ROYAL ASCOT – THURSDAY
2:30 G2 Norfolk Stakes
First Legion (Shane Foley)
I was delighted with him at york, and he took another step forward when second in the Listed National Stakes at Sandown last time. He’s got a lot of natural speed so we’re sticking to five furlongs and they’re likely go a good gallop which will really suit.
It’s just been a case of ticking him over since Sandown, but he does everything very easily at home, and I’m optimistic of a bold show.
3:05 King George V Stakes
Meblesh (1st reserve)
The ground was much too soft at Epsom last time, so he’ll be happier on this faster surface, and I think there is still plenty of improvement in him. The step up in trip is a positive and if he manages to get a run, I’d quite fancy him to go nicely.
5:00 Britannia Handicap Stakes
Arctic Grey (Pat Dobbs)
He’s a gorgeous colt by Dark Angel who showed a great attitude to score at Goodwood last time on his Handicap debut – of which he’s 4lbs higher now. This is a big step up, but he’s still extremely unexposed, and I’ll be disappointed if he’s not capable of having a say in the finish.
6:10 Buckingham Palace Stakes
Witch Hunter (Sean Levey)
He seems to save his best form for Ascot and is off the same mark that saw him win this race a couple of years ago. Obviously he’s not getting any younger, but he still retains plenty of enthusiasm and I certainly wouldn’t be writing him off just yet.
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