Day 1 was a profitable one for this column especially if you were able to capitalise on the extra places which so many firms offer during these big weeks.
Hopefully Day 2 will prove to be the same but there isn't a lot of value to be found I fear. My first fancy of the day has been backed off the boards already and I can see why. SHOULDVEBEENARING boasts a very attractive profile and is trained by Richard Hannon who does so well in these Sales races. This particular individual looked a real smart one at Ripon last time out and I remember thinking at the time that his performance was very impressive visually. I expected him to turn up at Ascot but connections have obviously been waiting for this race with a view to busy backend to the season. He will need a bit of a luck as ever in a race like this but if he gets it I believe the raw ability is there.
A former Richard Hannon inmate, OUZO, is my second tip of the day and I think he is overpriced at 25/1. In all honesty there were 2 or 3 that caught my eye in this race, Lion Tower, Brunch and Revich heading up the shortlist, but being at the foot of the weights I felt this lad could do the most damage. Jamie Osborne seems to be getting the best out of him now and he has ran well on numerous occasions this season in similar races. Saffie Osborne seems to get a good tune out of him so I don't think he should be able 25/1 today.
The concluding race of the day looks a real tough puzzle to solve. I fancy two in it and both have been on my ‘must back next time out' list so it's a shame they come up against each other. ADAAY IN ASIA has been on a steep upward curve for a few weeks now and didn't look to be tailing off when winning a the Shergar Cup last time out. The step up to 7f could bring about more improvement here and she just looks a solid each way bet at 8/1. My other fancy is a much bigger price but will surely be tuned up for the run given her connections. Richard Fahey has spoke highly of NO NAY NICKI for some time now but it hasn't quite dropped right for her and she remains on a mark of 84. Having been tried in listed company already it's fair to assume connections think a bit more of her and I expect the big field to bring about some improvement. At 22/1 she is a very interesting each way proposition. York 2.25 – Shouldvebeenaring
York 3.00 – Ouzo
York 5.20 – Adaay In Asia / No Nay Nicki
