Hayley Turner’s thoughts on who will win on Saturday

Soft Falling Rain, Hayley’s pick in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, in the winner’s enclosure after his Nayef Joel Stakes victory at Newmarket last month. Image courtesy of racingfotos.com.

I’ve got a bit of time on my hands (!) so I have had a good look at QIPCO British Champions Day. Here’s my race-by-race guide.

QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup

The headlines from the last two meetings were all about Frankel, and this year I reckon they could be about The Queen’s first British Champions Day winner.

Estimate ticks all the boxes. She’s not been beaten in her three runs at Ascot: she’s very lightly-raced; had a long break which is important at this time of year; has top-level form and has won on soft ground before.

QIPCO British Champions Sprint

Maarek is the most obvious choice but I think you take a risk backing him at cramped odds given his running style, which relies heavily on getting the splits.

Balmont Mast represents better value. He had a long break after an excellent fourth in Singapore and won nicely on his second start back on Sunday.

He has cracking form in the book – look at his second in the Group 1 sprint on Dubai World Cup night – and has the right man on board in Johnny Murtagh who is a master around Ascot.

QIPCO British Champions Fillies and Mares

I’ve gone for Seal Of Approval. She’s a really nice filly, and if she doesn’t win a big race on Saturday she will next year.

I obviously came down on her at Doncaster and I do remember she was off the bridle and then grabbed the bit and was just starting to motor when we parted company.

There is always a worry that horses who fall will lose their confidence but I’ve spoken to James Fanshawe, who says she is none the worse and in great form. James would not be running her if she was feeling any ill effects.

Queen Elizabeth II Stakes

I was in Dubai when Soft Falling Rain won the Godolphin Mile, despite coming the longest way around.

He had a long break before running a promising second at Newbury in August.

He then won the Joel Stakes comfortably last month and is another who can benefit from a lightly-raced campaign, whereas most of his rivals have been busy.

He’s trained by a genius in Mike De Kock and I think he’ll see off Olympic Glory, who might well benefit from the first-time blinkers.

QIPCO Champion Stakes

I understand Cirrus Des Aigles suffered a setback earlier in the season, which may have accounted for his below-par efforts.

He seems to have his confidence back now and is the clear form choice.

However, if you are looking for value then Ruler Of The World at 8-1 looks a great each-way price.

He did not get a smooth run in the Arc and did well to finish seventh in the end. Ryan Moore has plumped for him over Hillstar and he can push the favourite.

QIPCO Future Stars Apprentice Handicap

I can’t believe Fils Anges has not won this season, but I think this could be his day.

He’s been second three times this season, but he’s not ungenuine – he’s just been unlucky.

If I could have one apprentice riding for me it would be Louis Steward.

It should be great day!

Article courtesy of Racing UK.