Friday, 28th July 2023
I’m backing VAFORTINO at the general 10s in tomorrow’s International Stakes at Ascot (3.00)….
He’s back up to 103 – his career-high mark – after a narrow defeat to Northern Express last time at York….
…. but he’s been in ultra-consistent form this term – logging four RPRs of 109 and bigger from his five runs this term….
…. he’s a pound well-in – getting to run off 102 tomorrow….
…. and in my book he’s shown that he can win off his current perch if and when things fall right for him….
Tomorrow he returns to Ascot – scene of his biggest career win in the 2022 Victora Cup….
…. and where he finished 3rd in this year’s renewal of that same race off 103….
…. having been a little unfortunate in bumping into a very well handicapped Rebel Territory and Biggles – who subsequently won the Bunbury Cup in good style….
I don’t think there are too many very well-handicapped springers in tomorrow’s field and – if Vafortino runs his race again – I expect him to be there or thereabouts….
He likes the track, he’ll appreciate the cut in the ground, Kaiya Fraser takes off 5lb – weight that might have made all the difference at York – and in stall 12 his young rider will have options….
We don’t see too much of Kevin Ryan’s MAGICAL SPIRIT on turf at this time of the year….
…. but the wet weather and softer underfoot conditions – even more rain would be a bonus – are very much up his street….
…. and Ryan is clearly taking the opportunity to shoot at a target that would ordinarily be off the menu for his charge….
The 6yo ran a career best over course and distance in May….
…. finishing 3/21 and beaten 1.75 lengths off a mark of 97 in the Churchill Tyres Handicap….
…. a clear advertisement that he can get the job done off tomorrow’s mark of 96 with conditions just that bit more suitable….
He had a blow on the AW at Newcastle at the start of the month – which will surely have served to help sharpen him up and get him match fit….
…. and I think he’s got a big chance tomorrow at the general 12s & 11s….
The pick of the prices….To recap on my bets for tomorrow…. In the 3.00 @ Ascot….
e/w terms = Sky Bet & Betway are 1/5 the first 7. It’s 1/5 the first 6 and 1/5 the first 5 generally…. In the 2.40 @ York….
e/w terms = Sky Bet & Betway are 1/5 the first 6. It’s 1/5 the first 4 generally…. Advised prices are correct at the point of publication – but prices are subject to fluctuation. Consult Oddschecker – you may find better quotes and terms than advised…. |
That’s all for today.
I’ll be back in your inbox on Monday – with my picks for Day 1 at Glorious Goodwood….
Meantime – contact me direct at – nick.pullen@oxonpress.co.uk
And remember – win, lose, or draw – enjoy the racing….
Stay tuned.
Operated by Spa Publishing Group Ltd (Company No. 15830286) 
