Newmarket’s Thursday card brings a Group 3 test for the juveniles and a two-mile Listed contest for the stayers. Here are two horses worth a closer look on 24 September. These are early views based on the declared fields; check the going, non-runners and available prices before making any decision.
15:00 Newmarket — Great Balls O’Fire
The Tattersalls Stakes is a step up in class for Great Balls O’Fire, but that is also part of the appeal. He arrives with just one run and one win on his record, leaving room for further improvement as he tackles seven furlongs against more experienced rivals. This is a much tougher assignment, and Mezzo Forte is a clear danger after winning over the trip. My early preference is Great Balls O’Fire, with the proviso that a short price would make the risk harder to justify.
15:35 Newmarket — Gregory
Gregory is the one to beat in the Jockey Club Rose Bowl. The six-year-old returned to winning form on his latest start and now races over two miles, a trip that looks a natural fit for a proven stayer. James Doyle is booked for John and Thady Gosden. He carries 9st 8lb and is likely to be a warm favourite, so this looks more like a horse to watch for a solid performance than a selection to back at any price. Arabian Force and the progressive Kelly Burn add interest to the field.
Before the off
Declarations and conditions can change. Check both racecards again on Thursday morning, especially the going and any non-runners. Prices quoted elsewhere are not guarantees of value. These are opinions, not promises of a result.
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