Jamie Spencer fancies Jallota to get the better of his rivals in the Hungerford

I begin the first of three rides tomorrow at Newbury in the Geoffrey Freer Stakes at 3.10pm when I partner Red Cardinal. He’s been progressive this season, winning three from three. He’s now stepping out of handicap company into Group company. It’s a strong race but I am hoping he can be in the mix. Kings Fete is obviously the one we all have to beat as he’s a Group winner following his success at Goodwood. Red Cardinal is a horse we like though and hopefully he can take the next step up in his career with a solid performance in this Group Three contest.

In the 3.40 I ride Valley of Fire. He’s now officially rated 86 so he’s off his lowest ever mark.  He’s run well off seven pounds higher in better races before so he goes there well handicapped and in with a good chance.

In the Group Two Hungerford at 4.10pm, I’ll be on board Jallota. He’s been very consistent this season since he came back from Dubai. He won very nicely at York back in May and then returned to the Knavesmire a few weeks later where he once again put in a good run. He was unlucky to find one too good for him in France at Deauville in a Group Three but then returned to the winning ways at Haydock on his latest start. His form is strong and his confidence levels will be high. Home of the Brave will be hard to beat but I would not be surprised if we got the better of him. Ideally I’d like to see a couple of showers before racing tomorrow as that will play in my horse’s favour.

Over in the States tomorrow evening, Deauville runs in the Arlington Million for Aidan O’Brien. I rode this colt to victory in the Belmont Derby last month so he’s a horse who travels well to America. He’d have to have a great chance. I think the track will suit him. People are worried about the outside draw but you have a lot longer run to the first turn at Arlington as oppose to Belmont where he defied the wide draw last time. I think he is actually the best horse in the race. Being a three-year old, he is the one open to more improvement. He’s got stronger form than the other European horses in the race.

In the Beverly D. Stakes Ballydoyle is on a recovery mission after two disappointing runs. She started the season well in the 1000 Guineas where she finished second behind Minding. She’ll come up against her stablemate Coolmore tomorrow and if there is anyone who can prepare his horses for these big races, it is Aidan so I expect them both to be in with a big chance in this fillies and mares race.