June 20 / 17.05 Ascot

17.05

Good To Firm

Britannia Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Colts & Geldings)

  • Prize money: £61848
  • 1m 0f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 30 runners
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Britannia Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Colts & Geldings)

Runners: 30 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

16/1 (Won)

  • Win: £10.75
  • Place: £3.25

Form: 43-11

Last run: 20 days

W: 8st 11lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Progressive gelding who won his AW maiden without any fuss and didn't appear to be doing a lot in front when following up on handicap debut at Doncaster (7f, good to soft); that was a Class 4 off 7lb lower but he has his tail up this season and shouldn't be fazed by today's longer trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

23

(15)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Mickley

8st 11lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Edward Bethell

Progressive gelding who won his AW maiden without any fuss and didn't appear to be doing a lot in front when following up on handicap debut at Doncaster (7f, good to soft); that was a Class 4 off 7lb lower but he has his tail up this season and shouldn't be fazed by today's longer trip.

16/1

1st

3

(3)

31st May 2024

Good To Soft

0m 7f 6y

Class 4

19:15 Doncaster

Mickley

9st 7lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Edward Bethell

dwelt start, in rear, good headway over 2f out, led when ridden and hung right over 1f out, went clear inside final furlong, comfortably

6/4

1st

3

(7)

26th Mar 2024

Standard

0m 7f 14y

Class 4

18:15 Southwell (AW)

Mickley

9st 1lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Edward Bethell

Sent off a warm favourite for his 2yo debut at Newcastle but he was in need of the experience and could only manage fourth of the eight runners; stepped forward from that with a good placed effort at Redcar the following month (7f, good) and that run sets the standard; gelded since; good claims.

7/4

2nd
24 (16)
Skukuza

14/1

  • Place: £4.90

Form: 23-621 D

Last run: 34 days

W: 8st 11lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Shaped well in maidens and hit the ground running in handicaps, following his second to Volterra at Newmarket (1m, good) with a comfortable defeat of Lautrec on return visit when he made up his ground takingly from off the pace (raised 5lb today); should be suited by this bigger-field scenario and the booking of Buick takes the eye; stable won this in 2009.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

24th

2

(17)

17th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Skukuza

9st 12lb

J: Christophe Soumillon

T: Ed Dunlop

Good second (off 20lb lower) in the Britannia at this meeting two years ago but he was progressive at the time, whereas his form has dipped in last two outings (normally a consistent sort, including at Group level); 2-2 at the Curragh compared to only 1-16 elsewhere; wears first-time headgear.

50/1

6th

8

(5)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 113y

Class 1

14:40 Epsom

Skukuza

9st 8lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Ed Dunlop

Form dipped last time when he raced too freely; otherwise a broadly consistent sort who may rebound, provided he settles better; has Group form and can't be dismissed from a ratings perspective but may be more interesting when back at the Curragh where he's 2-2 (only 1-15 elsewhere).

10/1

6th

6

(2)

15th Apr 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 1

15:00 Newmarket

Skukuza

9st 2lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Ed Dunlop

Won a valuable Curragh handicap last May and impressed in a Listed win there (also 1m, good) the following month; again had Ryan Moore riding when he looked a shade unlucky in York Group 3 (1m1f, good to firm) in August; finished last year with good efforts in Group 2s at Leopardstown and Longchamp; back in that sort of form when close fifth in Saint-Cloud Group 3 (1m, soft) 17 days ago and he's a likely player with Moore retaking the reins.

5/1

10/1

  • Place: £4.10

Form: 32-41

Last run: 30 days

W: 8st 11lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Wasn't beaten all that far behind the 2,000 Guineas winner Notable Speech at Kempton in April before bossing a Nottingham maiden from the front (8.5f, good), with the clear second flattered to close within a neck; thrown into the furnace here for handicap debut but he smacks of a horse with plenty more to offer (smart pedigree and cost 260,000gns).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(4)

11th Jun 2026

Soft

0m 7f 35y

19:00 Leopardstown

Native Warrior

9st 9lb

J: James Doyle

T: K R Burke

Rediscovered his best with a visor added last summer, landing three handicaps, including at Ascot (7f, soft) off a mark of 103; cracking return when beaten 0.5l by Dreamliner in Group 3 at Saint-Cloud in March on soft; didn't come on as expected when beaten 7.5l into seventh by Wannabe Royal in Listed race at Naas 25 days ago; nothing got into it from off the pace that day so shouldn't be judged too harshly; handles soft and the one to beat.

7/4

7th

4

(9)

17th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

15:56 Naas

Native Warrior

9st 11lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: K R Burke

British raider rediscovered his best when a visor was added last June, winning three handicaps from five starts, the last being the valuable Challenge Cup (7f, soft) at Ascot; ran right up to form on his stakes debut in a Saint-Cloud Group 3 (1m, soft) for seasonal return when a close runner-up; entitled to improve for that and top rated.

7/2

2

(8)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Native Warrior

9st 11lb

J: James Doyle

T: K R Burke

Has improved for this visor and he's readily won competitive 7f handicaps here on his last two starts (good to soft/soft); back up to 1m on forecast better ground today but his past record provides hope that he'll cope with both and this thriving 4yo may well take a 6lb penalty in his stride.

9/2

16/1

  • Place: £8.00

Form: 210-12 BF

Last run: 20 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Has been held in some regard whilst a work in progress; both handicap wins have been at Goodwood over 7f on soft ground (the reappearance off 4lb lower); probably his best form yet when coming up shy behind a battle-hardened 6yo at Epsom 20 days ago (good to soft) and there was no disgrace in that; can go well if he stays (a nagging concern on pedigree).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

8

(3)

28th Sep 2024

Soft

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

16:45 Newmarket

Mission To Moon

9st 3lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Roger Varian

Acts on soft and good to firm; consistent colt whose 2024 form includes a good effort off this mark in the Britannia at Royal Ascot; latest effort can be marked up; very solid contender.

4/1

4th

10

(3)

7th Sep 2024

Soft

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:35 Ascot

Mission To Moon

8st 10lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Roger Varian

Acts on soft and good to firm; has remained in form since reappearance win; made the frame in 3yo handicaps at Royal Ascot (1m Britannia) and Glorious Goodwood (7f) the last twice; generally consistent and holds solid claims back against his elders (second attempt).

9/2

4th

6

(4)

3rd Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

16:10 Goodwood

Mission To Moon

9st 0lb

J: Jack Mitchell

T: Roger Varian

Two from two over C&D (soft), including in a nursery at this meeting 12 months ago; good fourth in the Britannia at Royal Ascot (1m, good to firm) most recently; steadily progressive colt who holds major claims returned to Goodwood, particularly if the ground softens.

4/1

OUR TIP

Form: 13-2 BF

Last run: 19 days

W: 9st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Newmarket novice winner who was then beaten only 2l in the Group 2 Gimcrack at York's August meeting (6f, good to firm); wasn't seen again until 19 days ago when second to a dark one when penalised at Doncaster (7f, good); has some class about him but topweights have a poor record in the Britannia.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

(16)

18th Oct 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

14:05 Ascot

Kings Gamble

9st 4lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Ralph Beckett

0-8 since debut and, although he ran respectably when second in the Group 2 Park Stakes at Doncaster (7f, soft) in September, he was only ninth in the Group 1 Foret at Longchamp next time; again looks vulnerable.

50/1

2nd

3

(9)

13th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

0m 7f 6y

Class 1

15:00 Doncaster

Kings Gamble

9st 6lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Ralph Beckett

Yet to encounter slow ground; lightly raced; has largely progressive RPRs, including at Group level, but was disappointing in the Hungerford most recently; chance of a rebound partly depends on how well he responds to first-time headgear.

11/1

9th

3

(7)

16th Aug 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

15:35 Newbury

Kings Gamble

9st 8lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Ralph Beckett

Lightly raced 4yo who has usually shown improved form; ended last season with second in a Group 3 at Glorious Goodwood (1m, good to firm) and he returned from 351 days off with a slow-starting second to Rage Of Bamby in Group 3 here (6f, good to firm) four weeks ago; going back up to 7f can help and he's firmly in the mix.

9/2

6th
19 (29)
Qirat

8/1

Form: 312-1

Last run: 26 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Gelded after doing well as a 2yo; returned from 233 days away to make a successful handicap debut at Goodwood (7f, good) and, although helped by the runner-up veering left late on, he had to do some sidestepping himself to seek daylight before staying on strongly; a 4lb hit seems a small price to pay and this extra 1f will be up his street; same connections won this in 2019.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(2)

27th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

14:58 York

Qirat

9st 8lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Ralph Beckett

Not totally solid on his form since 150-1 success when pacemaker in last year's Sussex Stakes (1m, good); however, looks interesting back down in trip, with his 7f record reading 1211225 (ran creditably behind Never So Brave in C&D Group 1 the final time); fitting of tongue-tie may also contribute to a resurgence.

12/1

7th

5

(2)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 113y

Class 1

14:40 Epsom

Qirat

9st 8lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Ralph Beckett

Not totally solid on his form since 150-1 success when pacemaker in last year's Sussex Stakes (1m, good); below par in Listed grade in sole run this season; however, record of 3-3 at Goodwood bodes well for this first visit to Epsom, which is a fairly similar track; return to best is plausible.

8/1

4th

3

(4)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:57 Doncaster

Qirat

9st 2lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Ralph Beckett

150-1 winner of the Group 1 Sussex Stakes at Goodwood (1m, good) in July when acting as a pacemaker; that form can't be taken at face value but he was fifth in the Group 1 City Of York Stakes (7f, good to firm) next time and that performance reads well in the context of most of today's opposition; versatile ground-wise; goes well fresh and could be involved on his reappearance.

7/2

Form: 12-32

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 3lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Maiden winner (on good to firm) who looks open to improvement in just his second handicap but he'll need some, as the assessor harshly raised him 6lb for getting beaten at Haydock (1m, soft); that was a fine run from a bad draw but debatable whether it warranted such a rise.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

(3)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 23y

Class 1

16:02 Beverley

Involvement

9st 2lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Very useful gelding who landed 9.5f handicap in Meydan in March; posted a good fourth in Goodwood Listed event in May but last of six in similar company there (1m4f) last month; needs to bounce back.

8/1

6th

4

(4)

7th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 3f 218y

Class 1

16:45 Goodwood

Involvement

9st 3lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Missed 2025; started this season at Meydan and Longchamp but returned to British soil with career-best form 16 days ago when a close fourth of nine in 1m2f Listed race at this track; more to prove on softer than good and this is also his first appearance beyond 1m2f, but that latest run gave some encouragement; either way he needs to find a bit extra.

9/1

4th

8

(6)

22nd May 2026

Soft

1m 1f 197y

Class 1

16:17 Goodwood

Involvement

9st 3lb

J: David Egan

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Missed 2025; last two performances, namely success at Meydan (handicap) and third at Longchamp (Listed), show that he retains plenty of ability; however, has something to find back on home soil.

12/1

22/1

Form: 310-11 D

Last run: 19 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Has gone 2-2 since being gelded and he took the 7lb hit for beating The Camden Colt at Newmarket in April in his stride when following up at Musselburgh (1m1f, good); the same rise spells danger in this deeper race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

6

(4)

26th Aug 2024

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:47 Ripon

Watcha Matey

9st 1lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Hugo Palmer

Won at Newmarket (1m, good) and Musselburgh (1m1f, good) in his first two starts after reappearing in April, but the handicapper has been in charge in three outings since; 2lb drop not enough to tempt.

11/2

8th

5

(10)

1st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

1m 1f 197y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Watcha Matey

9st 1lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Hugo Palmer

prominent early, soon in touch with leaders

12/1

Form: 5-141 C

Last run: 41 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Not disgraced behind none other than top-class Notable Speech on his final AW run (1m) and then made a successful turf/handicap debut over 7f here (good) last month, albeit by the skin of his teeth when only four took him on; the 7lb rise could be an overreaction and that may find him out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

7

(13)

29th Jun 2026

Standard To Slow

1m 0f 0y

Class 4

19:45 Kempton (AW)

Arctic Thunder

10st 0lb

J: Ashley Lewis

T: Ed Walker

His ability is not in question but he needs everything to fall right and has often flattered to deceive; stepping back up to 1m is worth a go but others look safer.

11/2

40/1

Form: 121-30

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 2lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Won four of his five starts as a 2yo, the highlights being a valuable sales race at York (good to firm) and Redcar's Two-Year-Old Trophy (good); all that was at about 6f and he's not convinced over 7f this season on the switch to handicaps; has even further to go this time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

(8)

9th May 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 135y

Class 3

15:15 Lingfield

Dragon Leader

8st 9lb

J: Georgia Dobie

T: Clive Cox

Made all in very valuable auction race as a juvenile but winless since taking Redcar's Two-Year-Old Trophy six weeks later; looked to be rediscovering his level when third on AW in March and it was a solid fifth of 18 behind Royal Velvet (declared for preceding Group 3) at Newmarket (7f, good) last time; if the stands' rail proves the place to be this could be the day to revert to forcing tactics; interesting.

13/2

5th

17

(18)

16th Apr 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

17:20 Newmarket

Dragon Leader

8st 11lb

J: Rob Hornby

T: Clive Cox

Yet to match his 2yo best (included big sales race and Listed wins) but he's only had eight subsequent starts and latest third at Wolverhampton (7f, AW) four weeks ago was a firm step back in the right direction; same mark and there's a suspicion he could be on the way back; player if so.

10/1

3rd

9

(8)

20th Mar 2026

Standard

0m 7f 36y

Class 4

20:00 Wolverhampton (AW)

Dragon Leader

9st 7lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Clive Cox

Seen only twice since 2024 but ran with promise over 6f at Wolverhampton (AW debut) last time, shaping as if this return to 7f will suit; well handicapped on best turf form, which features two notable wins as a 2yo; interesting.

7/2

11th
21 (3)
Volterra

9/1

Form: 431-1 D

Last run: 48 days

W: 8st 12lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Nicely progressive at two and reappeared with a striking defeat of subsequent winner Skukuza at Newmarket's Guineas meeting (1m, good) when leading 2f out and merely kept up to his work; the handicapper was sufficiently impressed to raise him 9lb but it's hard to gauge the ceiling of his ability.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

(3)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:57 Doncaster

Volterra

9st 2lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Kevin Ryan

0-4 last season but this prominent-racer ran well more often than not, including when third in the Group 3 John Of Gaunt at Haydock (7f, good) on his reappearance; also effective at 1m and on slow ground; there can be optimism he'll be at or close to the top of his game on this seasonal debut; chance.

4/1

3rd

6

(3)

4th Oct 2025

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

15:56 Redcar

Volterra

9st 2lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Has a good 7f record, including a near miss in a Newbury Listed race on good to soft 15 days ago; everything points to a big run from this former C&D winner.

7/4

3

(1)

19th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

16:05 Newbury

Volterra

9st 4lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Failed to get home over 1m in French race most recently; last two attempts over 7f comprise a very useful handicap win at Ascot (soft) and creditable third in Haydock Group 3 (good); major player back down in trip.

11/4

Form: 1-2341 D

Last run: 12 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Has higher mileage than many of these after eight runs and he headed to Haydock 12 days ago as a maiden on turf (dual AW winner) but he put that right in no uncertain terms by quickening away in what had looked a competitive handicap (1m, good); this is tougher and he has to square up to a 6lb rise, but he comes here hot.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

12

(13)

2nd May 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 218y

Class 2

14:40 Thirsk

Dashing Darcey

8st 13lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Geoffrey Harker

Just second outing for Geoff Harker when runner-up off 1lb higher at Haydock (1m, good) last May but never involved when dropped to 7f at York the following month and not seen since (gelded); this is a tough race to return in.

14/1

12th

4

(13)

14th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

13:50 York

Dashing Darcey

9st 13lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Geoffrey Harker

Just second outing for current yard when adding to his good Haydock record with a closing second over 1m three weeks ago; slight doubts as to whether the drop back to 7f will be ideal but his mark is definitely workable.

11/2

2nd

7

(14)

24th May 2025

Good To Firm

1m 0f 37y

Class 3

13:15 Haydock

Dashing Darcey

9st 5lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Geoffrey Harker

Won over C&D (good) for Roger Varian last summer and another fine effort over C&D when second on soft in the autumn; changed hands for 110,000gns after final 3yo start; never involved in the Lincoln at Doncaster on reappearance for new yard but he did meet trouble in running; stall 14 could make life tricky.

8/1

13th
14 (21)
Vercors

33/1

Form: 4-1281

Last run: 30 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Seven starts in France, the last six in cheekpieces; won his only handicap there and the RPR he posted last time in a conditions race at Angers (7f, very soft) suggests this mark might be okay; should stay on his first tilt at 1m but this will be the quickest ground he's encountered.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

14

(21)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Vercors

9st 0lb

J: Aurelien Lemaitre

T: F Chappet

Seven starts in France, the last six in cheekpieces; won his only handicap there and the RPR he posted last time in a conditions race at Angers (7f, very soft) suggests this mark might be okay; should stay on his first tilt at 1m but this will be the quickest ground he's encountered.

33/1

25/1

Form: 21-23

Last run: 48 days

W: 9st 8lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Impressive 2yo winner on the AW; had none other than Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly behind when second in the Listed Feilden Stakes at Newmarket (1m1f, good) and, for whatever reason, he never gave his running at the same level on his return there (late rain may not have helped); big weights are never welcomed in this race but he could have the class to take a hand.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

(12)

8th May 2026

Good

1m 2f 70y

Class 2

13:30 Chester

Whip Cracker

9st 4lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Richard Hughes

Without a win since his second start as a 2yo, but several good efforts since as when beaten a length into third of 24 in the Newbury Spring Cup (1m, good ) last month; Ryan Moore keeps the ride and rain shouldn't be an issue, but the draw could have been kinder.

6/1

3rd

16

(22)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Whip Cracker

9st 1lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Richard Hughes

On a 14-race losing sequence but he was runner-up three times last term, including when beaten a head at Glorious Goodwood (1m1f, good); went off third favourite in a big field at the Curragh on reappearance but didn't give his running; on a retrieval mission with Ryan Moore booked.

12/1

11th

5

(7)

15th Mar 2026

Heavy

1m 0f 0y

16:20 Curragh

Whip Cracker

9st 4lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Richard Hughes

0-13 since winning in 2023 on his second start but he went close at Goodwood (1m1f, good) last August and again finished second at Yarmouth (1m1f, soft); an interesting runner despite uneven form.

7/1

Form: 1-42 D

Last run: 34 days

W: 8st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Not sure what happened second time out when sunk at odds of 1-4 but he looked nice on his debut and didn't do a lot wrong in the new cheekpieces when succumbing to only Skukuza on handicap debut at Newmarket (1m, good); cost 600,000gns and is closely related to a 2,000 Guineas winner, so may yet do better with blinkers tried this time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

31

(32)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Lautrec

8st 9lb

J: Benoit De La Sayette

T: John & Thady Gosden

Not sure what happened second time out when sunk at odds of 1-4 but he looked nice on his debut and didn't do a lot wrong in the new cheekpieces when succumbing to only Skukuza on handicap debut at Newmarket (1m, good); cost 600,000gns and is closely related to a 2,000 Guineas winner, so may yet do better with blinkers tried this time.

20/1

2nd

2

(1)

17th May 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

15:23 Newmarket

Lautrec

9st 7lb

J: Benoit De La Sayette

T: John & Thady Gosden

Very well bred and won by a head on debut at Newcastle (1m, AW) last November; disappointing at 1-4 in Chelmsford novice (1m2f, AW) a fortnight ago but he retains potential for his top stable and could bounce back with a big run now handicapping in first-time cheekpieces.

3/1

25/1

Form: 052-23

Last run: 48 days

W: 8st 10lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 89

Form & Verdict
Has solid form in 1m handicaps at Newmarket (on good or quicker) but there were no excuses behind Volterra and Skukuza the last time and that's probably where he is right now after ten career starts.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

28

(26)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

The Camden Colt

8st 10lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Has solid form in 1m handicaps at Newmarket (on good or quicker) but there were no excuses behind Volterra and Skukuza the last time and that's probably where he is right now after ten career starts.

25/1

9

(1)

25th May 2024

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:30 Goodwood

The Camden Colt

8st 11lb

J: Alec Voikhansky

T: Richard Hannon

Has run well to be placed in his last three starts since stepped up to 1m; inside draw is a positive for one who likes to be up there, but he has been edging up the weights for not winning and the return to 7f is not sure to be a plus; stable won this in 2016 and 2019.

12/1

25/1

Form: 70-1

Last run: 34 days

W: 8st 10lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 89

Form & Verdict
Down the field in his 2yo races but a gelding operation appears to have turned him inside out as there was no fluke about his 80-1 success at Newbury (7f novice, good), where he was in the front rank throughout and found plenty late on to repel a progressive horse who ran well to be a close third off this mark at Sandown on Saturday; more to offer and possibilities.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

10

(6)

4th Oct 2024

Heavy

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

17:05 Ascot

Monkey Island

9st 4lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Brian Meehan

led

11/1

22/1

Form: 1124

Last run: 55 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Progressive over 7f on the AW, winning minor races before a near miss on handicap debut; wasn't beaten far when fourth of five on his switch to turf at Sandown (1m, good to soft; Blue Lemons runner-up) when ridden with more restraint than previously; could benefit from a test of this nature.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

1

(4)

16th Aug 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newbury

Cracking Gold

10st 0lb

J: David Probert

T: Clive Cox

Suited by drop back to 7f when winning at Newmarket (good to firm) and nearly followed up in 20-runner race at Glorious Goodwood (good); up another 3lb but plenty to like for trainer who won this race in 2020 and 2021.

9/2

2nd

3

(10)

30th Jul 2025

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

16:55 Goodwood

Cracking Gold

9st 11lb

J: David Probert

T: Clive Cox

Suited by the drop back in distance at Newmarket (good to firm) last time, narrowly beating Great Acclaim and taking 7f record to 3-5 (only 1-8 over further); on a career-high mark but interesting kept to this trip.

11/1

1st

3

(4)

26th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

16:10 Newmarket (July)

Cracking Gold

9st 8lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Clive Cox

Shaped encouragingly at Chester (7.5f) on the return to turf and proved unsuited by 1m2f (raced too freely) later in May; however, now 0-5 in this sphere and peak form remains on AW where he's a three-time scorer.

16/1

33/1

Form: 314513

Last run: 43 days

W: 8st 10lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 89

Form & Verdict
Had seven races in these colours when based in France, winning over 1m3f (AW) and 1m1f (very soft); faster conditions are a grey area and the chances are that this mark is a tough one.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

9

(4)

11th Jul 2024

Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

17:20 Newmarket (July)

Safwan

9st 0lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Ralph Beckett

Two-time French winner, the latest in April (1m1f, very soft); fast ground may not have suited on his stable debut in the Britannia at Royal Ascot, when soundly beaten at 100-1, but his claims aren't overly compelling.

10/1

19th

26

(13)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Safwan

8st 10lb

J: Edward Greatrex

T: Ralph Beckett

Had seven races in these colours when based in France, winning over 1m3f (AW) and 1m1f (very soft); faster conditions are a grey area and the chances are that this mark is a tough one.

33/1

33/1

Form: 735-02

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Not disgraced in Group/Listed company last year after a winning debut; quiet on his reappearance (handicap debut) but then ran well behind one who got loose on the lead over Goodwood's 7f (good); can win races off this mark but perhaps not this one.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

14

(6)

27th May 2026

Standard To Slow

1m 3f 219y

Class 3

20:30 Kempton (AW)

Son Of Man

9st 4lb

J: Paddy Bradley

T: Jim Boyle

High marks for consistency of late and belatedly doubled his tally at Lingfield last month (1m4f, AW); better form when going down by a nose under same conditions next time and it wasn't much of a drop off when third at Windsor last week; hard to rule out.

10/1

3rd

3

(4)

18th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 99y

Class 4

19:40 Windsor

Son Of Man

9st 9lb

J: Paddy Bradley

T: Jim Boyle

Just two wins from 25 starts but latest was at Lingfield (1m4f, AW) last month and he had a near-miss on his return visit three weeks ago; up another 3lb but he remains feasibly treated and his first win was on turf; strongly respected.

7/2

2nd

7

(6)

27th Apr 2026

Standard

1m 4f 0y

Class 4

17:20 Lingfield (AW)

Son Of Man

9st 6lb

J: Connor Planas

T: Jim Boyle

Gained a first success (since his debut in 2023) when edging out Wonder by 1l in 15-runner handicap over C&D 24 days ago; 2lb worse off here but still not taken lightly.

3/1

16/1

Form: 15-2

Last run: 92 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
All runs at 7f; beat a respected rival (Jersey bound on Saturday) on 2yo debut (good) before finishing fifth of six when one of the favourites for the Group 3 Acomb at York, performing below expectations after getting hot under the collar; couldn't cope with a class act on his return at Southwell (AW) but was some 14l clear of the others and apparently needed the run; scopey colt who is bred to stay 1m; stall 1 muddies the waters but he's interesting on handicap debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

11

(8)

13th Jun 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:17 Sandown

Cogitate

9st 2lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Losing run is mounting up but he ran respectably over C&D most recently (final start for Charles Hills) and ties in with unexposed Raammee on that form; possibilities off same mark, provided he takes well to first-time headgear; remains with same owner.

10/1

3rd

6

(7)

28th May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

19:45 Sandown

Cogitate

9st 0lb

J: William Buick

T: Charles Hills

He needs to produce more than he's managed back on turf on his last two starts but prior to those he was a good second at Kempton (7f, AW) in March, and he won on grass at Salisbury (1m, good to firm) last May; capable of having a say if getting back to his best.

11/1

7th

6

(9)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

17:55 Newmarket

Cogitate

9st 9lb

J: Kieran Shoemark

T: Charles Hills

Consistent of late on the AW, runner-up at Kempton in October and March, but his turf efforts have been more up and down; never better than midfield in Spring Cup at Newbury two weeks ago and only 1lb lower today.

16/1

40/1

Form: 12175 D

Last run: 55 days

W: 9st 5lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Beat the Derby fifth in a 1m Listed race at Newcastle in March but has since dropped his guard, disappointing in an AW conditions race and a Sandown handicap on turf debut (good to soft); this is no easy race in which to rebound.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

6

(2)

4th Nov 2024

Standard To Slow

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Kempton (AW)

Cuban Tiger

9st 3lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

led, increased tempo 3f out, headed 1f out, weakened final 110yds

11/2

6

(2)

4th Nov 2024

Standard To Slow

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Kempton (AW)

Cuban Tiger

9st 3lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

Won two of his first three starts (second to the subsequent 2000 Guineas winner in between the wins); some fair races on turf this summer and could prove well handicapped back on AW.

11/2

13th

9

(10)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 7f 0y

17:10 Leopardstown

Cuban Tiger

9st 5lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

prominent

7/1

Form: 16950-

Last run: 302 days

W: 9st 3lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
His first campaign started well, making it 2-2 in Epsom's Woodcote Stakes before finishing sixth of 20 here in the Coventry; that was as good as it got and he signed off with a heavy defeat on nursery debut; now having his first race in ten months and on his first venture beyond 6f, so there are some serious questions to confront.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

23th

10

(18)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Bobsleigh

9st 3lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

His first campaign started well, making it 2-2 in Epsom's Woodcote Stakes before finishing sixth of 20 here in the Coventry; that was as good as it got and he signed off with a heavy defeat on nursery debut; now having his first race in ten months and on his first venture beyond 6f, so there are some serious questions to confront.

50/1

14th

1

(13)

23rd Aug 2023

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

17:20 York

Bobsleigh

9st 9lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

always behind

11/1

5th

4

(12)

3rd Aug 2023

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

14:25 Goodwood

Bobsleigh

9st 2lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

in rear

13/2

Form: 93-106

Last run: 32 days

W: 9st 5lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Career best when getting up late on in a 7f Listed event on the AW in March but he has beaten just one rival in his two subsequent appearances, in the Group 3 Greenham (7f) and a 6f handicap at Newmarket; not a lot went right last time but this stiff 1m could trouble him, as might a tough-looking mark; hood added.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

(17)

19th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Watch My Tracer

9st 8lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: George Scott

Goes well fresh, winning a Listed AW race (7f) in 2024 before failing to go on and it was a similar story in Bahrain this winter, winning there in December but in the ruck twice since; has a demanding task here.

66/1

24th

7

(10)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Watch My Tracer

9st 5lb

J: Hayley Turner

T: George Scott

Career best when getting up late on in a 7f Listed event on the AW in March but he has beaten just one rival in his two subsequent appearances, in the Group 3 Greenham (7f) and a 6f handicap at Newmarket; not a lot went right last time but this stiff 1m could trouble him, as might a tough-looking mark; hood added.

40/1

6th

1

(5)

19th May 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

17:45 Newmarket

Watch My Tracer

9st 9lb

J: Callum Shepherd

T: George Scott

Dual 6f winner on turf last term and 7f Listed scorer on AW this season; comfortably held in Group 3 most recently; ran well (off 2lb lower) at York on sole handicap attempt but this looks a harder task.

16/1

Form: 149-47

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 5lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Has been set some tough tasks since his debut win but there were signs of finding his level when an unlucky-in-running seventh in the 7f handicap at Goodwood last month won by Qirat; he was beaten a smidgeon over 2l and could easily have threatened on another day; worth a second look off an untouched mark; bred for this far.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

5

(8)

17th Aug 2024

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newbury

Starlore

9st 6lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Sir Michael Stoute

Met plenty of trouble in running when seventh of 13 from the back at Goodwood (7f, good) in May, beaten a touch over 2l; Royal Ascot handicap (1m, good to firm; 16-1) was disappointing but this 3yo is not dismissed on today's first run since.

7/1

25th

5

(22)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Starlore

9st 5lb

J: Richard Kingscote

T: Sir Michael Stoute

Has been set some tough tasks since his debut win but there were signs of finding his level when an unlucky-in-running seventh in the 7f handicap at Goodwood last month won by Qirat; he was beaten a smidgeon over 2l and could easily have threatened on another day; worth a second look off an untouched mark; bred for this far.

14/1

7th

2

(17)

25th May 2024

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:30 Goodwood

Starlore

9st 6lb

J: Pat Dobbs

T: Sir Michael Stoute

slowly away, held up in last

14/1

Form: 31-10

Last run: 26 days

W: 8st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
The stable won this last year but with a horse firmly on the upgrade, whereas this colt has to bounce back from a subdued handicap debut at Haydock (1m); however, soft ground may have troubled him there and he had been coming along well on the AW; no forlorn hope.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

10

(9)

18th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 63y

14:50 Curragh

Sir Les Patterson

9st 4lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

All five wins have come on the AW, including two at 6f last winter; highlight of turf form when third to Tango Flare here last autumn; fair form this term, but needs first-time cheekpieces to have an improving effect.

14/1

6th

6

(17)

14th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

14:37 Cork

Sir Les Patterson

9st 2lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

All five wins have come on the AW, including two wins at 6f over the winter; creditable efforts in two recent turf handicaps, including when midfield in the Habitat at the Curragh (6f, good) when slowly away; 12lb lower mark compared to AW and up in trip now.

12/1

10th

9

(6)

23rd May 2026

Good To Yielding

0m 6f 0y

17:25 Curragh

Sir Les Patterson

9st 9lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

Improved on the AW last winter with two wins at this trip (beat City House second occasion); turf return came at Newmarket early this month, showing plenty of pace until weakening final furlong in finishing creditable fourth in very valuable contest; remains on a handy mark compared to AW so has to be respected.

10/1

Form: 37-624

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 5lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
0-5 since his successful start as a 2yo; has twice gone close, including over this far at Sandown two runs back on his handicap debut; failed to build on that at Haydock and this will be his first time on turf quicker than good to soft; has the benefit of Jamie Spencer's straight-course prowess but other runners are more intriguing.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

7

1st Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 0f 0y

15:52 Leopardstown

Blue Lemons

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Grade 2 juvenile hurdle winner last year but has disappointed over hurdles and on the Flat since; pulled-up over 2m4f here last time but can do better back to 2m.

20/1

14th

17

(3)

20th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

Blue Lemons

9st 4lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: W P Mullins

Won the first of seven Flat races for Richard Hannon, last seen in this sphere when among the backmarkers in the 1m Britannia here (33-1; sole start on good to firm) 12 months ago; very hit and miss in his four hurdle races for the champion jumps trainer, albeit in top races when he failed to fire; connections are enough to earn him respect but Ethical Diamond is presumably their principal hope.

22/1

9th

1

3rd May 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

16:50 Punchestown

Blue Lemons

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

always behind

7/1

14/1

Form: 445-11

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 7lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Useful French form in defeat from 6f to 1m, including a Group 3 effort; has gained narrow verdicts on two visits to the Curragh for current trainer, in a 6f maiden (soft to heavy) and a 7f good-ground handicap in which he would have been an unlucky loser having travelled best; triple-digit handicap mark looks warranted and he has a chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

(4)

30th Jun 2026

Good

1m 2f 63y

19:30 Roscommon

Follow Me

9st 13lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Ross O’Sullivan

Regressive since back-to-back wins at the Curragh early in the 2024 season; no impact in three runs last year; mid-field on reappearance at Limerick; well beaten over C&D last time; first time with cheekpieces

12/1

8th

1

(1)

18th May 2026

Good

1m 2f 63y

18:50 Roscommon

Follow Me

10st 3lb

J: Scott McCullagh

T: Ross O’Sullivan

No success since back-to-back wins at the Curragh in 2024; no impact in three runs last season; mid-field on reappearance at Limerick; stable's form is a positive.

12/1

9th

9

(11)

25th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

1m 0f 50y

16:25 Limerick

Follow Me

9st 8lb

J: Scott McCullagh

T: Ross O’Sullivan

Has come up dry since back-to-back wins at the Curragh in 2024; no impact in three runs last season; hood now reached for; sliding mark and stable form the main positives but likely best watched on seasonal reappearance.

22/1

10/1

Form: 26-163 BF

Last run: 32 days

W: 8st 11lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Aidan O'Brien's previous Britannia winner had been running in Group races whereas this colt has won only an AW maiden and been beaten in two handicaps (1m on yielding and good); this looks no masterplan and he needs help from the new headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

12

(11)

11th Jul 2024

Good

1m 1f 0y

19:25 Leopardstown

Air Commander

8st 13lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: A P O’Brien

Beat dual subsequent winner Apricot Ice in a Dundalk maiden in April; ran no race at Ascot but his previous two runs suggest that he might need to be dropped in the handicap a little; visor retained.

10/1

29th

22

(2)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Air Commander

8st 11lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: A P O’Brien

Aidan O'Brien's previous Britannia winner had been running in Group races whereas this colt has won only an AW maiden and been beaten in two handicaps (1m on yielding and good); this looks no masterplan and he needs help from the new headgear.

10/1

50/1

Form: 26-115

Last run: 34 days

W: 8st 9lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Ex-Irish; two Wolverhampton wins for this yard (novice/handicap) before finishing well behind Skukuza at Newmarket last month; hard to warm to, with blinkers tried.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

3

(1)

21st Aug 2024

Standard To Slow

1m 0f 0y

Class 4

18:50 Kempton (AW)

Rocking Tree

9st 12lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: George Boughey

led

10/1

12th

12

(5)

21st Jun 2024

Good

0m 7f 219y

Class 3

14:50 Redcar

Rocking Tree

9st 4lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Boughey

Ex-Irish; made all at Wolverhampton (7f/8.6f, Tapeta) in first two runs for current yard but he failed to transfer his progress back to turf at Newmarket (fifth of six) last month; bit to prove again after that and blinkers are now added.

14/1

33

(14)

20th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Rocking Tree

8st 9lb

T: George Boughey

Ex-Irish; two Wolverhampton wins for this yard (novice/handicap) before finishing well behind Skukuza at Newmarket last month; hard to warm to, with blinkers tried.

50/1

Non-runners

Bergamasco, Miletus, Grey Cuban

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £236.40
Straight Forecast £101.32
Tricast £2613.66
Trifecta £3760.10

Selections

THE NORTH:

Mickley

RP RATINGS:

Starlore

Telegraph:

Cracking Gold

The Star:

Native Warrior

Daily Record:

Volterra

NEWMARKET:

Skukuza

TOPSPEED:

Blue Lemons

SPOTLIGHT:

Cogitate

POSTDATA:

Air Commander

D Express:

Cracking Gold

Daily Mail:

Starlore

Daily Mirror:

Starlore

The Times:

Mickley

The Guardian:

Mickley

The Sun:

Mickley