JACK'S CERTAIN ABOUT THE LAD

Ben Morgan tips up out his pick of juicy bets ready to ripen this month

- Ben Morgan

Certain Lad, Jack Channon's inmate, isn't getting any younger but he seems to have reappeared this year in very good form.

A close fourth at Newbury, where he travelled powerfully before tiring, was eye catching before a length second at Sandown. That was behind Royal Rhyme who is a fair animal when presented with softer conditions so I would be inclined to mark that performance up.

An intended runner in the Wolferton at Royal Ascot before the ground became too quick, he will surely be out in the near future and if he can land himself on some slightly softer conditions then he is more than good enough to pick up a Listed event despite his advancing years.

The Camden Colt - Richard Hannon's admirable 3yo has racked up some decent form at the start of the 2024 Flat season and he remains on what could be a very workable mark.

At the time of writing he is entered in the Britannia Stakes at Royal Ascot, where I wouldn't be surprised if he were to run well, but in a competitive handicap like that he might just have too much on his plate. Going forwards, I can see him running well in 7f/8f Saturday handicaps like the Goodwood one he was due to run in until he banged his head on the stalls and consequently withdrew.

He was supported from 20s into 6s that day which suggests I may not be the only one thinking he is on a good mark. Richard Hannon's horses are often overlooked in the market, especially ones which give the impression of being exposed like this one does, so he could be caught at decent prices if you're on the ball.