Timeform Daily: Princess of Wales's Stakes, Thursday, Newmarket 15:00

Race of the Day / Timeform / 07 July 2011 / Leave a Comment

It's the first day of Newmarket's July meeting

"Crystal Capella is the pick on her impressive Pride Stakes win, but she hasn't been in the same form since and the ultra-consistent Redwood is preferred..."

It's the first day of the Newmarket July meeting, and the Group 2 Princess of Wales's Stakes looks one of the most interesting betting races of the day...

Afsare landed listed Hampton Court Stakes at Royal Ascot last year, but suffered minor setback afterwards. Back to best when equal second in listed Fred Archer Stakes over C&D last time, and may do better.

Campanologist won brace of Group 1 events in Germany last year, and back to best when chasing home So You Think at the Curragh in May. No excuses when only fifth in Hardwicke Stakes last time, and overlooked now.

Laaheb won in listed company over C&D last June, and later successful twice in Group 3 company. Bounced back from a modest effort when fourth in Hardwicke Stakes last time, and not ruled out here.

Redwood fulfilled all his potential in 2010, globetrotting with great success. As good as ever when runner-up in Dubai Sheema Classic when last seen, and that form boosted by Rewilding at Royal Ascot.

Ted Spread landed Chester Vase in May 2010 and highly tried after, including in Derby and St Leger. Career best when runner-up in listed contest at Pontefract on return, but that looks his limit at this trip.

Crystal Capella beat Myplacelater 4½ lengths to gain second win in Pride Stakes in October, but below form since, in Hong Kong Vase and listed contest at Haydock on return. Not knocked about last time, however.

Myplacelater was successful 5 times at up to 1½m last year and signed off with excellent second to Crystal Capella here. Didn't take the eye before poor effort at York in May, but wouldn't want the ground to be fast.

Butheleziis a talented but quirky colt, successful in 1¼m handicap here on return and placed in listed company over same C&D despite hanging violently left. May well improve again, but this looks too competitive.

Dordogne has been successful on 3 of 5 starts, resuming progression when making all to beat stable companion Hurricane Higgins in Lingfield Derby Trial in May. Much more needed if he's to follow up here, though.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. Redwood
2. Afsare
3. Crystal Capella

Timeform's View: Crystal Capella is the pick on her impressive Pride Stakes win, but she hasn't been in the same form since and the ultra-consistent Redwood is preferred, with his second to Rewilding at Meydan boosted since. Afsare looks best of the rest.

Download a Free Race Card every day in July at timeform.com. Click HERE to register or see the menu.