THE ANTEPOST ANGLE - CORAL ECLIPSE

John Arnold looks ahead to the Coral Eclipse as he aims to find the winner, give the biggest clues and so much more two weeks ahead of the race.

The Coral Eclipse is one of the most prestigious horse races in the United Kingdom, taking place annually at Sandown Park, located in Esher, Surrey. Established in 1886, this Group 1 flat race is run over a distance of one mile and two furlongs, and it typically attracts a field of top-class thoroughbreds from both the UK and abroad. The race is generally held in early July, serving as a pivotal moment in the British racing calendar, particularly for horses that excel at middle distances. With its rich history and high stakes, the Coral Eclipse has become a favorite among racing enthusiasts, showcasing some of the best equine talent.

The Coral Eclipse has seen its share of legendary horses and epic performances. Over the years, illustrious names such as Shergar, Sea the Stars, and more recently, Enable and Ghaiyyath, have graced its turf, leaving an indelible mark on the race's storied legacy. The allure of the Eclipse also comes from its role as a showdown for top colts and fillies, often acting as a stepping stone to other major international competitions, including the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. The unique combination of skill, speed, and strategy involved in the Eclipse makes it a must-watch event for any serious aficionado of horse racing.

Trends

Age - 7 of the last 12 winners were aged 3,5 of the last 12 winners were aged 4 or older

Price - 7 of the last 12 winners were favourites, 10/12 winners were in the bettings top 3

Last Run - 9/12 winners won on last run, 2/12 placed, 11/12 winners last ran 35 days beforehand

Previous Course Form - 3/12 winners had 1 previous Sandown run

Previous Distance Form - 10/12 winners had at least 1 run over 10 furlongs

Rating - 11/12 winners had a rating of 118 or higher

Group 1 Wins - 8/12 winners had at least 1 previous group 1 win

Group 2 Wins - 10/12 winners had at least 1 win in a group 1 or 2 race 

Season Form - 11/12 winners had at least 1 run that season, 10/12 winners had at least 1 win that season

Contenders

In recent times Epsom Derby winners have gone onto Sandown to come back two furlongs to lift the Eclipse prize, this year the victor at Epsom Lambourn wont appear as his make up for flat galloping tracks and an engagement in the Irish Derby is the next target for the Australia colt then likely the St Leger. Following Royal Ascot this week the participants in the St James Palace Stakes firstly the highly impressive winner FIELD OF GOLD, the second placed HENRI MATISSE and third home RULING COURT who have all prevailed at a mile in the English, Irish and French Guineas respectively could enter into a rematch. For Ballydoyle the potential other entry of French Derby winner CAMILLE PISARRO is a nice contender bred by Wootten Bassett and Pivotal, ideal at going left handed too into a shorter home straight and will stay the distance. OMBUDSMAN won well at the Royal Meeting and the Gosden trained Night of Thunder bred horse could revert to ten furlongs in Surrey next month. If lining up I will side with Field of Gold but his trainer mentioned the Irish Guineas win could mean a rest for a month. Therefore Ombudsman is value for the race and the opportunity of Camille Pisarro running would suggest a placed finish. 

Selections

OMBUDSMAN (WIN)

CAMILLE PISARRO (E/W) written by John Arnold