Top 40 entry Daban (12/1) wins the Nell Gwyn Stakes

Daban (12/1) provided the Top 40 Prospects in Ahead On The Flat with another winner in the Group 3 Nell Gwyn Stakes at Newmarket. The daughter of Acclamation was only rated 81 and was taking on a Group 1 winner but she belied her lack of experience to win going away by three parts of a length. A maiden winner on the all-weather at Kempton last backend, she raced enthusiastically early on before showing a sharp turn of foot inside the final furlong. Her finishing effort suggests a mile won't be a problem and she looks to a genuine contender for next month's 1000 Guineas on the Rowley Mile.

Sir Dancealot only finished fifth in the Free Handicap behind Aidan O'Brien's Whitecliffsofdover in the Free Handicap. However, I would be inclined to put a line through the run because, as stated in AOTF, I feel six furlongs will prove to be his optimum distance. Hopefully, David Elsworth will now steered the colt towards sprinting events rather than the Guineas.

Well done to Jason Kelly, who nominated Edward Lewis (8/1) as his horse to follow on page 91. David O'Meara's assistant was keen on the former John Gosden trained four year old when we chatted in February. The son of Kyllachy was bought (54,000gns) to win the Ayr Gold Cup and, having been gelded since joining his new yard, he made a successful return to action at Beverley. Despite only prevailing by a head, he could be called the winner some way from home and only had to be pushed out by Danny Tudhope. He looks a sprint handicapper to keep on the right side of.

I am heading to Scotland tomorrow evening for the two day Scottish National meeting at Ayr. I will therefore update the Diary on my return. If anyone wishes to order a copy of Ahead On The Flat, please go to the Publications site.