Wardat Dubai first, the rest nowhere, in the Maiden Stakes over an extended mile of 'good to firm' Beverley today; that's what BHA ratings suggest will be the outcome and my time-handicap concurs with officialdom!
It's imperative this Hamdan Al Maktoum-owned Mawatheeq filly gains 'winning brackets' for stud purposes and veteran trainer Barry Hills is certainly mindful of his responsibility; he's been ultra-patient with thrice-raced Wardat Dubai and we both reckon this is nigh on a 'penalty-kick' which Paul Hanagan shouldn't be troubled to convert.
Presumably Paul will be told to set a strong pace and sort out the wheat from the chaff; he knows these courses better than most and indeed by virtue of his knowledge of the Northern circuit racetracks was able to win two jockeys' championships, under the guidance of Richard Fahey.When given positive instructions Hanagan is top grade, he falls short strategy-wise but he can certainly compete favourably at the highest level and there isn't a better finisher around; superb balance in the closing stages.
Later there are two evening fixtures, Newton Abbot and Leicester where Anneani justifies patience in the 3-y-o handicap over an extended mile, mount of Aaron Jones.Recently Aaron had his apprentice allowance cut to 5lbs but he's as good as it gets currently and Anneani is definitely on a winning mark.
At the popular west country venue Midnight Mint is strongly-fancied in the Maiden Hurdle over two and three-quarter miles and comes out TH 'best-in!'Not an easy day but selections should all make the frame and could make into a tasty each-way treble.
SELECTIONS
10.45 Wardat Dubai
2.00 Midnight Mint
5.00 Aneani