Joss’s Jewels 27th July

So Sharp can put her rivals to the sword at Ascot for Watson and Doyle

NAP – So Sharp 1:50 Ascot 12/1

My Nap this weekend comes in the Princess Margaret Keeneland Stakes at Ascot on Saturday in So Sharp.  Archie Watson’s daughter of Bated Breath put up a very professional performance to win first time up at Newbury 23 days ago beating the re opposing Dark Lady by 1 length, who has since gone on and won next start at Lingfield very readily. So Sharp was bit green once under pressure but responded well and the first and second were well clear of the rest. She is from a family the trainer knows well, being a half sister to the stables smart two year old Nate The Great and she looks as though she could be every inch as good as him, even at this stage of her career.

She needs to improve to trouble Godolphins smart filly Summer Romance, an expensive breeze up purchase who has looked a group winner in waiting in her two starts to date. She is as short at 10/11 to win on Saturday, but a chance is worth taking on So Sharp at a much juicier 12/1. I feel she is a strong each way selection if showing any natural improvement from her first run. Hollie Doyle retains the ride and hopefully a first group race success for her is on the cards.

NB (Next Best) – Arbalet 3:00 Ascot 12/1

Arbalet is my next best this weekend in the Moet and Chandon International Stakes. Hugo Palmers colt has ran in some tough assignments this season, finishing down the field behind proven group horses such as Invincible Army and Matterhorn. He probably comes a shade below that level and runs in his first handicap since finishing 2nd in this race last season. He is a horse that has shown all of his best from on a quicker surface and he is sure to get that on Saturday. If bringing his group form to the table, he should be very competitive in a race of this nature with conditions to suit. This is sure to run at a good pace with a field of 29 runners and hopefully being drawn 15 he should be able to find plenty of cover and be able to come with his usual late rattle.

James Doyle is booked for the ride and at an opening show of 12/1 he should be in the frame with many bookies playing extra places for competitive handicaps like this.