After throwing their collective support behind Daryz for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the Weekend Winners panel turned their attention to Ascot’s Challenge Cup.
A maximum field of 18 runners has been assembled for the Heritage Handicap over seven miles, with Thunder Call the early market favorite for the William Haggas team.
Moonfall is in opposition for the Billy Loughnane and George Boughey combination, along with Royal Ascot winner Mezcala.
Watch the race from Ascot – live on Sky Sports Racing – at 3.35pm on Saturday.
Sam Boswell…
“It lives up to its name, this Challenge Cup, because it’s not easy! I thought Thunder Call was very short at 11/4, I respect his chances but I didn’t want to gamble (on the price). I thought I’d have a bit of a swing here. It’s interesting that in these types of races, Richard Spencer has done really well and had a really good season. He’s got two here, Hawksbill and Two tribes – who I was most interested in.
“He’s kicking around 20/1, but this horse’s form at Ascot is there for all to see. He was second in the International by a pound and that’s the part of the form that stands out for me. He’s just a very good horse and he’s booked Toby Moore, who will take off a bargain seven – which will really matter less to his International chances. Zain back in place fourth, who has come out and won again since York in good fashion.
“It may be a case of one race too many for him, but I thought Toby Moore’s booking was attractive and I would hope he could run places.”
Declan Rix…
“It is “once again in violation dear friends” with mix. I just hope Port Master runs because I don’t see much pace in the race and it could get a bit messy. We must not forget that they go out of the way to keep it fresh for Champions Day (in this meeting) and even though they do that and it’s a smaller field than usual, they could split – so we’ll see.
If he returns to this form from the Buckingham Palace Stakes, he has a great chance. The race set up nicely for him down the rail, he got plenty of cover and did all his best work late on. He was probably a little lucky that the runner-up was unemployed, but if he returns to this form, he will go close. He ran in the Leger meeting and under the circumstances he ran very well. George Bass should cover this guy.”
Kate Tracey…
“I am also keeping faith mix here and hoping all goes well for him. That Doncaster run last time – I thought it was fair enough. The low draws came to the fore that day and he was on 14 with his running style not helping him either. I also felt he might have been caught wanting to knock off that 98 mark and he’s been given a generous £1 now!
“He’s still over his Royal Ascot win mark, but again on this road and trip and with his old mate George Bass, I fancy him at 15/2.”
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