Many of the horses that met in the Golden Jubilee at Royal Ascot meet again here in the July Cup.
The question is will 3-y-o Kingsgate Native repeat his victory or will something reverse that fine win?
At Ascot the well-drawn son of Mujadil beat War Artist and Sir Gerry - both of whom were also favourably drawn and should beat them again. Marchand D´Or, however, may well improve on his Ascot 6th.
Much has been written about the draw at Ascot and it is indisputable that a low draw that day was vital. The French horse, particularly if it is soft, will pose a much more potent threat on Friday. He is a two-time winner of the Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest over 6.5f at Deuville. Last year in the July Cup he was beaten by over two lengths despite a far from trouble-free passage.
At Chantilly in June, giving 9lbs, he had Sir Gerry three lengths and a neck back in 3rd, despite missing the break and being slightly hampered.
On that form his chance on Friday is obvious and Marchand D´Or is the selection.
At the Curragh on Sunday the Dermot Weld-trained Mad About You has a great chance in the Irish Oaks.
The Moyglare-bred filly ran a fine race when a running on second to the high class 4-y-o Promising Lead in the Pretty Polly Stakes over 1m 2f. The step up to 1m 4f should bring further improvement and give Weld another Irish classic.
