Frankel's son Seven Heavens an early treat for Flat fans

2.25 Newmarket
bet365 European Free Handicap | (Listed) | 7f | 3yo

The sight of a three-year-old son of Frankel competing on the Rowley Mile in the famous Khalid Abdullah colours could prove an early-season treat to savour for Flat fans.

The Rowley Mile provided the backdrop to Frankel's stunning 2,000 Guineas success six years ago and a win for the John Gosden-trained Seven Heavens would be the perfect way for his first crop of Classic age to get off the mark at Newmarket.

Things did not go to plan when he finished last of seven in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes on his final start as a two-year-old, but Frankie Dettori reported Seven Heavens ran too freely on that occasion and a hood is applied this time.

Sir Dancealot is likely to be vying for favouritism and the vibes have been strong from the David Elsworth yard about the prospects of a colt who was a three-time winner at two.

Another for the collection

There are not many of Newmarket's significant prizes Aidan O'Brien has not bagged at some stage, but this is one of them. Whitecliffsofdover will bid to put that right under Ryan Moore.

A majestic winner?

Richard Hannon won this race in 2014 with the smart Shifting Power and saddles Majeste this time. The colt failed to cut much ice in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster at the end of last term, but Hannon has made a fine start to the season and it would be no surprise to see Majeste take a step forward.

What they say

John Gosden, trainer of Seven Heavens
We've had this race in mind for some time and we're trying him in a hood, which he wore at home last year. He did well to race three times as a youngster as he was a late foal, and he's been pleasing at home.

Simon Crisford, trainer of Rodaini
This looks the right race to start him off in and the ground and trip should be suitable. He's been pleasing in his work and we're hopeful he can run well.

Richard Fahey, trainer of Private Matter
He's done well over the winter and has been gelded. We're happy with him but we just have to see where we are. It's a warm little race.

Charlie Johnston, assistant to Mark Johnston, trainer of Miss Infinity
She's among the outsiders but it's a handicap, so they should all have a chance. It's a tough race, with some good horses in there, but when she was third at Newmarket at the backend of last year she was showing some good form over this course and distance, so we thought it was a nice starting point. She seems in good nick, so hopefully she'll run well and give us something to build on.

Richard Hannon, trainer of Majeste
He's taken his time to come to hand, the same as last year, but he should acquit himself well.

Andrew Balding, trainer of Perfect Angel
She was very consistent at a decent level last year and she'll be winning at this level at some point this year. However, we'd have wanted more rain and if the ground dries up she may not even go.