Overcast but not a bad day in prospect.
I am fortunate enough to be heading to the Lord’s Test today and the sun is shining in the capital. Australia look set to make a couple of changes to their side and all the momentum is with us – an excellent day lies in store.
Two runners this afternoon and neither in England. Manndawi has crossed Irish Sea for the Challenge Stakes at Leopardstown and we are hoping some of the forecast rain hits the course. That said, the ground was riding beautifully last Thursday and we will be good to go so long as there is no sting.
I don’t think this is the deepest race for its type and Manndawi heads the field on official figures. His comeback at the Curragh was most encouraging and he has always done his best work at the finish, hence the step up in trip.
The progressive Fields Of Athenry warrants plenty of respect, but we go there hopeful of a big performance.
Kitten’s Red is Chepstow-bound for the mile and a quarter handicap this afternoon and he looks to have an excellent chance on the book.
He shaped like a non-stayer at Brighton, travelling sweetly down the hill before treading water close home, and a mile and a quarter on quick ground should be ideal. The balance of his form suggests there is life in a mark of 67.
We made a couple of entries today including two Handicap options for Field Of Light and entries for Biff Johnson and Mustatrif.
I’ll leave it there with the Home Of Cricket beckoning!
Back tomorrow.
Ed