A large field of fourteen two-year-olds. Quite a competitive heat including a winner and fair form horses fancying their chances. Many debutantes will be running for the experience. I would let the betting settle to winkle out a few who are here to make up the numbers.
My analysis will be kept short and sweet. It will focus on a solitary horse and the make or break of this potential bet is very much related to the starting price.
James Fanshawe is no strange to quality horses. He may not have the largest string of juveniles but he can hit the target when they are primed. The majority of these youngsters need the run. True, a few horses win when making their racecourse bow, but these are usually high-class types defying the odds. This trainer has a much greater chance of success with juveniles on their second start.
Fondest is a bay daughter of Mayson out of a dual-winning mare who was similarly owned and trained. Cheveley Park Stud saw this March foal race over course and distance. She wasn't too fancied on debut although staring at 12/1 far from an outsider. This horse was in the rear but plugged on to finish seventh beaten five lengths. By all accounts, that was a fair start to her racing career.
What should we make of today's chance? As stated, Fanshawe has a live chance with horses on their second start. A wide draw is far from ideal on this turning course and to be honest, it does dampen the spirits. The key factor is the betting. Being weak in the market may detail connections think this is a step too far. If strong in the market, this horse holds serious each-way claims. If priced 7/1 & less SP I'd be looking to bet. If weak as weak, keep your dosh firmly in your pocket.