William Hill Free Bet and 2012 Darley July Cup Tips

Initial declarations have been made for the 2012 Darley July Cup and, though we can still expect a few withdrawals up until the final stage on Wednesday, we have a very fascinating race developing with so many top yards being represented – oftentimes by multiple runners. It remains a very tricky puzzle to solve at this point and some of the main clues might be drawn from the two entries who were supplemented in as their trainers obviously think they are worth the money.

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Each trainer paid 11,000 in Sterling to get them into the race so they can be considered ready to fire.

Both Dandy Boy and Strong Suit have been dropped into this and you can expect them to hold their own against much of the stronger handicap company in the race here but they are going to have to best seasoned Group 1 runners in their bid to prove themselves at British racing's highest levels.

The going is currently listed as good to soft and there are a few in this one who may be pulled out if it looks like the going won't firm up at any point. With the long-term forecast still a real question mark, it may make sense to hold off on any substantial ante post wagers.

Excelebration had been rumoured to be pointed at this one but he remains one of the notable absentees from the Darley July Cup line-up. This is is one of the key fixtures at the July Meeting and is about as good of a race as you'll see over 6f.

Boasting the dual credentials of British Champions Series and the Global Sprint Challenge qualification to the winner, you can understand why so many top level entries are in the mix.

William Hill has listed Bated Breath as the betting favourite with a 3/1 price – completely understandable with a win in the Group 2 Temple Stakes and a strong runner-up performance in the Group 1 King's Stand Stakes.

Society Rock is competitive at a 7/1 listing with Strong Suit likely justifying the supplement price by being bestowed with an 8/1 listing by the bookmakers – a clear third choice. Look for Hoof It and the very interesting entry of Ortensia sitting alongside Power at 10/1. Well-beaten in the St James Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, Power justified much of the hype as he entered his 3YO season when winning the Irish 2000 Guineas.

It will be interesting to see how he performs at a 6f distance at his age as he excelled at 6f and 7f in his second season.