1.55 - Aston Martin Nursery Handicap (Jockey Club Grassroots Nursery Series) - Ballistic Missile
Ballistic Mille is a nice two-year-old who I thought was quite impressive in winning on debut at York back in May. He then ran at Ascot but it wasn't to be for him in what was a very tough contest. He's done well since, though, and he's top graded in this handicap. He'll take a bit of beating here, I'd like to think.
Sapphire Steps is a very nice time, and was ready to get going at Newbury on her first time out last month. She was surprisingly impressive, too, winning a race where several horses would have been fancied, but she did really well there. There's a lot to like about her, although it's obviously a tough field she's up against with Charlie Appleby's impressive Dance To The Music running in it as favourite, one who's already impressed on this track. You've also got Ed Walker's Midnight Tango as second-favourite here; 95 is a solid mark to bring to the race. You've also got the Charlie Johnston-trained Venetian Lace, rated at 98... that's another solid mark.
Sapphire Steps will have to find improvement, but we really like her. I'd probably say she's my best chance of the day - I'd like her to find improvement and we're hopeful she can challenge a tricky field.
4.17 - Close Brothers Handicap - Transparent
Transparent was gelded before he ran at Southwell, where I thought he ran a very good race. I've always thought he would be better on turf, and I thought his run at Newmarket earlier on in the year was a solid one. The trip is perfect for him, I just think he should run well here.
4.50 - Celebrating Kate O'Sullivan Handicap - Expressionless
It's my first time on Expressionless, who was second last time out at Newmarket, running a solid race here and only losing out to the favourite. I always say it but Dylan Cunha is doing really well this year; his horses are in great form, and with that in mind, I'd expect this one to be just as competitive.
