'With Oisin on board and a good draw I think he could run a big race'
Wednesday: 3.30 Sandown
Chasemore Farm Fortune Stakes (Listed) | 1m | 3yo+ | RTV
The return of trainer Marcus Tregoning as a force to be reckoned with has been one of the welcome narratives of the Flat in recent years. Tregoning went into the wilderness after winning the 2006 Derby with Sir Percy, but was back with a bang last year as Mohaather led the way.
There isn't a Mohaather in his yard this year, but there is a Perotto and the three-year-old is the highest-rated horse in Tregoning’s stable this season judged on Racing Post Ratings.
Perotto achieved that career-high RPR when third to Megallan in the Group 3 Sovereign Stakes at Salisbury last month, when he was a nose behind the reopposing Sir Busker. There is little between the pair on that form at these weights, but both have underperformed in Group 2 company since.
Mostahdaf is taking an even bigger drop in grade. He was last seen competing in the Group 1 St James’s Palace Stakes at Ascot but trailed in 12th of the 13 runners. However, his best performance did come in Listed company over course and distance in May, when he landed the Heron Stakes. He will need to improve on that form, but is unexposed.
There are some talented old characters among the remainder of the field, including Escobar and Accidental Agent. Both like to come from off the pace and Escobar shaped as though he could be on his way back to form when second behind Aratus in a handicap at Goodwood last time.
Race analysis by Graeme Rodway
What they say
Michael Dods, trainer of Brunch
It's going to be hard as he's got his Listed win penalty but we didn't have any other opportunities around for him while there was juice in the ground. He's in good form but it will be tough for him. The lads who normally ride him weren't available but Rob Hornby is an excellent jockey.
David O'Meara, trainer of Escobar and Rhoscolyn
They're both in good shape. Any rain for Rhoscolyn would help and he'll be fine for his first run at the course. Escobar has some good form at Sandown and loves the track.
William Knight, trainer of Sir Busker
He's in great form and the race looks like a good option. With Oisin on board and a good draw I think he could run a big race. My only slight concern is he hasn't run at Sandown before but if there's enough pace to aim at it should suit him.
Reporting by Catherine Macrae
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