The Ajax Stakes is usually a nice handicap and this year is no exception. The entry of the three year old Niagara only makes it more interesting.

He’s definitely in with a chance, but I’m going to go with STAR OF OCTAGONAL here. He was great in the Newcastle Newmarket behind a Group 1 winner (well, he should be!) He’s Remarkable. Looks to be best to his best and if so, he can win here.

NIAGARA is the horse on the way up. Has always shown promise – he was not far off Manawanui as a two year old, while he should have won either the Norman Robinson or the Sandown Guineas in the spring. On his first up run, you’d say he’s close to putting it all together. It’s a task but he can win.

I’m going wide with my next two selections. Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner IRONSTEIN flies fresh and could come home with a wet sail. I’d say it is more likely he’d run a nice fifth or sixth at best, but if all goes right he could end up in the minor money.

The other horse is ALL SILENT. He showed the first glimpse of form in a long time last start and he must be included in the multiples. Don’t be surprised if Firebolt runs a much improved race too.

10 – STAR OF OCTAGONAL
13 – NIAGARA
5 – IRONSTEIN
1 – ALL SILENT