Cheers to an Early Morning victory

- Early Morning can claim a second successive win today at Ascot in the Stella Artois Handicap.

This Harry Dunlop-trained grey has a likeable profile having finished in the first three in nine of his 15 competitive appearances, passing the post in front on four occasions.

Wins at Kempton and Haydock in 2015 saw his mark rise from 77 to 100 and while unable to make an impact in either the London Mile at Kempton or the Cambridgeshire at Newmarket on his final two starts of the year, he has bounced back this term.

A comeback win at Lingfield was followed by an excellent effort to finish a close-up eighth in the Royal Hunt Cup.

He was disappointing on his next start at York, but he clearly benefited from a return to Ascot’s straight 1600m when hitting the bullseye at the Shergar Cup, providing Hayley Turner with a winner on her mini-comeback.

He is now back on a threefigure rating, but this venue clearly brings out the best in him and another bold bid is anticipated.

Favourite backers had their fingers burnt when Muthmira fluffed her lines on her Chelmsford debut a shade under three weeks ago, but she can reward those who keep the faith in the Dark Horse Maiden Auction Stakes.

Simon Crisford has had a few smart two-year-olds through his hands during his first couple of seasons with a training licence, so the fact this daughter was wellbacked for her introduction was noteworthy.

Sadly for her supporters, the writing was on the wall within seconds as she completely missed the break and ended up detached.

However, to her credit, she did make headway late in the day to pick up minor honours in third and if she gets off on terms, normal improvement will make her very hard to beat.

Muzdawaj appears the most likely winner of the Acca Insurance At 188Bet Handicap at Haydock.

A couple of promising juvenile performances suggested William Haggas’ inmate was a winner waiting to happen and he confirmed that impression with victory at Wolverhampton on his April return.

He has since won on easy ground at Redcar and on faster ground at Newmarket, so he is clearly adaptable and improving with racing.

Following a disappointing start to the season, Haggas enjoyed an excellent August and he will be hoping Muzdawaj can get the ball rolling for September.

Voice Of Truth is similarly hard to oppose in the Wateraid/British Stallion Studs EBF Maiden Stakes at Newcastle. -

London