It is very overcast here in Newmarket and it looks like it may well rain. Royal Ascot is certain to start on easy ground now and there is bound to be a lot of upsets throughout the week.
We have three runners today at Doncaster with Pantera Negra starting the ball rolling in the 2:30 seven furlong Novice race. It looks a hot contest despite the small field and she will definitely improve for the run. She is a good moving filly who has shown us ability at home and I hope she can show some promise but Wedding Dress sets a high standard to aim at. Al Hamd is wearing cheekpieces today having disappointed us the last twice, there have been excuses but I will be happy if he can show us something to build on, he is a horse who definitely has ability. Harlestone Hopes steps up in trip to fourteen furlongs, I am looking forward to running him on turf and he seems in good order at home, he would have an each-way chance.
A minority of England football fans have not been showing our country in a good light and I was horrified to see the running battles with Russian fans and the French police in the Port of Marseilles! Having dominated a Russian team that struggled to play long ball football, we looked set for a comfortable one nil win if there is such a thing, before letting in a late equaliser. I fear for us against the Welsh and I am quite happy I won’t be able to watch it as I shall be at Royal Ascot.