Dave Smith's guide to Saturday's ITV7 races at Ascot and Haydock

13:05 Ascot - Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Dash (Handicap) (Class 2)

Course and distance winner DANZENO is at the top of the handicap here but it's easy to see why. The nine-year-old has won off higher marks than this in the past and his record over the minimum distance is very healthy with three wins from five starts in the UK. The ground should be no issue and he can go well.

13:40 Ascot - Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers (Handicap) (Class 2)

THEGLASGOWWARRIOR hasn't been disgraced in this grade and is tried again. He's only 1lb above his last winning mark but Jim Goldie's charge will need a career best here. He is capable though and on breeding he could well appreciate this distance.

13:55 Haydock - Vulcan Village Handicap (Class 3)

Competitive stuff at Haydock Park and several with decent course form. CLUB WEXFORD is one such horse. He won't mind the rain that has fallen on the course with some good runs on softer surfaces. He's the highest rated horse in the race but was only beaten a neck off this mark when last seen at Chester so gets the vote.

14:15 Ascot - Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Challenge (Handicap) (Class 3)

Though he's not shown a great deal this term MELTING DEW could be of significant interest with cheekpieces fitted. They seemed to spark a revival last year which culminated in a fine second place at Goodwood. He's only 1lb above his last winning mark and Sir Michael Stoute is a genius at getting his horses back in gear.

14:30 Haydock - British Stallion Studs EBF Dick Hern Stakes (Fillies & Mares' Listed) (Class 1)

It will be fascinating to see whether the seven-month break that Feliciana De Vega has enjoyed has any effect on her. On that basis preference is for MISS O CONNOR who is turned out quickly and upped in class to Listed company after trouncing her rivals at Nottingham six days ago. The stable have a good record in this race with two wins from the last five renewals.

15:25 Ascot - Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Classic (Handicap) (Class 3)

Mark Johnston has come mob-handed for this contest with the best of his chances appearing to be SAPA INCA. He's very nicely bred for staying races and gets the vote in the hands of Hayley Turner but, in reality, all three of the trainer's charges have a chance.

16:00 Ascot - Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Sprint (Handicap) (Class 2)

In a tight handicap, PASS THE VINO can gain revenge on Kinks who narrowly beat him when they last met at Newmarket. There is a 4lb swing in the weights and that can prove crucial. Victory Day may not be far away either.

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