Steve Jones has provided his each-way horse racing tips for one of the busiest Saturdays of the year, featuring the Group 1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai July Cup at Newmarket.
July Cup Selection: Double Rush
Jones fancies Double Rush (4.35) in the July Cup, a horse that has won all three starts since joining trainer Andrew Balding. The gelding's victories on Newmarket's Rowley Mile course were hugely impressive, and he completed his hat-trick by landing the Wokingham Stakes at Royal Ascot. According to Jones, the times of that race compare favourably with the Group 1 races run over 6f at the Royal meeting. He recommends a 1pt each-way bet at 10-1, with Sky Bet paying out on four places.
Betway Bunbury Cup: The Fingal Raven
Jones suggests chancing The Fingal Raven (3.25) at a big price in the Betway Bunbury Cup. The horse has some decent form at Meydan, and while Dubai form should not always be taken at face value, some of his British efforts give him a great chance. His first start on these shores this year came in the Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, where he ran better than his finishing position after being dropped right out from an unhelpful draw. Jones recommends a 1pt each-way bet at 40-1, with a few firms offering five places.
John Smith's Cup: Quai De Bethune
Quai De Bethune (3.45) is an interesting runner in the John Smith's Cup at York. The horse returns after a promising run on unsuitably soft ground at Epsom last month, which was his first start for trainer Hamad Al Jehani. His handicap form for Andrew Balding last year – when he was third behind subsequent Group 3 winner Saddadd in the London Gold Cup – was excellent. Jones notes that the likely strong pace will play to his strengths, and he has a hood on for the first time. He recommends a 1pt each-way bet at 12-1, with several bookies going six places.
Earlier Race: Mr Swivell
Earlier on the card, Mr Swivell (2.39) looks to be running into form. He was just outstayed when fourth on the all-weather over Newcastle's stiff mile a couple of weeks ago. This track will suit him better, and he might get an easy time out in front. Jones recommends a 1pt each-way bet at 10-1, with most firms paying four places.
