We’re going international on Sunday with pattern races taking place in England, France and Germany. Here are the main contenders plus selections on a quiet but interesting day’s racing:
2.40 Munich – Grosser Dallmayr-Preis, 1m2f Group 1
Air Pilot
One of three British based challengers, this one for Ralph Beckett. Conditions are perfect here for the 8yo and although he hasn’t been at his best the last twice, he started this season with a fine run when winning a Group 3 in Ireland.
Iquitos
Probably better over 1m4f but worth his place in the field. Hasn’t won since last September and needs more here.
Potemkin
His best form is saved for rain-softened ground but it’s hard to see him beating the UK raiders.
Prize Money
One of two for the Godolphin team, this one carrying the first colours. He beat Postponed in a Group 2 in Dubai and has since been mixing it with Jack Hobbs and Highland Reel though has been soundly beaten in truth. Best form is all over 1m4f.
Best Solution
Was a main hope for the Epsom Derby for the boys in blue in June and though has proven to be not of that class, the return to 1m2f and softer ground will definitely be in his favour. We haven’t seen the best of him yet and he could be about to produce a career best.
Summary
The British raiders are closely matched, but the Godolphin 3yo BEST SOLUTION could be the one to side with here ahead of teammate Prize Money and Air Pilot.
2.55 Deauville – Prix Rothschild, 1m Fillies & Mares Group 1
Qemah
A high class filly and now a Royal Ascot winner too. She’s been given plenty of time to recover and should be running a career best about now.
Persuasive
John Gosden is a master with these types and it wouldn’t usually worry me them running first time out. We have no idea yet how good she could be but one thing’s for sure; if she wasn’t of Group 1 quality they would not have come to France.
Usherette
High class but keeps running well without winning lately, including behind Qemah at Ascot.
Roly Poly
This admirable filly has been worked hard enough but keeps responding with improved performances. She’s a Group 1 winner now but the result may have been different with a fully fit Wuheida in the field.
Summary
First time out, yes, but John Gosden’s PERSUASIVE was always thought of as a tip top filly and she can get straight to business here with a Group 1 win. Qemah is best of the rest.
3.30 Pontefract – Pomfret Stakes, 1m Listed Race
Custom Cut
Nowhere near his best these days and carries a penalty, does always try though.
Another Touch
Running in handicaps but improving and ready for a go in this company, rated 103 which may flatter him just slightly but can run well.
Gabrial
A good old stick, the 66-times raced 8yo gelding doesn’t win very often at all but is usually up against huge handicap fields. 15 runs without a win bookended by two defeats to Mutakayyef in the Summer Mile could come to an end in lesser company and this is a huge chance.
Tashweeq
A lightly raced and improving 4yo from the excellent John Gosden yard, this one was 3rd in the Hunt Cup off a mark of 106 and that, plus natural improvement, marks him out as a 110+ performer.
Summary
I’d love to be able to write that Gabrial’s bad run is coming to an end and it yet might, but on all known evidence and with progression to take into account TASHWEEQ looks the one to beat here and gets the nod.