3:30 Ascot Tips

Has finished runner up on his first three starts since joining this yard in February following almost seven months off. most recently beaten less than a length when finishing second over today's trip at Newmarket last month. Billy Loughnane a positive booking. Should be therabouts.

Waterford Castle has been progressive in three runs for this yard this season and sets the standard on adjusted RPRs. However, he went down by 1/2 length in his last two runs and the cheekpieces clearly need to wake him up. At around 6/4, I have to take him on. I’m not convinced that this trip is what Sintra wants, especially with the uphill finish here. The one for me is the Burrows-trained Sassiacia, who should come on for his reappearance and should be suited by the step up in trip. He makes his turf debut but is related to turf winners, so should be OK on it. Saffie is 5-18 (plus three seconds) for the yard and, at around 11/4, looks the value bet.

Devil's Peak, 3-year-old grey gelding. 2026. Unlucky not to win at Kempton on 1st April. Finished really well. Will go up in the handicap but looks a sure-fire winner in waiting.

Won on debut on AW, then just wasn't feeling it at Yarmouth. Had the red hood, but still finished 6th of 11 by 7 1/4 lengths. The cheekpieces are applied today, and the trainer is trying him out at the longer distance. I think 9/1 is a fair price to give him a shot.