Bay Royale makes his handicap debut in the opening race at Glorious Goodwood on Wednesday, and Steve Jones believes he has been handed an attractive weight. The tipster is backing the three-year-old each-way at 10-1.
Bay Royale in the 1.50
Bay Royale has shown plenty of promise in three novice and maiden races. Jones notes that it's hard to understand why he is priced much bigger than Hatteen and Infraad, considering he was much too good for both rivals on his return at Nottingham in May. He couldn't follow up under a penalty when runner-up at Nottingham, but he bumped into smart prospect Knights Charge and the front pair were well clear. A two-month break should have done him good, and Harry Eustace's well-bred three-year-old should enjoy the step up to 1m4f for the first time. Jones advises 1pt each-way at 10-1.
Arduis Invicta at 5.00
Arduis Invicta is fairly unexposed over 6f and the speed-favouring course should suit her. She was placed at Listed level as a juvenile last autumn and has been holding her form this season. After finishing runner-up over 5f at Musselburgh, she put in another decent performance when fourth at York last month, despite finding herself short of room. Jones thinks she looks capable of going close and recommends 1pt each-way at 40-1, with several bookies paying six places.
Defence Minister in the 5.40
Defence Minister hasn't had much luck with the draw in two starts since winning on Kempton's all-weather in March. He had little chance from stall one in the Victoria Cup at Ascot in May, a race dominated by stands-side horses. Similarly, in the Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, he used up energy to cross towards the nearside from another unhelpful stall. He finished an excellent fourth in that race a year ago, and the form worked out well. This year's race looks weaker, and although the draw has deserted him again, a decent early position from stall 13 is possible. Jones recommends 1pt each-way at 25-1, with most firms offering five places.
