Saturday 7th October 2017

The flat racing still takes centre stage at the moment. To be honest I’m ready for the jumps season now and I’ve not really kept my eye in on the level for the past few weeks.

There’s good racing on offer today, some valuable flat races with up to £250,000 up for grabs. The 2:40 at Newmarket looks to be the highlight of the day, Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes.

Persuasive looks like the worthy favourite despite being on the drift this morning. Persuasive holds the best form and a few of his rivals need to bounce back. He’ll do for me in the big race.

Silver Quartz makes his debut in the 3:15. This son of Frankel holds a Derby entry whilst has been working very well at home by all accounts. I’ve no idea how fit the horse is but I’m told he’s held in high regard. One for the tracker whatever the result this afternoon. In the same race I hear Diocletian first time out effort can be forgotten, a much better run is expected by connections.

I really hope Eternally wins the 4:10 at Ascot. There’s bit of a story behind this one that not many will know about. The lad who looked after this horse unfortunately died recently, jockey Robert Havlin will ride in a black armband.

You can bet your last dollar Eternally will be given the kitchen sink, this is his big final if you like. The yard is very keen to win it this race for Duncan who looked after Eternally. A bit of even money was about but that’s disappeared. Let’s hope he wins for Duncan and everybody that knew him.