Richard Hannon: “He’s very talented, as you will know, and all being well, he’ll be there or thereabouts”

Newmarket

1:40

Orion’s BeltI think she was a little bit starstruck on her debut when taking on the colts, but she up against the fillies now, and we like her a lot. I’ve been very happy with her work since Salisbury, and I certainly don’t think she should be 10/1. She is a smart filly.

2:50

Dark ThirtyYou’ll know your fate after 50 yards; if he hits the gates running, he gives you a good run for your money, but if he misses the break, that will be it all over. He’s very talented, as you will know, and all being well, he’ll be thereabouts.

4:00

RaakebHe’s in good shape, but this is a very good race, and it does look like it’s a tall order for him in this sort of company. I was very pleased with his run in the Coventry, so he’s entitled to be on the premises, and I’m hoping for a place at best.

5:10

Great BedwynHe backs up quickly after running well at Haydock last week and we’ve kept him fresh at home. He’s very consistent and is in great form. He has his chance, although he is plenty high enough in the weights now. That said, there aren’t many runners, which makes his task slightly easier.

ASCOT

1:45

Battle AppleHe’s a nice big colt who will probably need this in every sense, but he definitely has ability, and he’s one of our crop of two-year-olds who are ready to go and I think we have a decent bunch this year. He will improve as the year goes on. But he’s starting to take shape, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him run well.

2:22

HaatemHe stays a mile and a quarter, but before he won at Royal Ascot, I said to his owner that he’s working like he’s back to his best over a mile with speed, and I’m very much looking forward to it. It’s a decent race, but he’ll probably be the favorite and deserves to be. He’s in Sussex, and we might go there if he comes out of this in good shape. The reason he is equally talented over a variety of trips is because he’s such a gentleman and so uncomplicated.

 

SALISBURY

7:50

Lexington KnightHe’s a solid little horse who worked well earlier in the week, and it’s just a case of what horse turns up tomorrow.

8:20

Emily RebeccaShe’s just hit a rich vein of form and is flying at present. The Handicapper put her up 5lbs, which won’t help, but she did win well last time, so she probably deserves it.

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