Albany Stakes (Group 3) 6f
Far too many (25) runners for a deep look into this race but I like everything about the chances of LIL GREY in the opener. The stand side horses have bossed the straight track this week and she’s in stall 25 on the rail, while we know she handles soft ground and has a turn of foot that’s taken the scalp of a large number of well-bred Coolmore horses – some of whom with Group One entries – in competitive Irish maidens. At 33/1 she’s overpriced.
1pt each-way Lil Grey @33/1, 14:30 Ascot (1-5, 1/5 Paddy Power)
King Edward VII Stakes (Group 2)
Japan clearly sets a very high standard after his narrow Derby third, and we’ve definitely not seen the best of him. His short price has pushed out some other prices in a competitive race, and he’s worth having a shot at. Frankie Dettori stole the show with his four-timer on Thursday, but his mount Private Secretary looks overbet as a result, and I’m not yet convinced about his sire Kingman producing 12f horses. Pondus is of great interest but he looks quite short at 11/2, while a case can easily be made for Pablo Escobarr or Bangkok. The one that just looks too big is JACK YEATS for Aidan and Donnacha O’Brien. His form would have received some clarity if Buckhurst hadn’t been withdrawn on Thursday, and we have very little evidence besides a solid maiden win over 10f to go by. At 40/1 in a Group race Coolmore could have sent five or six for, the fact he races here is a tip in itself. I don’t see any reason why he can’t fill a place or progress into something high class.
1pt each-way Jack Yeats @40/1, 15:05 Ascot
Commonwealth Cup (Group 1) 6f
Read why Paul is backing ADVERTISE to land the Commonwealth Cuphere.
1pt each-way Advertise @8/1, 15:40 Ascot (1-3, 1/5 William Hill)