June 17 / 18.10 Ascot

18.10

Good

Copper Horse Stakes (Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

  • Prize money: £56694
  • 1m 6f 34y
  • Class 2
  • 19 runners
ITV4
View Course
Copper Horse Stakes (Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

Runners: 19 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

OUR TIP

Form: 1-64P0 D

Last run: 17 days

W: 9st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 105

Form & Verdict
Pulled up in Saudi Arabia in February (heart issue) and soundly beaten on sole run since in handicap at Haydock last month; however, he may have needed that latest run and is 2lb lower than when winning a handicap at Killarney last August; followed up in 1m6f Group 3 in Germany; not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

(9)

19th Aug 2026

Good

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

16:10 York

Prydwen

9st 12lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: George Scott

8yo whose 11th success came over 1m4f in April; also effective at 2m this term but edged back up the weights and looks vulnerable for win purposes.

40/1

7th

1

(15)

27th Jun 2026

Standard To Slow

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Prydwen

9st 12lb

J: Darragh Keenan

T: George Scott

Prolific 8yo who gained his 11th success when taking 1m4f Ripon handicap in April; also effective at 2m this term, including C&D, but he's edged back up the weights; place player but he may be vulnerable for win purposes.

14/1

Form: 591-39

Last run: 130 days

W: 9st 11lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Weakened when upped to 1m4f at Meydan in February last time, so stamina is a doubt; however, this lightly raced 4yo was progressive over 1m2f previously (good to firm/good to soft) and his brother Cross Counter won the 2m Melbourne Cup for his top connections; retains potential; interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

(4)

11th Jul 2025

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Endless Victory

9st 12lb

J: William Buick

T: Charlie Appleby

His brother Cross Counter won the 2m Melbourne Cup; never posed the slightest threat when upped to 1m6f at Royal Ascot (good to firm) last time but he was drawn wide and ran on late from the rear into seventh of 16, recording his best RPR; this race is a bit less competitive and his previous success has come when ridden much more prominently.

9/2

2

(14)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Endless Victory

9st 11lb

J: William Buick

T: Charlie Appleby

Weakened when upped to 1m4f at Meydan in February last time, so stamina is a doubt; however, this lightly raced 4yo was progressive over 1m2f previously (good to firm/good to soft) and his brother Cross Counter won the 2m Melbourne Cup for his top connections; retains potential; interesting.

16/1

1st

5

(6)

25th Aug 2024

Good To Firm

1m 2f 23y

Class 2

16:00 Yarmouth

Endless Victory

9st 9lb

J: Dougie Costello

T: Charlie Appleby

Never made his debut until February but won his first two, both novices at about 1m2f; tailed off next time in a Listed race and again failed to offer much on handicap debut at Newmarket's July festival; now has a good bit to prove.

8/1

20/1

Form: 2320-5

Last run: 18 days

W: 9st 9lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
In rude health last summer, including when second off this mark in competitive handicap at York (2m, good to firm); won over hurdles in January but his form has been mixed since across both codes; below best back on Flat last time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

28th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

3m 0f 0y

18:47 Down Royal

Samui

11st 0lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Smart stayer on the Flat and nice Flat return at Killarney after 13 months off; pick of hurdles form would give him a chance, but hasn't run in this code since being beaten 8l off mark of 131 at last year's Punchestown festival; stays well on the level and might yet improve for going 3m (second try at it).

11/2

4th

3

(7)

21st Aug 2026

Good

2m 0f 180y

20:20 Killarney

Samui

11st 7lb

J: Ms Hannah Smullen

T: Gordon Elliott

Smart dual-purpose sort; well suited by the race conditions; twice ran well in defeat at Royal Ascot last summer, third in the Copper Horse Handicap (1m6f, good to firm) and second in the Queen Alexandra (2m5f, good to firm); not seen since a fine second in a 1m6f Group 3 at York 13 months ago; good opportunity for Hannah Smullen if he returns in prime shape.

4/5

2nd

4

(6)

12th Jul 2025

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

15:45 York

Samui

9st 0lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Gordon Elliott

Twice ran well in defeat at Royal Ascot last month, finishing third in the Copper Horse Handicap (1m6f, good to firm) and second in the Queen Alexandra (2m5f, good to firm; albeit no match for the winner); could give a good account but needs others to underperform if he's to come out on top.

6/1

Form: 61204- D

Last run: 290 days

W: 9st 9lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Progressive for Andrew Balding last year, winning two handicaps (1m4f/1m6f, AW/good); went over hurdles last month for his new yard and won a maiden at Ballinrobe three weeks ago; could go well now back on the Flat.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

(2)

28th Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Fairbanks

12st 2lb

J: Mr D McGill

T: William Durkan

Off the mark over hurdles at Ballinrobe in May on second start for this yard at Ballinrobe; useful five-time Flat winner for Andrew Balding; could make no impression when returning to Britain for the Copper Horse Handicap at Royal Ascot; no match for a Willie Mullins-trained favourite in a novice hurdle at Roscommon three weeks ago.

25/1

2nd

1

7th Jul 2025

Good

1m 7f 204y

18:43 Roscommon

Fairbanks

11st 8lb

J: Philip Byrnes

T: William Durkan

Off the mark over hurdles on second start for this yard at Ballinrobe (16.5f, good) in May; smart form on the Flat for Andrew Balding but came up short back on the level in a hot Royal Ascot handicap three weeks ago; top-rated here at 128; obvious chance on ground that will suit.

15/8

4

(19)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Fairbanks

9st 9lb

J: Chris Hayes

T: William Durkan

Progressive for Andrew Balding last year, winning two handicaps (1m4f/1m6f, AW/good); went over hurdles last month for his new yard and won a maiden at Ballinrobe three weeks ago; could go well now back on the Flat.

16/1

Form: 644-68

Last run: 23 days

W: 9st 9lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
0-8, all in Group races, since winning 2yo Group 2 at the Curragh in September 2022; could be on a fair mark for this first handicap and there's some stamina in his pedigree, but it remains to be seen if he'll stay this new trip and others arrive with more pressing claims.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

6

(9)

15th Aug 2026

Standard

1m 2f 150y

16:35 Dundalk (AW)

Crypto Force

9st 6lb

J: Donagh O’Connor

T: M D O’Callaghan

Has lost way since winning at Gowran in July of last year; way below best on turf when last seen in April and has been gelded; cheekpieces tried now on first start since rejoining yard; probably best watched unless backed.

25/1

13th

2

(7)

25th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

1m 0f 50y

16:25 Limerick

Crypto Force

10st 0lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Robson De Aguiar

Classy 2yo won a three runner race Gowran last July, his third win on turf; has failed to fire since and was never sighted in the Irish Lincolnshire last time, although heavy ground may not have suited; sliding mark but others appeal more.

16/1

13th

9

(25)

15th Mar 2026

Heavy

1m 0f 0y

16:20 Curragh

Crypto Force

9st 0lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Robson De Aguiar

Smart juvenile in 2022, winner of the Group 2 Beresford Stakes; has come down in the world in recent seasons and has been competing over longer trips on AW; makes little appeal despite career-low mark.

25/1

Form: 257-34 CD

Last run: 69 days

W: 9st 8lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Five runs in the last two seasons and the two good performances came on his reappearances; tailed-off fourth at Nottingham in April last time and something to prove after that, but this C&D winner had previously made a very encouraging stable debut at Kempton (1m3f, AW); capable if back on song in a reapplied tongue-tie (worn throughout career apart from last two starts).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

21th

20

(10)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Soft

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

Real Dream

8st 12lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: Ian Williams

Rarely seen on softer than good but it used to be okay (2023); made the frame only once (Saudi Arabia in February) from seven starts this year; admittedly hampered at Newmarket six weeks ago on latest outing, a race in which he ran well last term before finishing fifth in this; 7lb lower than 12 months ago and has a place squeak but there's been no win for over three years.

33/1

7th

3

(5)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Real Dream

9st 6lb

J: Ryan Kavanagh

T: Ian Williams

Third in this race last year off 3lb higher; competitive only once (Saudi Arabia in February) from six starts this year and there's been no win for very nearly three years, so he's far from being the percentage call.

50/1

13th

6

(1)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Real Dream

9st 11lb

J: Mickael Barzalona

T: Ian Williams

Close up in a Saudi Arabian 1m7f handicap in February (latest run in a tongue-tie that now returns) but that form is none too persuasive in a race of this nature and he's hardly hit the ground running back in Britain; only eighth in this last year off 2lb higher; one for the optimists.

22/1

Form: 911-21 D

Last run: 24 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Made it three wins from his five starts when upped in trip and scoring by a neck at Goodwood (1m6f, good) last month; ran in snatches and was denied a clear run, and he deserves extra credit for that win; could have more to offer now in blinkers and he's firmly in calculations up 4lb.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

6

(7)

21st Aug 2026

Good

2m 0f 56y

Class 1

14:25 York

French Master

9st 5lb

J: James Doyle

T: John & Thady Gosden

Unraced on softer than good except when well beaten on debut; smart performer on his day, beaten a neck by Illinois in the 2m5f Queen Alexandra at Royal Ascot two starts back; far from disgraced when 33-1 fourth in the 2m Goodwood Cup last time and the return of blinkers (replacing recent cheekpieces) might add a bit of zip, but he's probably a place proposition at best.

12/1

4th

2

(6)

28th Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

15:35 Goodwood

French Master

9st 12lb

J: James Doyle

T: John & Thady Gosden

Smart performer on his day, as when a 1m6f handicap winner at 2025 Royal Ascot and again on two of three starts this season; beaten a neck by Illinois in 2m5f Queen Alexandra back at Royal Ascot on latest; however, he managed only fifth in this race last year and this renewal also looks tough.

25/1

2nd

6

(6)

20th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 5f 143y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

French Master

9st 4lb

J: James Doyle

T: John & Thady Gosden

First-time blinkers when he was a very taking winner of last year's Copper Horse Stakes (1m6f, good to firm) at this meeting in which he came from well behind to win going away; gelded and, in no headgear, returned to that level of form when third in Group 2 at Newmarket (1m4f) on reappearance, only to then finish last of the five in new cheekpieces (retained) in the Group 3 Aston Park at Newbury; however, the first two home at Newbury were Group 1 horses, and on reflection it wasn't that bad a run; the burning question is whether he'll stay.

5/1

Form: 235-44

Last run: 52 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Progressive 3yo last year, close third in Listed race at Leopardstown (1m6f, good) in August and fifth of 22 in handicap there (1m5f, good) in September when on the wrong end of a pace bias; fair fourth of six in slowly run Group 3 in April; could run on to good effect if getting a strong gallop.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

(3)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Barnso

9st 8lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall when trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off with an always-prominent fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot 2025 (1m6f, good to firm; 2lb lower today); respectable show at Goodwood last summer, ten weeks before running poorly in the Cesarewitch when going beyond 1m6f for first time was not to blame; bit to prove on first run since.

25/1

3

(14)

11th Oct 2025

Good

2m 2f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

Barnso

9st 4lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall when trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off with an always-prominent fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm); changed hands before a respectable show at Goodwood ten weeks ago; while going beyond 1m6f for the first time looks worth a go, it's hard to know whether it will help sufficiently to win this top handicap.

28/1

6th

6

(11)

2nd Aug 2025

Soft

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:55 Goodwood

Barnso

9st 3lb

J: David Egan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off on last two outings with fourth of six in slowly run Listed race at Navan (1m6f, soft) in April and always-prominent fourth of 16 in handicap at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm); changed hands since; respected.

16/1

4/1

Form: 1/112-

Last run: 388 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Won in France on first three starts (1m2f/9.5f, AW/heavy) before Listed third there last May (9.5f, heavy); won on hurdle/stable debut at Naas (2m, soft to heavy) in January before heavy defeat in the Triumph Hurdle; unraced on good/good to firm but his top Irish jumps trainer has won the last two runnings and this 4yo has potential off this mark now back on the Flat; player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

4th Sep 2026

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 4

19:06 Worcester

Charlus

11st 7lb

J: Tristan Durrell

T: Dan Skelton

Has faced stiff tasks since arriving in Britain but has been disappointing even so and failed to improve for the drop to this level when a remote last of five at Newton Abbot (2m1f) last time; has come a long way down the weights but for good reason; plenty to prove at present.

14/1

5th

1

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Firm

2m 0f 167y

Class 4

16:52 Newton Abbot

Charlus

12st 0lb

J: Tristan Durrell

T: Dan Skelton

Mostly stiff tasks since arrival in Britain but disappointing even so, posing zero threat in the Summer Hurdle latest; hard to entertain despite this easier grade, and winless on sound turf surfaces also.

20/1

10th

7

18th Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 125y

Class 2

14:10 Market Rasen

Charlus

11st 3lb

J: Tristan Durrell

T: Dan Skelton

Useful Flat form in France; after winning a maiden hurdle for Willie Mullins he was essentially disappointing under both codes and has got nothing going for Dan Skelton, with his latest run after wind surgery at Newton Abbot thoroughly underwhelming (8-1 and weak in the betting); very much the stable second string.

14/1

Form: 47-541

Last run: 32 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Rallied to win by just over 3l in a small field at Newmarket (1m4f, good) last month; this trip could be within range and a 4lb rise could have been worse, but he needs another career best in this much hotter race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

(12)

21st Aug 2026

Good

1m 4f 15y

Class 2

18:15 Hamilton

Lavender Hill Mob

9st 3lb

J: Shane Gray

T: James Owen

Versatile 5yo whose latest win was a handicap hurdle at Cheltenham last November (2m5f, soft); hasn't been at his best on the Flat this year (2m-2m4f) although not beaten far in the Shergar Cup last time; not sure drop in trip will suit.

22/1

8th

2

(5)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 7f 209y

Class 2

14:10 Ascot

Lavender Hill Mob

9st 8lb

J: Jamie Melham

T: James Owen

Useful 1m4f performer and pretty good on his day over hurdles; however, hasn't found his best form this season at 2m/2m4f and has yet to convince as a stayer in this discipline; tried a visor last time at Royal Ascot and cheekpieces return.

16/1

14th

5

(2)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Lavender Hill Mob

9st 6lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: James Owen

1m4f winner from the front off this mark at Newmarket last May who also scored with a prominent ride over hurdles at Cheltenham (2m5f) in November; has a bit to prove over 2m on Flat, including having been always behind on both starts this year; now tries a visor (often wears cheekpieces) and maybe there will be a change of tactics.

40/1

25/1

Form: 57-337

Last run: 24 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Three handicap wins last year (various ground) and reappeared with close third at Musselburgh (1m6f) in April; creditable Listed third at Goodwood (1m4f) next time; failed to settle when down the field off revised mark in Goodwood handicap (1m6f) latest, however, and needs to be better than ever.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

3

(2)

15th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 50y

Class 3

15:14 Nottingham

Loughville

9st 12lb

J: David Egan

T: Alan King

Third on her first two runs this season (1m6f/1m4f, good to soft/good) and a case can be made on that form but down the field on her last three outings and she needs to get back on track now back down in trip.

14/1

13th

7

(8)

6th Sep 2025

Good

1m 6f 1y

Class 2

15:00 Haydock

Loughville

9st 3lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: Alan King

In top form at start of season and kept on for Listed third at Goodwood (1m4f, good) in May; versatile ground-wise; however, she's finished down the field in handicaps on last two starts and has to turn things around.

33/1

Form: -11121 D

Last run: 24 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Completed a five-timer (1m5f-2m) in April before close second of 15 in the Chester Cup (2m2f, good) last month; returned to winning ways in small field at Haydock (2m, good) last time; he's 9lb higher than at Chester but has been highly progressive and could still have more left in the tank.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(1)

21st Aug 2026

Good

2m 0f 56y

Class 1

14:25 York

Caballo De Mar

9st 8lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: George Scott

Registered Group 1 wins at Longchamp last October (2m4f Cadran, very soft) and this May (near 2m, soft) and every bit as good when short-headed at Ascot (good to firm) earlier in May; 7-1 for the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot (2m4f, good to firm) nine weeks ago and raced in second for a long way before cracking in the final 2f (vet reported signs of heat stress); concedes 3lb all round today but tried to go head-to-head with the best stayers around last time and they are now absent; good chance if back to form.

2/1

11th

3

(11)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 1

16:15 Ascot

Caballo De Mar

9st 4lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: George Scott

Huge improver last term, including second in the 1m6f handicap at this meeting and winning two Group events in the autumn, notably the Group 1 Cadran at Longchamp (2m4f, very soft); every bit as good this season, as he gave Sweet William 2lb when short-headed here (2m, good to firm) and followed that with a narrow Group 1 win at Longchamp; today's company demands a bit more but the thorough test of stamina will suit and he's one to take seriously.

10/1

2nd

1

(7)

1st May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 7f 209y

Class 1

14:35 Ascot

Caballo De Mar

9st 11lb

J: William Buick

T: George Scott

Much improved last year, best effort to land the Group 1 Cadran at Longchamp (2m4f, soft) in October; close second in the Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan (2m, good) was a fine start to this campaign and his run on good to firm at Royal Ascot last June, although subsequently eclipsed, looked excellent at the time; needs respect but concedes weight all round.

7/2

Form: 5/390-

Last run: 261 days

W: 9st 4lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
No threat on his last two Flat starts last August/September but was third of 16 in this 12 months ago (good to firm) when 1lb lower; ran well at the Cheltenham Festival in March; holds each-way claims once more.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

(6)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

My Mate Mozzie

9st 4lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Gavin Cromwell

No threat on his last two Flat starts last August/September but was third of 16 in this 12 months ago (good to firm) when 1lb lower; ran well at the Cheltenham Festival in March; holds each-way claims once more.

12/1

8th

3

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

My Mate Mozzie

11st 13lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Sterling all-purpose type who hasn't won since late 2023 but has been involved in strong events on the Flat, including at Royal Ascot, over hurdles and fences since; ran as well as he ever has when a close fourth in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good to soft) last month; solid claims in refitted cheekpieces.

9/2

8th

3

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

My Mate Mozzie

11st 13lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Sterling all-purpose type who hasn't won since late 2023 but has been involved in strong events on the Flat, including at Royal Ascot, over hurdles and fences since; ran as well as he ever has when a close fourth in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good to soft) last month; solid claims in refitted cheekpieces.

9/2

Form: 121-14

Last run: 115 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Best form has come on AW, on which he's 5-7 (including Listed win) as opposed to 0-5 on turf; however, he has a lower mark in this sphere and his best run on grass came here (1m4f, good to firm) last August, when keeping on for a neck second; not ruled out now back here after a break.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(4)

11th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:05 York

Champagne Prince

8st 13lb

J: George Wood

T: Jane Chapple-Hyam

Superior on AW but handicapped accordingly and he was a promising fifth over 1m4f here (good to firm) in August, when he raced wide early and was in the lead at the furlong pole; again faded when last of five in Listed race at Chester last time (1m4f, good to soft; tough task at weights) and this drop back in trip could prove ideal; drawn low and one to consider seriously.

9/1

2

(3)

13th Sep 2025

Good

1m 4f 63y

Class 1

14:05 Chester

Champagne Prince

9st 5lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Jane Chapple-Hyam

Best form on AW, on which he's 5-7 (including a 1m4f Listed win from the front last December) whereas 0-8 on turf; has shown easily his best turf form in two of his last three starts (gelded before latest) but much better is seemingly required today.

33/1

5th

6

(10)

22nd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 3f 188y

Class 2

13:50 York

Champagne Prince

9st 2lb

J: David Egan

T: Jane Chapple-Hyam

Best form on AW, on which he's 5-7 (including a Listed win from the front) whereas 0-7 on turf; he now has a 10lb lower turf mark and managed sixth of 16 at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm) on penultimate start, but that's easily his best turf form; gelded since a poor show on latest outing.

9/1

16/1

Form: 3/40-4 D

Last run: 76 days

W: 9st 3lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
9yo who is without a Flat win since August 2023; however, he won in fine style over hurdles three weeks ago and ran well when fourth at Gowran Park in April on his latest Flat outing, when he was denied a clear run and could have done with a stronger gallop; not discounted each-way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

6

29th Jul 2026

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:40 Galway

Jesse Evans

11st 5lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Noel Meade

Course winner; this meeting owes him one having twice finished runner-up in the Galway Hurdle (and fourth) and second in this last year behind Western Fold; returns off a 2lb lower mark despite beating notable opposition at Listowel on final run; solid chance.

14/1

1

2nd Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 110y

17:20 Limerick

Jesse Evans

11st 8lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Noel Meade

Five-time hurdle winner; now 2-10 over fences having made all to score readily over 2m4f Listowel a month ago; won this race last year as a prelude to a fine effort in taking second place in the Galway Plate; faces a tough task this time, since he meets Daddy Long Legs on 12lb worse than handicap terms.

7/2

1st

5

1st Jun 2026

Yielding

2m 3f 0y

16:07 Listowel

Jesse Evans

11st 2lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Noel Meade

Five-time hurdle winner who is 1-9 over fences, though was runner-up in last summer's Galway Plate; all the sharper for his comeback run when beaten 4l in a 2m4f Grade 3 at Killarney three weeks ago and he's a player on these terms.

5/2

Form: 5114-0

Last run: 24 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Two wins (10.6f/1m5f, AW/good to yielding) last July from first three starts before creditable Listed fourth at Leopardstown (1m6f, good); down the field in handicap at the Curragh (1m2f, good) on reappearance but in excellent hands and this unexposed 4yo could bounce back with a big run.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

7

(5)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Aeronautic

9st 4lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Close third in this last year and a creditable, running-on fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm) latest start; strong each-way chance.

6/1

4th

12

(3)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Aeronautic

9st 9lb

J: John R Velazquez

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Still looked a bit wet behind the ears when beaten under 4l into fifth in this 12 months ago (7-1) and has raised his game subsequently, notably when only just missing out in a 1m6f handicap at Glorious Goodwood and posting another placed effort at Meydan during the winter (1m4f, good); absent since below par in a Group 3 there in February; should have freshened up since with this presumably the plan; interesting.

9/1

9

(12)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Aeronautic

9st 8lb

J: Wayne Hassett

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of seven for yard; fine efforts in staying handicaps at Ascot (1m6f, gd-fm), Goodwood (1m6f, gd-sft) and Leopardstown (1m5f, gd-yld) on last three starts; this step up in trip needs to eke out a bit more if he is to get his head in front.

16/1

Form: 20/0-6 D

Last run: 132 days

W: 9st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Reserve; has a good record here and went close at this meeting in 2023 (1m4f, good to firm); stays 1m6f; some good runs over hurdles since last November but it remains to be seen if this 8yo is the same force as two years ago; wears a first-time visor.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18th

20

(6)

20th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

HMS President

9st 3lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

8yo whose last turf Flat run was in May 2024 (tailed off) with some fair hurdles form since; three seconds and two fourths from his five visits to Ascot, most notably when beaten a neck in this race two years ago off the same mark as today; that followed a 1m6f win and he's not entirely dismissed even though the 1m6f Copper Horse on Tuesday (first reserve) was seemingly his preferred engagement this week; usually wore headgear in 2021 and 2022, now tries a first-time visor.

50/1

17

(8)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

HMS President

9st 3lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Alan King

Reserve; has a good record here and went close at this meeting in 2023 (1m4f, good to firm); stays 1m6f; some good runs over hurdles since last November but it remains to be seen if this 8yo is the same force as two years ago; wears a first-time visor.

40/1

11th

4

26th Apr 2025

Good

1m 7f 216y

Class 2

13:20 Sandown

HMS President

11st 8lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Alan King

Useful on Flat and has a solid record (2122) over hurdles; penultimate effort in this sphere is a strong piece of form; however, rather lacks room for significant progress, having raced 41 times in total.

12/1

18 (4)
Pappano

8/1

Form: 58513- D

Last run: 256 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Reserve; two AW wins last year for Gosden yard (1m4f/1m6f); 0-5 on Flat turf and pulled up on stable/hurdle debut in March when thrown in at deep end in the Triumph; however, his top Irish jumps trainer has won the last two runnings of this race (also saddles Charlus) and he could have a part to play.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20th

5

(1)

28th Jun 2025

Standard

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Pappano

9st 3lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: W P Mullins

2-8 on Flat for the Gosdens, gelded before showing useful form twice (once on Tapeta) staying on over 1m6f last September/October; sold for 200,000gns in October into the premier jumps yard and made his hurdle debut in the Triumph at Cheltenham no less, showing his jumping inexperience however and pulled up at 150-1; this should be much more his cup of tea.

13/2

18

(4)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Pappano

9st 3lb

T: W P Mullins

Reserve; two AW wins last year for Gosden yard (1m4f/1m6f); 0-5 on Flat turf and pulled up on stable/hurdle debut in March when thrown in at deep end in the Triumph; however, his top Irish jumps trainer has won the last two runnings of this race (also saddles Charlus) and he could have a part to play.

8/1

33/1

Form: 212-17

Last run: 17 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Reserve; lightly raced filly who won twice at Goodwood (1m2f/1m4f, good) last year and reappeared with handicap win at Southwell (1m4f, AW) in April; failed to settle when well beaten in Group 3 at York (1m6f, good) latest; not written off but this is a tough race in which to try to bounce back.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

4

(1)

26th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 6y

Class 1

16:00 Pontefract

Crystal Flyer

9st 2lb

J: Andrew Mullen

T: Ben Haslam

Back to her best when 66-1 second in a fillies' Listed event over C&D 19 days ago; this represents a much stiffer assignment.

33/1

2nd

7

(6)

7th Jul 2026

Good

1m 0f 6y

Class 1

14:48 Pontefract

Crystal Flyer

9st 2lb

J: Andrew Mullen

T: Ben Haslam

Placed just once in 13 starts since her latest success and finished behind a couple of these on her third start for the yard in the Kensington Palace at Ascot (1m, good to firm) last month; down the list.

66/1

11th

14

(2)

17th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:35 Ascot

Crystal Flyer

8st 9lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: Ben Haslam

Consistent for Tom Ward in 2025; weakened quickly when tailed off in 1m4f Goodwood Listed race on return for new yard and, under a change of tactics, went off way too hard in 1m1f Hamilton handicap since; hooded first time; lots to prove.

100/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £17.30
Straight Forecast £17.89
Tricast £287.02
Trifecta £399.70

Selections

RP RATINGS:

French Master

SPOTLIGHT:

Charlus

TOPSPEED:

My Mate Mozzie

POSTDATA:

Caballo De Mar

Daily Mirror:

Aeronautic

NEWMARKET:

French Master

The Times:

French Master

Daily Mail:

French Master

The Guardian:

Charlus

D Express:

Charlus

Daily Record:

Charlus

Telegraph:

My Mate Mozzie

The Sun:

My Mate Mozzie

The Star:

My Mate Mozzie