The first of the British Classics take place at Newmarket this weekend with both Guineas the highlights on two great cards. Racing returns to Goodwood on Saturday and there’s a great mid-week card at Ascot on Wednesday, featuring a pair of Group 3’s.
Trainers
- John Gosden – His horses are absolutely flying at the moment, he’s had 9 winners in the past week from 18 runners plus 4 seconds. An abundance of entries throughout the week and his Without Parole would be a huge runner if taking his chance in the 2000 Guineas.
- David O’Meara – Had a tough start to the year but he has finally started to see some rewards. 4 winners last week including a 66/1 double on Saturday, an additional 7 places make him an in-form trainer and one to watch.
- Sir Michael Stoute – Didn’t have his first winner this year until 21st April, but found 3 more last week from just the 11 runners. A number of his horses have looked to have needed the run, he does seem to have them stripped fitter now though.
Jockeys
- Dane O’Neill – Only had 7 rides last week, but 4 of them were winners which is an incredible return. Isn’t booked in for many again this week as of yet, but he’s got plenty of confidence and is a rider to note.
- James Doyle – Started the season in terrific form and is reaping the rewards from his partnership with William Haggas. He rode 9 winners last week and 70% of his 24 rides were placed, all his mounts will be worth a second look regardless of who he’s riding for.
- Paul Hanagan – Rode 5 winners last week, all for Richard Fahey plus an extra 6 places. That’s a strong combination who have quality and quantity at their disposal, will have plenty of runners through the week.
Horses
- Verandah – Closely related to talented Group winners Spacious and Dimension, made a very impressive debut at Kempton before running on well over 7f at Goodwood despite still being a bit green. Type to improve this year over a mile, could reappear at Ascot on Wednesday.
- Saxon Warrior – Unbeaten so far and looked a bit special last year when winning the Racing Post Trophy. Destined for big things and is a huge player in the 2000 Guineas.
- Red Verdon – 2016 Derby 6th, interesting that he was tried at 2 miles last time where he got caught a little flat footed. Entered in both the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket and the Sagaro at Ascot on Wednesday, has potential over staying trips.
- Leader’s Legacy – 2 wins from 4 runs and was 7th in the Britannia last season, interesting that connections are persisting with him having been gelded. Still looks on a handy mark. Declared in the first at Newcastle on Tuesday, trainers only runner on the card.
