Goodwood Festival Saturday Tips – Dan James Racing

Al Aasy, a seasoned seven-year-old trained by William Haggas, arrives at Goodwood following his stunning late surge to claim the Coral Glorious Stakes over 1 m 3f at the same venue last year. Facing just a small field, he overcame trouble in running by squeezing through along the rail before accelerating with authority under Jim Crowley to win by a length.

His form at Goodwood reads impressively, and he has proven effective stepping up in trip, showing that extra distance suits his late closing style. With minimal recent exertion from his glorious win, he is fresh and tuned to strike again under similar conditions. The combination of proven track form, toenail tactical speed, and past experience at this festival level brings strong credentials to his Goodwood chance.

Sam Hawkens contests the 1 m 55 race at Goodwood carrying the promise of an emerging contender. If he comes into the race with recent form improvements, perhaps consistent top three finishes, and progression in each outing, he brings both momentum and adaptability to the tight Goodwood mile and an octaves distance.

Jockey familiarity with the undulating turf and speed bias of the track boosts his chance. A horse improving with each run and handling variable good ground could take advantage of a slowly run contest and pounce late, fitting the profile of Goodwood’s uniquely tactical challenges. A bold ride and an unexposed handicap mark could see him spring a surprise.

Hammer The Hammer is a progressive three-year-old sprinter trained by Kevin Ryan, who has won three of his last five starts, including successive handicap victories over 6 f and 5 f distances before finishing second of 24 at Ascot in June. Rated 104, and drawn prominently in the Coral Stewards’ Cup at Goodwood, he boasts excellent form (2‑21112)—indicating consistency, speed and fitness.

His turn of foot and ability to pick off rivals in the closing stages suit a big field six‑furlong sprint. With Tom Eaves in the saddle and a lightweight burden for him (9‑2), he’s dangerous in a race where tactical speed and fresh legs can upset established names. Improvement is far from ruled out making him one to follow in this heritage handicap.