We’ve enjoyed a strong run of results recently, and that momentum continued last Saturday with another profitable afternoon, with Estrange winning impressively at Carlisle. Attention now turns to Epsom, which stages a superb card featuring two of the season’s most prestigious contests, the Coronation Cup and the world-famous Derby. In the latter, Benvenuto Cellini would be my preferred selection, although he would be a much stronger proposition on good ground, which appears unlikely. Given the expected conditions, Bay Of Brilliance appeals as the value each-way alternative.
15:15 Epsom – ARKLOW LAD (10/1 Generally Each Way)
If racing’s equivalent of a lottery exists, it might just be a 20 runner five furlong handicap. Hopefully ARKLOW LAD can at least ensure we collect some each way returns.
He has thrived since moving to the Mick Appleby yard and looks capable of putting up another competitive performance here. A winner of two of his four starts for the stable, including a Class 2 handicap at Pontefract in April, his latest outing came in a strong race at York, where he ran very well to finish fifth. Beaten only three and a half lengths, he shaped as though he remains capable from this mark, while several rivals reopposing here finished behind him on that occasion.
Conditions should hold no fears, with cut in the ground very much in his favour, while his versatility over five and six furlongs adds to his appeal. Blessed with early pace and housed in a potentially advantageous draw, he has plenty in his favour and looks capable of rewarding each way support with extra places available.
16:50 Worcester – CASTLE IVERS (2/1 Generally)
I have had CASTLE IVERS in my tracker since his bumper days, when he showed plenty of promise. The Bective Stud owned gelding won two bumpers in good style before landing a Warwick maiden hurdle by half a length. The form of those victories has worked out well at a moderate level.
After returning from an absence with a disappointing effort at Ayr, he bounced back in convincing fashion at Perth, where he made all and stayed on strongly to beat stablemate Trust House by three lengths. That rival reopposes here with a 2lb pull at the weights, but it is difficult to envisage the form being reversed.
This step up in trip should suit on the evidence of his strong staying success last time out, as well as his previous three mile point to point victory. The Olly Murphy yard is responsible for three runners in the race and Sean Bowen opts to ride this seven year old, suggesting he could prove difficult to beat, especially if allowed to dictate matters from the front once again.
SATURDAY SELECTIONS
15:15 Epsom – ARKLOW LAD (10/1 Generally Each Way)
16:50 Worcester – CASTLE IVERS (2/1 Generally)
*Odds correct at time of posting – 7:47pm Friday 5th June
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Please note that although Matt has uploaded the tips, he is not our Racing Club Insider – the insider will remain anonymous!
