Late rain looks increasingly likely to have an effect on the outcome of Saturday’s Sprint Cup at Haydock. The going at the Merseyside track has been on the fast side for the last two days but something like 13mm could fall between 10am and 4pm, undermining the chances of fast-ground types.
For that reason and no other it looks worthwhile opposing Limato, whose July Cup success makes him the standout talent here. He seems at his best on a dry surface and would probably be a doubtful runner if the track took more than 10mm.
No such doubts affect Quiet Reflection (4.30), who raised her profile with a course-and-distance success in May before bagging her Group One at Royal Ascot. She was an honourable third in the July Cup but may be seen to even better effect on slower ground here.
Tips for Saturday’s other TV races
2.40 Ascot It is asking a lot to expect Hawkeyethenoo to deliver back-to-back wins but he remains two stones below his peak rating and could still be dangerous.
3.00 Haydock Returning from a long absence, Hathal is interesting. He will cope well with some cut and some of his form from last year looks strong.
3.10 Ascot Reckoned a Group horse in the making, Dal Harraild has been raised just 4lb following his last-gasp Goodwood win.
3.30 Haydock A late withdrawal at Ascot on Friday, Walpole should relish this step up in trip. This half-brother to Rizeena seems to have a fair bit more to offer.
3.45 Kempton Saeed bin Suroor had his first winner since July on Friday, so his Sky Hunter cannot be discounted. Still, preference is for Arab Spring, stepping down in class and having excuses for his two efforts so far this year.
4.00 Haydock A winner on soft at Windsor in June, Lady Macapa did not have much luck at York last time.
4.15 Kempton Cheekpieces made a difference to Wimpole Hall last time and he will go close if they work once more.
