Dan Morton Poised for Feature Double at Ascot on Saturday
Prominent trainer Dan Morton is set for a significant racing double this weekend as he prepares two favourites for Listed events at Ascot on Saturday. The Crimson Pirate heads the market for the $125,000 Schweppes J C Roberts Stakes, while Wonderfully Made is the top seed in the $125,000 Natasha Stakes, both showcasing strong form in recent outings.
The Crimson Pirate's Rise to Favouritism
The Crimson Pirate has surged to the top of betting for the 1800-metre Schweppes J C Roberts Stakes after securing victories in his last two starts. Previously known for multiple second-place finishes early in his career, the gelding by Trapeze Artist has transformed in 2026, winning a Class 1 race over 1500 metres and then dominating the Lex Piper Stakes by more than two and a half lengths.
In the Lex Piper Stakes, jockey Lucy Fiore guided The Crimson Pirate from a second-place position, taking the lead at the 250-metre mark and extending convincingly. Despite carrying a 2-kilogram penalty and starting from gate 11, punters have backed him heavily, shortening his odds from $3.70 to $3.10.
Aberdeen Flyer, who finished second in the Lex Piper, has also attracted support, firming from $4 to $3.70. He meets The Crimson Pirate two kilograms better and draws barrier seven with Chris Parnham aboard. Sentimental Legend, easing from $3.30 to $3.50, adds intrigue with a strong third-place run over 1650 metres, where jockey William Pike drove him to a comfortable win.
Wonderfully Made's Dominant Campaign
Dan Morton's other contender, Wonderfully Made, leads the market for the 2200-metre Natasha Stakes as the favourite for the WA Oaks. She has won her three starts this campaign by a cumulative eight lengths, including a decisive victory in the 1000 Guineas two weeks ago.
In that race, Wonderfully Made settled one-out, one-back before Pike urged her to the front at the 200-metre mark, winning by over two lengths without needing the whip. She carries a 2-kilogram penalty but remains at $1.55 to win again.
Masmelo, who finished second in the 1000 Guineas from gate one, draws the same barrier and is priced at $4, while Admire Astra at $9.50 and Poppy's Roses at $11 are among other challengers. Chino Bay, a recent Class 3 winner, is rated next best at $12.
Other Racing Highlights
Beyond Ascot, punters are eyeing Group 1 action at Rosehill, where Lazzura is the $4.60 favourite for the Coolmore Classic after a narrow defeat in the Millie Fox. At Caulfield, Buckaroo leads the Peter Young Stakes market at $2.75, following a strong first-up run in the Futurity Stakes, with Birdman and Light Infantry Man also in contention.
This weekend's races promise excitement, with Dan Morton's dual assault highlighting the competitive spirit of Australian horse racing.
