An EBF Maiden Stakes over 5f on good to firm going. This doesn't look the strongest of races and wonder if Fashionable Spirit has regressed after her latest start at Sandown where she jinked and tired rapidly. I'm not really keen on betting debutantes but they can be considered at speculative odds. Brian Ellison is a canny trainer and it is interesting to note he has given Cranberry Park a stakes race entry, which is often a sign of encouragement. This daughter of Acclamation was a recent breeze-up purchase of just £9000. At odds of 20/1 this bay filly may have each way claims.
Cranberry Park 28/1 Unp
An EBF Maiden Stakes over 6f 18y on good going. A decent field on juveniles with the likes of Beaverbrook proving to be a talent. A wide draw isn't ideal although horses can win when coming off the pace and this contest is likely to be run at a pace. General Alexander was unlucky in the Brocklesby and didn't have much luck from a wide draw at Beverley when bumping into a decent debut winner. This extra furlong will be in his favour and Brian Ellison's two-year-old may be able to pick up the pieces if the leaders push a stride too far. At odds of 14/1+ he has each-way claims.
General Alexander 14/1 4th
A Maiden Stakes over 5f on good to firm going. Just the six runners: four colts, two fillies, two with race experience. On the face of it Mr Morse didn't achieve a great deal on debut when outpaced and last in the Scottish Brocklesby. However, it is interesting that Ellison sent this horse to Musselburgh and racing at stakes class suggests this colt by Hellvelyn - cost £34,000 at the yearling sales - is capable of better today and likely to improve significantly on that first run. The stable's two year olds often go well on their second start. It's priced 18/1 at present and has win and place claims.
Mr Morse 18/1 3rd