Today - Michael Page International Shergar Cup Tips

At the start of the year, Young Mick was well beaten in a class 5 maiden on Polytrack at Wolverhampton. However, the horse that goes to post in the Michael Page International Shergar Cup Challenge at Ascot on Saturday afternoon is rated 39lb higher, which is indicative of the great strides he has made since those humble beginnings. The four-year-old, who is a top-priced 9/4 with bet365 to register his third course and distance victory of the season in this class 2 contest, has made unbelievable strides this season and belied odds of 28/1 when beating ante-post favourite Glistening in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at the Royal meeting here in June. George Margarson's charge suffered a reverse in the Old Newton Cup at Haydock next time, but duly bounced back when lowering the colours of Royal Jet by a length and a half in the valuable National Bank of Dubai Cup back here on July 28. There doesn't appear to be any obvious flaws in this gelding's armour and, given that he clearly loves Ascot, I will be surprised if he's beaten. Chantaco is a consistent sort at around this level, but most of his racing has been done over a mile and a quarter, a trip which clearly suits him, and it's concerning that he pulled hard when behind Young Mick at Royal Ascot. All in all, his stamina remains suspect over this 12-furlong trip and he's opposable on that basis. A bigger danger is likely to be presented by the Mark Johnston-trained Nero's Return, who has filled the runners-up spot the last twice, including when chasing home length and a quarter winner Pevensey at Leicester. However, Nero's Return is 3lb better off this time and will be suited by the stronger pace which is likely to be on offer here. He can give Young Mick most to do. Mark Tompkins' Mikao has appeared to find marathon trips stretching his stamina in his last three outings, and much better is expected now that he has dropped back in distance. Off a mark just 4lb higher compared to when beating Nawamees at Newmarket in April, Mikao should give a good account of himself. Verdict - 2pts Young Mick @ 9/4 (bet365)