Kimberella up for the Cup
DAVID NICHOLLS looks to have major claims of landing today’s Qatar Stewards’ Cup.
Orion’s Bow and KIMBERELLA (Goodwood, 3.45) provide him with two live chances in Europe’s richest sprint handicap and narrow preference is for the latter, who ended a run of placed efforts with a York success last weekend.
A change of tactics paid off for rider Franny Norton, who was more patient on the Knavesmire than he was at Chester on the gelding’s previous start.
I’m hoping front-runner Swift Approval can help those drawn high on the standside rail and Kimberella can continue his rich vein of form. Of his rivals, Dancing Star looks biggest as he seems likely to gain a nice tow into the race courtesy of Ridge Ranger and Red Pike, who both like to be ridden forcefully. The far side has appeared to be slightly favoured this week and Dancing Star was hugely impressive when scoring over course and distance in early June prior to lifting one of the warmest three-year-old handicaps of the season at Newmarket.
His price is nothing to shout about this morning but he looks sure to post another massive performance.
The Qatar Stewards’ Sprint Stakes could give punters a heads-up regarding the draw, especially with warm favourite Projection drawn high. Victory for Roger Charlton’s three-year-old would be a major pointer to the chance of Dancing Star, given Projection was a closing fourth in the aforementioned Newmarket handicap.
Bookmakers are taking no chances though and there could be a little value in supporting DOUGAN (Goodwood, 2.00) to get on the scoresheet.
A race of today’s nature has looked well within the capabilities of the selection and the step up to six furlongs looks a wise move, given he was lacking in thrust over the minimum trip at Ascot last time.
Speed dominates proceedings today and LAILA HONIWILLOW (Doncaster, nap, 5.15) should appreciate the return to Town Moor in the finale. The selection has the in-form Justice Lady to beat but her main market rival has seemed better over five furlongs this season.