We have a busy day’s racing on Friday with action from Ascot, Bangor-on-Dee and Worcester, live on Sky Sports Racing.
4.48 Ascot – Classic, Arctic Thunder and Moonfall contest feature handicap
A deep field has assembled for this Ascot Hospitality Handicap where Classic, Arctic Thunder and Moonfall feature among 13 runners.
George Boughey’s Moonfall claimed the Britannia Stakes under Billy Loughnane here on his penultimate start before finishing fourth of eight at Newmarket. He remains on the same mark and could do better at a track that suits.
Arctic Thunder seeks a hat-trick after victories at Salisbury and Haydock and, given the manner of his latest success, he must be respected on this rise in class.
The Richard Hannon-trained Classic is a regular in top mile handicaps and again performed with credit at Goodwood, while Hickory, Spanish Voice and Ozat are others to note.
2.50 Bangor-on-Dee – Prolific Thickthorn Tom takes on five rivals
Prolific Thickthorn Tom takes on five rivals in this excellent Goffs Yorton Sale 10th September Handicap Chase at Bangor-on-Dee.
Dan Skelton’s six-year-old has enjoyed a fruitful summer winning his last three starts with aplomb. He is three pound well-in on these terms and ought to be hard to beat.
Tamarind Bay is a danger for Mickey and James Bowen. Impressive when winning his first two starts over fences, he unseated when favourite at Perth and is given another chance.
Of the remainder, Sure Touch tops the weights for Olly Murphy, while Regal Renaissance has claims on the pick of her form.
6.36 Worcester – Last-time winners Tilehurst and Emerald Time clash
Last-time winners Tilehurst and Emerald Time clash in this Step Into Luxury With Purple Granite Handicap Hurdle at Worcester.
Ryan Hatch saddles his second runner as Emerald Time makes his debut for his new yard. A good winner at Uttoxeter on his final start for Dom Elsworth and himself, he returns to a track he likes, and a four-pound rise might not stop him going close.
Tilehurst got off the mark over hurdles at this course and distance 44 days ago, showing the benefit of fist-time cheekpieces under Sean Bowen. A similar effort would see him in the frame.
Zafaan and Sun Art complete the shortlist.
Best of the rest
2.30 Ascot – Fascinating maiden that Raaheeb won last year. Chymbulak among the fancied runners for Varian.
3.05 Ascot – Fillies maiden with Clarity and Claudette catching the eye. Divide And Conquer another to note.
3.40 Ascot – Novice with Soldier Of The Sea and Pure Mint headlining.
4.15 Ascot – Bunbury Cup hero Aalto heads eight runners.
5.25 Ascot – Star Of Commala makes appeal on handicap debut.
3.25 Bangor – Class Three with Secret Trix and Kiwi de Cotte declared.
7.06 Worcester – Handlethekettle bids for a treble.