johnqclark

Quest For Fun has been in good form lately, and there was nothing wrong with his three-length sixth at York last Friday. That was a better race than this, and despite his big weight, he could easily come up trumps here. The Tim Easterby yard continues in grand form, and jockey Sean Kirrane is riding really well just now.

Venture Capital ran a very good race in the Portland at Doncaster from what turned out to be a poor draw. The form from that handicap couldn't have worked out better, which leads me to believe victory here is quite possible. He ran a close third at Ascot last time where the ground was probably just on the soft side of ideal for him. Shane Gray has been successful on him on more than one occasion, and seems to suit him well.

Big Mojo is a fast-improving three-year-old whose second in the July Cup and win in the Sprint Cup at Haydock has a very strong look about it. In some ways, it's surprising he's not a shorter price, especially when he has such a good draw at 20. The trainer is still underrated, despite his success at this level.

We have to believe that the Gosdens wouldn't allow Field Of Gold to run if they didn't think he was back to full fitness following his injury. He is without doubt the best three year old colt we have seen this year, and it would be fitting if he could win this major prize. He simply couldn't have been any more impressive when winning the St James's Palace Stakes at the Royal Meeting, a repeat of which would see him home in style here.

The Crisfords have probably had their best season yet in 2023, and it could be topped nicely by taking this hugely valuable handicap. He was very impressive here last time and looks to have more improvement in him. He hasn't been over-raced so far this season, and this will almost certainly have been a target for some time. As a bonus, he has a great draw on the stands rail, which has been the place to be at Ascot on the straight course all year.

Witch Hunter finished a very good third in this last season off a mark of 109. He runs from 101 this time, has a high draw, and should get the strong pace he needs to be seen to best effect. He looks to be in form following a good win at Newcastle last time. I can see him running into a place again.