Newcastle Races & Results Tomform Friday 29th March 2024
There were 21 Races on Friday 29th March 2024 across 3 meetings. There was 7 races at Chelmsford-City, 7 races at Newcastle, 7 races at Lingfield, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Friday 29th March 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(2) Cuban Tiger 3/1, Well supported and duly made a winning debut in 8-runner novice at Southwell (6.1f). Took a step forward when second in class 3 at Kempton and remains with potential. Won at Southwell then ran well in conditions race at Kempton; open to further progress.
6
2nd (6) (6/1 +63%) Sayedaty Sadaty
6
6/1(+63%)
(6) Sayedaty Sadaty 6/1, Off the mark at the fourth attempt in Kempton novice, though again looked wayward. Decent third of 4 in class 2 at Epsom since but this looks too tough. Has looked quirky on occasions; remains to be seen whether he goes the right way.
1
3rd (1) (5/2 +38%) Orne
2.5
5/2(+38%)
(1) Orne 5/2, Horris Hill winner at 2 yrs and returned with a good second of 14 in local Group 2 Al Rayyan Mile at Doha (8f, good). Excellent close third in listed race at Lingfield 3 weeks ago and big shout despite a 5 lb penalty. Very close third in similar event at Lingfield this month; has mostly progressive form.
3
4th (3) (8/1 +27%) Habrdi
8
8/1(+27%)
(3) Habrdi 8/1, Useful colt. Three wins from 6 runs last year. 7/1, creditable 3 lengths fifth of 10 to Watch My Tracer in listed race at Lingfield (7f, AW) 22 days ago, but held by Orne on that form. Creditable fifth upped to this grade at Lingfield on reappearance; could go well.
8
5th (8) (28/1 -12%) Yokohama
28
28/1(-12%)
(8) Yokohama 28/1, €27,000 foal, 35,000 gns yearling, Make Believe colt. Half-brother to several winners, including smart/ungenuine winner up to 9f Questioning. Dam US 2-y-o 8.5f winner. 7/2, won 8-runner maiden at this course (7.1f) on debut, responding well. Off 6 months. Tough ask. Won at this course on sole 2yo run; fits into the could-be-anything category; interesting.
7
6th (7) (10/3 -33%) Silent Age
3.333333
10/3(-33%)
(7) Silent Age 10/3, Landed odds in Kempton maiden on debut and defied a penalty in the style of a useful prospect at Wolverhampton. Needs considering. Dubawi gelding who is two from two; brings clear potential to this higher level; respected.
4
7th (4) (33/1 -32%) Louis Quatorze
33
33/1(-32%)
(4) Louis Quatorze 33/1, Fairly useful colt. 3/1 and hooded for 1st time, won 8-runner novice at Chelmsford City (7f), all out. Off 148 days. Difficult ask. Took well to hood at Chelmsford on final 2yo start; the headgear is now removed.
9
8th (9) (33/1 -65%) Manhattan Dreamer
33
33/1(-65%)
(9) Manhattan Dreamer 33/1, Didn't need to improve to get off the mark in 14-runner maiden at Dundalk (7f) 63 days ago but this demands a whole lot more. Irish filly who has shown steady progress at Dundalk; still unexposed.
13:18 Newcastle Listed (Class 1) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
ORNE may have to give weight away all around, but his recent placed efforts in Listed and Group 2 company set a high standard on form and the fact he won the Horris Hill last year is another plus. The son of Acclamation is narrowly preferred to the unexposed and progressive Silent Age, as well as the returning Room Service, who ended last season with a taking success in a valuable sales race at Doncaster. Cuban Tiger and Habrdi are capable of being in the shake-up as well.
ORNE did well to finish as close as he did given how the race developed when third in a similar event at Lingfield and is worth another chance to defy a penalty at this level. Silent Age made it 2 from 2 in the style of a good prospect at Wolverhampton so is feared, while the form of Room Service's sales win at Doncaster has worked out very well.
Promising Silent Age has to be feared but an interesting alternative at bigger odds is once-raced YOKOHAMA.
(3) Prydwen 10/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. 10/1, good neck second of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago. 1 lb better off with winner here. Enters calculations. Good second in the Marathon Trial, splitting Spartan Army and Vaguely Royal.
10
2nd (10) (18/1 -29%) Duke Of Oxford
18
18/1(-29%)
(10) Duke Of Oxford 18/1, Four wins from 9 runs last year. Creditable third of 11 in handicap (11/4) at this C&D 88 days ago, albeit no match for principals. Has form figures of 113 since upped to 2m; each-way claims off unaltered mark.
5
3rd (5) (5/1 -50%) Spartan Army
5
5/1(-50%)
(5) Spartan Army 5/1, 7/4, career best when completing hat-trick in 13-runner handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago by neck from Prydwen, well positioned. Thriving. 3-3 since switched to AW, most recently landing the Marathon Trial at Lingfield.
9
4th (9) (33/1 -18%) Howth
33
33/1(-18%)
(9) Howth 33/1, Finally got off the mark for this yard in 8-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (14f, 17/2) 25 days ago, keeping on well. Up in trip again. Has a modest strike-rate and is unlikely to follow up his Wolverhampton win.
8
5th (8) (9/2 +25%) Vaguely Royal
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(8) Vaguely Royal 9/2, Course winner. 5/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, good 1¾ lengths third of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago, clear of rest. May do better still. Clear third in the Marathon Trial on first attempt over 2m; likely player.
7
6th (7) (9/1 +44%) Duty Of Care
9
9/1(+44%)
(7) Duty Of Care 9/1, Had some of these behind when good second of 11 in handicap at Kempton (16f). Not seen to best effect at Lingfield since so not taken lightly. Kicked for home too early in the Marathon Trial; 1-1 here; not dismissed.
11
7th (11) (5/1 +0%) Palace Boy
5
5/1(+0%)
(11) Palace Boy 5/1, Fairly useful winner at 16f over hurdles. 1¼ lengths second of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Southwell (16.5f, 11/10) 34 days ago, no match for winner but 7 lb better off here. Shortlist material. Good second to Spartan Army at Southwell last time; now gets 7lb pull; big player.
1
8th (1) (9/1 -64%) Max Vega
9
9/1(-64%)
(1) Max Vega 9/1, Career best when winning 6-runner handicap (4/1) at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 41 days ago, well on top finish. Unproven over this far but only 2 lb higher here so big shout if he stays. Has the ability to remain competitive, provided he's as effective back at 2m.
13
9th (13) (80/1 -60%) Sir Chauvelin
80
80/1(-60%)
(13) Sir Chauvelin 80/1, 4-time course winner. Tenth of 13 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 50/1) 19 days ago, unsuited by way race developed. Significantly back up in trip. 3 lb out of handicap. Veteran who is a multiple winner but has a question mark over current form.
12
10th (12) (7/1 +56%) Kyle Of Lochalsh
7
7/1(+56%)
(12) Kyle Of Lochalsh 7/1, Three wins from 7 runs last year. 11/8, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Chelmsford City (14f), well on top finish. Off 106 days. Makes tapeta debut. 2 lb out of handicap. Ended his 2023 campaign with two wins at Chelmsford; may improve further.
4
11th (4) (14/1 +0%) Citizen General
14
14/1(+0%)
(4) Citizen General 14/1, Career best when winning 11-runner handicap (15/2) at Kempton (16f) 55 days ago by 4½ lengths from Duty of Care, soon clear. 7 lb higher now but can give another good account. Comfortable success at Kempton took his record under Robert Havlin to 2-3.
2
12th (2) (18/1 -13%) Tyson Fury
18
18/1(-13%)
(2) Tyson Fury 18/1, Has done well since joining this yard and produced a career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Dundalk (16f) 49 days ago, easing clear. Respected. Proved suited by the step up to 2m at Dundalk last time; unexposed at this trip.
6
13th (6) (33/1 -32%) Rainbow Dreamer
33
33/1(-32%)
(6) Rainbow Dreamer 33/1, C&D winner. 16/1, 12¼ lengths tenth of 11 to Citizen General in handicap at Kempton (16f) 55 days ago. Would be a threat if back to something like his best but, on recent evidence, Spartan Army looks the stable first string. Won this last year when it was still a conditions race; currently out of sorts.
13:53 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
SPARTAN ARMY continues to go from strength to strength since switching to the all-weather and a further 4lb rise for his most recent success at Lingfield, beating the reopposing Prydwen (second), could prove lenient. Alan King's charge can complete the four-timer at the main expense of three-time Group 3 winner Max Vega and Palace Boy, who has over a length to make up with the selection from their clash last month. Improving Irish raider Tyson Fury and Vaguely Royal cannot be ruled out either.
PALACE BOY bumped into the thriving Spartan Army when denied the hat-trick at Southwell 5 weeks ago but a 7 lb swing in the weights (Spartan Army has won again since) may be enough to reverse the placings. The classy Max Vega is another to consider back up in trip.
On better terms, PALACE BOY may reverse Southwell placings with Spartan Army who is strongly respected all the same.
(6) Fire Demon 9/4, Progressive son of Dark Angel who justified good support to double career tally in 10-runner handicap at Kempton (6f, 15/8) 40 days ago by 1¼ lengths from Media Shooter, going on entering final 1f and driven out. Up 5 lb but likely he can do better again. 2 Kempton wins this year, strong at the finish latest; still has more to come; key player.
11
2nd (11) (12/1 +40%) Cross The Tracks
12
12/1(+40%)
(11) Cross The Tracks 12/1, Successful on debut in a Yarmouth novice (6f) in September. Efforts mixed thereafter but put it all together when running out a convincing winner in 8-runner Kempton handicap (7f) 2 weeks ago. More on his plate back up markedly in grade but yard continue in very good form. Bolted up over 7f here last time but in a considerably weaker event.
4
3rd (4) (13/2 -30%) Blue Prince
6.5
13/2(-30%)
(4) Blue Prince 13/2, Progressed well since joining this yard, landing 6f handicaps at Southwell/over C&D. Solid efforts in defeat have followed, runner-up to another improving sort at Lingfield 4 weeks ago, finishing strongly. Unlikely he's finished improving yet and he's one to consider. C&D win on New Year's Day has been followed by two fine runs in defeat; involved again.
7
4th (7) (17/2 -21%) Media Shooter
8.5
17/2(-21%)
(7) Media Shooter 17/2, Improved model on AW since the turn of the year, landing 6f Kempton handicaps either side of a solid second behind re-opposing Fire Demon at that venue in February. Handicapper applies a little more pressure back up in grade but he's clearly going the right way. Solid record on AW but no match for Fire Demon on his penultimate start.
8
5th (8) (25/1 -39%) Roman Emperor
25
25/1(-39%)
(8) Roman Emperor 25/1, Winner at Southwell (6f) in January and filled runners-up spot next 2 starts in handicaps at Lingfield. However, seemingly beaten on merit behind Fire Demon/Media Shooter on each of his last 2 starts and he'll need to pull out more to play a lead role here. Consistency not an issue but needs to raise his game a level to take this.
3
6th (3) (28/1 -250%) Tarsus
28
28/1(-250%)
(3) Tarsus 28/1, Much improved for fitting of a tongue tie, landing a Dundalk maiden (5f) in December and progressed again since, doubling his tally in 4-runner minor event at that venue 7 weeks ago. That race not the easiest to assess and this rates tougher making handicap debut. Much improved for the addition of a tongue tie; could still have more in the tank.
2
7th (2) (28/1 -409%) Havana Ball
28
28/1(-409%)
(2) Havana Ball 28/1, £100,000 purchase who confirmed debut promise when readily seeing off a next-time-out winner in a Wolverhampton novice (6f) in November. Improved again when third in French listed race on sole outing since 21 days ago and highly likely there's more to come now handicapping. Promising 3rd in Chantilly Listed event against males 3 weeks ago; still has more to come.
5
8th (5) (25/1 -56%) G'day Mate
25
25/1(-56%)
(5) G'day Mate 25/1, 5f maiden winner for Jessica Harrington at 2yrs. Steadily found his feet upon joining new yard, running his best race yet when third of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 28 days ago (Blue Prince placed second). Should give another good account nudged back up 1 lb. Improved with each run for M Appleby but he's finished behind Blue Prince on each occasion.
1
9th (1) (7/2 +22%) Sommelier
3.5
7/2(+22%)
(1) Sommelier 7/2, Progressive sort who won 2 of his 3 starts in novice/maiden company on AW last year and found further progress making handicap debut when very good ½-length second of 10 to Blue Prince in C&D handicap in January. 4 lb better off with that rival here and player with more to come. Two 6f AW wins in November; 2nd to Blue Prince over C&D on h'cap debut; still unexposed.
10
10th (10) (25/1 -39%) Bazball
25
25/1(-39%)
(10) Bazball 25/1, Thrived on a busy campaign as a 2-y-o, gaining third success at Chester (5f) in September. Model of consistency on AW subsequently, good 1½ lengths third of 10 to Blue Prince in handicap at this C&D 88 days ago, nearest finish. Should give it her best shot again. Three wins at two; good third over C&D latest; another career best required to feature.
9
11th (9) (5/1 +72%) Daring Legend
5
5/1(+72%)
(9) Daring Legend 5/1, Well-bred sort who built on encouraging debut for his new yard when running out an impressive winner of a C&D handicap earlier this month. Far from disgraced when third of 9 returned to 7f at Southwell last week and return to this track/trip rates a plus. Not out of things. Ready C&D success on his 2nd run for this yard; looked a tricky ride late on last week.
14:25 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Narrowly denied on each of his last two starts at Lingfield, and a taking winner over C&D in January, BLUE PRINCE arrives in excellent form and this looks like an ideal opportunity to continue his progression. Behind him over C&D on that occasion was the progressive Sommelier (second), who is open to more improvement, while Fire Demon arrives on the back of a comfortable success at Kempton from Media Shooter (second).
SOMMELIER continued his theme of race-by-race progress when runner-up behind re-opposing Blue Prince over C&D on New Year's Day and, 4 lb better off with that rival here, he gets the vote to come out on top with the prospect of more to come. Blue Prince comes here in fine form and he's a serious player along with Kempton-scorer Fire Demon. Daring Legend, an impressive winner over C&D on his penultimate start, also makes each-way appeal.
The admirable Blue Prince should go well again but FIRE DEMON was strong at the finish last time and has more to offer.
(5) Cloud Cover 10/1, Three wins from 8 runs last year. 2/1, creditable 2¼ lengths fifth of 9 to Shades of Summer in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, headed final 100 yds. First-time hood may help her settle better and not underestimated. The addition of a hood looks a good move but she'll need a career best to take this.
7
2nd (7) (8/1 +20%) Just A Spark
8
8/1(+20%)
(7) Just A Spark 8/1, Did well at 3 yrs, winning 4 times and improved furhter on AW since the turn of the year, completing quick-fire hat-trick at Kempton (6f) in February. Not in quite the same form when fifth of 7 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 19 days ago. This rates tougher again. Winning spree on AW ground to a halt latest; stamina for 7f has to be taken on trust.
6
3rd (6) (7/2 -5%) Shades Of Summer
3.5
7/2(-5%)
(6) Shades Of Summer 7/2, C&D winner. 3/1, completed hat-trick when winning 9-runner handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, by length from Aramis Grey, kept up to work. Clearly thriving and 6 lb rise shouldn't prevent her going well again on that evidence. Progressing well on AW for new yard, including C&D; may not have reached her ceiling yet.
8
4th (8) (16/1 -60%) Sibyl Charm
16
16/1(-60%)
(8) Sibyl Charm 16/1, Has done well on AW upon joining this yard, career best when winning 8-runner C&D handicap 16 days ago, closed down final 100 yds and just holding on. Nudged up just 1 lb and thriving but this much tougher up in class. Three course wins this year; today's step up class could find her out.
9
5th (9) (100/1 -300%) Smiling Sunflower
100
100/1(-300%)
(9) Smiling Sunflower 100/1, Capitalised on much-reduced mark at Kempton (1m) in February but again started very slowly and never figured when seventh of 9 in handicap back at that venue 37 days ago. Passed over here operating from out of the weights. 1m Kempton win last month; less good latest; stiff task from out of weights at this level.
1
6th (1) (7/4 +30%) Nine Tenths
1.75
7/4(+30%)
(1) Nine Tenths 7/4, Smart filly who boasts an impressive record on synthetics, adding to her tally in 6-runner listed race at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 20 days ago. Rider takes off handy 7 lb returned to handicaps and she looks sure to play a lead role again. Progressing well on AW; has won for today's apprentice; leading contender.
2
7th (2) (16/1 +11%) Hodd's Girl
16
16/1(+11%)
(2) Hodd's Girl 16/1, Ended losing run at Dundalk (7f) in January and not disgraced either start since, likely to have benefited from stronger gallop when third of 6 in minor event back at that venue 3 weeks ago. However, she's yet to defy a mark this high. Prolific winner at Dundalk; 3rd in this race last year; will do well to better that today.
3
8th (3) (10/1 -18%) Aramis Grey
10
10/1(-18%)
(3) Aramis Grey 10/1, Admirable mare who was a good second in C&D conditions' event 12 months ago. Consistent without tasting success subsequently, second of 9 to Shades of Summer in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, conceding first run. Likely to give it her best shot again. 2nd in this race (non handicap) last year; chased home Shades Of Summer on last two runs.
4
9th (4) (6/1 +8%) Wild Side
6
6/1(+8%)
(4) Wild Side 6/1, Four wins from 8 runs last year, the latest at Southwell (1m) in December. 5/1, respectable 2½ lengths third of 8 to Shades of Summer in handicap at this C&D 88 days ago, not ideally placed. That may not prove her limit on AW. Continued her progress on AW this winter; work to do with two of these on latest C&D run.
15:00 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The key to this race could be SHADES OF SUMMER's victory over Nine Tenths (second) and Wild Side (third) over track and trip in January. Jane Chapple-Hyam's mare took a pleasing step forward from that success to defeat Aramis Grey (second) and Cloud Cover (fifth) in this grade at Lingfield earlier in the month and she is fancied to continue on the upward curve and complete the four-timer. Nine Tenths looks the main danger after landing the Wulfruna Stakes at Wolverhampton on her latest outing.
NINE TENTHS enhanced her already excellent strike rate on synthetics when landing a 6-runner listed event at Wolverhampton 3 weeks ago and, with her rider taking off a handy 7 lb returned to handicaps, she can reverse form with Shades of Summer on these more favourable terms than when the pair met over C&D on New Year's Day. The latter-named is thriving though and respected, with Cloud Cover and Wild Side others expected to be thereabouts.
Nine Tenths is a major player but the likeable and progressive SHADES OF SUMMER may be able to lower her colours again.
(8) Fivethousandtoone 8/1, C&D winner. 9/4, gained reward for his consistency when winning 6-runner handicap at Kempton (6f) 44 days ago, by ¾ length from Batal Dubai. Overall strike rate tempers enthusiasm in follow-up bid but he ought to give another good account. Two good efforts since headgear was switched to a visor; capable of another big run.
10
2nd (10) (16/1 -14%) Misty Grey
16
16/1(-14%)
(10) Misty Grey 16/1, Sixteen runs since last win in 2022 but come down in weights as a result and cemented good start for new yard when second of 6 in listed race at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 13/2) 20 days ago, running on. Not dismissed lightly. Two promising runs for his new yard; should cope with the return to 6f; one to consider.
5
3rd (5) (33/1 -136%) Chipstead
33
33/1(-136%)
(5) Chipstead 33/1, 12/1, won 12-runner handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 28 days ago by ½ length from Summerghand, leading 1f out and driven out. Clearly in top form but more on his plate here up 3 lb. Two AW wins this winter, latterly beating a few of these at Lingfield; this looks tougher.
14
4th (14) (12/1 +0%) Billyjoh
12
12/1(+0%)
(14) Billyjoh 12/1, Yet another good advert for his yard, value for extra when winning handicaps at Southwell/Chelmsford prior to a good second of 12 to Albasheer in handicap (8/1) at this course (5f) 14 days ago. Definite each-way claims returned to 6f. Progressing well and the return to 6f looks sure to suit; has his best days ahead of him.
13
5th (13) (50/1 -100%) Bergerac
50
50/1(-100%)
(13) Bergerac 50/1, Capitalised on much-reduced mark over 5f here in November and followed up from 5 lb higher mark at Southwell (5f) a month later. Not disgraced in 3 outings since the turn of the year but others come here with more pressing claims. Two 5f wins to end 2023 but this year's efforts leave him with something to find.
7
6th (7) (18/1 -13%) Aberama Gold
18
18/1(-13%)
(7) Aberama Gold 18/1, Smart gelding who tasted success 5 times last year, notably Sky Bet Dash/Stewards' Cup. Should come on for last month's reappearance run in listed company at Southwell (5f) 5 weeks ago and better anticipated with usual visor back on. Back to a good mark and looks set to go well in what should be a truly-run event.
1
7th (1) (6/1 +8%) Albasheer
6
6/1(+8%)
(1) Albasheer 6/1, Dead-heated with Summerghand in valuable handicap at York in August and better than ever in recent months, winning back-to-back handicaps here. Lines up here operating from career-high mark but foolish to rule him out in bid for the hat-trick. Impressive in good handicaps here the last twice; lofty mark to defy but folly to ignore.
9
8th (9) (25/1 -79%) Summerghand
25
25/1(-79%)
(9) Summerghand 25/1, Veteran who added to his already impressive C.V when dead-heating with Albasheer at handicap at York (6f) last summer. Efforts mixed in recent starts but best effort for a while from reduced mark when ½-length second of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 4 weeks ago. In the mix. Dead-heated with Albasheer at York last summer & reopposes on 21lb better terms; e-w shout.
3
9th (3) (25/1 -257%) Juan Les Pins
25
25/1(-257%)
(3) Juan Les Pins 25/1, Solid return back from 4 months off when runner-up in listed company at Southwell (5f) in February and easy to overlook his subsequent run at Wolverhampton (unproven at the trip). This much more his bag and he comes here fresh. Penultimate 5f 2nd was a cracking run; this should be run to suit; big chance back at 6f.
2
10th (2) (18/1 -80%) Coachello
18
18/1(-80%)
(2) Coachello 18/1, Recorded smart performances when winning handicaps at Lingfield/over C&D late last year. Not at best when fourth in listed Kachy Stakes last month but good chance he'll be back to his best here. Conditions not an issue but defying such a mark in a hot handicap may be beyond him.
4
11th (4) (11/4 +45%) Cover Up
2.75
11/4(+45%)
(4) Cover Up 11/4, Two wins from 6 runs last year. 5/6, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at this course (5f) 36 days ago, drawing clear to score with plenty in hand. Assessor has had his say but represents leading yard and sure to go well in bid to make it 4-4 on AW. 3-3 on AW and has looked high class over 5f here the last twice; stiff 6f a nagging doubt.
15
12th (15) (9/1 +25%) Solray
9
9/1(+25%)
(15) Solray 9/1, New Bay colt who gained a second C&D success in good style in December and possible he was inconvenienced by modest early tempo back from 11 weeks off when third of 8 back here in February. This his toughest ask yet but he remains low-mileage. Two C&D wins to his name; still has potential but this looks too hot.
6
13th (6) (50/1 -127%) The X O
50
50/1(-127%)
(6) The X O 50/1, Dual AW winner who posted effort for some time when 1½ lengths seventh of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 28 days ago, keeping at it well given his early exertions. Needs to build on that now. Ran well at this meeting last year; latest run better than bare figures; others stronger.
12
14th (12) (11/2 -10%) Batal Dubai
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(12) Batal Dubai 11/2, C&D winner who showed improved form when adding to his tally at Chelmsford (6f) in October. Solid efforts all 3 starts since, ½-length third of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 28 days ago, having not looked ideally suited by test of speed. Likely has an even bigger effort in him. Progressing well and conditions hold no terrors; this may prove too competitive though.
15:35 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Cover Up is going from strength to strength at the moment, seeking four wins in a row after proving a comfortable three-length victor over 5f here last time, but a further 13lb rise will make life a lot tougher. Therefore, a chance can be taken on JUAN LES PINS, who hit the frame in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot last year and continued to progress to be placed at Listed level three times after that effort. Michael Appleby's seven-year-old raced over an inadequate trip at Wolverhampton latest but that could have served its cause and put him spot on for this. Albasheer had Billyjoh (second) behind over 5f here last time and can confirm that form to fight it out for the minor honours.
COVER UP continued his rapid rise up the ranks and made it 3-3 on all-weather when readily taking a 5f handicap here 5 weeks ago. The handicapper has reacted but he's unlikely reached his limit on that evidence and he looks a sure-fire player again with the return to 6f holding no fears. Summerghand and Batal Dubai who finished 2-3 at Lingfield 4 weeks ago are others to consider, with Albasheer and Juan Les Pins just another couple to note in a fiendishly-competitive contest.
Billyjoh and Juan Les Pins give Mick Appleby a good hand but ABERAMA GOLD (nap) has strong claims on last season's best form.
(1) Elegant Man 11/4, Low-mileage 4-y-o who is bred to be smart and took another step forward to make it 2 wins from 3 starts in 7-runner minor event (4/7) at Dundalk (10.7f) 63 days ago, impressive despite still looking green. Highly likely there's more to come and respected on handicap debut. Improving colt who has quickly reached a very useful level of form; respected.
11
2nd (11) (11/2 -38%) Penzance
5.5
11/2(-38%)
(11) Penzance 11/2, 4-y-o who has progressed at a rate of knots on AW, supplementing his C&D success on New Year's Day with an authoritative victory at Lingfield (10f) 4 weeks ago. 6 lb rise looks fair on that evidence and he looks a big player in bid to land the 5-timer. Record of 4-5 for shrewd new connections; likely hasn't stopped improving yet.
2
3rd (2) (15/2 +32%) Hooking
7.5
15/2(+32%)
(2) Hooking 15/2, Smart French performer who has enhanced his excellent strike rate at Cagnes-Sur-Mer in recent months, registering back-to-back victories at listed level. Return to this longer trip will hold no fears with cheekpieces again fitted. 2-2 this year; French runners have a good record on finals day; not dismissed.
12
4th (12) (40/1 -82%) Star Harbour
40
40/1(-82%)
(12) Star Harbour 40/1, Latest win at Bellewstown in September and best since the turn of the year when second of 9 in handicap at Dundalk (12f, 11/1) 21 days ago. May find some less exposed rivals too good back down in trip, however. Has an underwhelming strike-rate compared to many of these rivals.
8
5th (8) (16/1 -14%) Sir Busker
16
16/1(-14%)
(8) Sir Busker 16/1, Smart performer who is winless since landing Group 2 York Stakes in 2022. Running respectably on AW in recent months though, sixth of 11 in Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 20 days ago, running on. Should give another good account. Poor strike-rate since 2020; likely set for another supporting role.
9
6th (9) (50/1 -150%) Diderot
50
50/1(-150%)
(9) Diderot 50/1, Latest win at Chelmsford City in December. 12/1, creditable 2¾ lengths fifth of 12 to Penzance in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 28 days ago, no extra final 100 yds. A little more needed from this career-high mark on that evidence. Scored on Good Friday last year but now has a career-high mark to overcome.
4
7th (4) (33/1 -267%) Claymore
33
33/1(-267%)
(4) Claymore 33/1, Useful horse who ran respectably when fourth of 6 to Military Order in Winter Derby at Southwell (11.1f, 25/1) 34 days ago, albeit better placed than most. Others make more appeal making handicap debut. Ran respectably in the Winter Derby but isn't certain to back up that effort.
14
8th (14) (40/1 -150%) Onesmoothoperator
40
40/1(-150%)
(14) Onesmoothoperator 40/1, Found the switch to this venue firmly in his favour when landing November Handicap and bee in good order of late, conceding first run but keeping on well for second at Southwell (12f) 3 weeks ago. Return to this shorter trip may not be ideal in what is an ultra-competitive affair, though. Landed the November Handicap in 2023 but has a modest strike-rate.
10
9th (10) (9/1 +44%) Storm Catcher
9
9/1(+44%)
(10) Storm Catcher 9/1, Likeable sort who was edged out on the post by Penzance over C&D on his penultimate start and deservedly back to winning ways when landing 6-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 55 days ago. Looks sure to give another good account nudged up 2 lb. Back in a deeper field but he's steadily progressive and ties in with Penzance.
13
10th (13) (11/1 -214%) Oh So Grand
11
11/1(-214%)
(13) Oh So Grand 11/1, Upwardly mobile filly who resumed winning ways over C&D in October and won both subsequent starts, including Winter Oaks handicap in January, showing a most impressive turn of foot. Unlikely she's reached her limit on that evidence and high on shortlist. Progressive filly who quickened nicely to win the Winter Oaks; now 4-5 on AW.
3
11th (3) (33/1 +18%) Base Note
33
33/1(+18%)
(3) Base Note 33/1, Latest win at Chelmsford (10f) in November. 8/1, creditable 3¼ lengths seventh of 12 to Penzance in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 28 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Still, may find a few too good again here. Second in this last year when it was still a conditions race and only six ran.
6
12th (6) (17/2 +6%) Blanchland
8.5
17/2(+6%)
(6) Blanchland 17/2, Smart colt who is 2-2 here, latterly when landing 12.5f handicap in October. Respectable efforts since, 1-length third of 8 to Tyrrhenian Sea in listed race at Lingfield (10f, AW) 89 days ago, very much having run of race. Not discounted for all the trip may be on the short side for him now. Useful colt whose 2-2 record at Newcastle includes sole handicap attempt.
7
13th (7) (100/1 -355%) Freescape
100
100/1(-355%)
(7) Freescape 100/1, Latest win at Dundalk (10.7f) in December. 9/2, respectable second of 6 in minor event back at that venue (1m) 21 days ago. Back up in trip now and he may find a few too good from this mark. Irish 9yo who has failed to cut the mustard in previous Good Friday runs.
5
14th (5) (7/2 +61%) Teumessias Fox
3.5
7/2(+61%)
(5) Teumessias Fox 7/2, C&D winner. Career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Kempton (12f, 4/1) 62 days ago, quicken clear impressively. Remains pretty low-mileage on artificial surfaces and manner of latest success suggests he could do better again on AW. Has to overcome a drop back in distance and career-high mark.
16:10 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The handicapper is taking no chances with Elegant Man but the four-year-old, who found only subsequent Doha Group 3 winner Rebel's Romance too good in Kempton's Wild Flower Stakes, is going the right way and can figure strongly, despite the burden of top-weight. However, there are dangers aplenty here, not least C&D winner OH SO GRAND, who has breezed through her last three races and may have enough in hand to defy an 8lb rise for her most recent success. Penzance is also on a roll and makes the shortlist, as does French raider Hooking, who is another intriguing option after two Listed wins in his homeland.
A smashing contest with a host of improving/in-form sorts in opposition with the percentage call in favour of PENZANCE. The 4-y-o has progressed at a rate of knots since joining Mick Appleby and there's highly likely even more to come judged on his authoritative success at Lingfield 4 weeks ago. Dangers aplenty are headed up by another impressive sort in the shape of Oh So Grand, To Catch A Thief and Elegant Man. Storm Catcher is also respected of the older brigade.
Slight preference is for PENZANCE, ahead of Elegant Man and Oh So Grand in a red-hot AW handicap.
(7) Talis Evolvere 33/1, 4-y-o who continued run of good form when scoring at Kempton (1m) in January prior to finishing good second behind Fantastic Fox at Lingfield later that month. Excuses when well beaten upped to 10f 4 weeks ago but revised mark demands more in any case back down to 1m. Form dipped sharply last time and is therefore hard to support with confidence.
3
2nd (3) (13/2 +28%) Kingdom Come
6.5
13/2(+28%)
(3) Kingdom Come 13/2, Low-mileage 5-y-o who confirmed promise of his run behind Dear My Friend when running out a good winner of the Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 3 weeks ago, leading last ½f and keeping on to repel Final Voyage. Respected for all he does need to brush up his starting. Narrowly beat Final Voyage at Wolverhampton last time, taking AW record to 4-6.
6
3rd (6) (9/2 +50%) Fantastic Fox
4.5
9/2(+50%)
(6) Fantastic Fox 9/2, C&D winner. Won 12-runner handicap at Lingfield (8f, AW, 6/1) 69 days ago by ½ length from Talis Evolvere. Should give another good account. Ties in with several of these rivals; won at Lingfield last time; not ruled out.
2
4th (2) (11/2 +15%) Fast Raaj
5.5
11/2(+15%)
(2) Fast Raaj 11/2, Smart French performer who was a good second at listed level in February and built on that when landing 6-runner minor event at Chantilly (8f) 21 days ago. Interesting he takes his chance here boasting a very good record on synthetics. Very useful performer; 7-12 on AW; French yard had a winner on this card in 2022.
14
5th (14) (20/1 -167%) Mclean House
20
20/1(-167%)
(14) Mclean House 20/1, Dream Ahead gelding who has built up a most impressive strike rate, bagging a fifth success at Lingfield (1m) last month. Lost little caste in defeat from 5 lb higher mark behind Dear My Friend back there 4 weeks ago but any further progress is less obvious on the back of that. Strike-rate is 5-9; ran creditably behind Dear My Friend in the Mile Trial.
5
6th (5) (6/1 +8%) Symbol Of Light
6
6/1(+8%)
(5) Symbol Of Light 6/1, :Lightly raced for his age and ran a cracker when second off level weights to Dear My Friend over C&D on New Year's Day. Good second despite steady gallop not helping at Kempton has followed and he's firmly on the shortlist here. Firmly knocking at the door; shade unlucky at Kempton most recently; big player.
9
7th (9) (22/1 -159%) King's Code
22
22/1(-159%)
(9) King's Code 22/1, Real success story for his yard, finding further progress when enhancing his excellent strike rate when winning 11-runner handicap at Kempton (1m) last month. Solid fourth in Lincoln Trial has followed and he looks sure to give another good account of himself. Ties in with several of these opponents on 2024 form; frame possibilities.
12
8th (12) (22/1 +21%) Tropez Power
22
22/1(+21%)
(12) Tropez Power 22/1, Three of his 4 career victories have come on AW and he again ran well when fourth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (1m) 24 days ago, typically travelling fluently. Cheekpieces on 1st time but suspicion he will find a couple too strong here. Steadily finding his form this year but faces a stiffer task in this field.
8
9th (8) (20/1 -122%) Final Voyage
20
20/1(-122%)
(8) Final Voyage 20/1, Irish raider who built on more positive signs to beat a next-time-out winner at Dundalk (1m) in February and ran another solid race when chasing home Kingdom Come in Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 3 weeks ago. Respected up 1 lb. Beaten only narrowly by Kingdom Come on latest run, producing a career-best RPR.
4
10th (4) (33/1 -106%) Tempus
33
33/1(-106%)
(4) Tempus 33/1, C&D winner. Seven wins from 24 Flat runs. 45/10, 3½ lengths fifth of 7 to Hooking in listed race at Cagnes-Sur-Mer (8f) 47 days ago, weakening final 1f. Previous C&D fourth behind Dear My Friend was a creditable effort and the handicapper has relinquished his grip ahead of this. The oldest contestant and losing spell goes back to summer 2022.
13
11th (13) (66/1 -136%) Master Zoffany
66
66/1(-136%)
(13) Master Zoffany 66/1, Course winner. Latest win over 7f here in December. However, operating below best in recent starts only seventh of 8 in handicap (16/1) at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 41 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Ended his 2023 campaign with a Newcastle win; not in same form this year.
11
12th (11) (18/1 -50%) Greatgadian
18
18/1(-50%)
(11) Greatgadian 18/1, C&D winner. Creditable second of 6 in handicap at this C&D (11/8) 16 days ago, picked off close home having had a protracted duel with eventual third. Cheekpieces back on and sound each-way claims. Close second twice here this month, taking Newcastle form figures to 1222.
1
13th (1) (3/1 -9%) Dear My Friend
3
3/1(-9%)
(1) Dear My Friend 3/1, Unbeaten on AW (2-2 here) and improved again following wind op/gelded, successful over C&D on New Year's Day and impressive in landing back-to-back contests at Lingfield (1m) since. Big player despite career-high mark to contend with. Produced a smart handicap performance in the Mile Trial, taking AW record to 4-4.
10
14th (10) (33/1 -32%) Zealot
33
33/1(-32%)
(10) Zealot 33/1, The all-weather success story of last winter, adding to his most impressive strike rate at Chelmsford (10f) 12 months ago. Operating below best in 3 starts since returning from an absence but assessor has given him a chance and return to this track will play to his strengths. Did extremely well in winter 2022-23; form has dipped sharply this year.
16:40 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Unbeaten since being gelded, DEAR MY FRIEND has already brushed aside a few of these in recent encounters and, whilst he has a further 6lb rise to cope with after a ready success at Lingfield earlier this month, the Charlie Johnston-trained four-year-old still has a lot going for him. Symbol Of Light, Kingdom Come and McLean House all have something to find with the selection judged on past form, therefore Fast Raaj, a Group 3 winner in France last summer, is suggested as a bigger threat.
DEAR MY FRIEND has done nothing but impress on all-weather since the turn of the year, producing a very smart display when maintaining his unbeaten record on synthetics at Lingfield 4 weeks ago, and he looks sure to make another bold bid on that evidence. Symbol of Light, runner-up both starts since the turn of the year, rates a big threat, with Final Voyage and Kingdom Come others to consider. French-raider Fast Raaj also needs factoring into things.
On better terms, SYMBOL OF LIGHT could well reverse January C&D placings with Dear My Friend who is respected all the same.
Racecard Key
Ths is the racecard key.
Icon
Meaning
TomForm top stats, gold rated
TomForm top stats silver rated
Ran similar race before
S
TomForm fatstest rated speed horse, last time out
T
Top Time speeed rated
Top Racingpost rated
At the races watchout for
At the races top pick
Top rated for thet statistic
How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
About U.K Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
The most famous horse racing event in the UK is the Grand National, which is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is a jump racing event that is known for its challenging course and has become a national institution in the UK. Other notable horse racing events in the UK include the Derby, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, and the Royal Ascot, held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
Horse racing in the UK is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which sets rules and standards for the industry. It is responsible for the welfare of racehorses and the safety of jockeys and trainers, as well as ensuring fair and transparent racing practices.
In addition to its economic and cultural importance, horse racing in the UK also plays a significant role in the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses. Many of the world's top thoroughbreds are bred and trained in the UK, and the industry plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Overall, horse racing is an integral part of British culture and a major contributor to the country's economy. It is a thrilling and exciting sport that continues to attract a loyal following and generate significant interest from spectators and bettors around the world.
(3/1 +65%)
(6/1 +63%)
(5/2 +38%)
(8/1 +27%)
(28/1 -12%)
(10/3 -33%)
(33/1 -32%)
(33/1 -65%)
(10/1 -11%)
(18/1 -29%)
(5/1 -50%)
(33/1 -18%)
(9/2 +25%)
(9/1 +44%)
(5/1 +0%)
(9/1 -64%)
(80/1 -60%)
(7/1 +56%)
(14/1 +0%)
(18/1 -13%)
(33/1 -32%)
(9/4 +44%)
(12/1 +40%)
(13/2 -30%)
(17/2 -21%)
(25/1 -39%)
(28/1 -250%)
(28/1 -409%)
(25/1 -56%)
(7/2 +22%)
(25/1 -39%)
(5/1 +72%)
(10/1 -33%)
(8/1 +20%)
(7/2 -5%)
(16/1 -60%)
(100/1 -300%)
(7/4 +30%)
(16/1 +11%)
(10/1 -18%)
(6/1 +8%)
(8/1 +20%)
(16/1 -14%)
(33/1 -136%)
(12/1 +0%)
(50/1 -100%)
(18/1 -13%)
(6/1 +8%)
(25/1 -79%)
(25/1 -257%)
(18/1 -80%)
(11/4 +45%)
(9/1 +25%)
(50/1 -127%)
(11/2 -10%)
(11/4 +63%)
(11/2 -38%)
(15/2 +32%)
(40/1 -82%)
(16/1 -14%)
(50/1 -150%)
(33/1 -267%)
(40/1 -150%)
(9/1 +44%)
(11/1 -214%)
(33/1 +18%)
(17/2 +6%)
(100/1 -355%)
(7/2 +61%)
(33/1 -106%)
(13/2 +28%)
(9/2 +50%)
(11/2 +15%)
(20/1 -167%)
(6/1 +8%)
(22/1 -159%)
(22/1 +21%)
(20/1 -122%)
(33/1 -106%)
(66/1 -136%)
(18/1 -50%)
(3/1 -9%)
(33/1 -32%)
