May 23 – Sandown – Sweet William – 82
A solid gallop set for this staying prize and, given a patient and confident ride from the tail of the field, John & Thady Gosden’s gelding was produced to a nicety to snatch the prize from the well fancied Caius Chorister. Although not straightforward, he is very consistent and talented in equal measures when on song and a tilt at the Ascot Gold Cup looks the most obvious port of call after this display.
May 23 – Sandown – Royal Rhyme – 82
Once the rain came in favour of Karl Burke’s gelding he was always going to be difficult to beat and so it proved, as he ran out a ready length winner from the ever-reliable Certain Lad. Improving out of all recognition from handicaps last season to now dining at the top table in this division, the four-year-old will have to do so again if he is to lower the colours of the very best at Group 1 level but genuine soft ground might help him bridge the gap
May 25 – Curragh – Jan Brueghel – 80
Relatively easy to back up against the experienced 87-rated horse, Ozark Daze, Aidan O’Brien’s colt ended being one of the most impressive winners of the three-day meeting and on this evidence, the sky’s the limit. Soon alongside the market leader as they swung for home, the son of Galileo drew further and further clear stride by stride and his eight length winning margin was backed up by a very strong time for a race of its kind. A scopey sort with plenty more to offer, this Irish Derby entry could well end up featuring in that Group 1 back at the same venue.
May 25 – Haydock – Divine Comedy – 80
A competitive staying handicap on paper beforehand was turned into a rout by this improving mare and this smooth success opens up plenty of options for her going forward. Relishing both the trip and conditions, she posted a big speed figure without coming off the bridle and she looks well worth a try at something like the Ascot Stakes in a month’s time.
May 25 – Windsor – Jumbeau – 83
Just the five runners went to post for this five furlong dash but Democracy Diplomat ensured it was run at a blistering pace and it took every ounce of Tom Clover’s filly’s courage to gain the verdict close home. Ending a losing run since scoring on her debut, the daughter of Brazen Beau wasn’t winning out of turn though, and now having found her sweet spot, she can continue to progress throughout the rest of the season.
May 26 – Curragh – White Birch – 86
A classic case of saving the best till last as John Joe Murphy’s grey spanked a stellar field with the sort of authority which suggests he is without doubt one of the best around in this division. In a race that took few prisoners, the four-year-old loomed up pulling a cart two out and with minimal effort, he came readily clear of the top class Augustine Rodin. Clearly well suited by the Curragh, whether is can prove equally effective elsewhere only time will tell but either way, he has an incredible amount of ability when at his best.