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Captain's Blog - 18th August 2011

Day one of the York Ebor meeting was a tough one for punters by and large because of the soft ground. It will be difficult to recoup losses today with a tricky card and drying ground that could become sticky.

I spent a few hours at Michael Bell’s Newmarket yard yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I particularly enjoyed seeing Wigmore Hall who in the early hours had arrived back home after his run in the Arlington Million. Michael seemed somewhat frustrated with what happened in Chicago and is eyeing up a trip to Woodbine and then Dubai for his stable star. A big prize is surely within the grasp of this classy performer.

I got the impression that there are number of nice unraced two year olds in the yard some of which we discussed in the interview that was conducted with Michael. You will be able to see the feature in a few weeks on , I will keep you posted.

I am at Epsom tonight with Dave nevison and aside from finding a winner or two we will have our work cut out trying to stay dry. The forecast is horrendous and our camera position is very exposed, all part of the job though I guess!

The Yorkshire Oaks is the big race of the day today and I expect Blue Bunting to win. She won a strong renewal of the Irish Oaks where the emphasis was very much on stamina and did so despite not getting the best of trips through the race. Crystal Capella will be popular given that she was inconvenienced by a steady pace last time out. She will go well but even her best speed figure gives her a little to find with Blue Bunting. I will not be having a bet but putting your head on the block is what punditry should be about so its Blue Bunting for me.

Right time to seek out my waterproofs for a wet night at Epsom.

All the best.

Today's Selection

3.05 York – Mont Agel (each way)