Betfred Sprint Cup Preview

The horses are reviewed in order of the draw, with the best odds available quoted.

1. Society Rock - 15/2
Winner of the Golden Jubilee but that wasn’t a particularly strong race. He seems to save his best for Ascot.
2. Hitchens - 28/1
The firmer the ground the better. Has acquitted himself well in Group company but the feeling is he will always find one too good.

3. Tiddliwinks - 100/1
Should run better than his odds suggests. His early season form was impressive but strike rate of 1/16 on turf is a concern.

4. Sole Power - 22/1
A five furlong specialist and this looks like a last resort after the disappointment of missing the Nunthorpe

5. Delegator - 10/1
Ran a clunker at Goodwood after reportedly being struck into. Suffered with injuries in the past and suspicion he is best after a long layoff.

6. Bewitched - 12/1
Was forecast an exciting season but spent most of it injured. After 77 days off it is difficult to asses what sort of form she is in. One best watched.

7. Masamah - 28/1
A five furlong specialist. Best wait for the Prix De L’Abbaye before backing him.

8. Kingsgate Native - 28/1
Ran his best race for some time in the Nunthorpe, on ground that wouldn’t necessarily suit. Been largely disappointing this year but has a chance.

9. Dream Ahead - 11/2
Winner of the July Cup, he got a dream run up the favoured stand’s rail that might have flattered him. Flopped next time in the Prix Maurice Gheest and short enough in the betting.

10. Wootton Bassett - 20/1
A precocious juvenile, he’s struggled this year. Reverts to six furlongs but a big ask tackling more experienced sprinters. Likely pacemaker in the field.

11. Donacster Rover - 80/1
Lacks the pace to be effective in the very top sprints.

12. Elzaam - 14/1
Failed to build on the promise shown at Royal Ascot, that possibly was as good as it gets.

13. Hoof It - 11/2
Has won three out of four starts at six furlongs this season including the Steward’s Cup. Acquitted himself well in his first attempt at Group One level when sixth in the Nunthorpe. Five furlongs on the sharp side for him and he raced isolated in the middle of the track. Should improve with conditions more to his liking.

14. Genki - 25/1
Has run with credit all season. He might not get the strong pace he craves. Place prospects at best.

15. Bated Breath - 7/1
Last run can be ignored as it was over unsuitable five furlongs. Has finished fifth and second in two Group One sprints this year, suggesting he is up to the class required to win this race. Has won over course and distance before and one for the short list.

16. Dalghar - 40/1
Yet to win at six furlongs and it doesn’t get much tougher than the Sprint Cup.