Tom Scudamore: Mister Malarkey is the one to beat in Ascot’s big race

Coral ambassador previews his weekend rides

Saturday

Ascot 13.35 – Pingshou

Pingshou has been running well all summer, and was unlucky not to win the time before last, when he made a bad mistake at the last.

He is a Group One winner, albeit a while ago now, and his form’s there for all to see, but this looks a nice race for him so hopefully we have a chance.

Ascot 14.45 – Nordic Combined

Nordic Combined’s form tailed off towards the end of last season, he’d be one of the highest rated maidens following that winless campaign, but his form in the first part of the season was really good, including a second at Newbury in a race that has worked out well.

He seems in good order at home, has been schooling really well, and if the spark is back, he could go well at a big price.

Ascot 15.20 – Mister Malarkey

I’ve picked up a lovely ride on Mister Malarkey, who showed his liking for Ascot when winning the Reynoldstown.

He’s one of the favourites here, and I know this is his stepping stone to the Ladbrokes Trophy, so if he’s that class of horse he should go close here. His form from last year all adds up and he’s the one to beat here.