Racing Line

Although attention locally will be on Ascot tomorrow, the best chance of picking up a decent return or two could come elsewhere, in particular Haydock.

Last race of the day on the Northern track is a decent class 1 sprint (4.30pm) which has attracted a useful field. Appalachian Trail has picked up his share of listed prize money including one at Redcar in October.

Another to watch, and my selection, is the consistent Welsh Emperor. The nine-year-old had a great season last year and was only just seen off in a Group 1 at Longchamp in the autumn.

On the mixed card, the beginners chase at 2.30pm should be well within the abilities of That's Rhythm with Tony McCoy taking the ride. Lightly raced last year, the eight-year-old still knocked off three wins on the bounce over hurdles and if he takes to timber should make the most of his bottom weight.

With 25 runners, Ascot's Victoria Cup could be a bit of a bumper but one worth watching is Jim Goldie's Middlemarch. Already a course winner and with a featherweight to carry it's possible he could make the step up in class and with decent place money on offer I would take a chance.

Second favourite for The Derby, Curtain Call steps out in the big race trial at Lingfield (3.10pm). Although he has to concede five pounds to his rivals, his three-year-old form of last season was confirmed recently with an easy win at Nottingham.

One of the most respected men in racing is Staffordshire trainer Reg Hollinshead who next year celebrates 60 years in the game. I had the pleasure of meeting him in my past life in the land of the balti and what he doesn't know about the sport is probably irrelevant.

On Sunday his local course, Uttoxeter, stages a race in his honour and although it's not the biggest event of the weekend the cheer when Reg presents the trophy could well be.

My knowledge of class 5 Midlands hurdlers is somewhat limited so on the basis that the O'Neill/Fehilly partnership is worth following we will plump for Akram – who hasn't run for two years and whose last win was in 2005. He who dares Rodney.