11th September 2012

After a winning day yesterday with the impressive Chamonix, two horses stand out at Leicester today.

15.20 Leicester

An interesting 9 runner contest provides the first selection with AMOUR PROPRE, taken to enjoy the huge drop in class to register a first win since a Group 3 in August. Used to racing against the very best sprinters, Armour Propre's form figures may not seem to instil belief that he retains his ability, but a closer look indicates this should still be the case. Poor results have come with an inability to see out the race against much classier opposition. In a weaker race today he should have enough about him to see out the 5 furlongs on favoured faster ground. Ballista is certainly a threat and feared, but with a 9 pounds rise, it may pay to observe how he copes with that before backing him again. Temple Meads is the highest rated horse in the field, and as such warrants respect, but until he shows anything of a return to form, he must be avoided, even in receipt of 5 pounds of the selection. 9/4

16.50 Leicester

A tricky handicap to deal with, but COMMON TOUCH appears to be bang in form and faces only a 3 pounds rise for a good victory at Newmarket. That victory has received several form boosts since and the tracking tactics successfully used last time can work well again today. None of the other horses in the race appear to be in any sort of form currently, but Sea Soldier's run behind Espirit De Midas, who won at the weekend, indicates he may have a chance. After such a long time off the track though he could be anything, and Fahey's horse is a much safer proposition. 3/1

Racing over in France today could also help to decipher some of the juvenile form.

Chantilly 14.20

This race involves Cay Verde, Morawij and Baileys Jubilee who all have valid chances. The rain and softening ground though may go against Morawij and Baileys Jubileee so if you are to go for one, CAY VERDE is preferred. However, this is a wide open race and the result will be interesting to note for the future.

Chantilly 14.55

Again a race not really to bet on, but the inclusion of REDRESSTHEBALANCE will again put the form of some of the UK's horses on the line and in comparison to those from the continent. Nevertheless, it's a long way to go just to have a run, so it would not be a surprise if the trip turned out to be worthwhile.

Good luck! The Horse Whisperer