The strongest bet of the day runs in Thirsk's two-mile handicap at 16:55 as the hat-trick seeking Deauville Dancer should prove difficult to beat. Sir Mark Prescott's charge has improved with each start for his new handler, following up a good third at Bath with wins at Nottingham (achieved in an impressive time) and Chepstow, displaying deep reserves of stamina to win on the latter occasion. There is no sign that Deauville Dancer's improvement has stalled, and, in receipt of large chunks of weight from largely-exposed older rivals, he can continue on his upward curve.
It is no surprise to see Winters Moon trade as favourite for the listed Stonehenge Stakes at Salisbury (18:40) as she created a taking impression on debut and still looked in need of the experience when finishing third in a Group 3 last time. She has obvious claims, but faces a useful rival in the shape of Tupi, and Richard Hannon's colt could offer the greater value. Tupi won a Sandown maiden on debut and stepped up on that form when chasing home the exciting Highland Reel at Glorious Goodwood, holding no chance against that talented rival but staying on well to grab second. He was turned over at odds-on at Deauville last time but was hampered at a crucial stage and remains capable of better.
The following mile-and-a-half handicap (19:10) features a number of progressive three-year-olds, but High Church stands out after his win on handicap debut last month and should benefit from this increased test of stamina. High Church won a 10-furlong contest at Sandown last month, creating a fantastic impression as he made ground from the rear in a race run at a modest pace, and he appeals as the type that can continue to defy the handicapper for a while yet. He has shown run-to-run progress throughout his career and there is no reason why he won't post an improved effort this evening.
Timeform UK SmartPlays:
Back Deauville Dancer in the 16:55 at Thirsk
Back Tupi in the 18:40 at Salisbury
Back High Church in the 19:10 at Sandown
