Saturday 8th July 2017

The three horses mentioned on here yesterday finished 2^nd 2^nd 2^nd. Frustrating.

The one who I thought would win, Sun Lover looked to have the race in the bag when going a length or two clear in the final furlong. Once hitting the front, Sun Lover seemed to roll around and possibly felt the quick ground, we got nailed in the last stride.

More very good racing today on the level, mainly the prestigious Group 1 Eclipse. This race is a belter, it' the first clash between the younger and older horses over a middle distance trip, this season.

Barney Roy arguably brings the best form to the table, winner of the St James Palace & 2^nd in the 2000 Guineas, unlucky not to win. We then have the Derby runner up, Cliffs Of Moher who will appreciate the drop back in trip.

This race will take some winning and I can’t wait to see how it pans out. If forced for a selection maybe Ulysses EW at 8-1 could be a bit of value.

Ulysses ran a career best last time when 3^rd behind Highland Reel at Royal Ascot, beaten just over a length, looked the winner furlong out. If Highland Reel was in this race he would likely be the favourite. A repeat of that run should give Ulysses an EW chance at a nice price, on a racecourse he goes well at.

Over at Haydock in the 2:05, Mister Manduro might go well at a price despite top weight. Mister Manduro ran a cracker at Royal Ascot whilst is proven over today's staying trip unlike most of his rivals. This race is also a drop-in class, back in handicap company for the Mark Johnston trained horse who always take some passing. 6-1 EW looks ok to me.

At shorter prices, Mojito 1:20 Sandown, this is his easiest task of late, should go very close. Across Dubai 5:30 Haydock, looks to have one to beat that could need the run. Both horses have favourites chances, priced at 9-4.