It is a busy Saturday with four runners for the yard at three different meetings. Stable star MASTER CARPENTER drops into Listed company at Goodwood in the Festival Stakes (2:15 C4) and it is probably his best chance of getting off the mark since landing the John Smith’s Cup at York. He is second highest rated on BHA ratings (the highest Berkshire has been off for 582 days and another strong rival Kings Fete has been absent for 616 days) and has improved with each start this season, running a cracking race when third in a Group 3 at Chester despite losing a front shoe and is versatile as regards to ground so we are hopeful of a big run.
Making her debut at Goodwood is the Hellvelyn filly HELLOFAHASTE (4:00) who has shown plenty of promise at home and has the scope to progress with racing. Generally our two-year-olds improve plenty for that initial first run and she is against plenty of horses from top stables but we are looking forward to seeing her on track.
At York Pat gets a rare ride on MIDNIGHT RIDER (5:25) in the amateur riders contest. The veteran had a strong first season for the yard, winning three races and hasn’t been disgraced on his last two starts on turf and handicapper has dropped him a few pounds. Pat’s experience in this kind of contest should stand him in good stead and won’t be too far away.
It was a good effort from BLACKDOWN WARRIOR (6:20) when second at Bath last time and he heads to Chepstow. It won’t be easy as he is against older horses and faces fifteen rivals but is well handicapped and should improve again.