August 6 – Chester – Mitbaahy – 105
The joust for the early lead that involved Ehraz and Princess Shabnam resulted in this listed contest being run at a brutal gallop right from the start and it came as no surprise to see something ridden with plenty of restraint coming through strong to claim the prize late on. A little unlucky with being drawn on the wrong side of the track on many occasions prior to shipping up on the Roodee, Roger Varian’s inmate proved that he is a decent tool when things go his way and now he has exhibited what environment brings out the best in him, some more useful prizes can be won with him before the season is out.
August 7 – Naas – Vauban – 101
One of the most impressive winners at Royal Ascot, Willie Mullins’ gelding was a warm order to follow up on his opening gambit at pattern level and after travelling well throughout, he readily asserted his superiority to account for a reliable bunch of opponents, in turn, qualifying for a tilt at the Melbourne Cup in November. Now rated 114, he will obviously have his fair share of weight at Flemington but as there could easily be more to come from the five-year-old chestnut, he should go a long to provide his handler with one of the missing pieces in his particular cv.
August 8 – Ripon – Dasho Lennie – 98
Only five runners went to post for this 1m4f handicap but it proved to be a well run affair nonetheless and it play into the hands of a horse who has been crying out for a proper test of stamina for some time. A model of consistency in all his races prior to arriving at the Yorkshire venue, the son of Territories gained his just rewards for a series of placed efforts and providing he encounters similar (soft) ground during the backend of the season, he can continue to rise up the ranks.
August 12 – Ascot – Scampi – 104
Two things to note here, firstly, the strong speed figure posted by the winner and secondly, a masterclass by Saffie Osbourne how to ride the round track at Ascot. Time and time again, more experienced jockeys go off way too fast at the Berkshire venue, thus leaving their mounts with no petrol in the tank for the stiff climb to the line, but that wasn’t to be in the case of the young pilot who was prepared to bide her time and pounce at the business end. The fact the front pair pulled 12 lengths clear of the rest suggested she and Hollie Doyle got the fractions just right on their mounts and the winner will surely be a player in the Ebor next week at a track where he has gone well in the past.
August 15 – Dundalk – Longbourn – 101
A competitive field was assembled for this quality 1m2f handicap and it didn’t disappoint in terms of pace from the start. The winner, who hadn’t managed to win in five previous attempts this season, benefitted from the true run race and in doing so, he cemented his overall record and liking for the Co Lough venue. Capable of progressing further, Ross O’Sullivan’s gelding can continue to thrive on the all-weather during the winter.
August 16 – Salisbury – State Occasion – 102
Off the track since running with promise on her seasonal bow at York, Ralph Beckett’s filly maintained her trainer’s fine recent record with the fairer sex with a dominant display in what turned out to be a very strongly run affair. Always well positioned, the daughter of Iffraaj picked up the running going well at the two pole and from that point onwards, she kept up the sound gallop all the way to the line. Clearly better than listed company, expect her to be contesting something more substantial next time.