450,000 Guineas Yearling by Shamardal out of Celestial Girl, who ran green on debut in a maiden at Wolverhampton (7f), but was ridden out by this jockey to get off the mark at the first attempt. Dam a winner over 1m2f, so looks certain to relish this step upto 1m. Makes his handicap debut (rated 78).
First foal by Dandy Man out of Danealla, who held on by a short head to score over this trip on debut at Lingfield last month. That median auction maiden stakes wasn't the strongest of contests, but he did meet trouble in running and showed a willing attitude. Switches to Tapeta tonight, and makes his handicap debut in the first time hood (rated 77).
Not able to build upon a promising debut at Doncaster (7f) in July 2016 in two further starts in maidens (admittedly in a strong race at York on his second start), and has found life tough so far in handicaps. Last seen finishing fifth of seven at Wolverhampton in December (dropped 2lb since), and now tackles a mile for the first time.
Thrived at this track in October and November, notching up a pair of victories (once C&D) after switching from maidens into handicaps. He ran right through the line over this trip last time, and returns to stronger company after a short break up 6lb to a mark of 67.
Forecasts
Mystique Moon (10/11), Indian Dandy (3/1), Portledge (4/1), Ronnie The Rooster (9/1)
Ronnie The Rooster seeks a course hat-trick having been raised a combined total of 11lb for his two victories, but despite the small field, he is pitched in against better rivals tonight. Indian Dandy has already won over this trip, but his opening mark of 77 looks high enough set against the 450,000 Guineas yearling MYSTIQUE MOON. The Charlie Appleby trained gelding has already won on this Tapeta surface at Wolverhampton and looks sure to appreciate this longer trip and more galloping track. He rates as a most confident selection in the opener.
1. Mystique Moon
2. Ronnie The Rooster
3. Indian Dandy