The Gordon Richards Stakes card at Sandown has been given something of a revamp and has attracted a fine quality card for Channel 4 viewers on Friday.
The star of the show is Telescope who reappears in the feature event for Sir Michael Stoute. Last season he was hyped out of all proportion before and after the Derby but proved himself a quality colt when winning the Great Voltigeur at York.
The original plan had been the Epsom Derby but a rushed preparation failed to get him ready in time. He then won at Leicester by 24 lengths before failing at odds-on at Haydock. Stoute felt that his critics were hard on him at the time and must have revelled in his York victory. Whether he can be another Harbinger is open to question but I’d be disappointed if he cannot win this.
There is a cracking field in the Bet365 Mile and I cannot split Garswood, Montiridge and Top Notch Tonto. The latter’s prospects will increase if the rain keeps falling while Garswood is yet to fulfil his true potential. Richard Fahey couldn’t seem to settle on his best trip last season and this is his first tilt at a mile since the 2000 Guineas.
Montiridge travels so easily in his races but does not always find a lot in the closing stages. You just can’t help but love Top Notch Tonto with his white legs! It is like watching one of those old westerns when he comes galloping through. I’m going to pass on this one but all three will win races this season.
Gosden and Buick are continuing on their merry way and I expect Western Hymn to boost his Derby prospects with a win in the Classic Trial. I like Newbury as a track for spotting future winners and there was plenty to like about the way he knuckled down to win there last time. Truth Or Dare and Sir Jack Layden have the best form in the book but both are well exposed. I’d be more worried about Red Galileo stepping up on last year’s form but Western Hymn should give us a nice double with Telescope.
Channel 4 are also showing the Esher Cup at 1.40 and there are a couple of horses for your notebook here too. Sacred Act and End Of Line both hold Group 1 entries and the market will be a good guide to their respective chances.
Telescope at 11-10 Paddy Power
Western Hymn at 4-6 Bet365
