Steady Pace should be good enough in the �200,000, group two, Richmond Stakes over six furlongs of a 'good to soft' surface at 'Glorious Goodwood' today; consistency usually brings due reward.
Although a winner on debut Steady Pace has been placed for Godolphin three times since but he's a real cracker. His time-handicap marks are right up to scratch, classification-wise, and James Doyle partners this impressive Dark Angel colt which has been allotted a BHA-rating of 108.
Last time out, first attempt at this distance, Steady Pace was beaten a length by Shalaa in the July Stakes at HQ; both finished strongly.
Saeed bin Suroor's charge was noticeably ridden tentatively to get home and can do better.
That's my opinion and I'll bet Steady Pace proves me right in what is an enthralling juvenile 'classic trial' on an outstanding racecourse where form is like gold!
Godolphin-owned Rockley is one of six 'decs' for the 2-y-o Maiden Stakes over seven furlongs of 'good' ground on the famous Epsom Downs and fancied to recoup debut losses incurred thirteen days ago.
'First day at school' is always daunting for juveniles and sure enough Rockley blew his lines at Lingfield where Nucky Thompson led a similar race with a strong pace; Rockley missed the break.
In the closing stages Rockley almost caught up but was three-quarters adrift in third to 'Nucky' at the line, it was a promising, eye-catching effort.
William Buick replaces Harry Bentley and expect Rockley to be favourite again but what beats this USA-bred Speightstown colt will win!
Nine go to post for the 2-y-o Maiden Stakes over six furlongs at ffos Las where 'good' is also forecast; once-raced Lilbourne wont be a surprise if he causes one!
David Evans pulls big-priced winners out of the hat like a magician and Lilbourne Prince might just be overlooked, he was seventh a week ago but those who look deeper will unearth good form.
This Libourne Lad colt was beaten seven lengths by Adventurous but Mark Johnston's charge is way above average and the actual time-figure is proof positive.
Lilbourne Prince can replicate that mark and be 'on the premises' but with John Egan replacing Cathy Gannon he'll probably improve; the experienced Irishman is a match for anybody, in the world!
Selections:
2.35 Steady Pace (e.w)
6.10 Lilbourne Prince (e.w)
7.00 Rockley