Bellewstown 3:55 Result

This is a small but select field dominated by two well-bred, well-rated 3yos. Abbotsford (OR96) is a Frankel colt out of a Juddmonte/Weld team, with form figures 8-217 showing recent placed efforts in better company and a clear win last time out. Weld's Juddmonte string are typically fit and progressive, and W J Lee taking the ride signals confidence. Soft-to-heavy ground over 1m4f is unlikely to be an issue for a Frankel out of a staying Dansili mare - this pedigree suggests they'll handle testing ground and want further rather than less. Magnum Cor (OR95) is the obvious rival - lightly raced Sea The Stars colt for Joseph O'Brien with just two starts (41), but the form figure of a 4th before winning is thinner evidence than Abbotsford's deeper and more recent form. O'Brien colt was last seen 44 days ago, same layoff as Abbotsford, so no edge there. Narlita (OR81) and Dream Legend (OR66) are both considerably lower rated and look to make up the numbers - Narlita's formline is moderate and Dream Legend's OR66 is a big gap on official ratings to the principals, even with a run just 1 day ago suggesting one for the paddock, not the first two home. The race boils down to Abbotsford vs Magnum Cor, and I prefer Abbotsford's broader form, Weld's class, and proven placed form at a high level. Expect this to be a match at a short price for both, but Abbotsford's rating edge and experience should see him prevail.