Legatissimo first, the rest nowhere, if Ryan Moore allows this David Wachman-trained Danehill Dancer filly to stretch out in the Investec Oaks over twelve furlongs of 'good' Epsom ground today; on the time-handicap there isn't the slightest danger!
Realistically the only hope for ten rivals is whether Legatissimo stays this distance but the manner in which she powered home to land the 1000 Guineas over the Rowley Mile last month suggests further will be more advantageous; her dam, the ingloriously-named Yummy Mummy, was by Epsom Derby winner Montjeu.
Nigh on all signals are down and price-wise we just hope there are plenty listening to all the accompanying gossip that will be spewed out on TV channels championing the causes of opposition to our confident selection, Legatissimo.
Rest of this seven-race programme has been consigned to my 'too difficult' tray, which nowadays seems to be full all the time given the daily dross served but it could be worth backing a couple at Bath where the un-watered surface at the highest racecourse in England will also be 'good.'That means perfect for both Imtiyaaz and Little Voice.
Kevin Ryan has journeyed Soft Love a long way for the Maiden Fillies' Stakes over an extended five furlongs, why?This looks an absolute 'penalty-kick' for Imtiyaaz; there are times when one wonders if trainers actually read the form book or indeed are unable to interpret what's contained therein and if Soft Love beats Roger Varian's charge I'll make a strong donation to the local blind box. I'll probably do that in any case.
Once-raced Little Voice is strongly-fancied for the Maiden Stakes over five furlongs; Charles Hills took her out because of a minor blip last week but it has given this Scat Daddy filly more 'recovery time' from exertions of a promising fourth to Miss Moneypenny in a similar race at Windsor twenty-five days ago.Patience is needed, especially with two-year-olds; never underestimate recovery time.
SELECTIONS
12.30 Legatissimo
2.55 Little Voice
4.05 Imtiyaaz