Archived Quotes

Dapper Gee Gee is back from a break. He needs to show more but he has been working nicely and could put up a decent performance

Collusion isn't the soundest horse so I have to be careful not to overwork him. As a result he's still not 100% race fit but this is a modest race. He's getting there and I wouldn't be too surprised if he won or again if he came up a little short.

Zarathos most likely will need this one more run against some highly-rated maidens. He'll be doing his best however and goes there in good form. Hoping for another improved run.

El Bufalo always works well and I thought he was going to break his duck two runs back but he was reined in late at Chelmsford. He was unlucky in running last time at Newcastle, but if he gets the luck in running he should go very close.

Patrol should win. He ran two good races for us including when a close 3rd over this CD before getting his head in front at Southwell. Up 3lb, he is the one they have to beat.

If I had thought the previously frustrating Jackson Street had turned over a new leaf with his first win from 16 starts at Newcastle last month, I should not have been so naive. He went back there two weeks later over the same 6f and ran like a wimp, fading into 6th. You tell me what he'll do this time.

Silver Sword seems to have taken to life in Dubai and ran a nice first race there a week ago. I expect he will improve for the run and if back to his UK best, he would look nicely handicapped. Excellent each-way shout.

I was thrilled by King's Call's stable debut here a week ago. Considering he's only a 3yo he ran a blinder close behind a trio of smart handicappers, with a good few more behind him. He switches to a level-weights race against his contemporaries and should go very close.

Garibaldi Memory has been slow to learn, as his two runs show. This further experience should help him when he can run in handicaps further down the line.

Wannabeawallaby should have a decent each-way chance. He's better on the turf but well enough handicapped now to win a race like this.

You tell me. Usually, when Cerulean Sumer stays in touch rather than being very slowly away, she comes through and wins. Last time though she led in the straight and weakened. Morgan won on her previously and hopefully, they will time it right this evening.

Just Ten High got back to form over the CD a week ago when first-time blinkers had a beneficial effect. He is only 3lb higher and will take plenty of catching if in the same mood.

Asgard's Captain ended last year with a one-length win at Newcastle, his fifth of 2024. He can resume in similar vein tonight, raised only 2lb for that victory and Kyle knows him well.

We bought King's Call at the HIT sale at Tatts in the autumn. He may take a little while to get used to the racing in Meydan but he had good form as a 2yo last  season and takes on his elders as the sole 3yo in the field.

We've two horses at Meydan this winter and they are both in action today. I'll not be there or even at Lingfield as I'm in South Africa where the New Year continues recent exciting developments in racing in my home country. There are plenty of UK visitors for tomorrow's big King's Plate fixture. Silver Sword has been improving since being in Dubai and I'm excited about his chance today.

Gogo Yubari ran very well last week at Wolverhampton, beaten just over a length after leading. This fast 5f should be right up her street and as long as she gets away quickly, I'd be very hopeful.

Although Mart usually does best in Class 5 handicaps, this isn't a great Class 4 contest. He has an okay draw and as long he gets luck in running, he should be bang there at the finish.

Gogo Yubari is better over 5f, especially around here. She has a lovely inside draw and I'm confident she can get her winter campaign properly up and running tonight.

Just Ten High has enjoyed a great year, really only disappointing last time. We've freshened him up since then and are dropping him back a furlong. He should run a huge race and be right there.

Collusion will need the run and is sure to improve from it. I've missed a few days' work with him.

Magna Gee Gee ran his best race of three last time out when he was still in with a chance until tiring late into 4th. Has been allowed plenty compared with the trio that beat him and if he improves by a similar amount here, he should have a good each-way shout.

Kyle partnered Jackson Street to a first-ever win over the CD two weeks ago. A while before that I was wondering whether we would be passing Jackson Street on but like El Bufalo, he seems to be getting there. He's 5lb higher but I think there's still scope for another win.

We run two here this evening and both should go well. El Bufalo ran his best race of the year last time at Chelmsford, showing much more like he does every morning on the gallops. Josie got him to the front a furlong out only for him to be caught late on. Hopefully, on this stiff straight 5f, they will get the timing right tonight.

Hello Miss Lady will run well if she settles but if she's too keen she will struggle. She's in good form but needs to relax early on. We would have liked a better draw.

Gogo Yubari shaped nicely first time back from a break, staying on well over 5f into 3rd late on. The extra furlong will help and you know my opinion of Fletch who rides today - he's as good as it gets!

Edvard Grieg showed initial promise on joining us but has disappointed since. He shows plenty at home and even though the latter form suggests otherwise, it wouldn't be a shock if he ran well based on that nice work at home.

Asgard's Captain made a highly promising return after his break and will; be fitter now. He won twice in succession the last times he saw Newcastle and can repeat the dose today.

Toby Tops was picked up unraced at a bargain price considering his pedigree. We gelded him before his debut and he has run two okay races. He can run in handicaps after today when he should come into his own.

We run two in this. Zarathos wasn't beaten far when shaping nicely around here three weeks ago. His draw in nine is no picnic but he has improved for the debut and I expect him to finish in the places.

Our other runner Garibaldi Memory was very green on debut at Brighton a couple of months ago and still has plenty to learn. He could have fared better in the draw, but anyway needs experience and time.

Patrol has run two good races sine joining from William Haggas, staying on well into a place each time. Hopefuly, this should be third time lucky.

The Kamikaze Kid joins Patrol in this. His three runs in maidens haven't shown too much ability and now in handicaps we hope he might get close to the principals.

Meeting abandoned

I just want to see El Bufalo race normally today and not pull too hard. He's in good form and can place I think now that we've gelded him.

We just never know Cerulean Summer's mood. She always puts in good work at home but turns up on the track when she feels like it so it's difficult ever to fancy her with confidence.

I was starting to lose faith with Jackson Street, an under-achiever on what he does at home until his latest staying-on 3rd at Wolverhampton. He ran poorly on his previous start here but if Kyle can keep him under wraps, he could be dangerous.

Mart is always tough to beat in his grade - Class 5. He has a nice draw and while his recent form has been below par, he's working nicely and should go close.

After a couple of close/slightly unlucky runs yesterday, we're stuck still on 49 winners since coming to the UK. Three chances today, starting with Just Ten High who has continued to run well in handicaps following a couple of nice wins in the autumn. Well drawn, he could take a lot of beating.

It all went horribly wrong for Ghostman last time at Newcastle. Hopefully, Josie can work him into a nice position and if all goes well, he ought to have the beating of this field.

Patrol made a promising start for us when 2nd at Southwell in late September and has worked well since. He has a winning chance today and it seems he might have been quite a bargain at the sales.

Ghostman has run two excellent races at Newcastle finishing 2nd, firstly over 5f and then over today's trip of 6f. Hoping that Rhys can time it right to make it third time lucky.

Zarathos is fit for this debut but will need the experience as he is very green. Will learn plenty tonight.

Hello Miss Lady ran well in 2nd here here and when winning on Lingfield's AW before fading into 5th in extremely testing ground at Newbury. She is in good order and while she is badly drawn, I think she has a good chance and I expect her to run well.

I told you before his debut that Toby Tops is a really nice horse but that he would need the run. He ended up being beaten a long way but was bang there two out and the heavy ground exaggerated his final position. He has been working very well and I'm expecting a big run tonight. Each-way chances.

Mart has been working very well and this is the Class of race (5) where he does all his damage. Once again he's a massive price as he was last time he won in the grade. People have short memories. The main worry is if he'll handle seven furlongs. Hopeful.

Asgard's Captain has been off for almost five months following a very busy and highly productive winter season on AW. He is some way short of peak fitness but he is very well in himself. He should be ready for another successful winter season after a run or two but I'll never be surprised if he exceeds expectations tonight.

Jackson Street has been a real problem for us, very rarely doing on the track what he does at home. I'm getting desperate as dropping him to 6f probably shows. If that doesn't work, I don't know what we can do with him.

We now know exactly what to expect from Cerulean Summer. If she gets a half-decent break, she wins. Otherwise, it's a struggle and you can never tell which way it will go. Those first few yards are always so crucial, but she has been getting it right lately!

Gugo Yubari has had a nice break and is ready to get into her winter season's action. She's a lovely filly and is flying at home, but she probably is no more than 75% fit.

Magna Gee Gee has had a couple of runs yet still seems rather green and inexperienced. We'll be hoping for better this afternoon.

You're going to think I'm mad but I really fancy Edvard Grieg. Maybe he's a morning glory but on what he does at home he's way overpriced at 33/1. I think he should be more like an 8/1 shot. Can't wait to find out who's right!

Just Ten High ran well last time when 2nd at Southwell. He's pretty consistent and I'm very hopeful he can make the most of his draw in stall one. I'm going to back him in a double with a tip I have had from back home in South Africa. In the 10 a.m. opening race at Kenilworth in Cape Town, horse number 11 Harun Al Rashid makes his debut at age four and is reckoned to go very nicely! Fingers crossed!

It's pretty much a Last Chance Saloon for Jackson Street. His work is good, he's a beautiful-looking horse but he just isn't doing it on the track. I'm putting Kyle on him today as he will ride him cold and I'm hoping that works. He's frustrating the living daylights out of me and if he runs poorly again, it's the Online sale for him!

Ghostman has always been a good worker at home and now he has begun to run more like it on the track. He was a close running-on 2nd over 5f here last time and will have no problem with the extra furlong today. He's flying at home and I'm confident he will win.

If Cerulean Summer could get away with losing five lengths at the start rather than 100 yards then she would have a chance as was the case two runs back when she came through to win. Her best chance is if they go hard - as long as she stays in touch. Again not one for backing for me but possible if things work out right.

Baritus Bellator has ability but hangs badly in his races and is hard to catch right. If he performed as he does at home he would be okay but Rhys said after the last time, he hung so badly he couldn't ride a finish on him. Maybe the jockey change will help and he could go better but he won't have any of my money on him.

Just Ten High was expected to win over the course and distance last time out when going for the hat-trick, but ran an erratic race and was well beaten. I've decided it's best to put a line through that and hope we see the real Just Ten High. I'm going to have a Lucky 15 tonight, my last three here and City Of Troy at Del Mar. If Coolmore can dream, why can't we?

Just King High is my best runner tonight. He didn't quite get home over 6f at Goodwood last time but this flat 5f should be right up his street.

Silver Sword ran his best race for ages last time, largely obliterating the Cambridgeshire debacle. He won easily the only time he has been to Southwell and we have to be hopeful as he seems to be getting back to his best of last year. Obviously, the Gosden horse is the one to beat.

Magna Gee Gee has had one run but still needs experience. He'll be one for handicaps later on.

The Kamikaze King has a bit to find with a few of these on the form of his two runs, but plenty of horses struggle with the undulations of Brighton. He should be more at home on this flat AW track for this 3rd run.

For all that he has won six races, Mart can be a bit up and down. He is largely consistent though and I'm changing things tonight. He has a poor draw and rather than go from the start, burning himself up, we'll drop him in and ride him as we did at Lingfield earlier in the year. That day he ran on to be 2nd and the Stuart Williams-trained winner Pandora's Gift runs at Del Mar at the weekend! Each-way chances at a nice price for us today.

Wannabeawallaby was consistent in the summer but the last twice has been disappointing. He has run well on soft ground and now his mark has come down a few pounds he has a chance to get that elusive first win. Hopeful.

Havana Smoke is becoming expensive to follow and there can be no excuse for his run at Newcastle the other day. Apart from the surface, that track and Wolverhampton could hardly be any more different. If he fancies it he can pop up, but it's risky.

Hello Miss Lady has been progressing nicely on all-weather. It will be something of a culture shock trying this heavy ground but she's still lightly raced and has plenty of scope for improvement. Hopeful.

El Bufalo is the best of my five and has been working really well at home. He was disappointing, never getting into the race here last time, but he has the plum draw.  Great chance - tell your friend from York!

Cerulean Summer seems to like a girl jockey and in this hands and heels race she gets a boy apprentice. Despite the two good runs, I still can't trust her to continue the improved form.

Expressionless loves Nottingham where he's two from two. He probably just needed the run last time at Redcar but he's in great order now. He has a big weight and a bad draw but otherwise we go there quite confidently.

Faro De San Juan was a good 2nd at Bath the other day. He takes his races well and will not be bothered by conditions. He's in the sales next week so we'd love a nice run to send him there.

Toby Tops is a nice horse but he will need the experience and the first run. He'll be one to follow in the future.

I have nightmares thinking about Silver Sword's run in the Cambridgeshire where he was made far too much use of. Greg is back on board and knows him well. Silver Sword is in great form and I probably need him to win to be able to take him to Dubai for the Carnival. That's the plan. Hopeful.

The market suggests Havana Smoke is the one to beat and I hope it's right. Like Jackson Street, he isn't the easiest to win with, but hasn't been beaten far in any of his last five starts. He too is in great shape and looks fantastic and I'm banking on the stiff Newcastle track to be the final component to get him over the line.

We run two similar types tonight. Both have ability but there's always a question about their determination. Jackson Street is in great form and looks fantastic. I hope Newcastle and its tough finish will suit him as it will help him close with the front-runners as they tire in the latter stages. Big each-way chance if he wants it.

Just Ten High has won the last twice, both over 7f, the latest on this track. He has looked as though an extra furlong would suit him well and he gets a chance to prove it today. Confidence in his claims for the hat-trick.

Faro De San Juan has started at big prices on his last two outings and while not quite finishing in the frame, wasn't beaten far either time. If things go right through the race, he could be coming fast to pick up the pieces in the closing stages.

Patrol had been there or thereabouts in his races for William Haggas. We have inherited (bought) a likeable horse from William and from a good draw we are hopeful of a positive start with him.

Prague remains in terrific form following his eye-opening victory in the Group 2 Joel Stakes on his home track the other day. This is a much more stringent test and we'll be finding out just how good he is.

Edvard Greig showed promise first time out for us when 2nd at Nottingham but didn't enjoy the gradients of Beverley. This is his AW debut and even though he has a difficult draw, I'm hopeful he can finish in the money.

Ghostman always shows plenty at home and he has been getting better on the track. He ran well at Wolverhampton last time and from a good draw tonight can go very close.

Garibaldi Memory is a horse that's very hard to get a handle on. At home, he only does what he has to do and while he's a nice horse, he could win or run last on this debut! He's probably best watched with caution today, but don't scream at me if he does win!

Cartwheel has been working in tremendous style since her debut in a luckless 3rd at Beverley. Despite her awful draw, I expect her to win - turning cartwheels!

Cerulean Summer often gives it away at the start but last time she didn't and was rewarded with a 2nd place. Annoyingly, she was put up by 1lb - I think that's just lazy handicapping. If she gets off on terms, she could go very close.

Louie The Legend won well over the trip at Chepstow and maybe found the last furlong at Newmarket on nursery debut stretching him a little. Back to his winning trip, he's in flying form and we have to be hopeful.

I liked the chance of Just King High before his first race at Beverley and he ran very promisingly in a close 4th. He's in flying form and it's a pity he's drawn 1 on wet ground at Goodwood where there is such a track bias. Still can run a big race.

Havana Smoke ran a close-up 3rd at Southwell the other day, despite his rider afterwards complaining he had hung left through the entire race. They go the same way round at Chelmsford and he has a wide draw, but if he is a bit more amenable to steering, he could get in the money again.

Just Ten High has gone up 3lb for his win last time at Chelmsford. I think he has another 3lb or 4lb to come after that, so he could just have enough to win again.

Dapper Gee Gee finished with a rattle on debut at Chepstow, chasing home our first string Louie The Legend. That promise was not maintained at Yarmouth where he hung left, but the going was firm that day. Back on easier ground, he has to be a major factor.

The Kamikaze Kid joins Dapper Gee Gee in this. He didn't run too badly on debut when he might have finished nearer than 8th with a clearer run. Place chances.

Burlington House is a big, slow 3yo and I think going up in trip may be the making of him. He can run well - at a price!

The form of Ghostman's first run in a handicap at Yarmouth is working out well. He ran very freely in 2nd until tiring that day and the drop from 7f to 5f should suit. Very hopeful of a big run.

Barritus Bellator has a good draw. He does tend to hang but if Rhys can somehow avoid that, he could run in the money.

Faro De San Juan is a nightmare - you never know how he'll run. He's in good form and always works well. Maybe Paul Mulrennan who rode him into a close 4th at Newmarket last autumn, might get a tune out of him.

Expressionless has been in great form and is our best chance on the day. Track, ground and a top jockey in Rossa Ryan are compelling factors. Very hopeful.

Zminiature won the Brocklesby but while his contemporaries have grown and matured he has stayed very small. He still flies along on the gallops and is very well in himself, but my fear is he simply hasn't trained on. This could be the last run before we retire him unless he runs a big race here.

Jackson Street never got into the race after a slow start at Chelmsford- usually the kiss of death there. Previously, he had been running well and Fletch, to my mind one of the best amateurs around, can guide him at least into one of the places.

Sir Kenny, was a very cheap buy but one not only with a nice pedigree, by Kendargent out of a Sir Percy mare, but a well-named one too. He'll learn plenty but he isn't helped on debut by his wide draw.

The only time Wannabeawallaby encountered soft ground, he was 2nd over 2m at Lingfield. The drop in trip in heavy going should not trouble him and he looks a good each-way prospect here today.

Sansanetti made a promising start at Lingfield but she meets well-connected fillies here. If she finished in the middle I would be happy.

I was tempted to run  Silver Sword in last year's race when he would have been higher in the handicap. He probably is drawn on the right side and I couldn't be happier with his work. The worry is the ground but the Rowley Mile drains better than anywhere bar maybe Epsom, so he should be okay. Big shout.

Since he won at Windsor four runs back Faro De San Juan has had two fruitless trips to Newcastle with a better effort in between at Brighton. Back on turf and in a modest handicap, I think he will outrun his odds.

El Bufalo won at odds-on around here last autumn. We were hopeful when he returned at Newmarket at the Craven meeting but he disappointed, since when he's had a wind-op. Even though he's been off the track for so long, he goes there with a good chance.

Cerulean Summer hasn't been the most reliable but we were unprepared for her exhibition here last time when she almost refused to race. On her best behaviour she would have place chances.

It's a big day for Prague who was unlucky not to pick up a Group 3 at Haydock last time, showing he has the speed for 1m. He did win over 2f further on debut and if he handles this ground he must have a great chance of making amends.

Havana Smoke has been knocking on the door and one of his best efforts was over this CD three runs back. Good each-way chance in a wide-open handicap.

Louie The Legend beat off a big field in determined style at Chepstow, confirming his progress from race to race. We think he has improved again and looks decent value at 7/1 in a tight race.

Edvard Grieg made a very promising start for us when 2nd at Nottingham last month and I expect him to win today. The draw isn't great but I think he has the ability to overcome that.

The same owners as our recent winner Just Ten High and they are professional poker players.  Just King High is a lovely horse who will need further in time and the experience today. I expect him to make up into a smart 3yo.

Burlington House has quickly come down to a dangerous mark. He hasn't shown in his three runs for us on the track anything like his home form. Down in distance and class here, I think he has a good each-way shout.

Battleofbaltimore is what he is. He gives his connections plenty of action though and usually shows up for much of his races. He's won once and after last week's 3rd at Brighton, another run in the money looks possible. He's not entirely reliable though.

The Kamikaze King makes his debut here. He's a promising horse but is likely to be a little green. We expect he'll improve for the experience.

Cervetto goes for the amateurs' race with regular rider Fletch on him. They won together at Wolverhampton a few runs back and I think he's a good each-way chance. Also, he's overpriced - I think he should be half those odds.

Jackson Street was very unlucky to be caught on the line at Newcastle when the other horse was finishing fast far wide of him and I doubt he could see him. Each-way chances as with our other two.

Just Ten High earned a very low mark from his qualifying runs. We hope the extra distance will help him as he needs to improve a fair bit if he is to overcome the weight disadvantage.

Dapper Gee Gee may be the best of our three place chances on the day - with the hope that at least one can win. He made a good start and hopefully, has that little bit of improvement in him.

Mart came back to form last time returning to a Class 5 which has been his comfort zone. They were doing best up the middle yesterday so his draw in 11 may not be the benefit if often is around here. Hoping for the best from this tough, genuine sort, up to Class 4 again.

Cartwheel has been shaping nicely as the overnight support for her suggests. She has a poor draw but has plenty of speed and we'll looking for a big run on debut.

Battleofbaltimore takes his races well. He might be unpredictable, but he handles Brighton and if he's on a going day won't be far away. 

Magna Gee Gee was picked up quite cheaply at the breeze-ups. The favourite will be tough to beat, but I hope our boy can run a nice race on debut.

We expected a better run from Ghostman last time but the plus side is he starts handicapping off a nice mark. Hopeful.

Non-runner

We're still licking our wounds from Newcastle last night but Hello Miss Lady should lift the gloom. She ran a blinder when beaten only half a length at Kempton last time when a 100/1 chance and was a bit unlucky in running too. She's odds-on here and I would be shocked if she didn't win.

Havana Smoke probably has the best chance of the Newcastle trio. He has twice got close with strong finishes at his first two tries at a mile. David Egan knows him well and the stiff Newcastle finish should suit him down to the ground.

Jackson Street got very close last time at Chelmsford despite a slow start and not getting a clear run in the straight. He's in good order and I think Newcastle will suit him. In Silvestre, he has a top jockey on his back.

Faro De San Juan has loads of talent but needs things to go his way. One of three we have up at Newcastle, he should have won more races than he has, but he's in great form and we're hopeful as with all our runners today.

Sansanetti might have an odds-on chance in her race, but she has plenty of ability and I will be disappointed if she doesn't go close. The obvious issue is her draw in 11, but if she breaks on terms she is sure to run a big race.

This is D-day for Prague - his best chance yet of giving us our first Group-race win - in the UK at any rate. He is working well and conditions will be fine. I think he'll like the drop to a mile as he has lots of speed. We have an exciting week in prospect and up until Friday, I'm running plenty of runners with chances. Tell your friend in York to have a tenner on all of them!

It's all about what happens at the start with Cerulean Summer. She often loses a lot of ground coming out of the stalls but if she did get away reasonably, she would have a good each-way chance.

Meeting abandned

Faro De San Juan was only 6th last time but deserved to be in the money having struggled for a run at a crucial time. There are only four runners here but I think there will be some pace on and Faro can follow them down the hill and pounce up the straight. Hopeful.

Mart has had a great year but his two runs back after an early summer break, both at Newmarket were compromised by slow starts - the last time when he reared as the stalls opened. He likes Lingfield, so Brighton should be fine. Place chances on his best form.

Battleofbaltimore is a struggler and should run well but I would not bet on him with your money. He's inconsistent but in good form.

Jackson Street has been 6th in all three runs since joining us, the last two after being gelded. He's been flying at home and will go close today dropping back to 7f.

Burlington House made a promising start for the stable at Beverley, but his latest run at Leicester was too bad to be true. He's had four weeks to get his act together again and hopefully, he will be a place candidate tonight.

Hello Miss Lady has struggled in her first two runs. She has ability but after four months off she might not be at her sharpest.

Cervetto has a top jockey who has already won on him on board here. If he stays - he beat Warning Sign over 10f at Sandown - I think he still will have a few pounds in hand. That's the question today. I feel he will win, everyone else thinks I'm nuts.

Louie The Legend has improved with his racing. He should win this.

Dapper Gee Gee is a nice horse who will need the first run but shouldn't be far off. Probably in midfield.

Every drop of rain we get will increase Ghostman's chance as it will make the 6f here all the more testing. He's lightly-raced but improved a lot for being gelded after the first run and I'm expecting another big step forward. On Thursday I told you I thought Sensorium would run a blinder even from his difficult draw and he earned us 60k for 3rd. I love these sales races and they pay down to tenth today but I'll be disappointed if we aren't in the top five where the big bucks are to be earned. Again hopeful at a big price!

Battleofbaltimore likes to be up there from the outset and as long as he breaks alertly, he can make good use of the inside draw. Not the most consistent, but I'm delighted he gave his enthiastic owners a win at Yarmouth and he should be in with the action at the business end.

These Racing League handicaps are never easy to unravel but Faro De San Juan did well to win at Windsor last time and off only 3lb higher, can go very close.

The guy who helps me with my race planning thinks I'm mad but I am really hopeful that Sensorium - our only runner at York this week - can follow what Silver Sword did at the meeting last year and win. It's a massive prize for this sales race but he's been flying at home after his win at Beverley and looks unreal. I fancy him very strongly and 33/1 looks a gift!

Edvard Greig has been sent to me by mostly the same owners for whom he ran five times without success in Ireland. He starts on a mark in the high 60s and he'll probably find the in-form favourite tough to beat.

Rock And Royal won a handicap here two runs back but disappointed at Ayr last time when a short-priced favourite and finishing last.  A repetition of the early course form would put her in with a chance but again it's hope rather than expectation for her too.

We run two moderate fillies in this 0-50 Classified. Rhys chose Empress Lulu, much the outsider of the pair, but she is coming down in class. Hoping for the best but without too many expectations for either filly.

Mart just needed last week's run after a couple of months off. That will have put the shine back on and Rhys is back and knows him well. He'll run well although this is tough - the sort of sprint where five or six can be in a line going across the finish.

I thought Baritus Bellator was a good thing last time, but he let me down. He works like a good horse at home and if he replicated that here, he would win, but after last time, I have my doubts.

Battleofbaltimore won last time and we're claiming 7lb off him today. He's not easy, but as long as his young jockey isn't run away with, he'll have his chance.

Faro De San Juan is the longest-priced of our five runners today but he's the one I fancy most. He's in good form and 5f with blinkers on are ideal. I hope they go quick. If he's four lengths behind with a furlong to go, he'll probably not quite get there. If it's two lengths, I think he'll make it. Great value each-way.

Havana Smoke has a good draw and a great jockey booking. It's a big field but if he gets a clear run he'll go close.

Wannabeawallaby continues in great form but even though he gets a 7lb weight pull with the Simcock horse that beat him last time, I'm not sure that will be enough to turn the tables. He stays well, though, and must have every chance, certainly of being in the money.

Rock And Royal won well over this trip at Yarmouth last time and looks finally to be getting her act together. This Classified stakes looks an obvious progression as she's bang on the 50 mark after Yarmouth.

Cerulean Summer has been getting nearer in recent races on AW. She has run on turf only once and cannot be judged on that as she was badly interfered with at the start of a race at Nottingham and Rhys allowed her to coast home in her own time. There should be much more to come on this 2nd turf start. Hopeful.

Jackson Street has had two runs since joining, going the better first time after which he was gelded. This is competitive, but we're hoping with a bit of improvement he can run in the money.

Mart has been a real money-spinner for the stable since joining last autumn, winning five times. He was a little below his best the last twice so we've given him a break and he's looking great again. Each-way chances.

Expressionless came from some way back to win a Racing League contest at Yarmouth over this trip last time. Fletch takes over for this amateurs' race over the same trip on Expressionless, who gets a very confident vote.

Cervetto was impressive last time over the CD in an amateurs' race. This is stronger and he's up 5lb but is in good form and has a nice draw. Very hopeful.

Louie The Legend made a promising start when 4th at Newcastle. I'm not sure of the level of the opposition and it might well be on the short side for him. He has a good draw though and I'm hopeful he'll be placed at least.

Just Ten High has been very green so far. We hope he can show some improvement to get in the middle this time after which he should have a handicap mark.

Prague shocked everyone with his first-time-out win at Sandown and wasn't disgraced in his follow-up attempt there. We think there's more to come, hopefully starting today.

Wannabeawallaby has been gradually improving and likes the distance. We're applying first-time cheek-pieces and they can help him to a first win. He's in the right race, it's whether anything else has something up its sleeve!

Empress Lulu is still very much in the learning stage. We're looking for an improvement on her two previous runs.

Burlington House just needed his debut run for us the other day and I think he has improved since then. The slight worry is whether he will bounce but he's showing no sign of that and will love the distance. Handily weighted at the foot of this handicap so we're very hopeful.

It's the same situation with Makuri as the last two - a bit of a struggle. The last time she ran, the jockey suggested we drop her to a mile and apply first-time blinkers so here we are. I hope he was right!

Rock And Royal would probably prefer a bit more give in the ground. It's competitive and she'll do well to make the frame.

Battleofbaltimore really needs 7f or a mile but when this race came up I thought it looked very ordinary and put him in as an after-thought. He can run okay, but as I say, 5f is probably too short.

Ace Rothstein has had one run back from a long break and looked a little ring-rusty. He needs to get full fitness back to show his best and I doubt he's there yet.

We could have had three winners yesterday. The first one stayed on just too late, then the jockey couldn't steer Baritur at Wolverhampton and I've had all kinds of abuse on social media, calling me a crook and go back where you came from. Nice people. Good job Faro won! Today will be a struggle. Ghostman is a nice horse running for the first time since being gelded. I think it's a decent race and he might not be quite ready yet for this opposition.

Faro De San Juan ran very well when 6th in the jump jockeys' Nunthorpe at York on Saturday. He's turned out fine and now with blinkers on for the first time from here and a good jockey, he has every chance. It's a day when we can have three winners or three 4ths!

Baritus Bellator ran a good race last time, beaten just over 3l on this CD. Starts handicpping off a fair mark and can go close.

Astroqualis needs more experience. She has a nice US pedigree, but so far she hasn't lived up to it. One for further down the line.

Havana Smoke has a nice chance. Six furlongs was too short last time but going a mile with a good draw and David Egan in the saddle gives him a decent opportunity.

It's a third run for Asclepius. He's shown very little so far and obviously, his future will be in handicaps.

In terms of how Silver Sword is at the moment, he's probably the best I've had him since Goodwood last year. I can't put my finger on why he's been so disappointing, but this 0-105 handicap should give him a chance to prove his true worth

This jump jockeys Nunthorpe with horses carrying up to 12st will be like an apprentices' race but more so! Charlie Deutsch is a horseman first and foremost and should get the best out of Faro De San Juan. If they can avoid the mayhem they could get in the first four.

We're having a crack at the Racing League and Expressionless could go well at a big price. His best performance was when winning at Nottingham three runs back and this track has its similarities. It's a tough race but I'm hopeful of a decent run.

Jackson Street made a promising start for the stable at Newbury, since when we've gelded him. He tops the weights in this handicap but he's well and I'd give him a good each-way shout.

Just Ten High is having his second run. He's a big horse still learning his trade and will probably need further to reach his potential.

Cerulean Summer has yet to win but as her rating has been dropping, she has been getting nearer, staying on well into a reasonable fifth at Wolverhampton last time. Place chances.

Battleofbaltimore has been exasperating, but his homework is much better than you would expect from a 47-rated horse. They might not be able to get away from him on this track. Place chances.

Sensorium ran well last time but 6f might be stretching him a shade at this stage of his career. The stiff 5f here helped by a nice draw should be ideal. Hopeful.

Faro De San Juan showed he was coming back to his best with a close 3rd at Bath last time. He's ready to win one although the Haggas horse could well have a little in hand - only up 3lb for a first win.

Asclepius also started out at Newcastle where he was very green. Again, hoping for a little more from him this evening.

Astrroqualis showed signs of being in season when making her debut at Newcastle, so to some extent that run can be forgiven. She didn't go there with extravagant expectations anyway, so we'll be hoping for a better performance tonight.

Ace Rothstein has been off for a while. He is always liable to put up a good show in staying handicaps and these lady amateurs are likely to go quickly enough to bring his stamina into play. Not the worst 25/1 shot around today.

Havana Smoke ran well last time after a break over 7f at Lingfield. He's back to 6f here but that shouldn't be a problem on this galloping track. Each-way hopes.

Empress Lulu was very green when making her one juvenile appearance last September. She will know more about it today and hopefully will accordingly show a bit more here.

Take no notice of Three on Thursday's sale price. She was in Book 3 at Tatts and was sold as a thunderstorm erupted over the sale ring. She's nice and probably wants 10f so 6f is almost certainly going to be too sharp for her, especially first time out.

This is Burlington House's first run for us although I have had him for all this year. He's taken a long time to come to hand but he's a nice horse and one that needs 1m4f or even 1m6f looking further ahead. If he can have the speed to get into a challenging position early on, he could go very well.

Cerulean Summer is another average performer. This is not the most testing of handicaps, though, and from a good draw and with first-time blinkers she can challenge for a place.

Battleofbaltimore for one reason or another hasn't ever lived up to his initial promise. He's an average horse in the right race, but the price tells you all you need to know.

I think Expressionless will love the track and also enjoy the wet. He's the type of horse that needs luck as he weaves his way between horses, but if it does go his way, he is likely to be finishing best of all. Hopeful.

Wannabeawallaby has been improving with racing and put up his best showing yet when 2nd at Yarmouth. He's in top form and should go very close today.

Mulciber ran well on stable debut at Newcastle, continuing the consistent AW form for his previous yard over the winter. He is just as adept on turf and we think we have him in the right race today. Good each-way chance.

Makuri hasn't been the most consistent of fillies but if she could replicate the level of her 3rd at Brighton three runs back, she would go well. She's in good form and we have her in the right race.

Silver Sword showed a bit more at Royal Ascot last time giving us the feeling that he was on the way back. Hoping for a big run run from this talented horse today.

Prague put up a spectacular debut win here last month. He's in at the deep end up to Listed class but I feel he has improved, which of course he would need to do. We will find out how good he is today.

If it rains enough Zminiature can run into a place.

Cervetto wasn't beaten far in 4th in an amateur riders' handicap at Goodwood last time. We're adding first-time cheek-pieces and I think he'll run a big race today.

Knightmare has shown plenty of promise at home. A breeze-up buy, he is most likely to need the run today.

Rock And Royal had his first run with a handicap mark in a 0-50 Classified at Yarmouh and his 3rd there was a big improvement on his three qualifying runs. I'm pleased with this choice of race for him and will go there tonight with plenty of confidence. Big each-way chance.

Faro De San Juan was surprisingly the outsider overnight, but I see he's been trimmed to a more realistic price. He badly needed his comeback run at Chester the other day and I'm happy he's in the right race. He needs to handle the firm ground but if he did I would be hopeful.

Thelastwinterarrow returns from a near three-month break having shown modest form over the winter/early spring. He needs to get his act together.

Battleofbaltimore is his own worst enemy, usually pulling too hard in his races. At Bath last time, when in with a chance late on, he carried his head high. If there's any track he might get away with those idiosyncrasies it's probably Brighton but his price looks a bit short to me.

Cerulean Summer wasn't too far behind today's likely favourite Atlantic Gamble when 5th two runs back at Kempton and meets that rival on considerably better terms. It's hard to fancy her over much, though, after that very disappointing run last time at Nottingham.

Havana Smoke might just need this after five months off the track. He's likely to be a bit free first time back and while I've stayed at 7f with him it could be he may be better over 6f.

Sensorium is a good horse and considering how little went right for him, he ran a decent race at Ascot. I think he has 6lb in hand of these and I will be very disappointed if he doesn't win today.

Asclepius, named after the Greek god of medicine, will need a longer trip in time. This is a nice starting point for his career.

Justahunch is proving hard to win with. Small place chance but he too would probably prefer an ease in the ground.

Wannabeawallaby is our best chance of a winner today. He's in good form and I expect him to go close. He'll like the distance but would probably like the ground to be a bit softer, but then most of the opposition will too.

Mulciber is our best chance on the day. A winner here two runs back for Marco Botti, he followed that with a 2nd at Southwell. This is his debut for the enthusiastic Pompey Ventures team and it would be great to start off with a winner for them.

Astroqualis is a bit green and 6f is probably inadequate for her. There will be other days for her.

Louie The Legend is the first of three runners up here this afternoon. This is a Band D race and his pedigree is nice. I think he can run into a place although he already needs a mile. Still, 7f up this hill is enough for most 2yo's at this time of year.

Ghostman is a nice colt by Dandy Man. When I made the declaration I didn't expect as competitive a race as this and I'll be delighted if Ghostman finishes in the first five. A tough debut, but at least it's close to home.

Asgard's Captain did very well on AW early in the year, so when he switched to turf it was from a much higher mark. He has continued to run well in better class on turf and can again be a factor from the front in this historic race. Hopefully, he can run into the money off his big weight.

Makuri gets her ground today and has come down to a nice mark. Good each-way chances.

Calypso Time is the dumbest horse I've ever trained. He'll need the run and is sure to be green. I expect eventually he'll need two miles!

Battleofbaltimore has been very disappointing, never matching his good work on the gallops when he gets to the track. Something of a morning glory then, but now if he takes to Bath, he's in 0-50 class for the first time and can run in this Classified Stakes. No doubt he'll pop up one day and this would be a good place to start.

While we always thought Expressionless needed soft ground - he does at a mile - at 1m6f it's more a case of being able to challenge after they go a fast gallop. That was the recipe for his recent win at Nottingham and as long as they go a decent pace, he would have to hold a big chance up just 3lb today.

Gogo Yubari is very exposed in a race where there are some potential improvers. She is hard-knocking though and they will need to improve while we know she'll run her race. Hopeful.

Baritus Ballator is just learning about the game. I think he'll improve on his last run but is probably best watched tonight.

Serendipitous Lady was a good 4th last time at Carlisle not beaten very far. She can step up on that and enjoy the slightly longer trip. Each-way hopes.

Sensorium is a nice Kodiac colt for whom nothing went right first time out at Windsor. The fact he finished a decent 3rd is all to his credit and we're looking forward to seeing him outrun his triple-figure odds. One for the future, certainly.

Since Silver Sword won so impressively at York last August, only once has he raced on his preferred fast ground. That was when he stayed on well into 4th at Haydock over an inadequate 7f on his seasonal comeback. He's working very well and while he too is overpriced, I'll be delighted if he finishes in the first six.

We'll find out today whether Zminiature is simply a soft-ground horse or something much more. As the winner of the Brockleby and 3rd in the National Stakes, he's entitled to be much shorter than 50/1. That's a massive price. He's been working very well and I'm confident he'll outrun those odds.

Faro De San Juan was a 25/1 shot and overcame trouble in running and a draw in 8 to win this race in 2023. He's had a wind-op since his last race and this is his comeback after seven months off. Another wide draw may not prevent a decent return.

Prague is a 4yo who started out life with Aidan O'Brien for the Coolmore team. He has to concede a lot of weight to the 3yo's on this belated debut so it will be interesting to see how this beautifully-bred colt compares at this stage.

Cervetto was a transfer from William Jarvis after he retired. We won a race with him but after he disappointed at odds-on next time, we had him gelded. He may just need this comeback run.

Mart has been a model of consistency this year and while he never got into the 3yo Dash at Epsom after a slow start, he wasn't beaten far. He must figure here in this depleted field.

Gogo Yubari won five times on AW this year. She performed with credit back on turf last time and can never be ruled out.

Justahunch has been slipping down the ratings. He's a little worse at the weights with some of these in this 0-50 Classified, but if he handles the ground after running all year on AW, he could have a place chance.

Battleofbaltimore has been struggling in recent races. His style of racing where he often pulls hard, makes it difficult for him.

JT bought Jackson Street at the Guineas sale out of the Karl Burke yard and he's a horse I like. It's his stable debut and I think he has the best chance of our trio today.

Rock And Royal beat only one horse home in her three runs in maidens. She starts handicapping off 49, but even that looks high enough considering her form. From here it should be onwards and upwards - fingers rossed!

Our best chance is with Wannabeawallaby. Again a small field and he will love the extra distance. Looks a decent price too!

We like Havana White but it's going to be tough on debut in a race like the Hilary Needler from her wide draw.

Baritus Bellator has a decent chance to outrun his odds. It's a small field and he has improved a great deal since making his debut. Worth a small bet to be in the first two.

Non-runner

I've run out of things to say about Confederation. At home, he works to 80, yet runs here off 50 and I have no confidence - except that the horses are running well. He's one that will pop up one day. I hope it's today!

Just Ten High is a lovely juvenile but he will need experience. He will be one to follow down the line.

Expressionless won a couple in the spring of last year, but like Cerulean Summer, hasn't really got back to that yet in in 2024. Place hopes, but not obvious ones off top-weight.

Cerulean Summer has been gradually coming into form after her winter break. She's not quite there yet, but the last run was the best of her three this year and she might just be ready to run into a place.

Like Mart, Asgard's Captain couldn't be made any fitter but I'm not sure the Epsom track will suit him. He's honest and always gives his best, but he will need a lot to go right for him to feature in this competitive handicap.

Mart has to up his game to win this very tough sprint. He is super-fit after two wins and has a good draw. I'm hoping he gets the rail and from there, stays on.

Silver Sword is in great form and fitter for his recent run. He's in great shape and I give him a massive chance of finishing in the first three.

Serendipitous Lady has her limitations but will have conditions in her favour today. She travelled up well yesterday, loves the ground and I think she has a big each-way chance.

Mart ended a sequence of 2nd places with an emphatic win, returned to turf at Newmarket. Now back at Lingfield's AW track where he's run plenty of good races, we have to be hopeful of a follow-up.

Sensorium is a nice 2yo and I think he can run well. He's been working nicely at home and we're hoping to get him to Royal Ascot. Hopeful.

Gogo Yubari has been a star over the winter AW season. Her first try back on turf at Lingfield didn't work out all that well but she should enjoy this track and trip and I'm confident she can be competitive again.

Zminiature hasn't run since winning the Brocklesby at Doncaster. The value of the form has been questioned by some "experts" but he did it very nicely and has improved at home since then. He needs ease in the ground. Rhys was at Kempton last night and said they had plenty of rain so good to soft up that hill will be a test. Up in class, it's just a question of whether he can cope with it. Hopefully!

Justahunch had excuses for the run at Wolverhampton where as can happen there he was badly interfered with at the start. On his other two runs this year he has to hold every chance although he needs to get lucky from that draw.

Cerulean Summer has become quite tricky this year, but she gets the number one draw. If she can find her two-year-old form she should not be too far away.

Wannabeawallaby is in good form at home and I like his chance starting in handicaps off 59. Fancied to run into the frame.

Baritus Bellator will need the whole experience today. He's a 17hh great big gelding and one that could do well - but further down the line.

I've got Battleofbaltimore looking and training as well as I ever have, but when all's said and done, he is what he is! Let's hope he can take what I feel is a decent chance today.

Dirtyoldtown is a very hard horse to train - only a couple of my lads can ride him - he pulls so hard. On the track he's same, one day he'll run a blinder, another he won't do a tap. He's just as likely to finish last as to win. Let's hope it's the latter today.

Serendipitous Lady would ideally want it soft and she won't be getting that tonight. She's in good form at home though and with the horses going so well, I wouldn't be shocked if she ran into a place.

I know Mart keeps getting beaten into 2nd but I've no doubts about his honesty. It will be interesting to see him him running close to home and getting him back on turf. He deserves to win one - maybe today's the day.

Makuri is a little better off with the favourite on her recent run at Brighton but it will still be tough for her to turn that around. Each-way chances

Asgard's Captain has already enjoyed a great year and I think he will love York. The track, trip and ground are all in his favour so there will be no excuses. He's fit and well and we go there with high hopes.

Artificer did everything wrong when beaten a long way on debut at Wetherby last month. We're hoping the tongue-tie and the experience will help her to a better performance tonight.

Gogo Yubari continues to improve and is flying at home after her last win. People tell me you can't win out of stall 2 over 5f at Lingfield and I would prefer her to be in 10 but she gets out fast and usually that means she wins. She deserves to run in a 20k race and we're going there as one of the main contenders.

It's exciting to get the big boy out again. Silver Sword is in good order and has thrived through the winter. I think he has the speed for 7f and am surprised he's as big a price as he is. I'm confident he'll run a big race.

Wannabeawallaby was expected to improve on a modest debut run last time at Lingfield but disappointed. Like Rock And Royal at Brighton earlier, he might find things happening too quickly over this trip and we'll be going up in distance later on.

Confederation is a frustrating type who continues to flatter to deceive. For a while last time he looked likely to give Voodo Ray a race but weakened late on. Maybe dropping in trip will persuade him to go through with his effort.

Rock And Royal is still learning about racing after two runs on the AW. He's on turf for the first time and may well be better when he can try further in handicaps.

Non-runner

Expressionless has been getting going too late in his races over 1m2f. I know it's a stretch to be trying 1m6f but if Kyle can keep him in touch, he'll be the one with the finishing kick in the last furlong.

Like Gogi Yubari, Mart has been flying on the gallops. The switch to turf is the question but there's no reason he shouldn't act on it - his mother won on heavy. Hopeful.

Gogo Yubari has been improving all through the winter and is now on a hat-trick. Up a total of 6lb for the last two wins, she's been flying at home and I have to be confident.

Rock And Royal has had one run but showed greenness and will probably need it again today. Handicaps down the line for her will be the way to go.

You need the right horse for Brighton and Confederation is the ideal type. I've been 2nd with him off 74 and he's now down to 50 yet is working as well as he ever has. One day he's going to bolt up off his mark, but I'll never know when that might be!

The horses have been a little out of form although Asgard's Captain ran well yesterday, so I'm going there today with hope rather than confidence. Makuri will enjoy the distance but the draw isn't great. I think she might need another run before striking form.

Asgard's Captain was going for the four-timer when caught out by the hill at Lingfield. We've given him a short break and he resumes on the turf off a much higher mark than when he left off for previous connections. His ability on soft ground is unproven, so it's fingers crossed.

Artificer is a very nice filly. She's working well on good ground at home but I've no idea how she'll handle this soft going at Wetherby.  I had hoped she could win this. She has an Oaks entry and you do not make them about unraced fillies for fun. If she did win today it would be the Oaks Trial at Lingfield and then the Classic, the same route the Clovers took with Rogue Millennium starting with this race two years ago.

Justahunch ruined her chance last time with a slow start - not ideal over 5f. If she breaks more alertly today, off 2lb lower, she can be getting to them in the straight. Hopeful.

Cerulean Summer ran well in both starts last year and needed the comeback run when she also hung losing some ground. We expect a more polished performance the first time in a handicap and the starting mark looks very fair.

Hello Miss Lady ran once last year, making little impact. We hope she has improved over the winter, but it would take a massive jump for her to figure in this company.

A handicap mark of 53 is never likely to be good enough to win a 3yo fillies' maiden at this time of year and Charlotte's Luck is up against even in a five-horse field. Hoping that the first time hood brings some improvement.

Serendipitous Lady was bought at the HIT sale in October. She won over 7f here for her previous stable and was still with Michael Bell for her run the following month. We're hoping for a good start but she should be better for the run.

Expressionless found the mile of the Lincoln too short on comeback and was staying on more recently over this trip. He squeezed in at the bottom here and should be running on at the end again. Each-way value.

Mart came back from his short break with two more good runs, staying on well into a close 2nd last time at Lingfield. This will be his first time here and I think he might enjoy the flat track. Hopeful.

non-runner

El Bufalo won nicely at Wolverhampton and while this represents a big step up in class and the first time on turf for him, we think he has a chance. The ground will be fine and afterwards we'll know where we stand. If he has a hard race and we have to give him six weeks off, that's only the end of May so there will still be a long season ahead of him.

Gogo Yubari has really got her act together with three wins this year. She needed every yard at Lingfield last time but again at 5f, and only 2lb higher, we're hoping to strike while the iron's hot.

We have a hood on Rock And Royal for this debut. She shows promise and David Probert is a good choice to teach her something with Rhys at Wolverhampton.

Makuri gradually improved in her two-year-old season and left her best run till last when a close 4th at Chelmsford. She's fit for this after a five-month break and I wouldn't be shocked if she finished in the first three at a value price.

Wannabeawallaby is in good form and if it wasn't for the fact he's so sluggish at the gate, I'd give him a decent each-way chance. We've given him lots of stalls work at home, but I don't expect much of an improvement in that direction. Hopefully, though, he'll be pegging them back in the straight.

Justahunch showed us absolutely nothing before he finished 2nd at Southwell and again has likewise shown nothing since. I've no idea who backed him that day and where the run came from! This is a very poor race - I was telling Rhys this morning it's one of the worst ever run on UK soil - so I'd hope he could be in the money - but 15/8?

Thelastwinterarrow has been struggling in his races at between 1m and 1m3f, showing very little in the way of speed. I know it's a big step up in trip and he's hardly bred for it, but at this level, miracles can happen!

Mart should win - he just bumped into one here last time but stayed on well at the finish. That was his first run for a while and he should be sharper today.

Expressionless had a couple of wins in the spring last year, but after six months off, never again got near that level. Disappointing two weeks ago at Doncaster, but that will have helped his fitness for today. Ground no problem.

Charlotte's Luck went to Saint-Cloud for her debut last autumn and was understandably a bit green, but evidently hadn't learnt much as she started slowly and again showed inexperience at Wolverhampton soon after. We are hoping for much more from her this year.

Gogo Yubari ran very well under her penalty at Chelmsford the other day and now is 3lb better in. A CD winner, she could hardly be in better form and from bottom-weight has to be a contender.

Battleofbaltimore races very freely and the last twice over Chelmsford's 1m he has found the latter stages a shade too far. Back to 7f, if he can get the lead from his middle draw he could be dangerous, but this is competitive.

Mart won three of five for us before his near three-month break. Unfortunately, he's drawn out in the car park, never advisable around here at 6f but even 4th place would be worthwhile.

Gogo Yubari needed his narrow win at Lingfield a week ago to squeeze in at the bottom of this field. He has a nice draw and if the penalty proves too much, I would still be delighted if he ran in the first four.

Asgard's Captain came home from his hat-trick win at Newcastle on Monday in great shape. He gets another 5lb to his already rapidly rising mark but won again with authority and has a great draw. He shouldn't be far away.

I think Cerulean Summer is decent but I would have preferred another week or two with her. She's probably 90% fit and that might be enough to make the frame. If she were to win, I'd have to admit she's better than decent! As to having a stable jockey, I'm so pleased I was able to get Rhys. I was recommended to him last year and watched back on his races and had to agree he would be ideal. When he came back after winning the Brocklesby it was like Ryan Moore - so professional - but then he was brought up in the same place!

Justahunch has his first start for us. At this stage, I would say he's limited and needs to drop a few pounds to get in those 0-50 handicaps somewhere like Brighton. If he did win it would reflect more on how well the team is going.

Confederation is Confederation and you never know what you are going to get. A measure of his ability is that he worked very well with Silver Sword the other day and he's rated 51lb higher! He has gone well for talented amateur Fletch in the past and has a good draw. Who knows?

Asgard's Captain should win. He has been flying at home since the last two wins and Rhys got on well with him on first acquaintance last time. The hat-trick beckons.

We run two in the Lincoln consolation race. Dirtyoldtown was becoming frustrating last year as he has so much ability, but then he put it all together on heavy ground at Newmarket on his final start. He's 6lb lower than he was in this race last year when he bombed for previous connections, and we'll be dropping him out to get the trip.

Expressionless joins Dirtyoldtown in this. While not the most consistent, he comfortably beat Alpha Crucis, who runs in the Lincoln, at Epsom on soft ground last June and would be meeting him on much better terms now if they were in the same race. A handy backup to Dirtyoldtown.

We have done plenty with Zminiture and he knows his job. The Brocklesby usually takes plenty of winning but I expect him to handle the start and also the ground. He'll be ridden off the pace and it's just a case of whether he'll get home in the conditions. Hopeful.

I really like Gogo Yubari in this. She ran well when 4th in a competitive 0-68 last time and this is a 0-60. The thing about Lingfield is that luck in running often comes into it, but we seem to do okay there. Hopeful.

I fancy Moliwood quie a lot tonight. His best form is over 2m at Kempton, obviously before his long injury, but he twice beat Coltrane there getting around 14lb - now it would be 35lb! He's taken a long time to regain his confidence after serious injury problems, but he seems in good form and ready to run a big race.

Thelastwinterarrow wants further - it was just such a weak race that I had to put her in it. Even then she might get away with it, but I won't be backing her.

I think Moliwood is over-priced. He prefers Wolverhampton to Lingfield where he disappointed last time. Before that, he was three-quarters of a length behind Artisan Dancer when they were 2nd and 3rd to Palace Boy and he now gets a 15lb pull with Charlie Johnston's horse. Should be thereabouts and a good each-way chance.

Confederation was in last month's Tatts online sale but I bought him back as I think there are still races to be won with him. He's been 2nd off 72 for me and is now down to 54. All he needs is confidence. He's drawn in two so if he can bounce out he could go close. If he misses the break by half a length it will be tougher. Still hoping.

I told you how confident I was about Asgard's Captain on Monday at Wolverhampton and he duly romped home. He's been in great form at home since then, not leaving an oat and looking fresh and well. As it's not an amateurs' race Rhys takes over from Fletch and despite the 5lb penalty, I think he'll win again.

Predictably, 4yo filly Thelastwinterarrow found it hard going conceding weight to classy 3yo's in her two novice races this year. She showed a bit more in a 3yo maiden on debut at the end of 2023 and now has a more realistic chance in her first handicap. The trip might be an issue, but she has shown us some ability and I'm looking forward to the run.

Asgard's Captain just got outstayed in a similar race over a little bit further at Newcastle last time. This will be somewhat less testing especially around here and I will be very, very, very disappointed if he and Fletch don't win this time. Fletch is one of the most stylish flat amateurs around but apart from one victory we've now had three seconds in a row together and it's time he turned that into another win!

Gogo Yubari didn't quite get the run of the race and was a little outpaced when the winner struck last time over 5f. Up to 6f which should suit better, he can get his head back in front this evening.

I fancy Gogo Yubari but a lot may depend on what Luke Morris does on Jungle Dance. If he goes on at a good pace as when winning nicely from the front last time, she will find them coming back to her as she makes up for her usual slow start. If there's no gallop, it might be a little more difficult. Hopeful.

Confederation ran well when 2nd in a decent race at Lingfield yesterday under an amateur. He seemed okay this morning when we trotted him up and is in great form. Rhys resumes on him and he has to have a chance of going one better tonight.

You know my opinion of amateur Fletcher Yarham - I think he's the best in the business despite getting few opportunities. He's in here against some of the acknowledged top flat-race amateurs but can claim 3lb. We'll need it as Confederation, who has plenty of ability isn't too keen to show it, although he was 2nd here a week ago. Fingers crossed he wants it today.

Clipsham Gold is standing up to her racing well but remains difficult to win with. Last time at Kempton she looked sure to win after taking up the running over 1m3f at Kempton, then emptying. Back to a mile but in a small field, she maybe has her best chance of winning for us, when hopefully, first-time cheek-pieces could help.

Confederation has so much ability but he doesn't really want to show it. Last time here he was last, albeit not beaten far, in a similar six-horse field around here. He often carries his head high and is not one you could follow with any confidence.

Moliwood has come back after his year's absence with some good placed runs this winter. His 3rd last time when a 22/1 chance over 1m6f at Wolverhampton was an excellent effort and he looks poised to get back in the winner's circle here.

Asgard's Captain disappointed last time but Lingfield was no help to him as he's just a galloper. Newcastle will suit him much better and I think Fletcher who rides him is the best amateur in the country. If they go slow, he'll take up the running, but if it's a decent pace he can ride a race on him. Very hopeful.

Cervetto should follow up last week's win. He has no penalty but in South Africa, we have a saying: "Small fields, big upsets", which I hope doesn't apply here. Despite his age - he's a 4yo and still a colt - he's immature, a big horse who could develop into a nice handicapper. Hopeful, as we were last time, I just don't want to end up with egg on my face.

Clipsham Gold is always more likely to run into a place than win, but in fairness to her, the handicapper has got hold of her and she keeps running well enough for him not to drop her to a winning mark. I reckon she will be in the first four again and if she is, she'll have done well.

Havana Smoke has been unlucky the last twice and could have won both if thongs had gone his way. He's very well at home and I'll be disappointed if he doesn't win this time. It's unusual to say this, but Luke could do with a winner back here after his spell in Japan. Havana Smoke will get all his attention!

Confederation has all the ability but I think the handicapper got a hold of him early on, and he's lost his confidence. That's not to say he won't run well but he's more a place chance than a likely winner.

Gogo Yubai missed the break at Southwell yesterday and didn't do badly in the circumstances, finishing 3rd. He goes again today when a faster exit would be the key.

Cervetto is one of our nicer handicappers. We took him over from William Jarvis when he retired and we moved into his stables. Cervetto found 5f too short last time but I think he will have every chance today.

This will be Gogo Yubari's 2nd run for us. She had been difficult coming out of the stalls, which wasn't much use for a 5f sprinter, but we seem to have sorted that out and she seems to have improved in general. If she gets away on terms she could go very close here although she is up against a couple of last-time winners.

I hope Asgard's Captain gets there okay. He's been stuck for an hour (8.15) at the Dartford Bridge and we're hoping it can reopen soon. That said, he's a tough sort and did well to win first time out for us up 14lb on his previous rating. The race has worked out very well with the 2nd and 3rd both winning since. Just hope he gets there as if he does I'm confident he'll win. 

We were videoing one of our three-year-old fillies last March for her owners as the snow swirled around and I said, "It's the last arrow of winter". One of them suggested it would be a nice name, so the now 4yo Thelastwinterarrow was named. She is a nice filly but will need 1m4f or even 2m in time, so don't expect much today. When she's handicapped and running at her right trip, that will be a different matter.

Moliwood is a talented stayer who was off for more than a year before finishing an excellent 2nd at Chelmsford. He didn't follow it up at Kempton last time but 1m6f around here should be ideal and David Probert is flying at the top of the AW jockey standings. Each-way chances.

Clipsham Gold, like Confederation, has me tearing my hair out. She has had plenty of chances but just doesn't seem to want to win. She's working well at home - all three of them are - and is probably in line for another place.

Havana Smoke is my pick of our three runners. He ran easily his best race when caught late over this trip at Newcastle. This time, going around a bend, he should get home okay. Big chance.

Confederation is very hard to win with but he likes Kempton - he's run well there off much higher marks than tonight's 58. He needs bullying to show his best and has a strong capable amateur on board. Each-way chances.

Asgard's Captain was picked up at the online sale after coming over for two easy wins from his previous connections in Ireland. He starts with us off 14lb higher and is most likely better than this field but pulls really hard and could easily run himself into the ground. He's not easy to deal with and Kieran will have his work cut out.

Havana Smoke has shown plenty of ability and last time stayed on into 4th over 6f here. The extra distance should help him get into the money this evening, but seven runners make it an unappealing each-way bet.

Moliwood was off for 13 months before his recent comeback run when 2nd over 1m5f at Chelmsford. He stays this 2m very well and having had enough time to recover from that run, he's in great form for this evening. Hopeful.

Mart has done us proud since joining in the autumn, winning three times. He's up 4lb for his success at Wolverhampton on Boxing Day and goes up in grade today. His opponents are all in form but we think he can make the stretch and keep the upward trend going.

Cervetto was previously in training with William Jarvis and joined us when William retired and we took over his lovely yard. Showed promise in his run last October and hopefully, will give a good account today.

Clipsham Gold keeps running well without managing to win a race. Place chances again for her here.

Thelastwinterarrow is a nice filly making her debut. She will be green but is worth having a look as I think there will be plenty to come from her next year.

I really fancied Havana Smoke last time after his good 3rd at Chelmsford. In the event, he ran disappointingly but getting trapped wide around Wolverhampton is not normally the right place to be. This straight six should be more to his liking, and he can be competitive.

We run two at Newcastle today. Neither seems over intent on winning a race but with the team in such good form, I have to give them both each-way chances. Clipsham Gold has been thereabouts a few times around Chelmsford lately and if she gets a gallop to run at, will be running on at the finish of this stiff mile.

Mart is in great form and I expect a good run. He's in the right race, has been flying at home and now has a better draw than when in the car park at Lingfield last time. Big chance.

El Bufalo made a very promising start at Newcastle. I think he's improved since and in this company he's a good thing if ever I've seen one!

Gogo Yubari was picked up cheaply from the sales earlier in the month. She has been starting her recent races for her previous connections slowly, but if she can improve that and get over from her wide draw, she will run a big race.

Wannabeawallaby is a nice type making his debut this afternoon but will need the experience. He is more one for next year.

It's hard to win races on the AW. Just a slight misfortune in running or as with Mart at Lingfield yesterday, a terrible draw that is impossible to overcome even when as in his case he's running his best race yet. Clipsham Gold is running back quickly as she's in great shape. Last time the pace was slow and then they sprinted, but here she has a good draw and if they go a gallop I'd be very hopeful she can end our run of near-misses.

Mart has won his last two races and the only negative I can see today is his wide draw. He did overcome being on the unfavoured side at Newcastle and also won over this CD, so if he can avoid trouble early on I would be hopeful he could win as he seems to be improving all the time.

Clipsham Gold will need luck in running. She pulls hard so has to be dropped in and we will be relying on a strong pace for her to run her best race. If she gets it, she can go close.

I think Battleofbaltimore will win tonight. We tried stepping him up from 5f and 6f to a mile last time and he ran very well, just tiring in the closing stages. Now he's run at the trip and with cheek-pieces added for the first time to his customary tongue-tie, he can last out the distance in what looks a poor race.

El Bufalo is by stallion sensation Havana Grey and has some fast relatives on the dam's side. We're hopeful he can make a positive start to his career.

We gave Ace Rothstein a try over hurdles in a competitive race at Kempton but he made a couple of costly mistakes and faded away. He's having his first try on AW since joining us. He's done little of note on the surface before, but if he can run to the best of his 2m turf form for us, he would have place chances.

Expressionless could never get past midfield on his latest run over this CD, but it was a Class 3 with a much higher ceiling. He's off the same mark but will appreciate the lesser company. Each-way chance.

Clipsham Gold ran very well under an even bigger weight at Chelmsford last time. She has her chance again if running to a similar level over what should be a more suitable extra two furlongs this evening.

As with our winner Mart at Newcastle yesterday, Havana Smoke has a bad draw to overcome. That's never easy at Wolverhampton, but if he can get a decent start and clean run through, he should win this.

Non-runner

Expressionless paid for two nice early summer wins with a big hike in his handicap mark. He tries all-weather having worked nicely in the cheek-pieces. I'm expecting a good run today and a successful season in 2024.

Mart won nicely last time and I think he can follow up if he can beat that slow far-side draw. He's fit and well, it's just that the track has a definite bias at the moment.

Confederation has been disappointing but he does love Kempton and while often not far behind without managing that finishing kick, he's dropped down the handicap. From the plum draw in one and with a good  3lb apprentice on board, he is ready for a big run.

Cerulean Sunset ran into a couple of decent ones on her debut at Chelmsford but still ran very well until tiring late on. While no star, she has improved in the meantime and I have to be very hopeful.

Ace Rothstein has been running well on the flat since joining us in the summer and Tabitha Worsley who rides him, has been in to school him a couple of times and loves him. He was 2nd last time jumping to Arqoob who won easily at Sandown yesterday, so I have to be hopeful of a big run here.

Makuri was never in a challenging position in her mile race here on Tuesday but confirmed my opinion that she needs a trip as she was pegging the leaders back nicely in the last furlong. She goes an extra two furlongs here and we have to give her a solid chance.

Gold Medal is in good form but he needs pace in the race to be effective so it's always tough for him. Good rider up and if they do go a gallop he will go close. Horses are flying at the moment and we're squeezing the lemon dry.

Moliwood hasn't run for 13 months, since last year's Cesarewitch so he will need the run today, but he has done enough at home. I'd be happy to see him run around and come home safely after a long year of bringing him back from injury.

Makuri is the more backward of our pair in this nursery. While he has beaten only one opponent in his races to date, he's run quite well on occasion and again ridden prominently as with Battleofbaltimore, he could show a little more of the ability I believe he has.

We run two babies in this nursery. Both are still physically immature and weak. We expected plenty from Battleofbaltimore early on, but it didn't happen. He'll be ridden forwardly and I hope that brings a good result.

Clipsham Gold ran a better race last time. He's done well in the meantime and I think he can go close.

All About Alice won a two-mile amateur riders' handicap easily at Lingfield before finishing 4th at Southwell over this trip. She would have been nearer but for hanging in the straight and will need to avoid that tendency if she is to follow the Lingfield win. Should run well.

Dirtyoldtown soon cried enough the other day when headed at Lingfield but that was a smart horse that he was taking on. On what we've seen on the track he's hard to gauge.

Havana Smoke is drawn 12 of 12 which is never easy over 6f at Chelmsford. It looks tough enough without that, so we can't have a lot of confidence.

Faro De San Juan will love the ground and I expect him to run a huge race. Paul Mulrennan is a great booking and I'm confident Faro will outrun his odds.

Although Expressionless probably needed another ten days to be properly tuned up for this, the flat turf season is ending so he needed to run. Small chance of a place.

Confederation is well-drawn and has been going okay. He's hard to crack and I'm hoping Probert can get the best out of him, but he's not the most trustworthy horse to follow.

I really fancied Dirtyoldtown at Kempton last time on stable debut and he let me down so I'm wary today. He works like a 100 horse but was extremely disappointing there so tread with caution until he shows more will to do it on track.

Mart will be a big runner today. I expect him to win this. Very hopeful.

Charlotte's Luck should run well. She's a nice type and will be lovely next year, but I am hopeful of a good performance tonight.

Clipsham Gold hated the soft ground last time and will be much happier here, the scene of her win before joining us earlier in the year. She's only 3lb higher and in great shape at home. Each-way chances at a big price.

We run two unraced babies in this 7f fillies' race and both of them will need further than 7f. Empress Lulu is by Muhaarar and I've done as much as I can with her at home. All she needs is experience and I hope she enjoys herself. She will know much more about it next time.

As with Empress Lulu, Hello Miss Lady starts her career today. She is a daughter of Gleneagles and as with her stablemate, she will need further in time and also will be much wiser for this first look at a racetrack. It's down the road, so hopefully it shouldn't be too daunting a first experience for them.

Gold Medal won twice early in the year and then lost his form. We've worked very hard to get him right again - he's a horse with lots of issues - but he seems back to his best now and the stiff 7f should suit him. I'll not be travelling up today as we're still busy doing the changeover into William Jarvis' lovely yard. We hope to have that finished by the end of next week. We've managed to get 19 yearlings at the various sales and I was delighted that we did so well from Book 3 last week, We were there when everyone else seemed to disappear! Time will tell how we did!

Mart was bought from Michael Bell's stable where he showed promise. We had him gelded straight away and we've been happy with him. He needs 7f but we're starting him at 5f as he's been keen in his races and work at home. Both our horses here today can run well and I've told Greg who rides them that Newcastle is similar to his home track Kenilworth in South Africa, in that there's a stiff finish so to take his time. Hopeful, but there will be more to come in the future.

Non-runner

Expessionless has done us proud winning twice on soft ground in the spring, the first time overcoming a long winter break. There should therefore be no problem in his returning after around six months off and he can make a bold show of defying top-weight and the 8lb rise with the ground again in his favour. Kyle was on board for both wins and keeps the ride.

Ace Rothstein ran very well at a massive price last time at Nottingham. He has improved since joining the stable and has a good partner in Tabitha in this jump jockeys' flat race. Her biggest problem might be lugging all that weight in the saddle!  Optimistic of another good run.

Silver Sword was far from disgraced first time in Listed company at Sandown, staying on nicely into 5th after getting slowly away. It's another grade higher again for this Group 3 and while the soft ground is not ideal he's a progressive horse and should run a nice race again.

We expected plenty of Battleofbaltimore before his first race but he didn't really come up to expectations. He showed signs of temperament there, and had become very disappointing from then on so we had him gelded. I had intended to finish him for the season but he's recovered quickly from his operation and has reacted very well to it. Hopeful of a big run.

Makuri went all the way to Ffos Las last week and I was pretty excited as we were getting soft ground which she likes. Of course, the meeting was abandoned and now we're here on less suitable ground. She is going nicely though and improving. She has a low weight, good draw and jockey so I'm hopeful.

Faro De San Juan would prefer the ground to be softer but won on officially good at Chester in the summer, although the time suggested it was nearer good to soft. He is back down to just 1lb higher, so well handicapped, and has an each-way chance if they go a decent gallop.

Cerulean Summer is a nice filly who has been showing plenty of promise. Oisin came in and worked her on Saturday and was making optimistic noises afterwards, so we have to be hopeful she will make a decent start today.

The owner was keen to run Charlotte's Luck here. She's a promising filly but it looks a tough race for her debut. Soumillon isn't a bad jockey booking!

We haven't had Dirtyoldtown for long, but if he can replicate what he does on the gallops, I think he can win this off 80. He might be a morning glory, though, as his owner says he's lost a fortune backing him, but he's the only horse I have in the yard that goes close to getting Silver Sword off the bridle. Hopefully, he'll do what we think he can!

Dylan Cunha comment unavailable

Clipsham Gold ran a promising first race for us at Southwell this month and as a dual course winner, including over this 1m, we have to be hopeful of a big run despite top weight. Obviously, we're busy at the yard preparing for our impending move into William Jarvis' stable just up the road. William has just announced his retirement after an honourable and highly successful career from his historic Phantom House Stables.

Silver Sword was impressive in winning at York and he's been ticking over since. He has a fair bit to find on these horses in what is a very strong Listed race, but I'm sure he won't be disgraced. Looking forward to the challenge for this talented horse.

Havana Smoke is a green, backward horse but really nice and I expect him to come into his own as a 3yo. This is a decent field and while I don't think he has a chance of winning, the aim is to be in the first six which would qualify him for a nice race at York on October 13. If he's 7th, don't try to talk to me afterwards!

Confederation has everything going for him today, unlike last time when the ground wasn't ideal. It will be fast today, so perfect for him, and from a good draw he should be able to get on the rail. Connor claims a handy 3lb too so there will be excuses if he doesn't get the job done.

We bought Clipsham Gold in July and he was in good form at the time. We think he has done well since coming here, but my slight worry is that he has run poorly twice at Southwell. It's a suitable race and we're looking for a solid start from him.

All About Alice had some good placed form over 2m for her previous stable early in the year but she hasn't quite matched it for us. She's back at the trip after a couple of runs over shorter and should have the ability to run into a place in this sort of company.

Silver Sword was unsuited by the very testing ground at Goodwood last time but having looked a very possible winner, still battled on to the line. He has been in great form at home since then and this has been the target for a while. Hopeful.

Confederation is hard to catch right but on his day he has plenty of ability. He may find it hard to get a suitable easy lead today as the favourite is also a front-runner, but he did run very well at Bath last time.

You know I like this horse but so far he hasn't shown on the track what he does at home. He did a piece of work on the Al Bahathri last Wednesday and he flew around there. His draw in 8 of 12 is a bit of a worry but he has a Northern jockey on him and hopefully, he can navigate him round safely.

I think Ace Rothstein will run a huge race. We were only just getting to know him when on third run for us he ran very well when 3rd at Sandown. I'm dropping him back in trip and am very hopeful after he did a nice piece of work last Wednesday with Silver Sword.

The luck turned for us when Mr Fayez won at Brighton. We had that little bit of luck in that they abandoned racing after his race and now he's won at Brighton, he's done and will be my riding horse and stable hack. All About Alice was about the worst affected when my horses were sick and you can forget her last run. She's in the best form now since I've had her, has a good jockey and stays very well. Hopeful.

Mr Fayez has been picking up some prizemoney and we know he handles Brighton. What he needs is a pace collapse and that might happen with a big field today. I'd just like to get one more little win out of him, preferably this afternoon, and then he'll retire. He won't be going anywhere, though, he'll be the yard pony and my riding horse!

Military Micki ran much too freely last time on debut in what was a fair race, the winner going on to follow up at Goodwood last week. This time he'll be dropped in trying to teach him something. While the horses haven't been showing it on the track yet they are looking better and once one of them wins, we'll have a few I'm sure.

Faro De San Juan takes his chance at Ripon despite his lack-lustre run yesterday at Haydock. We held him up behind other horses yesterday and Greg said he was going so easily, loving the ground, but when he pulled him out he didn't go a yard. He might as well run today. he trotted up sound last night and again this morning and ate up. Even if he finishes last of four today, he will have picked up more in two days than for winning an ordinary handicap. He'll run his race and hopefully will enjoy the small field, but he's a hard one to trust.

Faro De San Juan has his ground, is in form at home, he looks well and I couldn't be happier. Grey knows him well and will be intent on getting cover early in the race, as he can be very free. I'm hopeful with place money down to 6th and only seven runners! He's in another almost as valuable race tomorrow and there are only four in that so hopefully, he can take in both.

This is an interesting race we've found for Confederation. He can run well in one race and less so the next and he's the same on the gallops with his work. Kieran will be positive on him tonight, getting him up there from the outset and hopefully, that will play to his strengths.

Silver Sword has been aimed at this race for some time. He's a winner on AW and on fast ground last time at Pontefract. What he'll make of heavy ground is anyone's guess. He's in great form and it depends entirely on how he acts, whether he wins or finishes tailed off.

Havana Smoke is a colt by Havana Grey bought at the breeze-ups. He has shaped nicely but first time out in a big field won't be easy.

Non-runner

I told Micky Quinn (our Racing League team manager) that I had one for Yarmouth, especially if they get the rain. It's soft now so there will be no excuses for Faro De San Juan. Very confident of a big run.

We're just getting to know Ace Rothstein a bit better having taken him over in the spring. He's had a couple of runs and can now go off 4lb lower. Expecting a much-improved run, so each-way chances at a big price.

The horses were coughing for a couple of weeks, causing us to lose a number of nice opportunities but they've been clear for a week. Battleofbaltimore has shown promise on both starts and is the type to keep improving. I hope he can win this.

Military Micki is a nice filly by Oasis Dream from a decent family. She will benefit from this debut run.

Mr Fayez finally got his head in front last time, I must admit surprising me more than a little. He's always been a horse that worked better than he performed on the track, but now he's won a race, we have to hope he can do it again.

Makuri is quite a nice filly but she already needs a mile and a quarter. The rain will slow the others down a shade but probably not enough to bring her into the argument.

Non-runner

We expected a big run on debut for Battleofbaltimore at Brighton but he was too free and didn't quite get home. He will know more about it today and if he runs the way he has been working he will be hard to beat.

Like Gold Medal, Confederation is very well and again I think this is the perfect spot. He's run a couple of blinders at Kempton and although he can be quirky, he has loads of ability. Big chance.

Gold Medal won a couple earlier in the year and remains in very good form. I think he still has a few pounds to come and he's in the right race and has been very well at home. I fancy him to run a big race.

I've missed my first ever day in the yard. It's the fifth time I've had Covid and by far the worst. I was already feeling ropey when Silver Sword won at Pontefract on Sunday but on Thursday I couldn't get out of bed. Ace Rothstein will be travelling north without me and I was persuaded by the owner to go for this race as the meeting is special to her. I am worried that Ace might not get two miles on this tough AW track even though he stays it over hurdles. I hope she is right!

Although only low-grade, All About Alice has won a couple of races in the past. We hadn't had her long after her previous trainer retired when she made her debut for us and she weakened quickly over 2m. We're dropping her back in trip today and hopefully, that will suit her better. Can run well.

Faro De San Juan won well at Chester last weekend and I'm less worried about the 4lb rise than the short time between races. He still seems and looks in great shape, shouting for his feed, and as long as he doesn't get in difficulties from his draw in 9 of 15, he can go very close. A double would really put us on the map!

I'm still utterly frustrated about missing the Golden Gates at Ascot yesterday which went off with just 15 runners when it could easily accommodate 20 in which case Silver Sword would have got in. He's in fantastic form but now we're running for 10k rather than 50k! He's a 10-furlong horse but this is a stiff mile and the low draw should enable him to get into a challenging position early. Very confident he can win this.

Makuri is a nice filly and I'm certain she will run a much better race tonight. You can ignore the first run as she banged around in the horsebox on the short trip to the track, cutting her leg. She wants further and will be a 1m2f filly next year. I'll be delighted if she's 3rd or 4th tonight.

I've said before Mr Fayez isn't the most reliable but he battled on into 2nd at Brighton, unable to do much when Bernard Spearpoint went clear and that horse followed up readily at Yarmouth. Should make the frame, but do not put your life savings on him!

I was hoping for rain before racing for Faro De San Juan but I'm expecting a good run whether it happens or not. Greg is pretty confident and we're planning to ride him more aggressively than last time when he was held up. Hopeful.

Battleofbakltimore goes very nicely at home. He's still a little green and he showed that this morning when it took us 20 minutes to load him onto the box to go racing and there's always a worry about whether horses act around Brighton. If he does, I'd be pretty confident.

Mr Fayez ought to win as he ran very well last week, but his main job is to lead the babies. When I expect him to run well he usually disappoints, but when I think he has little chance, he often excels himself. I have no confidence in backing him myself, but I would love him to win.

I've only had All About Alice for three weeks since her previous trainer retired. She has plenty of form at this level and so far she moves well and looks good too. As to her work, it's been okay, nothing special, but we have a great jockey booking in Oisin and I'll certainly know a lot more about her after tonight.

I think Gold Medal has a great chance today. He was unlucky last time when he ran into a wall of horses. I expect him to run a huge race tonight.

It took a while to sort out Silver Sword but he showed his true colours with an easy win at Southwell. We had the London Gold Cup last month as his target but when he trotted up in the morning he was a little off. He's been fine since, so we've re-routed him here. He could be a blot in the handicap on what is his turf debut.

Alpine Springs last raced almost two years ago for Simon Pearce. The owner moved him to me this season and hopefully, he will show promise on this first run. He has a good apprentice booked.

Mr Fayez wasn't beaten very far last week. Greg said yesterday's runners struggled on the firm ground at Windsor but he doesn't mind it and last year he was a good third over the same 7f on fast turf. As I said last week, I can never trust him entirely, but when I trotted him up this morning, something I do with every runner before they to go to the races, he looked the best I've had him. He's never a bet for me but I think he'll run well.

I've only had Ace Rothstein for three weeks - we inherited him when Martin Smith packed up training - so I'm still getting to know him. What I can say is that I've managed to put a bit of weight on him and I think he's nicely handicapped on his old form. He's back a little in distance and can run a nice first race for us.

Faro De San Juan ran off with his jockey, fired up by the blinkers at Doncaster last time, yet came back as though he'd not had a race. I've taken them off today and with a normal ride, I think he'll be hard to beat.

Saturday was a nightmare. Half an hour after we spoke Silver Sword looked sore so he trotted up again for the vet at home before leaving for Newbury and we had to scratch him. He's sound again now and I'm looking at the 10f race on Derby Day for him. Mr Fayez is only moderate. His job is to lead the babies as he's a very sensible horse. His two runs at Brighton last year brought a 4th off 59 and a 2nd off 58, so now off 45, he could easily run into a place, but not with my money on. If he does get in the frame, we'll have a small celebration anyway.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Makuri is a nice filly by Magna Grecia. She will be fit for this and will not be green either. I expect her to run straight and true but she really needs a mile already and I'll be happy if she finishes the first five.

I've never known a horse with the consitution of Confederation, he just eats and eats and takes so much work. We're running him back fairly quickly after Windsor and while I'll be surprised if he turns the form around with Hiatus, I've told the owners I expect him to get much nearer as he banged his leg early in the Windsor race and was off work for a couple of days. He's fine again now.

It's funny how things can change in racing. The other day I contacted Gold Medal's owners to tell them there wasn't a suitable race for him for the next six weeks. An hour later came the news this meeting was switching to all-weather and as I'd been keeping him going, it was a no-brainer to run him. I'm actually very confident and all that he needs is for the gaps to appear at the right time as his style is to come from the back.