It's the first day of the flat season tomorrow and I can't wait to get stuck in.
The Cammidge Trophy is an interesting event and the market is suggesting a few of these unexposed types could be hard to beat. I'm keen to take a view that tried and tested is the way to go early in the season and that's why I'm interested in VADREAM. Charlie Fellowes' horse is a likeable type but she hasn't won as many races as she should have done. She needs to come from behind and has a preference for soft ground so is a fussy type but she might just have those optimum conditions tomorrow. 18/1 is value and she could trouble the judge.
In the big one itself I think there could be an upset. I don't think the unexposed ones are hiding too much and the proven handicappers could be the way to go. For the last 8 renewals horses between 99 and 102 have won this which is quite a strong stat and does narrow the field down a lot. EMPIRESTATEOFMIND improved throughout last year and could have more to offer this year. Brian Ellison's charge likes soft ground and this straight mile should suit so at 20/1 he looks a sound each way play.
In the 4.10 I can't quite believe the price of IMPERIAL FIGHTER who might just be the best horse on show today. Andrew Balding's horse was third in the Irish 2000 Guineas last year before having his season curtailed. His form up to that run is again very smart and with normal progression he could be a Group 1 performer this year. With that in mind he should able to take this Listed event even if he isn't 100% fit. Doncaster 3.00 Vadream
Doncaster 3.35 Empirestateofmind
Doncaster 4.10 Imperial Fighter
