Ascot Friday 14th July

Ascot 3.25 1 Shabeeb @ 10/1 + Ascot 4.35 8 Lightning Charlie @ 16/1 (both 1/2 point each way)

I like a couple at Ascot this afternoon, firstly in the 3.25 SHABEEB who looks a bit
of a dark horse from an in form yard. This is an ease in grade and with some of the more favoured rivals
running off increased handicap marks, it could be this one has its best chance so far in its career. The
step up to 14 furlongs seems logical as after being outpaced in a race over 12 furlongs at Royal Ascot
the selection made notable late progress in a far tougher race. The yard is in good form and sometimes

top weight in an easier grade is better than a median mark in a higher grade, one I quietly fancy a lot.

The other one that looks over priced is the consistent LIGHTNING CHARLIE is the 4.35; rarely runs a bad
race and the price may reflect the fact some think it is a perpetual loser, it does not win too often but
often runs a place and Class 3 off a spot on mark and a decent draw and ideal Going suggests it should be
nearer to 8/1 than 16/1. It is also worth looking back at last 2 runs; one in Class 2, where it was denied a
clear run and could have finished closer than it did. Just needs a bit of lady luck!