Friday, May 04, 2012

Guineas weekend at Newmarket

The focus shifts to the Flat now.

Cards on the table - I don't follow the Flat particularly closely, so those tempted may want to think again before jumping in feet first...

Eighteen have been declared for the 204th running of the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket where the going is currently described as soft and, according to layers, Aidan O'Brien's Camelot appears something of a shoo-in at around the 7/4 mark. Indeed Ladbrokes, who have long been rumoured to possess an 'inside line' to Ballydoyle, stand out from their competitors by offering just even money.

Those looking to oppose may be interested in Timeform's view that both Trumpet Major and Caspar Netscher are more highly rated. Caspar Netscher isn't guaranteed to stay a mile but is overpriced at 25/1, a point made by Topspeed, Dave Edwards, in the Weekender. Trumpet Major looked an impressive winner of the Craven while Power and French Fifteen are two others I've considered. The percentage each-way call is Power (12/1 Coral) who on official ratings is the top-rated animal in the field and won on soft ground at The Curragh last September.

I just wonder what affect, if any, the draw may have...

No selection put up for Sunday's 1000 Guineas but those interested in playing may find the Timeform ratings a decent starting point...       

1 comment:

GeeDee said...

The inappropriately-named Power (7/1) seemed to lack plenty of what was reqired, racing at the back from the start, and staying there for the rest of the race; he managed to beat just one home. Camelot took the spoils and went straight to the head of the Derby market.