Friday 12th September 2014

Glad I didn’t go with any selections yesterday as we wouldn’t have come close, the winners at Doncaster have taken some finding but I’m having my first bets at the meeting this afternoon.

I can’t resist placing a few quid EW on Great Hall at the huge odds of 33-1, 2:10 Doncaster.

The horse has become a little frustrating but I’m happy to forget all about his effort in the Ebor last time. Great Hall was never travelling at any point and finished plum last, jockey Philip Makin was easy on the horse when all chance had gone.

I have no idea why the John Quinn trained runner ran so poor but his previous effort on stable debut was a sound effort. His new trainer doesn’t tilt at windmills and clearly still saw something in Great Hall after paying 140k at the sales a few months ago.

I thought we would see Great Hall hurdling but Mr Quinn has gone on record saying he won’t jump as he’s too good, based on this quote the horse must be showing plenty at home. Great Hall is the outsider of the entire field but I find it interesting jockey Philip Makin sticks with the horse when he likely could have ridden Pearl Castle, the other John Quinn runner priced at 10-1.

The selection is no doubt a stab in the dark whilst Great Hall will find the good to soft ground on the easy side, however were getting 33-1 and that looks overpriced if you’re prepared to forgive his Ebor effort. A small EW bet at huge odds looks the way to play for a bit interest in the race.

Not an original selection but Estimate should take all the beating in the Doncaster Cup, 2.40. We’re not going to get rich betting at 6-4 but the Royal runner looks to have everything in her favour and is standout on form.

Estimate disappointed at Goodwood but I don’t think the course played to her strengths and she might have also been in season. Her second at York was a very good run and today’s longer trip is ideal. Times Up looks the main danger, loves Doncaster whilst has won this race for the past two years, however I’m hopeful Estimate will get the job done.

In the 3:45 again not huge priced selection "9-4" but I have a feeling Danzeno trained by the excellent Michael Appleby is better than a handicapper. He won a Group 3 last time out and his trainer holds him in the highest regard, I expect Danzeno to go well.