Ekhtiyaar has what it takes to win at Ascot

RACING: Varian’s colt looks capable of running at a higher grade

EKHTIYAAR has what it takes to win the Original Harrogate Water Handicap at Ascot.

Roger Varian’s colt has won two nice races this season and already looks capable of running at a higher grade.

For now, though, connections have decided to stick to handicaps, with the decision likely to be vindicated in Berkshire.

Ekhtiyaar will need a touch of fortune on his side as 13 other horses have been declared for the six-furlongs.

But he showed on his last outing at Newmarket in July, when he gamely defeated Tommy Taylor by a head, that he thrives under the restraints of big-field handicaps.

The son of Bated Breath has gone up 6lb for this assignment, yet that should not be too much of a hindrance.

Ekhtiyaar has won when there is cut in the ground, too, so that could be of importance.

Owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum can also welcome another winner later on the card when MUKALAL goes for a seven-furlong handicap.

The three-year-old gelding is trained by Marcus Tregoning, who will be reassured by the fact this unexposed son of Mawatheeq is allowed to race off the same mark of 93.

The big race of the day, the Listed Noel Murless Stakes, represents a good opportunity for RAHEEN HOUSE.

Brian Meehan loves this Sea The Stars colt, and with good cause

The manner in which he stuck to his guns to lift the Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket in July gave his trainer all the incentive that was required to run him in the St Leger.

Things did not quite go to plan in the Doncaster Classic, but he remains a stayer of some substance.

Even in spite of having to carry a penalty, Raheen House ought to win.

Meanwhile, PULL THE CHORD is worth following in the Racebets ‘Double Deposit’ Handicap Chase at Fontwell. SELECTIONS: ASCOT: 2.00 My Amigo, 2.35 Golden Goal, 3.10 EKHTIYAAR (NAP), 3.45 Raheen House, 4.20 Mukalal, 4.55 Gavlar.

FONTWELL: 2.10 Risk And Roll, 2.45 Pickamix, 3.20 Sir Dylan, 3.55 As De Mee, 4.30 Strumble Head, 5.05 Scoop The Pot.

DOUBLE: Ekhtiyaar and Mukalal.