September promises to be a hugely exciting month for horse racing fans, with the schedule packed with a host of top-class action.
Several of the season’s biggest equine stars are expected to run next month in preparation for major targets towards the end of the flat season.
Read on we take a closer look at some of the upcoming races and pick out our four best bets for September.
Baaeed – Prix Moulin – Longchamp
Baaeed is undoubtedly this season’s talking horse and will be a short price in the 4njbets horse racing odds to win the Prix Moulin at Longchamp on September 5.
Despite never competing in a Group One event, the three-year-old has a higher rating than Classic winners Snowfall and Hurricane Lane.
His most recent performance in the Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes at Goodwood was extremely eye-catching, and he will be tough to beat in Paris.
If he passes the test, Baaeed could go head-to-head with Palace Pier on Champions Day at Ascot to determine the season’s top miler.
St Mark’s Basilica – Irish Champion Stakes – Leopardstown
St Mark’s Basilica is expected to return to action in the Irish Champion Stakes after a minor setback forced him to miss the Juddmonte International at York.
The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt has won the French 2000 Guineas, French Derby and Coral-Eclipse this season and is a banker bet to win easily at Leopardstown.
The three-year-old suffered a cut on a hind leg after losing a shoe on the gallops. A blood test showed that the wound was infected, forcing him out of his intended York engagement.
However, the enforced absence will probably work in the horse’s favour and it would be a major surprise if he fails to come out on top on September 11.
Hurricane Lane – St Leger Stakes – Doncaster
Hurricane Lane will bid to cement his status as one of the best three-year-olds around when he contests the St Leger Stakes at Doncaster on the same day.
The Irish Derby and Grand Prix de Paris winner is Godolphin’s only representative in the race, with Derby winner Adayar pulled out at the latest forfeit stage.
Hurricane Lane has been in sparkling form over 12 furlongs, but the longer distance of the Leger should be right up his street.
Mojo Star and Ottoman Emperor are amongst a tough-looking line-up, but Hurricane Lane has the class to prevail.
Commanche Falls – Ayr Gold Cup – Ayr
Trainer Michael Dods has an excellent chance of breaking his duck in the Ayr Gold Cup on September 18 with Commanche Falls.
Dods narrowly missed out in 2009 when Barney McGrew was beaten by a head Jimmy Styles in 2009, but the four-year-old is strongly fancied to go one better.
The gelding won a thrilling renewal of the Stewards’ Cup at Goodwood on his last outing ahead of Gulliver and Great Ambassador, and both those horses could be in the line-up at Ayr.
However, Commanche Falls looks to be a progressive sprinter, and this half-brother to Dakota Gold will be tough to beat.
Michael specializes in journalism, digital content production and social media management. He has a passion for numerous sports including football, horse racing and ice hockey. Michael currently works on a freelance basis, producing daily content for various outlets within the sports industry.
