldomero are potent course plays.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Commanche Falls – rock-solid recent figure, soft okay, extra 111y likely within range.
- Each-Way Saver(s): Purest Time (primary EW) & Purosangue (secondary EW) – both shaped for this soft 6.5f and well set by draw/pace.
3:15 Curragh – Bar One Racing Flying Five Stakes (G1, 5f, 3yo+, Yielding, 16 runners)
Pace/Draw: With 16 here, we’re set for a furious gallop. Two Stars (12), Grande Marques (14) and Arizona Blaze (6) are all pace-forcers, while Asfoora (9) travels strongly and can sit handy. Stalls centre should keep things fair; pace is fairly even across the line. On yielding, proven 5f stamina and handling ease in the ground are crucial.
Strongest Contenders
- Asfoora (9) – Proven (p): Nunthorpe winner in emphatic style, already a G1 mare in Australia, and versatile on going (soft wins at home). Travels powerfully and has the highest RPR in this field. Sets the standard.
- Bucanero Fuerte (2) – Proven (p): Classy colt, dual G1 juvenile, and back to form with Naas & Curragh wins (5f/6f). Handles ease, sharper for recent runs, and a major player dropping to 5f with pace on.
- Arizona Blaze (6) – Progressive (p): Dominant C&D G2 win in July; too keen in the Nunthorpe but better judged on Irish form. Still 3yo improving, course winner, danger if settling.
- Two Stars (5) – Progressive (p): In form, loves cut, won over C&D in handicap and Listed company. Needs another RPR jump but profile fits yielding/soft 5f perfectly.
Main Dangers
- Night Raider (4): Excellent Nunthorpe 4th, showed he belongs at this level. Slight worry if ground turns slower than yielding.
- Mgheera (10): Temple Stakes winner, behind Arizona Blaze here but excuses (slow starts). With a clean break, can hit the frame.
- She’s Quality (12): Admirably consistent this season; runner-up repeatedly in G2/G3. Not quite top-class but can sneak a place if race collapses.
Interesting Outsiders
- Art Power (1): Loves the Curragh (4 wins here, incl. G1). Needed comeback run at 6f behind Bucanero Fuerte; big rebound angle at 5f on easier ground.
- Erosandpsyche (3): 2nd in this race on soft in 2022; showed spark at Tipperary last time. Needs a revival but ground helps.
Runner Scores ( /10 suitability today)
- Asfoora (9): 9.5/10 – Peak Nunthorpe form + ground versatility; standard setter.
- Bucanero Fuerte (2): 9/10 – Class horse, back in form, strong chance.
- Arizona Blaze (6): 8.5/10 – C&D G2 winner, still on the up.
- Two Stars (5): 8/10 – Loves Curragh/soft, progressive; can step forward again.
- Art Power (1): 7.5/10 – Course specialist, second-up angle; not dismissed.
- Night Raider (4): 7.5/10 – Strong Nunthorpe run, small going risk.
- Mgheera (10): 7/10 – Classy, but stalls could catch her out again.
- She’s Quality (12): 7/10 – Consistent placer, hard to win.
- Whistlejacket (8): 6.5/10 – Blinkers on, classy at 2, but 5f sharpness unproven.
- Nighteyes (11): 6/10 – Best at 6f; place squeak.
- Grande Marques (14): 5.5/10 – Listed winner, lacks G1 punch.
- Powerful Nation (7): 5.5/10 – Consistent earlier but well held in G2s.
- Lady With The Lamp (15): 5/10 – Listed mare, a bit shy of this class.
- Saratoga Special (16): 4.5/10 – Ayr Listed winner, but outclassed here.
- Vadream (13): 4/10 – Regressive, unlikely.
- Erosandpsyche (3): 5.5/10 – Ground angle, but past best.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Private Tissue (my odds)
- Asfoora 3/1
- Bucanero Fuerte 9/2
- Arizona Blaze 6/1
- Two Stars 10/1
- Night Raider 10/1
- Art Power 12/1
- Mgheera 12/1
- She’s Quality 14/1
- Whistlejacket 16/1
- Nighteyes 20/1
- Erosandpsyche 25/1
- Powerful Nation 25/1
- Grande Marques 33/1
- Lady With The Lamp 50/1
- Saratoga Special 66/1
- Vadream 66/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
This looks like Asfoora’s race to lose after her Nunthorpe demolition – she has class, tactical speed, and ground adaptability. Bucanero Fuerte is a strong local challenger, fitter for two wins and versatile at 5f/6f. Arizona Blaze is the improver and must be respected back at C&D. At bigger odds, Two Stars and Art Power are interesting place plays, especially if rain eases the ground.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Asfoora – Nunthorpe-winning form towers over these.
- Each-Way Saver: Two Stars – loves the Curragh/soft, progressive, still unexposed at G1.
3:35 Doncaster – IPM Group Leger Legends Classified Stakes (C5, 1m straight, 3yo+, 0–70, Soft, 16 runners)
Pace/Draw: Expect solid pace – Finn Ironside (14) has been making the running of late, with Golden Pharaoh (3) also a forward type. On soft, the straight mile can turn into a stamina grind; handy sitters who stay 9f+ are favoured. Draw looks even, with no pronounced bias on the straight track when it’s testing.
Strongest Contenders
- Moonjid (15) – Promising (P): Lightly raced 3yo, best yet when just denied on debut for new yard (1m1f, good). Bred to handle softer, and receives 5lb wfa. Off 70 here but looks open to much better – very solid favourite.
- Beaming Light (2) – Progressive (p): Rattled off a hat-trick (AW, good to firm, soft). Still holding form, mark of 71 no issue under race conditions. Reliable and goes in soft.
- Golden Pharaoh (1) – Progressive (p): Bolted up at Ffos Las (heavy) last week, penalty makes it trickier but thrives with cut. Confidence boosted by Doncaster placed run in July.
- Finn Ironside (6) – Progressive (p): Revitalised since joining Ivan Furtado, 2-2 since fitted with tongue-tie. Proven at Doncaster (7f win), stays well, handles soft. Front-running chance if able to dictate.
Main Dangers
- Susie Sioux (9) – Promising (P): Just three starts; excellent Carlisle 2nd (1m, good to soft). Open to sharp improvement; soft shouldn’t hinder.
- Double Time (4): Windsor soft-ground winner last time, rated higher in the past. Dangerous if repeating.
- Ayr Poet (3): Veteran still competitive; ran big against stronger 3yos in C3 latest. Stays well, soft no issue.
Interesting Outsiders
- Eeetee (5): Forgive recent defeats at sharp tracks; straight mile more his game.
- Chambers (11): Unexposed 3yo, shaped okay on heavy at Goodwood. May need further but could relish conditions.
Runner Scores (/10 today)
- Moonjid (15) (P): 9/10 – Unexposed, progressive, well treated on terms.
- Beaming Light (2) (p): 8.5/10 – In form, versatile ground, reliable.
- Golden Pharaoh (1) (p): 8/10 – Loves soft, but 6lb penalty a test.
- Finn Ironside (6) (p): 7.5/10 – Improving, front-runner, course/ground okay.
- Susie Sioux (9) (P): 7.5/10 – Unexposed, promising, soft could suit.
- Double Time (4): 7/10 – Last-time winner, competitive rating.
- Ayr Poet (3): 6.5/10 – Honest veteran, but vulnerable to improvers.
- Eeetee (5): 6.5/10 – Needs strong pace, can stay on.
- Chambers (11): 6/10 – Soft profile, still learning.
- Siam Fox (8): 5.5/10 – Bit in-and-out, prefers faster ground.
- Four Fifty (12): 5/10 – Regressive since debut win.
- Antiquity (10): 5/10 – Patchy, needs revival.
- Legend Forever (13): 4.5/10 – Out of form.
- Louie The Legend (14): 4.5/10 – Lost his way since July win.
- Shazani (16): 4/10 – Poor for current yard.
- Quiet Resolve (7): 4/10 – Turf strike rate poor.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for lightly raced 3yos – they can springboard here.
Private Tissue
- Moonjid 9/4
- Beaming Light 4/1
- Golden Pharaoh 6/1
- Finn Ironside 7/1
- Susie Sioux 8/1
- Double Time 10/1
- Ayr Poet 12/1
- Eeetee 14/1
- Chambers 16/1
- Siam Fox 20/1
- Antiquity 25/1
- Four Fifty 25/1
- Legend Forever 33/1
- Louie The Legend 33/1
- Shazani 50/1
- Quiet Resolve 50/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
This race is often shaped by unexposed 3yos and soft-ground specialists. Moonjid ticks both boxes and looks the one to beat. Beaming Light is tough and reliable, while Golden Pharaoh is dangerous under a penalty if able to back up. Finn Ironside is thriving and could be the pace angle, while Susie Sioux is the unexposed filly who may improve again.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Moonjid – progressive 3yo, well-in at the weights, soft no issue.
- Each-Way Saver: Finn Ironside – thriving front-runner, could take pegging back.
3:50 Curragh – Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes (G1, 2yo, 7f, Yielding, 6 runners)
Pace/shape: Likely tactical. North Coast has twice made all and looks the obvious leader. Zavateri can sit close and press. Gstaad should stalk handy; Saba Desert/Italy likely held up; Dorset (first-time hood) to settle mid/back. A steady-to-even gallop is probable – turn of foot + 7f stamina both matter.
Strongest contenders
- Gstaad – Proven class / Progressive (p)
Coventry (G2) winner; huge finish for a short-neck 2nd in the Morny (6f) and up to 7f looks ideal per yard. RPRs 121/112 scream top. Handles a bit of ease and should get a perfect stalk behind the pace. - Zavateri – Proven / Progressive (p)
Unbeaten 3/3 (July & Vintage G2). Tough, genuine, stays 7f well and attitude is a big plus if this turns tactical. Slightly lower peak figure than Gstaad but rock-solid and likely in the right place when it matters. - Saba Desert – Promising (P)
Dubawi colt who took the Superlative (G2) (beat Italy 1¼l). Still learning (hung a touch), but scopey and following Native Trail’s route. First go on easier ground but pedigree says it’s fine; main late threat if they overdo the steady fractions.
Others
- North Coast – Progressive (p)
Tyros (G3) winner by 6l making all (7f, good–yld). Could be flattered by small field but pace control in a 6-runner G1 is a weapon. Place chance; needs a new peak to fend off the big guns. - Italy – Progressive (p)
Twice runner-up at G2/G3; still a bit green/keen. Likeable but has 2–3lb to find and won’t want this to turn messy behind a steady pace. - Dorset – Promising (P)
Smart maiden winner here; below par in the Vintage; first-time hood to help settling. Talent there, but on what we’ve seen he’s a place/closer 4th type if things go perfectly.
Runner scores (/10 today)
- Gstaad: 9.5/10 – Class edge, perfect trip set-up, strong late kick.
- Zavateri: 8.5/10 – Streetfighter, already a dual G2 winner, thrives at 7f.
- Saba Desert (P): 8/10 – Upside; handles step up in grade, slight ground query but pedigree positive.
- North Coast (p): 7.5/10 – Pace angle; could get first run, needs best ever.
- Italy (p): 7/10 – Solid form, still learning; minor place chance.
- Dorset (P): 6/10 – Hood helps; leaps needed to mix it with these.
Keep an eye on the market for runners making their 2nd/3rd starts – they can step forward sharply.
Private tissue (my odds)
- Gstaad 11/10
- Zavateri 4/1
- Saba Desert 9/2
- North Coast 8/1
- Italy 10/1
- Dorset 20/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Small field, tactical, and class likely tells. Gstaad brings the best figures and profiles as a 7f specialist-in-waiting; Zavateri is the stubborn yardstick with battle-hardened 7f form; Saba Desert has the raw upside to surge late if this turns into a sprint.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Gstaad – Coventry winner, brilliant Morny close, trip looks tailor-made.
- Saver (without the fav / RFC angle): Zavateri – honest, positioned to strike; small RFC Gstaad–Zavateri.
4:10 Doncaster – Sceptre Fillies’ Stakes (G3, 7f, Soft, 19 runners, fillies & mares)
Pace/draw setup:
Big field, stalls centre, and the going is soft – so stamina at 7f is key.
- Lou Lou’s Gift (10) made all at Newbury and could press forward again, with Fair Angellica (6) and Havana Pusey (8) likely to be up there.
- A middle-to-high draw looks handy with pace spread across.
- Expect solid gallop: not a crawl, but unlikely to be a burn-up. Suits strong travellers who stay 7f well on testing ground.
Strongest contenders
- Queen Of Mougins (12) – Progressive (p):
3rd in this last year (soft), seasonal/stable debut win at Curragh (6f, good) suggests she’s better than ever. Stays 7f well, handles soft, and has tactical speed. Likely well placed mid-drawn. - Shuwari (13) – Proven/Promising (P):
2023 Fillies’ Mile runner-up; missed 2024; now back winning Listed in France (1m, very soft). Class edge if bouncing forward again. Softer the better. - Bright Thunder (3) – Progressive (p):
Strong traveller, Listed win at Deauville (1m, soft), good 3rd in Oak Tree (7f, good). Drop back to 7f with cut looks ideal.
Main dangers
- Spiritual (1): Group 3 winner at Epsom; under 3lb penalty but effective with cut. Has to bounce back from two flops.
- Fair Angellica (6): Last year’s 4th in this; frustrating but Salisbury Listed winner this term. More place than win.
- Jabaara (9): Three Listed wins, Falmouth 5th; travels strongly, needs to settle. Effective on soft.
Interesting outsiders
- Stop The Cavalry (14): Lightly raced; 3rd in Listed races; likes cut; could outrun odds.
- Sunfall (15): Won Listed on soft at Ascot last October; tongue-tie may spark revival.
- Lou Lou’s Gift (10): Newbury handicap win looked strong; unproven on soft but progressive and dangerous if allowed her head.
Runner scores (/10 today)
- Queen Of Mougins: 9/10 – course form, improving, ideal ground.
- Shuwari (P): 8.5/10 – classy, handles ground, still building fitness.
- Bright Thunder: 8/10 – well suited by 7f with cut, solid consistency.
- Spiritual: 7.5/10 – penalty + recent form niggle, but classy.
- Jabaara: 7.5/10 – consistent, strong traveller, needs things to drop right.
- Fair Angellica: 7/10 – capable of running into frame again.
- Lou Lou’s Gift: 7/10 – unexposed front-runner, soft ground query.
- Stop The Cavalry: 6.5/10 – lightly raced, Listed level form, place squeak.
- Sunfall: 6/10 – revival angle; stable can get them back.
- Others: 5–6/10, mostly exposed or not proven at this grade.
Private tissue (my view)
- Queen Of Mougins 4/1
- Shuwari 5/1
- Bright Thunder 6/1
- Spiritual 8/1
- Jabaara 8/1
- Fair Angellica 10/1
- Lou Lou’s Gift 12/1
- Stop The Cavalry 16/1
- Sunfall 20/1
- Others 25/1+
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
This is a deep renewal with several G3-level fillies in form. The balance of course/ground/stamina favours Queen Of Mougins, who looks better than ever and has a strong profile. Shuwari is the classy comeback filly, while Bright Thunder appeals as a solid 7f soft-ground operator.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Queen Of Mougins – progressive, 3rd in this last year, looks primed to go two better.
- Each-Way Saver: Bright Thunder – travels strongly, drop back to 7f on soft is perfect; solid place claims at a price.
4:25 Curragh — Irish St Leger (Group 1)
1m6f, 3yo+, Good to Yielding, €500,000, 9 runners
Pace & Draw
Expect a strong, honest pace.
- Al Qareem and Illinois are the main pace angles.
- Dallas Star likely to force it, with Leinster close up.
This should set up nicely for a strong stayer with a turn of foot. Draw at this trip at the Curragh is neutral.
Strongest Contenders
Al Riffa (Proven / progressive, p)
- Dominant C&D G2 winner (RPR 118).
- Acts on ease, has a potent finishing kick.
- Melbourne Cup talk shows confidence.
Biggest threat if pace collapses late.
Illinois (Proven / progressive, p)
- Runner-up in Ascot Gold Cup & Goodwood Cup.
- Consistent at the very top; stays thoroughly.
- Cheekpieces first time: may sharpen.
Sets the standard but risks doing the donkey work.
Amiloc (Promising, P)
- Sole 3yo, unbeaten in 5.
- King Edward VII winner (RPR 113).
- Gets 8lb weight-for-age pull (9-2 vs 9-10).
- First time beyond 12f, ground unknown.
Huge upside if stamina holds out.
Main Dangers / Outsiders
- Al Qareem – Tough front-runner; thrives at 14f. G1 ceiling the worry if harried.
- Leinster – Progressive C&D trial winner; tactically versatile, place claims.
- Crystal Black – Curragh specialist; first try at 1m6f, could sneak a place if he stays.
- Queenstown / Waldadler / Dallas Star – Well held at this class, more likely pace or minor players.
Runner Scores (Suitability /10)
- Al Riffa: 8.5/10 (p) – Perfect profile, finishing speed key.
- Illinois: 8/10 (p) – Class act, stamina nailed on, headgear plus.
- Amiloc: 7.5/10 (P) – Exciting, but stamina/ground unknowns.
- Al Qareem: 6.5/10 – Strong pace angle, but vulnerable in G1 company.
- Leinster: 6/10 – C&D improving type, each-way interest.
- Crystal Black: 6/10 – Course record good, stamina question.
- Queenstown: 4.5/10 – Ebor 3rd a plus, but G1 gap wide.
- Waldadler: 4/10 – German Listed/G2 form below this.
- Dallas Star: 3.5/10 – Exposed, likely pace only.
Each-Way Angles
- Leinster – C&D form, improving, and well drawn tactically.
- Al Qareem – Could stick on for a place if left alone on the lead.
Private Tissue (Raceform Data)
- Al Riffa 9/4
- Illinois 11/4
- Amiloc 7/2
- Al Qareem 10/1
- Leinster 16/1
- Crystal Black 16/1
- Queenstown 33/1
- Waldadler 50/1
- Dallas Star 66/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
The likely strong pace sets this up for a horse with class and gears at 14f.
- Al Riffa: ticks every box, and C&D form makes him the one to beat.
- Illinois: ultra-reliable, will ensure stamina test, but may be caught by a finisher.
- Amiloc: the fascinating improver, but stamina/ground doubts linger.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Al Riffa – C&D star with tactical speed to strike off a strong pace.
- Each-Way Saver: Leinster – Progressive C&D trial winner, underestimated by the market.
4:40 Doncaster — IPM Group Handicap (Class 3)
5f (5f3y), 3yo+, Soft, 18 runners (stalls centre)
Pace & Draw Angles
Pace: Strong. Tees Spirit likely to blast; Harvanna, Hiya Maite, Ventura Express, Reigning Profit and Getreadytorumble all race handily. That tempo should suit a stalker with cut form.
Draw: With stalls centre and soft ground, bias can shift late; call it neutral pre-race, but being near the main pace cluster is a plus.
Strongest Contenders + Dangers
- Getreadytorumble (Proven, p) – Rapidly progressive 3yo; soft/very soft already fine (Goodwood 2nd on heavy). Big weight but still well with his profile; handy racing style perfect for this straight 5f grind.
- Jer Batt (Proven, p) – Best efforts come with ease; Musselburgh C+D good-to-soft third has worked out and recent thirds (soft & good) solid. Forecast soft is a big positive; stalking run style ideal.
- Tan Rapido (Progressive, p) – Improving 5f type; soft second at Yarmouth then luckless on Tapeta. Handles cut and still room to rate higher.
- Duran (Proven) – Effective at 5f; won off this mark earlier this season. Handles good to soft; any deeper than soft is a slight worry but he’s very workable.
- Hiya Maite (Proven) – Course specialist who was just nailed over C&D last month; blinkers+tongue tie a small unknown but current mark gives him a shout.
- Ventura Express (Proven) – In form, well handicapped, versatile re: ground; more of a place type but drawn to track pace.
Chances limited at the weights/class today: Blind Beggar (solid shape but not thrown in), Existent (1-43 turf; needs everything), Tees Spirit (front-runner but has struggled since ratings hike), Dakota Gold (needs it very soft nowadays), The X O, Emperor Spirit (ran in Portland Sat), Moonstone Boy, Almarada Prince, The Bell Conductor, Reigning Profit, Super Saiyan (sharp drop to 5f, tongue-tie).
Runner Scores /10 (suitability)
- Getreadytorumble 8/10 (p) – Pace-pressing improver; handles cut; big weight only knock.
- Jer Batt 8/10 (p) – Soft-ground angle; shape screams C&D big run.
- Tan Rapido 7.5/10 (p) – Progressive; soft a plus; needs clean trip.
- Duran 7/10 – Honest 5f sort; soft okay, heavy not ideal.
- Hiya Maite 7/10 – C&D placer; equipment tweak a mild risk.
- Ventura Express 6.5/10 – In form, well treated; more place than win.
- Blind Beggar 6/10 – Soft okay; probably about right on OR.
- Existent 5.5/10 – Capable but very hard to win with.
- Tees Spirit 5.5/10 – May set it up for others; small place squeak if gets loose.
- Reigning Profit 5/10 – Best on good/quick; soft a negative.
- Dakota Gold 5/10 – Legend, but needs deeper and revival.
- Harvanna 5/10 – Well treated; 5f suit; soft unknown at this level.
- Moonstone Boy 4.5/10 – Recent regression.
- The Bell Conductor 4.5/10 – Well treated on old form; quiet this year.
- The X O 4.5/10 – Out of sorts in 2025.
- Emperor Spirit 4/10 – Busy; Portland run yesterday.
- Almarada Prince 4/10 – Risky starter; pacey but unreliable.
- Super Saiyan 3.5/10 – First try 5f; big ask off York flop.
Hold-up risk: Existent, Blind Beggar—can meet traffic and need luck/gaps on soft.
Prominent comfort zone: Getreadytorumble, Jer Batt, Tan Rapido, Duran, Hiya Maite.
Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Watch out for in-form sprinters returning quickly; they can be hot.
Each-Way Angles (18 runners)
- Jer Batt – Soft-ground lifter; stalker in a pacey race; rock-solid EW.
- Tan Rapido – Progressive with cut; forgiving of Southwell run.
- Hiya Maite – C&D nearly-won last time; competitive mark.
- Ventura Express – Consistent, well treated; place-heavy profile at a price.
Private Tissue (Raceform Data)
- Getreadytorumble 5/1
- Jer Batt 6/1
- Tan Rapido 8/1
- Duran 10/1
- Hiya Maite 10/1
- Ventura Express 12/1
- Blind Beggar 14/1
- Existent 16/1
- Tees Spirit 16/1
- Reigning Profit 16/1
- Dakota Gold 20/1
- Harvanna 20/1
- Others 25/1+
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Strong central pace on soft points to handy/trackers with cut form. Getreadytorumble keeps improving and handles any ground; Jer Batt looks primed to peak back with ease; Tan Rapido brings progressive upside.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top win bet: Getreadytorumble – Improver with the right pace setup and soft credentials.
- Each-way saver(s): Jer Batt & Tan Rapido – Both tick the soft/pattern and shape boxes for a late surge into the frame.
TimeWise Chronicles 
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