Gianluca Bietolini has had a quiet start to the year, but he runs a promising filly at Bordeaux this morning and hopefully Sea Of Ash can make the journey south worthwhile.

The daughter of Wootton Bassett ran two really good races in defeat in soft-ground maidens last backend, bumping into two very well-bred fillies that are both hold Classic entries this year.  That form is the best on offer here and though she is making her reappearance, having been off since November, it’s notable that her trainer sends her to Bordeaux, rather than running close to home at Chantilly next week (where she holds an entry).

Her dam just came up short in her search for black type (fourth on three occasions at Listed level, but she obviously had plenty of ability and Sea Of Ash is clearly well-regarded herself, having been given an entry in the French Guineas.

11.50am Bordeaux – 1pt win Sea Of Ash @ 3-1 (all firms, though 100/30 with William Hill)