Tropics is a hot pick for the Stewards

TROPICS (Goodwood, 3.45) was agonisingly caught on the line in Group One company on his latest start and can gain compensation by returning to a handicap today. Dean Ivory has proved himself an excellent trainer of sprinters and he appears to have a live Qatar Stewards’ Cup contender in the seven-year-old who looked sure to land the July Cup until the dying strides. Well-backed favourite Muhaarar, fresh from a highly impressive Royal Ascot success, was the only one with the ability to deny the selection a treasured win at the highest level so he appeals at a nice price in this afternoon’s cavalry charge. Course specialist Ruwaiyan came close to making the final cut as he won with plenty in hand over course and distance three starts ago and hasn’t been disgraced away from his favoured venue since then. However, Tropics has that touch of class and looks nicely berthed in the same vicinity as one or two pacesetters so gains the nod. LADY OF DUBAI (Goodwood, 3.10) must post a career best to land the Qatar Nassau Stakes, but Luca Cumani and owner Sheik Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum have enjoyed an excellent seven days and their filly could be some value to topple Legatissimo and Diamondsandrubies. Cumani’s improving filly won well on her seasonal debut on the Sussex Downs before not seeming to quite get home in the Oaks at Epsom. This afternoon’s drop back in trip looks a wise move and she could take advantage if any of her rivals are feeling the effects of a hard campaign. REX IMPERATOR (Goodwood, nap, 2.00) landed the Stewards’ Cup here two years ago and his yard lifted a major handicap at the track yesterday. His victory at Thirsk came in a strong time and he is undeniably well handicapped at present.