Sophie Ralston – rides favourite, Classic Star at Lingfield
CLASSIC STAR, runner-up in his last race under Luke Bacon in an apprentice handicap at Sandown can go one better today under Sophie Ralston at Lingfield.
One of 12 runners in a 7 1/2 furlong 3yo handicap, the Sea The Moon gelding was beaten a neck 10 days ago. His draw of 12 is not great but the very capable Sophie Ralston is more than capable of overcoming that as she seeks her sixth win for the yard this season. Classic Star is a worthy 15/8 favourite and should go close.
It’s Shergar Cup time at Ascot and Lancelot Du Lac could spring a slight surprise in the opener, the 5f dash, due off at 1.05pm. He is on a very attractive mark of 99, the lowest mark he’s run off since 2014. The rain has not really hit the track and it’s Good, Good To Firm in places which is not ideal but with Hayley Turner aboard for the Girls’ team and an attractive of 14/1, he may be worth chancing each-way. (Tropics is the reserve horse and is 16/1).
Badenscoth would really appreciate more cut in the ground as he tries 1m4f for the first time in the Challenge Cup at 2.15. If more rain arrives, he would have an each-way squeak under title-chasing Daniel Tudhope but it is still a big ask at 16/1.
Finally, 2yo One Alc makes his debut in a 7 1/2 furlong novice at Lingfield 6.15pm and he’s a big outsider, 33/1, to make a winning debut under Joey Haynes. The Haggas-trained favourite, Johan looks the one to beat.
