Saturday 7th May
It’s been a good week for Derby trials and next up is Lingfield’s version (2:40). Aiden O’Briens three-year-old colts have all been big improvers for a run and a step up in trip at Chester, and United Nations is expected to do the same after an encouraging seasonal debut at Epsom last time out. The Galileo colt is expected to progress for middle-distances, although stamina is not guaranteed on pedigree. I am surprised that Walk Of
Stars is odds-on as his narrow win in a three-runner conditions race at Newbury has already been let down by the placed horses, and it looks like worth sticking with Ballydoyle:
Lingfield 2:40 – UNITED NATIONS – 1 point win @ 9/2 (generally)
In the opener at Ascot (1:45) Mascat looks a solid favourite after his encouraging run in Epsom’s Great Metropolitan Handicap, where he went down narrowly with Solent Getaway a neck behind in third [currently favourite in the Chester Cup on Friday]. The former Ralph Beckett inmate should go well again. However, I’m going to take a chance on Juan De Montalban who also shaped encouragingly on seasonal debut and first
start for Kevin Philippart De Foy. The form of that Thirsk race is working out really well, with the second, third and fifth all having won since, while the winner was runner-up next time out. I expect Juan De Montalban to improve for better ground and he looks to be a bit of value:
Ascot 1:45 – JUAN DE MONTALBAN - 1 point each-way @ 10/1 (Bet365 5 places; others 9/1)
I'm expecting a busy Saturday once the other meetings are priced-up, with possibilities at Ascot, Nottingham, Thirsk and Haydock, including a potential two-point NAP!
Many Thanks,
Neil
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