Yesterday’s Review
1pt e/way Pearled Majesty (109) – I would consider French turf racing one of the less straightforward jurisdictions to bet with confidence on due to the inconsistent going reports, number of slowly run races and difficulty to put together going allowances. With the ground described as Good to Soft it was not looking too extreme in selecting a horse with his best form on Very Soft going. The ground was quickly changed to Good and the winning times were more like Good to Firm after a couple of races, so I was a bit worried heading into the contest. Nevertheless, jockey Christophe Soumillon rode an absolute blinder on the selection from his wide draw in stall nine as he edged into the lead early on and was careful not to let his mount do too much in front. As soon as he was allowed to dictate the race at a pace that suited the path to the pay counter was lighting up already. When he asked his mount for a little bit more turning in and the favourite looked to be under pressure the “it’s all over” thoughts started to enter the head. Indeed, the selection quickened more than once in the home straight and his second last furlong of 10.85 seconds was a real sizzler. He came home a length and a quarter clear at the line and it is fair to say that his morning price of 18/1 was wrong. He is entered in the French Derby and he looks an exciting prospect for connections. Result 1st 18/1, 16/1 adv…31/5 SP.
Today’s Advice
GRANT WOOD (6f Hcap) – This seven-year-old has been improving recently over course and distance and he put up two consecutive career best efforts on the clock when narrowly finishing ahead of Beale Street back in February and easily taking care of Ziggy’s Condor last month by 2.75 lengths. His fourth place finish last time out over six furlongs at Wolverhampton came just eight days later and although it wasn’t as strong as his recent victories on the clock the strength of the race has been shown by further wins for Dark Ace and Arklow Lad.
He should appreciate the return to his favourite track for tonight’s (7.00) Newcastle and although 4lbs higher than his latest effort it is worth noting that he was only beaten a head from a pound higher mark last April over course and distance. He usually races in midfield before coming with a late run and jockey Jason Hart already has a course and distance win on the selection back in 2024. Originally installed as the favourite he looked the most solid of tonight’s contestants and despite the drift this morning he still warrants a small play at the bigger odds.
0.5pt e/way Grant Wood (8/1 Ladbrokes, 15/2 Paddy Power, Coral) 7.00 Newcastle