Interesting. It's unfortunate that this race features a few horses that are likely to go well. In truth, I would have rather they been in other races.
Twelve runners on this turning course.
The three-year-olds are of most interest from a betting point of view.
Basheer, trained by Marco Botti, is a horse I've been waiting to make its debut. This bay colt is a son of Dubawi. I know for a fact this March foal is very well regarded in the stable. It was definitely considered one of the best two-year-olds but only making his racecourse appearance now. The mare, Reem, was a well travelled and talented horse who was placed at Group 2. A wide draw isn't ideal on this turning course. The betting could help bring further confidence. If priced 10/1 & less SP I would expect a bold show. Even at speculative odds this horse may go well.
Karl Burke is one of my favourite trainers. Fear The Fury was substantially backed on debut when starting the jolly. This American-bred son of Elusive Quality cost 40,000G at the yearling sales. He didn't show much ability on debut finishing seventh after taking a keen hold in the early stages. There is a fair chance this chestnut colt disappointed that day and capable of better. If priced 13/2 & less SP I would be anticipating a very big run. Like Basheer, this February foal may have decent each-way claims whatever its odds.
The last of the trio who make most appeal. *Ahead Of Time may make his presence felt after a long time on the sidelines. David Simcock's horses have been in decent form and this son of Dream Ahead, racing in the familiar silks of Khalifa Dasmal, cost 115,000G at the yearling sales [43,000G foal]. He hasn't been seen since June but made a pleasing introduction at Kempton over 6f, which looked an insufficient trip. The betting is important to this colt. If priced 13/2 & less SP I would be giving this three-year-old solid each-way claims. If weak in the betting if may be a sign that others are preferred.
To add to the dilemma Mountain Angel is another who could be considered a threat and Invincible Man is trained by a handler who can go very well with a debutant.
Conclusion: A fascinating race. Basheer has the ability and likely to show that sooner rather than later. A wide draw isn't ideal. Neither is a competitive race to start your racing career. If priced 10/1 & less SP I would be hopeful of a big run. If weak in the betting it may suggest inexperience/draw is a concern. Definitely, a horse to keep on the right side and will be winning in his next few races if those earlier season hopes are to be fulfilled. The betting is a major pointer for Fear The Fury and especially Ahead Of Time. If priced 13/2 & less SP I would be surprised if they didn't hit the frame. It is a disappointment that these three meet here. However, the betting may help exclude one or two, which, in turn, may help bring about some confidence to bet on a selection.
NR: Ahead Of Time