Top 40 winner Almeraq (2/1) impresses

Almeraq was entered in the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot during the spring. However, the three year old's reappearance was delayed due to a few minor issues, plus the prevailing the dry weather. The Dark Angel colt may have conditions too fast on his belated return to action in a novice stakes at Yarmouth last month when runner-up behind the subsequent Jersey Stakes second Spy Chief. Allocated an opening mark of 90 as a result, William Haggas' charge made his handicap debut in the Ayr Gold Cup Trial at the Scottish venue on Monday and showed what he is capable of with a blistering display. Despite being drawn wide in stall one, Clifford Lee's mount travelled strongly before tucking in behind the leader before halfway. Once pulled out, he showed an electric turn of foot before bounding clear to win hard held by five lengths looking every inch a Pattern horse running in a handicap. Entered in the Stewards Cup at Goodwood (2nd August), it remains to be seen whether that will come too soon, and Group 1 Haydock Sprint Cup (6th September), it will be interesting to see where he goes next. The Ayr Gold Cup is obviously another option and he would take plenty of beating in that off his revised rating - likely to be nearer 100 now. The Listed Garrowby Stakes at York (7th September) may also enter calculations. He is a smashing prospect for the remainder of this term and next season.