Clash of sprint generations clouded by weather

The sprint division has captured the imagination this season and the Group 1 32Red Sprint Cup, one of their big showdowns of the season, is the highlight of the weekend. Early in the season, supporting the four-year-olds against older horses proved a profitable strategy but now the three-year-olds join the fray in earnest.

The whole issue is clouded, however, by the uncertainty over how much rain will fall prior to the race, which could severely compromise the chances, and potentially even the participation, of the likes of Limato and The Tin Man, while connections of Twilight Son may rue their decision to wait for Ascot. That may lead to a weaker four-year-old challenge than seemed likely and give three-year-olds Dancing Star and Quiet Reflection a real chance to showcase their claims.

From a betting perspective there is too much uncertainty for my liking and it makes sense to look elsewhere on the Haydock card for value, most notably Zest in the 1.50. From a decent family she can go on improving as her stamina is drawn out. The step up to today’s trip looked to suit last time and she also has form with cut in the ground, so any rain is less likely to be a factor for her than others.