Megan Nicholls Racing Preview: Saturday Tips
SATURDAY RACING TIPS
Ascot 1.35 – Dash
I’ve gone Venture Capital (13/2) here. I didn’t really have a strong selection for this race as it seems very open, so I think he is a good value each-way shout.
He looked like he was back to better form last time out at Hamilton, and he has shown previously that he has a fair level of ability. He did lose his way a bit, but this was a much better effort, and the stiff track seems to suit him.
I can see him running pretty well here.
Megan’s Tip: Venture Capital EW
Ascot 2.10 – Stayers Handicap
In the Stayers, Dancing In Paris (4/1), who ran a massive race at Goodwood, must settle.
A free-going horse with so much ability, he is in great form and is about ready to win after such a good fight at Goodwood last time.
He is my win selection but my each-way pick is Almuhit (11/2). He is thriving at the moment and was so tough to win at Newbury last time, when battling back after being headed in the final furlong. He’s a likely pacemaker, and if fractions are right he will keep going and make this a proper stamina test.
I have him as each-way value here - the handicapper has been kind, only nudging him up a couple of pounds for his two wins recently, and I think he’s still on a mark to remain competitive.
Megan’s Tip: Dancing In Paris WIN; Almuhit EW
Haydock 3.00 – Rose of Lancaster
I like Haatem (3/1) here.
Going up to 10 furlongs again - he seemed to relish the step up in trip at the Royal Meeting. Last time back over the mile was a little sharp for him, particularly on the round track, so I like him back up to this distance.
He is a class act in the field, very consistent and tough. There’s a nice, long straight to get him rolling, and I think Haydock just suits him. He’s a horse with a lot of talent.
Megan’s Tip: Haatem WIN
Newmarket 3.40 – Sweet Solera Stakes
Dance To The Music (5/4 fav) looks the one to beat.
She won nicely on debut over the six furlongs, and the form has been boosted by a couple of those in behind running nicely at listed and Group 3 level.
This is a talented filly and it very much looks as if the step up to the seven will bring in a big improvement at the start of a big weekend for Billy Loughnane riding for Charlie Appleby, as they have Rebel’s Romance to look forward to in a Group 1 over in Germany on Sunday.
Megan’s Tip: Dance To The Music WIN
Curragh 4.00 – Phoenix Stakes
I’m going to go against Gstaad (5/6 fav) here and go for True Love (11/8).
She blew me away last time. A big, strong filly, she is so well physically developed. She looks like a three-year-old, and I just think she could get the better of Gstaad.
I know he is two from two, and has been impressive, but this filly is something special. This is a great clash, and I’m going to be slightly controversial and back True Love over the favourite in this one.
Megan’s Tip: True Love WIN
Ascot 4.30 – Mile Handicap Handicap
I’m not giving up on Treasure Time (11/2) who is wearing headgear for the first time.
He was never involved at Goodwood after a bad draw, and the race for him was over from the start, really. The pace was holding up well and he barely passed a horse, but I think he still is a horse with potential improvement to come.
Hollie Doyle is on board, and he remains one with interest, particularly with that headgear applied. He could still be potentially well handicapped, so Treasure Time for me in the last.
Megan’s Tip: Treasure Time WIN
Odds correct at time of publication but subject to fluctuation
