Another take on the Jackpot

I agree with Tom that not risking a mere £2 and having a go on tomorrow’s jackpot would be a cardinal sin. But I thought it would be rude not to take on the President with my selections for the potentially life-changing pot that goes up for grabs at HQ.

1:15

I think the key to this race is the Prestige form from Goodwood last month. Although Rakasa finished in front of Questing (only by a head), the former was forced to lead in a muddling race and was a tad keen up front. With a stronger pace on tomorrow, the highly thought of Gosden filly can reverse the form and claim the spoils. The once raced Albaspina, Alsindi and Minidress could be anything, but I think Carlisle maiden form is often to be taken with a pinch of salt; Clive Brittain has had a shocking season and is not a trainer who I follow with juveniles and Dettori prefers Rakasa for the boys in blue. So I’ll stick with QUESTING.

1:50

Haggas has a strong hand in this race with the rapidly improving Electra Star and the tough and durable Soorah. Both, however, might lack the class of one or two others and with Seta an in and out sort of character, I like the look of DARK PROMISE. I thought her run at Haydock last time out was particularly impressive as she maintained a strong gallop to line, despite taking a good tug in front. The galloping nature of Newmarket should suit her long stride, and this daughter of Sharmadal might not be finished improving yet if she can settle close to the lead.

2:25

The presence of Libranno should ensure a strong gallop here, and that will hopefully play into the hands of TAZAHUM. Although the Sir Michael Stoute inmate is favourite, and therefore not ideal jackpot material, I believe his second to the rapidly improving Green Destiny at York is an excellent piece of form. The more seasoned campaigners Premio Loco and Poet’s Voice bring strong claims to the table, but we now know the ceiling of their ability and consistency is not always their forte. The lightly race Tazahum can therefore make his presence felt.

3:00

On all known form, this should be between the May Hill winner Lyric of Light and runner up Fallen For You. Although both ran good races at Doncaster last time, and are clearly on the upgrade, I want to take them on with FIRDAWS. The American bred daughter of Mr Greeley confirmed her debut promise with a two length maiden win at Salisbury the next time out. Although she wasn’t overly impressive to watch that day, she did overcome a wide draw and an inadequate sharp seven furlong trip. I believe she has the scope to achieve much better, and I would love nothing more than to see her record a poignant success for trainer Roger Varian.

3:35

An absolute minefield and if you are still in contention at this stage, you could be about to fall flat on your face. I’ll take a chance with SPIRITUAL STAR, as Andrew Balding had a juvenile winner at Newmarket on Thursday and his debut third was filled with promise.

4:10

Going to agree with Tom for the Jackpot’s lucky last. A return to a quick surface should see DANGEROUS MIDGE put his first two runs this season behind him and if he’s anyway near his best, he’ll prove in a different stratosphere to this opposition.

These selections are not particularly original and if they did miraculously come up, the pot would be split between a hell of a lot of punters. But I wouldn’t say no to one hundredth of £2.5 million. Good luck to those having a bash tomorrow. I hope it’s a £2 stake that scuppers the big boys.