AWAKEN (1.15) can strike in the BetMGM EBF October Stakes at Ascot, with the drop back to 7f expected to suit George Boughey's filly. She has not been getting home in longer races recently, and this Listed contest over the shorter trip looks ideal.
The filly would have finished much closer than sixth behind Flora Of Bermuda in the Group 3 Oak Tree Stakes at Glorious Goodwood had she enjoyed a clear passage. She has since been ridden from the front in two French Group 3 contests, finishing fourth over 1m at Deauville when forced to go too hard, while the step up to 1m1f at Chantilly two weeks ago proved too far.
Prominent ride expected to suit
A prominent ride over today's shorter distance should be ideal. Have 2pts each-way at 16-1, with Sky Bet paying out on four places.
Desert Shadow and Quillan also fancied
DESERT SHADOW (3.35) should relish the big-field scenario of the 7f BetMGM Challenge Cup. Saeed bin Suroor's four-year-old has spent most of his career over longer distances, even trying 1m4f, but since dropping in trip with a visor fitted he has won twice and been second twice. He pulled too hard when caught wide without cover at Sandown five weeks ago but still struck the front before being worn down late.
It should be easier for jockey Kieran Shoemark to get the timing right here, and he is drawn on the same side as several potential frontrunners. This well-bred four-year-old could prove better than a handicapper. Have 1pt each-way at 12-1, with plenty of bookies offering five places.
QUILLAN (3.20) looks overpriced for Redcar's William Hill Two Year Old Trophy. He won his first two starts but got too worked up before finishing down the field in a valuable sales race at York's Ebor Festival. A wide draw was his downfall on his handicap debut at Chester last month, and he will wear a hood for the first time on this return to 6f. The faster ground should also be in his favour. Have 1pt each-way at 22-1, with a few firms going four places.
