12:45 Windsor - Speculative Bet (25th May)
A Maiden Auction Stakes over 6f on good to firm going. Thirteen two-year-olds horses take part: three with form, debutantes from a mix of trainers. In some respects not the easiest of races to assess. Mark Usher is a talented trainer and he knows his horses well. Arlecchino's Rock showed promise on debut at this course over the minimum trip at odds of 50/1. The form of that race has been franked and reason why this son of Rock Of Gibraltar was sent to Ascot to compete at Stakes class. This chestnut colt looked to have a stiff task but he ran a very disappointing race to finish last. His trainer said he is much better than that and stepping up to 6f could well help. A wide draw isn't ideal although race experience should mean he has the pace to sit in a handy position. At odds of 16/1 I would expect a much better run today and being on the sidelines for nearly a month that disappointment could be forgotten. There will be no excuses. Could well touch fancy prices on the exchanges and hold each way claims.
Arlecchino's Rock 16/1 2nd