NEWMARKET

1:50 G2 Royal Lodge
Son (Pat Dobbs)
There is no doubt this is a big step up, and I will be the first to admit he has plenty to find on form, but he’s nevertheless a very smart colt and I liked the way he stayed on over this trip last time. He should be suited by the stiff track and won on Good to Firm as well which is also in his favour.

4:50
Liv My Life (Pat Dobbs)
She won nicely at Goodwood last time when shaping as though the step up to seven furlongs could bring out even more improvement; but it would need to because the Handicapper has put her up another 4lbs. The ground will be perfect and she’s very tough and consistent so should go well.

HAYDOCK

3:15
Royal Dress (Alec Voikhansky)
I don’t think she was in love with the ground at York last time, because she really likes to get her toe in, so the soft conditions at Haydock will see her in a much better light and I’m not concerned about the drop back to six. Alec’s claim brings her weight down a bit and she’s had a nice little break since her last run.

LONGCHAMP

4:08 G2 Prix Daniel Wildenstein
Witch Hunter (Jamie Spencer)
He’s been a revelation this year, winning at Royal Ascot and then scoring impressively in the Hungerford last time. This is obviously a very competitive race, but Jamie knows him well and his good turn of foot will hopefully be put to good use because, like most races in France, they go very steady early on. He’s in great shape at home, has travelled over well and has a solid chance in his current form.