Resortman looks first-up fancy

Michael Lane’s five-year-old Resortman should be a tough proposition for his rivals in Saturday’s Drummond Golf Handicap (1200m) at Ascot. The Boyanup-based speedster, who is running first-up, has drawn barrier three with Chris Parnham in the saddle. His exceptional first-up record (two wins from three starts) coupled by his success over 1200m is likely to have his rivals on red alert. Despite having a lengthy spell, the five-year-old looked classy in both of his trials at Lark Hill this month. In the $125,000 Japan Racing Association Trophy (2100m), Paddy’s Shadow (Collie) and Marocchino (Capel) will fly the flag for the South West. Trained by Raquel Williams, Paddy’s Shadow finished sixth behind Midnight Blue in the Seacorp — Ascot Gold Cup (1800m) after spending the majority of the trip out wide with regular hoop Shaun O’Donnell. However the mare’s recent performances over 2000m this year — including in her victorious showing at the 2021 Furphy Bunbury Cup — should not be overlooked. With a tidy barrier draw (four), the seven-year-old has every chance to win her first race at Ascot since March 7, 2020. Bunbury hoop Kyra Yuill has also been booked to ride Media Baron (barrier five) for David Harrison, who is unplaced from six starts during his present preparation. Saturday’s card will also be significant for Yuill, who will attempt to pilot Graeme Hammarquist-trained Rebellionaire in the Tabtouch Regional Championship Final (1200m) with a nice draw. Hammarquist, who is based in Walkaway, has always supported Yuill whenever she is available for mounts in Geraldton. The duo have formed a great partnership, typified by the Bunbury rider’s victory aboard Freez’emoff in the 2020 Tabtouch Geraldton Gold Cup (2100m). Should Yuill greet the judges with Rebellionaire on Saturday, it will be her 10th career win aboard a Hammarquist-trained horse. Capel trainer Bruce Watkins will have high hopes in the G1 Crown Perth Winterbottom Stakes (1200m), despite his five-year-old River Beau having drawn barrier 17. Jason Whiting is in the saddle.