Nargys can defy Group penalty in Ascot October Stakes

Nargys looked to have a good season ahead of her when she flew home in fourth at Royal Ascot but she let her supporters down in three subsequent races. She was a different proposition at Doncaster when racing on softer ground for the first time this season, winning the Group 3 Sceptre Stakes in good style.

The danger could be Sir Michael Stoute’s Enrol who has proved equally frustrating since winning at Doncaster in May. She also produced a season’s best last time in soft ground when chasing home the smart Tawhid at Newbury.

The big betting race of the day is the seven furlong Challenge Cup at 3.50. The weights are headed by late Cambridgeshire defector Ascription who will be partnered by Kieren Fallon.

Trainer Hugo Palmer will be delighted with the going on Saturday but his horse has to give weight to some smart performers including the Richard Hannon-trained Wentworth. The stable believe that he is a group horse and are prepared to overlook his disappointing effort on heavy going last time.

There are plenty of familiar names taking part in the Bengough Stakes at 3.15. Fallon teams up with his old friend Hoof It on whom he won the Stewards’ Cup in 2011.

He has been slow to find his form after missing most of last season through injury but his last two starts have been encouraging. He was third to Gordon Lord Byron in the Haydock Sprint before finishing a respectable eighth in the Ayr Gold Cup. Ladyship and Heeraat could provide stiff opposition whilst Soul would also come into the reckoning on his best form.

Godolphin set punters a poser in the Cumberland Lodge Stakes by running both Royal Empire and Secret Number. Royal Empire looked unlucky not to win the September Stakes last time out and can book his ticket to the Melbourne Cup with victory on Saturday.

Selections: 1.30 Definightly, 2.05 Royal Mezyan, 2.40 Royal Empire, 3.15 Hoof It, 3.50 Ascription (nb), 4.25 Nargys (NAP)