21st September 2012

Just the two available today, with a full round-up of the weekend's racing due later on.

15.05 Newbury

Hard to get beyond GRANDEUR in this, who will be best suited to the fast conditions, and will be extremely hard to beat receiving weight from his rivals. He looks the form pick and should relish Newbury's tight turns and stiff 9 furlongs. There's little confidence in backing Spring Of Fame after so long off the track, especially as he hasn't run well at Newbury before. The main threat should in fact come from Boom And Bust who will also be suited by the conditions but Grandeur is preferred, as he will probably see out the trip a lot better. 15/8

16.50 Newbury

A very interesting renewal, with plenty in with a shout. Scarf however would prefer cut in the ground and the fast going will be against him. The ever consistent Edinburgh Knight has been racing well at some of the highest levels, but may be susceptible to one of the improvers in the field. Van Ellis aims to continue his progressive season but I'm yet to be convinced 7 furlongs is his preferred trip as many of his runs at this distance don't finish with the vigour that his 2 wins over 6 furlongs have. He would be far more fancied over 6 furlongs. Skilful is another who would be threatening with some give in the going and as a result it is left to ZUMBI to take this. His 3rd behind Highland Colori and Quick Wit was franked in style last week and through other bits of form he has the beating of these. The 3 pounds he receives is also a benefit and he can give James Doyle his first winner in a while and continue Lady Rothschild's fantastic season. 10/3

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer