11:49am Thursday 21st June 2007
By Flared Nostril
MICHAEL Stoute's stable has had a quiet Royal Ascot but SHORTHAND can change all that in the Ribblesdale Stakes.
A sister to middle-distance stayer Short Skirt, this filly disappointed in the Musidora, but the fact that she was entered suggested she is held in high regard.
This is a tough ask against the likes of All My Loving, a hotpot from the O'Brien yard, but Stoute does not mix it with top-class opponents unless he is pretty confident.
The Gold Cup looks bound for Ireland in the shape of Yeats, but I cannot forget the way that GEORDIELAND came cantering up to the front far too early when beaten by Sergeant Cecil.
He has immense talent but getting his head in front is another matter, but is certainly an each-way chance here.
The Britannia Stakes Handicap is harder to solve than yesterday's Royal Hunt Cup, but Mark Johnston's ANNEMASSE is held in high regard and can put a couple of disappointing runs behind her.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/trade_directory/