I think the step down in grade will help LORD PROTECTOR get his head back in front today at Sandown. Although highly rated last year he couldn't quite live up to those expectations for one reason or another but his ability was clear to see. He endured a tough comeback run at Chester last time out but the spin would have at least put him spot on for his next assignment which is today at Sandown. He may prefer the ground slightly softer but genuine good ground shouldn't hinder him too much.
Sandown 3.20 – Lord Protector
Saturday
Despite having one of the lower ratings in the field I think ONESMOOTHOPERATOR is an interesting runner in the 3.05 tomorrow at York. This will be his first run on turf and if his form on the all weather holds up then he is certainly in with a chance but I hope that he actually improves for switch to turf and if he does I think he has a great chance. It's what I call a ‘flakey' race with a few higher rated horses not being all that trustworthy and I think it could pay to take a chance on my selection.
One of my stronger bets of the weekend is INGRA TOR who should shake off a 9lb hike in the weights with ease. The form of his Newmarket race couldn't have worked out much better and even his form prior to that run has turned out to be strong. On breeding he should be better than a mark of 91 and I think he is based on the way he dismantled that good field at Newmarket last time. Despite being on the wrong side of the track he still powered clear late on which to me showed just how much he has in hand.
York 3.05 – Onesmoothoperator
York 3.40 – Ingra Tor
