11th-May-2016

I am backing Castle Harbour here at 8/1.  There was a lot to like about the performance that John Gosden’s horse put up in winning on his racecourse debut at Newmarket last month.

 

Bounced out of the gate by Frankie Dettori, he was a little keener than ideal through the early stages of the race, but he travelled well and he battled well when he was challenged by two well-regarded horses in Fawaareq and Archimento inside the final furlong. 

 

Both the second and third had had racecourse experience, and the second won at short odds at Beverley yesterday.  Castle Harbour was always holding the pair of them, and the three of them finished nicely clear of their rivals.

 

Of course, the Kyllachy colt is going to have to step up on that if he is going to prevail today, but there is every reason to expect that he can, given that that was his first ever run.  A rating of 86 is more than fair for his handicap debut, and he is well-drawn in stall four. 

 

Monteverdi and Chief Whip were also on my shortlist, but I am happy that the 8/1 that is available atbout Castle Harbour is the best value in the race.

CASTLE HARBOUR WON (ADV 8/1, SP 9/2)