FRANKIE HITS TOP 20
MOTHER EARTH gave Frankie Dettori his 20th Classic success in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.
The top jockey was content to bide his time on Aidan O’Brien’s 10-1 shot as Fev Rover (22-1) set a strong pace.
The leader began to struggle two out allowing Mother Earth to claim the lead entering the final furlong.
Saffron Beach (9-1) came with a powerful late run but was always held by the winner who scored cosily by a length. The well-backed 5-2 jointfavourite Santa Barbera ran well in fourth just ahead of her market rival Alcohol Free.
Dettori said: “It’s my 20th Classic so I’m delighted and it was in my home town of Newmarket.”
CORBULO (2.46) can extend Brian Meehan’s fine run at Bath in the trappy Blackmore Handicap. Impressive over a mile here, he improved again when just denied by Kalma at Nottingham and remains nicely unexposed over 1m 2f.
Tom Clover is also starting to hit form so I’m siding with GRAND CANAL (1.0) in the opener. The gelding can defy a 5lb hike for slamming Confils over track and trip.
NODSASGOODASAWINK (4.31) can call the tune for thriving Mick Channon in the closing sprint.
GOOD NEWS (3.50) can hit the headlines for in-form Lydia Richards at Warwick. The hurdler lurks on a workable mark after bolting up from Corrie Lake at Plumpton.
Jennie Candlish’s FOR JIM (4.25) can continue his revival in the staying handicap hurdle.
The grey looks well-treated on his old form after beating Event Of Sivola at Sedgefield.
SOMEKINDOFSTAR (5.0) can sparkle for Lucy Wadham in the racingtv.com Handicap Chase. The gelding stayed firmly on the upgrade over fences when second to Rock On Rocco at Ludlow.
Fergal O’Brien is flying so I’m backing CLEMENTO (5.30) in a competitive two-miler. The hurdler was a fine second to Champagne City on debut for his new handler over track and trip and can turn the tables on his rival at today’s weights.
PASO DOBLE (1.15) can put his best foot forward for Paul Nicholls in the novice hurdle at Kempton.