Our first bet runs in the opening contest of the 2013 St Leger meeting (14:00) as we side with Supersta on his handicap debut. There are fewer improving types than you may expect to see in a race of this nature; in fact, Supersta is the only contender that carries the Timeform 'p'. Supersta has progressed with each run to date, impressing with his effort from a less-than-ideal position in a strong York maiden last time, and it would be little surprise were he to progress further now tackling handicaps.
The surfeit of pace in the five-furlong listed contest at 15:00 should ideally suit Medicean Man and he can pounce late. Eight of the 11-runner field have shown an inclination to front-run or race prominently and, even acknowledging that some will surely adopt different tactics, a strong pace looks assured. Medicean Man, a confirmed hold-up performer, could be the one to benefit. Jeremy Gask's string are in excellent heart at present and Medicean Man, who has long been the stable star, has been running well enough in a higher grade to suggest that he can take advantage of the drop to listed level, even taking into account the penalty he has to shoulder.
Elkaayed was slightly disappointing in the Gordon Stakes last time but we will take a chance that he can bounce back and land the minor event at 16:10. Elkaayed produced a rather laboured display at Goodwood, but he is forgiven on account of the messy nature of the race and it is instead worth concentrating on the obvious promise of his earlier runs, notably a gallant effort in defeat at Royal Ascot. Elkaayed would have a bit to find with Gatewood and Out of Bounds were they to reproduce their best efforts; however, that is no guarantee considering they both return from long absences and Elkaayed looks the more solid proposition.
Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Doncaster
Back Supersta @ 8.615/2 in the 14:00
Back Medicean Man @ 6.86/1 to win and 2.89/5 to place in the 15:00
Back Elkaayed @ 2.89/5 in the 16:10
Have you checked out our new, improved Facebook page? It's the place to go for our features & tips!
