Armstrong Aggregates Sandy Lane Stakes (Group 2)

Off time: 15:26 | Winning time: 1m 12.13s

(1)

Calyx²⁴

Age: 3| Weight: 9-0| J: R Havlin| T: J & T Gosden| OR: 115| D

2/13

Unbeaten colt who won last year's Group 2 Coventry Stakes and reappeared with an impressive success in the Group 3 Commonwealth Cup Trial at Ascot. Currently trading as clear favourite for the Commonwealth Cup itself and will be tough to beat here.

Form: 11-1

(3)

Hello Youmzain⁴²

Age: 3| Weight: 9-0| J: K Stott| T: K A Ryan| OR: 113| BF| D

5/1

Won a French Group 2 last season (6f, soft) and has so far raced only with cut in the ground. Beaten favourite on reappearance in a Newbury Group 3 last month, Plenty of ability, but one or two bits to prove against stellar rival.

Form: 121-4

(4)

True Mason^v1⁴²

Age: 3| Weight: 9-0| J: B A Curtis| T: K R Burke| OR: 104| D

20/1

Won firm ground Nottingham novice event last June (6f). Placed in both Group 1 and Group 2 company in France (on good/soft) later in the season, but held over there on reappearance. Visor fitted and needs improvement.

Form: 13328-4

(2)

Royal Intervention²³

Age: 3| Weight: 8-11| J: G Mosse| T: E Walker| OR: 99| D

33/1

Scored in Listed company at Newmarket 11-months ago (6f, good to firm) on her second start, and placed in Ascot Group 3 next time. Not beaten far in Chelmsford Listed contest on reappearance, but needs big step up to win this.

Form: 212-4

Forecasts

Calyx (2/13), Hello Youmzain (5/1), True Mason (20/1), Royal Intervention (33/1)

Taking on two inferior opponents and one with questions to answer, this looks a very good opportunity for CALYX to maintain his unbeaten record and head to the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot on a high. Hello Youmzain is next best, but he has to prove he handles quicker ground and needs to bounce back after a disappointing reappearance. Royal Intervention and True Mason look likely to have their own race for third.