6.20 Distaff: The star names are missing but Ashado sets a good standard having finished second to Halfbridled in this race last year. However she likes to race prominently and with plenty of pace guaranteed up front may not get things her own way. Society Selection and Storm Flag Flying finished second and third respectively behind Sightseek in the Beldame Stakes last time. The former has a length-and-a-quarter in hand of her rival on that form and with her hold-up tactics could have the race run to suit her.
6.55 Juvenile Fillies: There is a strong word for Sweet Catomine who made a big impression when slamming a decent field at Santa Anita last time. She is a worthy favourite but Balletto could prove a tough nut to crack. She displayed admirable battling qualities to take the Frizette Stakes at Belmont last month. She will stay every yard of the trip and is one to have on your side when the chips are down.
7.35 Mile: A race that the Europeans traditionally go well in and Six Perfections looks primed to stage a repeat win. She showed a dazzling turn of foot to win the 2003 renewal and is said to be back to her best after a recent break. Whipper has claims if he breaks well from his low draw while the best of the home team is probably Nothing To Lose, who is on a roll at present.
8.10 Sprint: Jerry Bailey and Kela can strike in a weak - if competitive - renewal of the race. The selection was a good winner at this track earlier in the season and has plenty in his favour here. Last year's winner Cajun Beat has shown little to date in 2004 but Speightstown - although no match for Pico Central at Belmont last time - is feared.
8.45 Filly & Mare Turf: The heart says Ouija Board but the head Light Jig. Our dual Oaks heroine ran the race of her life in the Arc last time and if in the same form here would take all the beating. However the ground and track may not be ideal and the selection is a top class American turf horse. She showed improved form to win at Santa Anita last time and any further progress would make her a tough nut for even an on-song Ouija Board to crack.
9.20 Juvenile: A red-hot renewal of the race which can fall to Proud Accolade. He showed a willing attitude to beat Afleet Alex at Belmont last time and can prove too strong for favourite Roman Ruler who looks far from straightforward. British raider Wilko is unfortunate in that he has landed in a strong heat and he looks sure to fall short.
9.55 Turf: Aidan O'Brien is increasingly bullish over Powerscourt who looks sure to go well but may struggle to cope with the American big guns. Kitten's Joy is a persistent whisper for the race and clearly has a favourite's chance but I am prepared to give Magistretti the nod to reverse Turf Classic form with his rival. He was too prominent that day and unable to produce his customary turn of foot. If ridden with more restraint he has the gears to give Kitten's Joy a real scare.
10.35 Classic: Birdstone can strike a blow for the younger generation in the richest race of the night. Connections know their charge needs to be fresh and he heads here after a break of over two months. He looked a horse to follow when winning the Travers Stakes and could dethrone Pleasantly Perfect. He has thrived since winning last year's race and will be staying on in a race that is sure to be run at a quick pace.
BREEDERS' CUP NEWS
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