Gabriel’s Lad leads raiding party for Paddy Power Sprint

Gabriel’s Lad was backed down to 6-1 favourite for the hugely competitive Wokingham Handicap at Royal Ascot but faded back into ninth place behind York Glory. The four-year-old raced keenly in the hands of Keiren Fallon and he found himself clear on the far side entering the final furlong but could not sustain his effort.

He is set to occupy the number one stall in a maximum field of 30 for the Paddy Power Sprint on Saturday and connections will be hoping that he is not again inconvenienced by the draw. Another raider with sound claims is David O’Meara’s Dick Bos.

The gelding by Dutch Art landed something of a touch when making all at Ripon but was caught by Harrison George at Nottingham last time out. The softer ground may have been his undoing on that occasion and he is likely to be up amongst the early leaders again here.

Yeeow was favourite to win at Ripon but made no show. Elaine Burke’s gelding would have a chance if returning to the form he showed at Ascot previously when beating Democretes by a neck.

David Barron’s Mississippi has been well supported in the ante-post betting market after finishing second to Whozthecat and Enrol at Doncaster on his last two outings. He is weighted to gain his revenge on Whozthecat and Fran Berry has been booked for the ride.

Aidan O’Brien’s Reply looks to have a stiff task under top weight whilst Burn The Boats may start favourite after an eye-catching run behind Fiesolana here last time over a mile. He was previously fourth over this trip at Newbury and could go close on that form.

Via Ballycroy is fancied to confirm the form with Arbitrageur on their recent meeting here even though the latter is 5lbs better off for a half a length beating. Via Ballycroy had trouble getting a clear run that day and passed five horses in the final furlong.

Others with chances include Seanie, Joe Eile and Harry Trotter in a wide open race due off at 4.45.