French raider Galiway can take Newbury feature race

Leading French trainer Andre Fabre seldom misses the target with his British raids and it looks significant that he sends Galiway over for a Group 3 on Saturday. The son of Galileo won on his debut by a short neck under a confident ride but this represents a big step up in grade.

The form of the French race has not worked out particularly well with the runner-up having finished only fourth next time out but Fabre clearly thinks his colt has a lot more to offer. Olivier Peslier is a familiar visitor to these shores and it will be no surprise if Galiway proves a lot better than his form suggests.

Richard Hannon runs three here with Piping Rock expected to prove the pick. He did well to quicken up in heavy ground at Salisbury to win by four lengths and has to be respected.

The second Group 3 event on the card features Godolphin’s September Stakes winner Prince Bishop. He just got the better of Melbourne Cup hope Royal Empire that day and will have another fight on his hands here with the progressive Nichols Canyon.

John Gosden thought highly enough of this Authorized colt to enter him for the St Leger and he began to fulfil his potential at Ascot last time. Masterstroke and Sugar Boy both have the ability to get involved but have been bitterly disappointing of late.

There are some promising fillies in the 4.05 race including the Charlie Hills-trained Dutch Romance, a good recent winner at Salisbury. Veiled Intrigue could be the one to beat after finishing a close sixth behind the smart Coral Mist at Ayr last month.

Oxsana and Aqlaam Vision have been running consistently whilst Pretty Flamingo produced stunning improvement to win by seven lengths in the mud at Goodwood. Connections of the latter will be hoping that conditions ride testing again on Saturday.

Selections: 1.15 Cascading, 1.45 Cay Dancer, 2.20 Galiway (NAP), 2.55 Nichols Canyon, 3.30 Hi There, 4.05 Dutch Romance (nb), 4.40 Dusky Queen, 5.10 Royal Alcor