1:20 Goodwood Tips

The 5yo is a strong stayer who is proven over 20f and consistent. He was a good 4th of 18 in this race last year, staying on strong from the rear. Same mark this year. Just one start this year, a 3 month break, a very strong jockey booking, and this handicap looks like a long term target.

Will also put up this one who will also like soft going, but the trip itself is a slight concern. One thing is for sure is how much he loves it here at Goodwood and that is another big plus.

Mark Johnston has had a strong record in this race, and Charlie's Align The Stars appeals each-way following an excellent effort in the Ascot Stakes at the Royal Meeting. Drawn wide, he was pushed into a prominent position early and was still in contention for a place until about two furlongs out, when the pace collapsed. Even so, he finished less than three lengths behind the winner. I can forgive his last run, where he missed the break and was urged along by Joe Fanning to make up ground. He then chased Dancing In Paris, who was setting a fast pace at 40 mph over 1m6f. Credit to him for finishing fifth, with the other prominent runners dropping back tamely. His last win came here at Goodwood last August, and he now runs off a mark 1lb lower. A full-brother to Al Aasy, he’s still only four and likely has more to give in staying handicaps. At around 6/1, he should run a solid race, especially with Christophe Soumillon taking over. The early pace looks likely to be slow, which will suit the French jockey, who will be able to dictate fractions up front.

A 4 times winner between 1m2f and 2m2f who has a liking for testing ground so will have ideal conditions today. Stays well and has a good record first time out so a big run is anticipated today.

With the rain that has come today and possibly more to come, it brings this one right into it. Has returned this year after 2 years with a decent 5th first up, but not so good lto on good going, but i guess was run because it needed race fitness. No problems for this one with the distance.

Beauld As Brass boldly completed a hat trick, then had two below-par performances. Last time, impressive in winning over 2800m carrying 61kg. Drops seven kg coming into this race and stepping up in distance. Looks a big possibility.