The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Elik ran well in the Cheshire Oaks last time, shaping better than the bare result, and she can claim today's feature race, the 15:45 at Goodwood. The Cheshire Oaks was a rather messy affair and Elik was one of many horses to suffer interference, impeded as she was staying on well in the closing stages. Elik remains a maiden after four starts but she has improved with each run and any further progress will surely see her go close to landing that elusive first success.
Basseterre made up into a useful performer last year and he can build on an encouraging reappearance at Newmarket earlier this month by landing the 16:05 at Haydock. Trainer Charlie Hills had warned punters that Basseterre would need the run at Newmarket, and he certainly shaped like a horse that would benefit from the outing, travelling well for much of the way before flattening out in the final furlong. Basseterre finished last season on an upward curve and there is little reason to think that he is incapable of further progress this year.
A high draw over five furlongs at Sandown can often be a severe impediment, but it is hoped that Wind Fire, drawn 8, will be able to put her experience to good use in the opening two-year-old contest (18:00) and overcome an unfavourable draw. David Brown's well-bred filly caught the eye on debut, finishing strongly to grab fourth in a strong Newmarket maiden, and she remains open to considerable improvement. The draw is the obvious concern today, but it is hoped that Wind Fire will be sharper than her unraced rivals and Jamie Spencer can hopefully bag a decent early position.
Timeform SmartPlays:
Back Elik @ 4.216/5 in the 15:45 at Goodwood
Back Basseterre @ 4.47/2 in the 16:05 at Haydock
Back Wind Fire @ 3.259/4 in the 18:00 at Sandown
Get open access to Timeform data for just £2.50 a day with Timeform Race Passes. It's like a Form Book, Black Book & Race Card all in one! Find Out More!
