A cracking days racing today.  Lots of competitive fields at Newbury.  The main race of the day at 3.40 is the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes, run over the straight mile.  It looks quite open to me.  It is a race I will probably watch, but not have a bet.  It could go the way of one of six, and it would be no surprise.  I do think Crystal Ocean will win the 2.25, he won well last time, when not fully wound up.  He is a really nice horse, and the Stoute trained horses are in good shape.

At Newmarket Al Hilalee drops down massively in grade from his last run, that was in the Group 1 2,000 Guineas.  He didn’t disgrace himself that day.  The 10f today should suit him, and I think he has a good chance of winning.  The 5.05 at Thirsk is a really good race, some nice three year olds in this Novice Stakes over 12f.  I think I would be prepared to lay the favourite Selino in this, he has 4 strong dangers.

Reflecting on the racing yesterday.  It was good to see Stradivarius win at York.  He is very honest, the main target for him will be the Ascot Gold Cup again at the Royal meeting in June.