Newmarket on Friday In Friday’s TV opener at Newmarket, DIEGO VENTURA might be worth a go against the market leader (2.20). After being acquired from Ireland, he was subtly progressive for this yard, but he was never given the chance to race on good terrain. He has speed, which could be a valuable asset in this weekend’s Rowley Mile. He was also a very unfurnished horse last year, which suggests there may be a lot more to come. In the mile handicap, HORNSEA BAY has a lot going for him (2.55). He has a solid pedigree and is lightly raced. He demonstrated a lot last season and was therefore entitled to need the race in his seasonal debut, having traveled well prior to that lack of competition fitness told.
I like the concept of Jamie Spencer riding this horse, and he has been a little eager in his races. Today at 3.30, PHYSIQUE is worth another chance. After his impressive stable debut, he let everyone down the previous time. But he was in a bad position and never really got a chance to get going in that untidy race. Better ground could be helpful, and he’s still intriguing off this point. In the Jockey Club Stakes, Silver Knot should have a slight advantage (4.05). He has been incredibly consistent throughout his travels, has tactical speed, and won’t mind a tiny field, even though he doesn’t race in England very often these days. He has less questions to answer than his opponent and has won on his lone start here.
Goodwood on Friday
At Goodwood, TOCA MADERA can win the first of three TV races (2.35). He might get the best of the draw because of his fitness advantage and the fair weight pull he has with Shagraan from their meetings last year. Although he needs to calm down a bit, this track will work better for his free-spirited attitude than Newmarket. In the Daisy Warwick, Shaha appears a bit pricey (3.10). She looked good when she defeated Santorini Star at Southwell in style, but she collapsed on her penultimate start last year on very deep footing. The selection should have a successful season for her in-form yard since her form appears to be quite good right now.
It appears that SPRING BLOOM is about to explode (3.45). He is only one pound heavier than he was before his last victory, and a highly astute apprentice helps him shed an additional seven pounds. He also showed encouraging shape throughout his comeback. The race ought to be conducted accordingly.
