Fahey’s Beardwood should have edge on Newmarket rivals

A strong field has been assembled for this seven-furlong affair on the July Course, but Malton-based trainer Richard Fahey’s charge might have a little more in hand than some of his bang-in-form rivals.

The three-year-old colt has only been to the races four times in his career, though a maiden success at Pontefract in April offered plenty of hope for the future.

Indeed, his first start in handicap company back at the West Yorkshire circuit was also particularly satisfying as he got to within two lengths of stablemate Right Touch in a 12-runner heat over six furlongs.

Beardwood was then sent to Newmarket over the same trip, but arguably blew all chance of winning by making a tardy start.

Fahey would, however, still have been satisfied with his representative as he made pleasing late headway to finish fifth behind Mubtaghaa.

With this extra furlong likely to suit, allied to a reasonably dry forecast, the son of Dutch Art can cash in under the supervision of Paul Hanagan.

Thirsk must be thrilled by the turn-out for the Theakston Lightfoot Handicap, for which Eccleston makes bags of appeal.

The four-year-old gelding, trained by David O’Meara, was well fancied for the Great St Wilfrid at Ripon and turned in a solid effort when fourth behind Don’t Touch.

That was a particularly good run as he was not drawn amidst the thick of the action, yet still got to within three lengths of the impressive winner.

A proven performer in soft ground, Eccleston has been left alone by the assessor on a mark of 91, which puts him firmly in the shake-up for a race of this nature.

West Sussex trainer Amanda Perrett is fond of winners at Goodwood, with Saucy Minx expected to shine in the Breeders Backing Racing EBF Fillies’ Stakes.

The five-year-old mare must shoulder top weight, but she is a good horse on her day and won this race 12 months ago off an admittedly much lower mark.

Saucy Minx found the ground too heavy at Lingfield last time, but that third-placed finish was still a step in the right direction.

n Robert Cowell is confident Iffranesia is capable of winning at Listed class when she takes aim at the £50,000 totescoop6 Beverley Bullet tomorrow.

The 102-rated mare is Cowell’s sole representative in the 16-runner five-furlong sprint after the Newmarket handler withdrew popular veteran Kingsgate Native at the final declaration stage.

“Kingsgate wants much faster ground, whereas Iffranesia likes cut, so hopefully the ground will be fine for her at Beverley,” said Cowell. “That said, Kingsgate didn’t get me too excited on his last gallop.

“He worked flat, which is unusual for him, so we’ll take stock and see if anything comes to light from that. If all is okay, we’ll look to Newbury (Dubai International Airport World Trophy).”