More Thunder primed for breakthrough in Summer Mile
Sky Sports Racing ambassador Hollie Doyle has tipped More Thunder to land the Group Two Juddmonte Summer Mile Stakes (2.27) at Ascot on Saturday. The five-year-old has been knocking on the door at the highest level, finishing second in both the Lockinge at Newbury and the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot, and Doyle feels this is his moment to shine.
"This looks a great opportunity for More Thunder to gain his breakthrough success over this distance," Doyle said. "With my husband Tom heading to Newmarket, Cieren Fallon steps in for a plum ride on an improving horse whose run style should be well suited to this round track. He's well drawn in stall one and can confirm Queen Anne form with Zeus Olympios."
Karl Burke's Calandagan is a solid opponent who should make a race of it again, but Doyle is intrigued by French challenger No Lunch, who brings a six-race winning streak including a Group Two at Saint-Cloud. The form has been franked by runner-up Seagulls Eleven, who has won twice since. "No Lunch could be anything," Doyle added.
Newmarket's July Cup and Superlative Stakes
At Newmarket, Doyle believes Almeraq can complete a Group One double for William Haggas and Shadwell in the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai July Cup (4.35). Almeraq won the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot and has thrived since. "Tom heads to the July Course to partner him," Doyle said. "He has a few questions on an undulating track and quicker ground, but there is huge confidence." She also warns not to discount stablemate Division, who could surprise if he breaks well.
Favourite Venetian Sun impressed in the Commonwealth Cup but faces a stiffer test. In the Group Two Superlative Stakes (4.00), Doyle fancies Aidan O'Brien's Abraham Lincoln, a son of Wootton Bassett, to follow in the hoofprints of 2023 winner City Of Troy.
Bunbury Cup and York's feature
Doyle is keen on Great Acclaim in the Betway Bunbury Cup (3.25). "Placed in the Victoria Cup and Buckingham Palace Stakes, he retains the visor and is fairly treated off 100," she explained. Defending champion Aalto is a big danger.
At York, the John Smith's Cup (3.45) sees Royal runner Warrant Holder as a strong contender. The colt has been progressive and looks well-handicapped for a race that often rewards class.
Key Takeaways
- More Thunder is Hollie Doyle’s standout bet in the Summer Mile after near-misses in Group 1s.
- Cieren Fallon takes the ride from stall one, with the draw and track likely to suit.
- French raider No Lunch poses an unknown but exciting threat on a six-timer.
- Almeraq can land the July Cup for William Haggas, provided he handles quicker ground.
- Great Acclaim and Warrant Holder appeal in big handicaps at Newmarket and York.
Quick Facts
Race: Group Two Juddmonte Summer Mile Stakes
Time: 2.27, Saturday
Course: Ascot
TV: Live on Sky Sports Racing
Doyle's pick: More Thunder