Chelmsford’s 1m2f maiden for three-year-olds looks a fairly straightforward affair on paper and it would be a surprise if the winner didn’t come from the two well-bred newcomers at the head of the market.
The one they all have to beat is Montevetro from the Charlie Appleby yard. An 800,000gns yearling by Mehmas, he has the pedigree to be well above average for this level and represents a stable that targets these all-weather maidens very effectively. Appleby operates at around 29% with runners over 10f+, and his newcomers in races lacking depth often prove hard to oppose. Drawn in stall 1, he should be able to sit handy in what Timeform expect to be a slowly-run race, which is often crucial around Chelmsford.
The most obvious threat is Bay Of Myths, a €100,000 New Bay colt making his debut for the Newland and Insole yard. His pedigree suggests this 1m2f trip will suit straight away, being a half-brother to smart middle-distance performers including Folkswood. With Hollie Doyle booked, he is clearly one to note if the favourite shows signs of inexperience.
Of those with racecourse experience, Free Yourself is the most interesting. The Andrew Balding-trained filly was beaten under four lengths on her Wolverhampton debut and should improve for both the run and the extra distance. In a race where the pace looks weak, she could also find herself better positioned tactically than some of her rivals.
The remaining trio all look to have something to prove. Ghaiyyath Deer has shown a bit in two runs but was well held last time and may prove more effective once handicapping. Rumbustious regressed sharply on his second start and needs to bounce back, while Joyful Lawyer has been gelded and fitted with a visor after two modest efforts and looks a long shot.
Overall, this doesn’t look a deep maiden and Montevetro sets a clear standard on paper. If he is reasonably tuned up for his debut, his pedigree, stable strength and favourable draw should give him every chance of making a winning start.
Selection: Montevetro
Main danger: Bay Of Myths