Patriote games in the Imperial Cup at Sandown
Published:
Prestbury Park warm-up to get you in the mood
Cheltenham is fast approaching but there’s still a decent weekend of racing ahead.
There are cracking cards at both Sandown and Wolverhampton, with the latter seeing some prime flat racing action.
And the ITV Racing crew up will be at both courses for your viewing pleasure. The Coral News Team bring you the best storylines of the day ahead.
Le Patriote can win it again for Newland
Dr Richard Newland won the Imperial Cup at Sandown three years ago with Ebony Express. And he might just have a second winner on his hands in this renewal if Le Patriote has a say.
Newland’s impressive six-year-old won in impressive fashion at Ascot last month, beating fellow Imperial Cup contender, Fright Night Light by a length.
Because of that, he’ll have to give away 8lbs in the weights. But connections feel he’s still got more to give, and that the soft-ish ground expected will suit him.
Melrose place? Melrose win
Rain is forecast for around Sandown tomorrow and one horse who should relish the conditions is Melrose Boy in the 1.50pm.
Harry Fry’s six-year-old was a very solid third here in the Grade 3 Heroes Handicap Hurdle last month. He faded a touch in that so the drop back in trip here will suit.
Fry’s charge still looks a touch short of his proper mark and he could run very well here off some decent odds.
Don’t hesitate in Lady Wulfruna Stakes
William Haggas doesn’t mess about when it comes to all-weather racing. The Yorkshireman’s stable is revered for producing quality performers and Second Thought is no different.
Haggas’ four-year-old charge bids to make it six-from-six on all-weather surfaces.
A dual Listed winner, this impressive star will have Ryan Moore on-board as well. And that should be enough to sway the majority of the doubters out there.
ITV Racing Tips:
1:50 Sandown – Melrose Boy
2:05 Wolverhampton – Constantino
2:25 Sandown – Le Patriote
3:00 Sandown – Urca De Lima
3:15 Wolverhampton – Second Thought
3:35 Sandown – Tanit River
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
