Megan Nicholls Racing Preview: Doncaster Tips
FRIDAY RACING TIPS
Doncaster 1.15 – Mallard Handicap
Duraji (5/1) is the one I like in a typically competitive Mallard Handicap.
I thought he ran well at Goodwood last time but was far too keen, particularly coming down the hill, so he did really well to finish fourth having run on nicely.
I’m hoping the more level track at Doncaster might allow him to get into a better rhythm and I do think he’s a horse who’s got a big performance in him.
Dermot Weld’s runners should always be respected on these shores and William Buick is an eye-catching jockey booking.
Megan’s Tip: Duraji WIN
Doncaster 1.50 – Flying Scotsman Stakes
I’m keen on Hankelow (7/2) here.
He was really impressive on his only start at York, justifying his expensive sales price.
His sire Night Of Thunder is going well and his crop seem versatile in terms of ground so, with lots more to come from Karl Burke’s charge, he warrants a lot of respect.
Megan’s Tip: Hankelow WIN
Doncaster 2.25 – Flying Childers Stakes
I’ve been a big fan of Lady Iman (7/2) all season and I’m with her again here.
It’s really tough for the younger horses against their elders at York, so I don’t think you can criticise her run in the Nunthorpe too much.
Bar that run she’s had a very productive season and given she handled a bit of cut in the ground when winning at Goodwood, I’m expecting a big performance back against her own age group.
Megan’s Tip: Lady Iman WIN
Doncaster 3.00 – Doncaster Cup
Sweet William (5/4 fav) is a real character but he’s also a likeable sort and always runs well in top company.
John & Thady Gosden’s contender goes well at Doncaster and doesn’t mind a bit of juice in the ground, so any rain that falls shouldn’t be an issue. He looks a solid favourite and should take plenty of beating.
If there’s an each-way alternative to the favourite, it could be Pendragon (9/1).
I thought it was quite interesting that connections have decided to run in a Group 2 instead of going down the usual handicap route and that probably says the regard they hold him in.
He gets an allowance for being a three-year-old and could run well at a nice price.
Megan’s Tip: Sweet William WIN; Pendragon EW
Odds correct at time of publication but subject to fluctuation
