COURSE AND DISTANCE WINNERS TO DO IT AGAIN IN GREAT ST WILFRED

15:45 Ripon

One of the big races at Ripon every season The Great St Wilfred Handicap. I usually look for value in these big field sprints but in all honesty I backed two antepost here and I will stick with them even though they’re now shorter prices.

Staxton and Mr Wagyu are my two selections for this race. Staxton is a course and distance specialist, 3 times he’s got his head infront over course and distance. Won this last year off 4lbs lower but he took it out in fairly convincing fashion in the end. Does act on good to soft but drying ground will help his cause. Has been in the winners enclosure already this season so no worries about his ability now a year older. Duran Fentiman gets on very well with him but hasn’t been on board the last three races so him back on board is a huge positive.

Mr Wagyu has been a model of consistence this season. Earlier in his career he used to hang late on and throw his races away which he doesn’t do that anymore and connections are reaping the rewards. Wide margin winner of the Goodwood Stewards Cup Consolation race last time. He’s an exposed 6yo but he sure does look like he’s still got another big race in him still. Even off this career high mark. He also has enjoyed a pair of successes over course and distance from the few races he’s had here. Should be bang there again.

Inform horse Mokaatil and Lincoln Park will be unsuited by the drying ground.

STAXTON (E/W)

MR WAGYU (E/W)

written by Harry Smith