Future Champions Day SmartPlays: Newmarket, Friday October 17

Ivawood - Newmarket 14:55

It's the Middle Park Stakes over six furlongs under consideration first, and it is very hard to see past Ivawood. He made a big impression in debut at Sandown and built on that when winning the July Stakes at Newmarket next time. Those concerned with regards to tomorrows ground need to remember that although the official going was good to firm that day in reality it was far from it and he should have no problem with the soft underfoot conditions. He beat subsequent Gimcrack winner Muhaarar who re-opposes, and Ivawood went on to defy a penalty in the Richmond Stakes in great style when last seen at Glorious Goodwood. It's likely this has been the plan ever since and he will be extremely tough to beat. 

Lucida - Newmarket 15:25

Plenty of progressive performers line up for the Fillies' Mile as you would expect, but Lucida sets a clear standard and is expected to prove a cut above her rivals. She has progressed well this season, winning a maiden at Naas before finishing runner up in a Group 2 at the Curragh last time. However, it's her last two starts in which she has taken her form up another level. She split Cursory Glance and subsequent Marcel Boussac winner Found in the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stake, which needless to say looks a piece of form right out of the top drawer. She went on to run out a ready winner of the Rockfel here three weeks ago and with as she should have no problem with the step up to a mile, providing she handles conditions there should only be one winner. 

Smuggler's Cove - Newmarket 16:00

Estidhkaar's win in the Superlative Stakes was particularly impressive and he sets a clear standard in the Dewhurst over seven furlongs, our final bet of the day. However, at current prices there is enough promise in the opposing field to take him on, and Smuggler's Cove looks the best option at time of writing. Aidan O'Brien had seven entries to choose from in a race he's won three times previously, one of which was Group 1 winner Gleneagles. The fact he has chosen Smuggler's Cove, last seen winning a listed event at Dundalk last week, is therefore fairly significant. He had entries in the Racing Post Trophy and the option of the Breeders' Cup but connections decision to send him here so soon must be a clear sign of the esteem he is held in. The only slight worry is conditions but it's a question all the runners will have to answer, and a chance is taken on him to confirm his considerable promise.  

Future Champions Day SmartPlays
All at Newmarket

Back Ivawood in the 14:55
Back Lucida in the 15:25
Back Smuggler's Cove in the 16:00