Straight course suits veteran

Newcastle stages the latest Fast Track Qualifier, and the veteran ROYAL BIRTH looks a good bet to continue his renaissance in the Betway Conditions Stakes.

The Stuart Williamstrained 10- year- old has won his last two outings, both over the minimum trip at Lingfield.

But while he officially won over five furlongs last time out, he must have covered a fair bit more given his wayward tendencies.

Royal Birth hung right off the home bend before then hanging back to his left, but he managed to get up to win close home. Thankfully Newcastle is straight.

A real all-weather specialist, he is rated some 16lb lower on turf yet he is not a million miles away from his career-high mark, suggesting he retains plenty of ability.

Williams may already be on the board by then, courtesy of the giant HERCULEAN in the Bombardier British Ho p p e d Amber Beer Handicap.

Despite being winless in his last six outings, the handicapper has refused to relent and he finds himself just 2lb lower than his opening handicap mark – which indicates somebody thinks the ability is in there somewhere.

He has only run on the all-weather once and although he was well beaten, it is too early to say he will not prove as effective, and this son of Frankel and Group One sprinter African Rose may be best caught fresh.

SELECTIONS

LINGFIELD: 12.40 Lottie Marie, 1.10 Save The Spirit, 1.45 Spurofthemoment, 2.15 Stay Smart, 2.50 Tick Toch, 3.20 Miss Elsa, 3.50 By Jove. NEWCASTLE: 3.25 Zabeel Star, 4.00 Herculean, 4.30 Mythmaker, 5.00 ROYAL BIRTH, 5.30 Vintager, 6.00 Baileys Warrior, 6.30 Higher Kingdom. DOUBLE: Royal Birth and Herculean.