Races

Digby Beacham’s Ascot Feature Rankings

Posted on | Posted by Digby Beacham

NORTHERLY STAKES (1800m) – December 3

1. AMELIA’S JEWEL

Even though she’s been a little easy in the market since the barrier draw on Tuesday, Amelia’s Jewel goes on top here. The filly has never run a bad race and while the 1800m is an unknown, the fact she has gate one and only 50kg are significant factors in her favour.

2. CASCADIAN

Everyone who is in the corner of Amelia’s Jewel will be keeping an eye on this bloke during the run. An out-an-out WFA star in the form of his life, it wouldn’t be a shock if Cascadian wins running away from them. He’s that good. Has a pretty handy hoop on top too.

3. TREASURED STAR

Was against her in the Railway Stakes. Siding with her to run a bottler here at WFA. Impossible to miss her charging to the line a fortnight ago even though the path was a bit bumpy. Settles closer from a lovely gate and gets a 2kg pull on some of those she met on that occasion. Respect.

4. TRIX OF THE TRADE

Brilliant Railway Stakes winner who was not afforded any favours at the barrier draw. That said, his turn of foot is arguably the best in the race. It will need a Troy Turner steer of the highest calibre, but the experienced jockey and trainer Colin Webster are a dynamic combination.

5. ALASKAN GOD

Slides into the top five, just ahead of Bustler. Didn’t let go like everyone thought he would in the Railway. That was second-up at 1600m. This is now getting into his preferred distance range, albeit he now enters WFA territory. Surely his best is good enough.

THE GOLD RUSH (1400m) – December 10

1. KISSONALLFORCHEEKS

If you had forgotten how good this mare was, her display last Saturday in the Winterbottom Stakes was a timely reminder. That storming effort, only surpassed by Paulele, ensures she well and truly remains on top of the heap for the inaugural running of The Gold Rush.

2. KEMENTARI

Comes up the order slightly after enjoying a perfect preparation, unlike his younger and perhaps more talented stablemate Vilana. The veteran is proven at WFA and hasn’t missed a beat since arriving back in WA, where he’s had success previously.

3. VILANA

Was heavily backed to take out the Winterbottom, only to be withdrawn on race morning with a leg issue. Is back on track now, but the hiccup is a slight worry. Undeniable talent who seems destined for Group 1 glory. If the team can get him there in one piece, he will make his presence felt.

4. ELITE STREET

Didn’t have the best of luck in the Winterbottom, even after coming up with what appeared a perfect barrier draw. His performance though suggested Dan Morton was spot-on in suggesting the gelding was back somewhere near his best.

5. RESORTMAN

Will cap off what has been a searching and outstanding campaign with a start in The Gold Rush. Terrific effort as topweight in the Railway Stakes after an excellent WFA outing in the Group 2 Lee-Steere the start prior. It would be an immensely popular win.

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