John Burke

Hi all,

We’re back at Haydock on Saturday for a solid card, just one week before the Derby. It’s not top-tier stuff, but there’s still Group action to enjoy.

The Group 3 Lester Piggott Fillies' Stakes (2:58) returns won by Queen Of The Pride last year is a good trial for the Lancashire Oaks over C&D. The Group 3 John Of Gaunt Stakes (3:33) features some classy 7f performers. Can the classy but unpredictable Audience make a winning return? The Listed Achilles Stakes (2:23) is another to watch – both Regional and Believing won this before scoring at Group 1 level.

Let’s get stuck into the ITV races at Haydock:

Hi all,

Friday’s racing is fairly low key, but the final declarations for Saturday landed yesterday. With the Derby just a week away, this weekend’s action may lack a standout contest in terms of quality—but it looks competitive across the ITV cards. Field sizes have held up well, especially considering the recent uncertainty around the weather and it’s impact the going.

Hi all,

Inside today’s main piece I am looking at this evening’s top class card at Sandown.

Hi all,

Inside today’s main piece I’m looking ahead to the weekend and reflecting on two major developments from the past few days.