We’re treated to some superb racing this weekend, notably the Shergar Cup at Ascot, whilst there is also Group action on the Haydock card. I have a strong fancy for that Group race at Ascot, plus a confident each-way play on the Shergar Cup card.
3:00 Haydock – HAATEM (10/3 generally)
Trainer Owen Burrows has won two of the last three renewals of the Rose Of Lancaster Stakes with Anmaat, so Royal Dubai will likely have a good chance in this year’s renewal. However, I think he might struggle to beat HAATEM, who I feel should be a clear favourite in here.
Richard Hannon’s 4YO looks to be back to his brilliant best, having won over this trip at the first time of asking at Royal Ascot back in June, and although it was still a good effort next time out, I’m willing to forgive his effort as I do feel he needs this kind of trip now.
James Doyle is back on board here, which is another positive to his chances. There aren’t many others in this race that have run to the level of Haatem – I can’t see any of this finishing within a head of Rosallion, which Haatem managed last season. I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t go off shorter here, with the only real danger Royal Dubai, who isn’t nailed on to repeat the effort of his Listed Newbury win last time out.
4:30 Ascot – EBT’S GUARD (11/2 generally)
I must admit, I do find the Shergar Cup difficult to study, with jockeys from all over the world coming to take part and ride horses they’ve likely not had much experience on, so it can be a bit of a minefield when trying to pick a winner. That being said, I do really like the chances of one runner in particular on the card – EBT’S GUARD.
William Muir and Chris Grassick’s gelding has been one of my favourite horses to follow this season, and has won me plenty in the process (notably a 25/1 winner at Newbury on seasonal reappearance). He’s been a consistent horse over this one-mile trip, with a record of 1372, with the seventh-placed effort coming when drawn poorly at Royal Ascot.
He has the services of Sweden’s top jockey, Per-Anders Graberg, whose story of his recovery from a serious injury an inspirational feat. I’m hoping his experience will be put to good use here, and with three places on offer, Ebt’s looks a fantastic each-way bet. He’d be my best each-way bet on Saturday.
SATURDAY SELECTIONS
3:00 Haydock – HAATEM (10/3 generally)
4:30 Ascot – EBT’S GUARD (11/2 generally)
*Odds correct at time of posting – 4:15pm Friday 8th August
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Please note that although Tom has uploaded the tips, he is not our Racing Club Insider – the insider will remain anonymous!
