Saturday’s best bets, by Chris Cook
Last year’s Cesarewitch winner was returned at 50-1, while two of the three before that were 66-1, which might make some punters feel the market-leaders for this marathon handicap are barely worth considering. It certainly seems a long time since the last winning favourite, Darley Sun in 2009, but the man who trained him, David Simcock, could follow up this time with The Cashel Man (4.10) at an acceptable, if not stratospheric, 14-1.
The four-year-old hasn’t managed to get his head in front this year, which would not be unusual for a Ces’ winner, but his season has seemed to be building towards something and there was a lot to like about his second in a big field over this course and distance last time. The only one that got away from him that time was the Godolphin blot Penglai Pavilion that had fallen almost two stones in the ratings since running fifth in the 2013 Arc.
First-time blinkers may have helped The Cashel Man last time, so it is to be hoped they work again. William Buick is an eye-catching booking, taking over from Freddy Tylicki. A low draw in stall eight also helps.
First Mohican could be an each-way prospect at 40-1, despite the memory of his “always rear” effort a year ago. He seems to get on well with Hollie Doyle and their recent efforts together have been useful.
2.20 Newmarket The least experienced in a field of 11 in a nursery last time, Tara Celeb showed she had learned a lot from her debut and stuck on gamely to score by a head. This extra furlong should help and she is bred to keep on improving.
2.35 York Eased down after meeting trouble at Newbury last time, Autocratic is a lot better than that 11th place suggests. On his previous start, he came up short by just half a length at the July Festival in a valuable contest and this is within his grasp if he resumes his progress.
2.55 Newmarket He remains a maiden but The Anvil turned in an excellent piece of form when beaten by just a neck in the Royal Lodge last time, travelling strongly under Seamie Heffernan. Ryan Moore takes the ride this time.
3.10 York Silver Line couldn’t stand the heat in the Middle Park but may have needed that first outing for almost three months, his yard having had the virus in the interim. Dropped significantly in class, he should be a real force with James Doyle getting the ride back.
3.30 Newmarket Three winning favourites in four years make the Dewhurst a contrasting puzzle to the Cesarewitch. Churchill is not to be opposed after a deeply impressive success over Mehmas in the National Stakes last time.
3.45 York Drawn on what may prove the right side, Captain Colby has good course form and is a manageable 6lb higher than for his Portland success last time.
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