When convincing anyone of anything, it's often good to throw in a quote from somebody interesting. Even better in fact, when they're clever, ones credibility goes through the roof. I hope.
So here goes; Mark Twain once said "Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect." and nay was a statement so fitting as it is to punting. Backing favourites should be treated with more caution if you want to make any proper doe this weekend.
Just The Judge heads the market for the 1000 Guineas at the Curragh on Sunday. She lost her unbeaten crown in the English equivalent but was an impressive runner-up. How and ever, Dermot Weld will be glad that some of the April showers will be arriving a bit late on Sunday as his filly Big Break doesn't want it like the M50. But I'm going for Maureen. I like the way she finished at Newmarket upsides Snow Queen and I think she represents a bit of value.
The 2000 Guineas on Saturday is a bit of a head scratcher. We're not taking any chances on the market leader, a Ballydoyle horse called Magician who personally, I think will justify his position in the betting. Richard Hannon will have a two-pronged attack with Van Der Neer the stable jockey's choice and the only significant mover in the contest as of yet. I think Joseph O'Brien will probably ride Magician to victory, BUT my each way pick in the line-up is George Vancouver. The joint highest rated in the field, he will be running on his ideal ground. If only he was as consistent as he was talented but then again, he wouldn't be priced in double figures.
Elsewhere, in the 2.15 on Saturday I like the look of a horse called Fast In The Wind. This is a very hot contest but I thought he was hugely impressive when making a winning debut at the track and he certainly looks like a Group race performer in the making.
Across the water, my pick is a horse whose name resonates right to my heart, I think Reckless Abandon is a GOOD THING in the Temple Stakes at Haydock on Saturday.
Happy punting!
Hayley's picks -
Saturday
Fast In The Wind in the 2.15 at the Curragh
George Vancouver (E/W 12/1) in the 2000 Guineas at 3.20 at the Curragh.
Reckless Abandon (3/1) in the Temple Stakes at 3.50 at Haydock.
Sunday
Maureen (11/2) in the 1000 Guineas at the Curragh
For updates from the Curragh this weekend follow Hayley on Twitter - @HayleyLadbrokes
Picture credit: Pat Murphy / SPORTSFILE
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