BEN TO BAT OFF RIVALS
Globetrotting star has repeat victory in his sights
BENBATL gets a confident vote to repeat his victory of 12 months ago in the Group 2 Shadwell Joel Stakes (3.35) at Newmarket today.
The six-year-old son of Dubawi has been a doughty standardbearer the world over for Saeed bin Suroor and Godolphin, winning 10 races in three different continents.
Last September, Benbatl didn’t have to travel far from bin Suroor’s Godolphin Stables on Newmarket’s Snailwell Road before dishing out a five-length humbling to King Of Comedy.
Penalties for this afternoon’s test apply from March 31, so Frankie Dettori’s mount gets off scot-free for his two scores at this level at Meydan at the start of the year - unlike market rival Kameko, who carries an extra 5lb for landing the 2,000 Guineas here in June.
And a 209-day break since his third in the Saudi Cup isn’t a concern, either – Benbatl has an exemplary record when returning from an absence.
Overlook SANTOSHA at your peril in the Group 2 Shadwell Rockfel Stakes (3.00).
David Loughnane’s youngster ran below par when eighth in the Group 2 Lowther Stakes at York last month, but turned in a game effort to lift Ascot’s Group 3 Princess Margaret Stakes on her previous start – and a first furlongs should suit.
Alpinista’s Yorkshire Oaks second to Love will very likely earn her favouritism for the Group 3 Princess Royal Muharaar Stakes (2.25), but preference is for KATARA, who bids for a hat- trick after successes at Kempton Park and at Newmarket’s July Course on her last two starts.
Richard Hannon’s CLOAK OF SPIRITS also chased home Love when claiming the silver medal in the 1,000 Guineas and a drop to Listed company may do the trick as she bids to get off the mark for 2020 in the Tasleet British EBF Rosemary Stakes (1.50). try at seven