There were 21 Races on Sunday 23rd June 2024 across 3 meetings. There was 8 races at Hexham, 6 races at Ffos Las, 7 races at Pontefract, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Sunday 23rd June 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(6) Selection 7/2, 40/1, second of 7 in maiden at Hamilton (6f, good to firm) on debut 17 days ago, with the reopposing Komorkis 1½ lengths back in third. Bold bid on the cards. Belied her 40-1 odds with a promising effort at Hamilton, one place in front of Komorkis.
1
2nd (1) (5/4 +38%) Violet Love
1.25
5/4(+38%)
(1) Violet Love 5/4, Winner of a maiden at Chepstow and novice at Bath (both 5f) already this month. A double penalty is unlikely to prevent her going well on the hat-trick bid. Progressive at about 5f; scored comfortably the last twice; one of the main form players.
5
3rd (5) (12/1 -9%) Suzette
12
12/1(-9%)
(5) Suzette 12/1, 40/1, offered something to work on when making late headway into fourth on her 6f Redcar debut (soft) 26 days ago. Showed ability over 6f at Redcar but shaped as if she's crying out for further.
3
4th (3) (14/1 +58%) South Road
14
14/1(+58%)
(3) South Road 14/1, Foaled January 26. £35,000 2-y-o. Kodiac filly. Dam unraced out of useful 1¼m winner Lady Liberty. The betting should guide to expectations. £35,000 breeze-up 2yo; by Kodiac; sole newcomer in the field; market helpful.
2
5th (2) (28/1 -1144%) Komorkis
28
28/1(-1144%)
(2) Komorkis 28/1, 9/4, showed promise amidst inexperience when third (Selection second) of 7 in maiden at Hamilton (6f, good to firm) on debut 17 days ago. Should have more to offer for yard whose 2-y-os are going well. Should improve on her Hamilton effort; represents last year's winning yard; respected.
4
6th (4) (80/1 -220%) Elladora Black
80
80/1(-220%)
(4) Elladora Black 80/1, Twice-raced maiden. Ninth of 12 in seller (33/1) at Chester (7f, good) 9 days ago. Needs plenty of improvement. Needs to improve markedly on her form in selling races.
14:00 Pontefract Stakes (Class 4) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Selection (second) and Komorkis (third) finished behind a filly who was a late withdrawal from Friday's Albany at Royal Ascot on debut at Hamilton and neither is likely to be far away here, but VIOLET LOVE shades preference. The daughter of Havana Grey was a comfortable winner under a penalty at Bath and, despite having another 6lb on her back, she is fancied to complete the hat-trick.
SELECTION was 1½ lengths ahead of Komorkis when the pair clashed at Hamilton recently and is taken to confirm her superiority over Richard Fahey's charge, particularly as she receives weight from her this time. A double penalty also shouldn't prevent Violet Love playing a prominent role.
Provided her Hamilton promise is confirmed, SELECTION holds leading claims. Komorkis and Violet Love are the chief threats.
(4) Hello Zabeel 12/1, 33/1, creditable fifth of 13 in handicap at Windsor (6f, good to firm) 29 days ago, keeping on until last ½f. That was his first start for 7 months and possible he'll be sharper here from further reduced mark. Promising reappearance at Windsor; well treated if that run has brought him on.
3
1st (3) (13/2 -86%) Sarah's Verse
6.5
13/2(-86%)
(3) Sarah's Verse 13/2, Enhanced her good record at Bath over 5.7f in May. Not in quite the same form when fifth at Chepstow next time but quickly back to form returned to first-named venue when third of 8 in 5f handicap 16 days ago. Not discounted. Happiest at Bath; ran well there last time (5f) but not much room for error off this mark.
1
2nd (1) (15/2 -15%) Vince Lombardi
7.5
15/2(-15%)
(1) Vince Lombardi 15/2, 3-time winner at up to 6f who stepped up on his yard debut effort when seventh of 10 in handicap at Haydock (6f, firm) 16 days ago, brief headway under 2f out and never dangerous. Type yard do well with and better showing not ruled out. Poor track position at Haydock latest; on a winning mark and likely to go well.
7
3rd (7) (22/1 -120%) Fahrenheit Seven
22
22/1(-120%)
(7) Fahrenheit Seven 22/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 13/2, third of 5 in maiden at Nottingham (5f, good) 33 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time and step up to 6f promises to suit now attentions switch to handicaps. Promise over 5f; cheekpieces added for handicap debut; fast ground would be new.
8
4th (8) (9/2 +40%) Northfield Lake
4.5
9/2(+40%)
(8) Northfield Lake 9/2, Fair form when placed in maiden/novice events and ran up to best when third of 9 on handicap debut at Sandown (7f, good) 9 days ago. Return to sprinting will hold no fears and he's another holding claims. 7f looked to stretch him on h'cap debut 9 days ago; return to sprinting a plus; unexposed.
5
5th (5) (11/1 -69%) Mr Wonderful
11
11/1(-69%)
(5) Mr Wonderful 11/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Last of 5 in handicap (8/1) at Lingfield (6f, AW) 19 days ago, short of room final 100 yds and not recover. Reappearance third at Newcastle previously was an encouraging effort and he's one to bear in mind. One promising 2yo run; finishing effort has lacked punch on AW this year; still early days.
6
6th (6) (10/1 -33%) Western
10
10/1(-33%)
(6) Western 10/1, 7/1, creditable third of 9 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, good to firm) 15 days ago, ridden 2f out and staying on behind a pair of less exposed sorts. Can give another good account. Didn't run badly at Lingfield (6f, good to firm) last time but more will be needed here.
2
7th (2) (15/8 +32%) Starproof
1.875
15/8(+32%)
(2) Starproof 15/8, C&D winner. Creditable second of 12 in handicap at Newbury (6f, good to firm, 13/2) 10 days ago, headed inside final 100 yds and keeping on. Clearly on a workable mark and sound claims with a repeat. Two good runs this season sandwich a poor run at Bath; one of the likelier types.
9
8th (9) (33/1 -106%) Professor Tickle
33
33/1(-106%)
(9) Professor Tickle 33/1, Latest win at Lingfield (6f, AW) in December. Absent since finishing fifth of 11 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) later that month and headgear left off on return to action. Mark demands that bit more. Had plenty of racing at two, winning twice; improvement required to defy this mark.
10
9th (10) (50/1 -25%) Judge Frank
50
50/1(-25%)
(10) Judge Frank 50/1, Fair form when second in Newbury novice (6.5f) on debut last summer but not got near that level since, including making yard debut when eleventh of 12 in handicap at Chester (6.1f, good) 9 days ago. Good deal to prove at present. Low-key stable debut (6f, good; 100-1) nine days ago; best watched.
14:10 Ffos Las Handicap (Class 5) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Starproof bumped into an improver when filling the runner-up spot at Newbury last time and she is an obvious candidate from just 2lb higher, but a chance can be taken on FAHRENHEIT SEVEN. Mark Usher's gelding looks potentially well handicapped from an opening mark of 75, judged on what he achieved in novice/maiden events. Stepped up in trip and with cheekpieces applied for the first time, he can step forward. Western is another to consider.
STARPROOF confirmed she's on a workable mark when runner-up behind a progressive sort at Newbury 10 days ago and, back at the scene of her last success, she looks to hold sound claims if arriving in the same form. Vince Lombardi has seemingly been working his way back to full fitness in a couple of runs this term and he needs factoring in. Mr Wonderful and Northfield Lake are a couple of 3-y-os to consider also.
Hello Zabeel ran well on his return but VINCE LOMBARDI may have his measure this time.
(3) Malangen 10/1, Returning from 6 months off when creditable fourth over C&D at the start of this month. Only a respectable fourth at Perth since but still rates one of the more likely types here. Eight-time hurdle winner; back from break with two very respectable runs this month.
6
2nd (6) (15/2 -88%) Kopa Kilana
7.5
15/2(-88%)
(6) Kopa Kilana 15/2, Bumper winner. 0-14 over hurdles but he did go mighty close over C&D 8 days ago. Needs considering off the same mark. Ran big race and lost out only by a head over C&D eight days ago; obvious contender.
14
3rd (14) (14/1 +0%) Heart Above
14
14/1(+0%)
(14) Heart Above 14/1, Yet to match his fairly useful bumper form in this sphere, finishing down the field in 2 handicaps this spring. Too soon to write off but need to see more. Tailed off when favourite for handicap debut and latest run was also underwhelming.
8
4th (8) (5/1 +38%) Brian's Jet
5
5/1(+38%)
(8) Brian's Jet 5/1, Placed again when third of 12 at Sedgefield in May but behind For Three when fifth over C&D since. 0-13 over hurdles but recent efforts (one over C&D) give him pretty solid each-way claims.
11
5th (11) (22/1 -214%) Foxwood
22
22/1(-214%)
(11) Foxwood 22/1, Comfortably his best effort in handicaps when third of 10 over C&D 8 days ago, with the reopposing Kopa Kilana a length ahead in second. Runs off 1 lb lower now. Placed from out of the weights over C&D last week; effectively 1lb lower today.
5
6th (5) (150/1 -3233%) Albert Park
150
150/1(-3233%)
(5) Albert Park 150/1, Fairly useful ex-Irish Flat maiden who has been brought along steadily over hurdles, finishing a creditable third in 16.5f Market Rasen handicap 16 days ago. Can make presence felt. Placed in two of his three handicaps and may still have a bigger run in him; shortlisted.
9
7th (9) (125/1 -681%) Fathers Advice
125
125/1(-681%)
(9) Fathers Advice 125/1, Runner-up 4 times over hurdles and also second over fences at Newcastle in January. Back from a break with a respectable fourth in a Cartmel chase last month. Didn't run badly over fences last month but career strike-rate now 0-26.
4
8th (4) (80/1 -2567%) For Three
80
80/1(-2567%)
(4) For Three 80/1, Resumed winning ways at Sedgefield (2m) in May and backed it up with a good second over C&D 11 days later. Fell early at Southwell latest. Worth another chance to show he's still on a favourable mark. Won at Sedgefield last month and creditable second of 14 over C&D since; respected.
12
9th (12) (450/1 -5525%) Iolani
450
450/1(-5525%)
(12) Iolani 450/1, Veteran who snapped a losing run when shading a tight finish at Cartmel (17f, soft) 25 days ago. His record doesn't mark him down as one likely to follow up. Veteran; ended long losing run with narrow success in plating company last month.
13
10th (13) (200/1 -300%) Le Fou's Keep
200
200/1(-300%)
(13) Le Fou's Keep 200/1, Poor maiden hurdler who wasn't disgraced back from a break at Sedgefield last month but he doesn't look anywhere nearer a first success. Placed at massive odds in Sedgefield maiden in October but not the most obvious one here.
7
11th (7) (300/1 -1400%) Executive Pool
300
300/1(-1400%)
(7) Executive Pool 300/1, Not scored since last year and hasn't done enough in recent outings to make him of real interest here, including well held on the Flat for new yard recently. A first-time visor replaces blinkers. Ran well over hurdles last month but tailed off on the Flat for new stable 17 days ago.
10
12th (10) (400/1 -1900%) Treasured Company
400
400/1(-1900%)
(10) Treasured Company 400/1, Dual 2m hurdles winner in 2021. Lightly raced and below par since, with his latest well-held fourth at Southwell no real step back in the right direction. Lightly raced and generally very disappointing since winning twice in 2021.
15
13th (15) (350/1 -1300%) Don't Look Back
350
350/1(-1300%)
(15) Don't Look Back 350/1, A fair performer on the Flat for Lucinda Russell last year but no better than modest form over hurdles for this yard. Passed over again. Didn't run badly at Perth this month but remains difficult to enthuse over.
1
14th (1) (350/1 -1300%) Fame Valley
350
350/1(-1300%)
(1) Fame Valley 350/1, Runner-up on his handicap debut at Ayr (2m) in January 2022 but finished lame back there next time and not seen again pulling up there in February. Has enough to prove. Returned from long absence with poor run in February; off for another 118 days since.
2
15th (2) (400/1 -1112%) Ironopolis
400
400/1(-1112%)
(2) Ironopolis 400/1, Fair form when third in a Sedgefield juvenile last autumn but well below that level twice since, finishing down the field on handicap hurdle debut latterly. Placed in Sedgefield maiden in October but struggled on recent handicap hurdle debut.
14:18 Hexham Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
A competitive opener with marginal preference for KOPA KILANA. The seven-year-old went close to winning here last weekend when a head second and, with the handicapper leaving his mark unchanged, he could go one better. Malangen finds himself 3lb lower than when he scored at Perth last September and might emerge as the main danger. Of the remaining runners, last month's Cartmel winner Iolani has been raised 3lb for his head success, but cannot be discounted.
FOR THREE looks the way to go assuming he's none the worse for his recent tumble at Southwell. Albert Park showed he can make an impact in handicaps when third at Market Rasen last time and is second choice ahead of last weekend's C&D 2-3 Kopa Kilana and Foxwood.
Top of the list is FOR THREE, who followed last month's Sedgefield win with a good effort over C&D. Albert Park is second choice.
(6) Irv 9/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in April. Not in quite the same form when fourth of 7 in handicap at Redcar (10f, soft) 27 days ago. Should be on the premises. AW success in April; has registered only one turf win since 2019.
8
2nd (8) (16/1 +52%) Indication Rocket
16
16/1(+52%)
(8) Indication Rocket 16/1, Newcastle winner last spring but little to shout about since, eighth of 9 in handicap at Musselburgh (7.1f, good to firm) 10 days ago. Significantly back up in trip. Holds dismal claims on 2024 form; needs a big revival.
3
3rd (3) (11/1 -175%) Three Platoon
11
11/1(-175%)
(3) Three Platoon 11/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2021. 40/1, third of 10 in handicap at Beverley (9.9f, good to soft) 5 days ago, keeping on nicely. Clear signs of a revival at Beverley five days ago; possibilities off same mark.
4
4th (4) (2/1 +60%) Bay Dream Believer
2
2/1(+60%)
(4) Bay Dream Believer 2/1, Temperamental sort. Respectable fourth of 13 in handicap (8/1) at this C&D (good) 13 days ago given she was slowly into stride and forced wide on the home turn. One to consider. Respectable fourth in all three outings this term, latest over C&D; enters calculations.
7
5th (7) (15/2 -67%) Duchess
7.5
15/2(-67%)
(7) Duchess 15/2, Well prepared to make a winning reappearance at Yarmouth in May. Below form fifth of 9 in handicap at Chepstow (8.1f, good to firm, 11/4) 15 days ago, though that undulating track may not have been ideal. Back up in trip. Not taken lightly. Off the mark with comfortable win at Yarmouth; unsuited by Chepstow since.
1
6th (1) (3/1 -71%) Ballsbridge
3
3/1(-71%)
(1) Ballsbridge 3/1, Blinkers back on and easily best effort this season when second of 13 in handicap at this C&D (good) 13 days ago, making effort earlier than ideal, too. Has to be taken seriously on the back of that. Ran encouragingly in C&D contest last time; form has been boosted; strong chance.
5
7th (5) (11/1 +31%) Mythical
11
11/1(+31%)
(5) Mythical 11/1, Twenty one runs since last win, gained back in in 2019. 28/1, sixth of 7 in handicap at Thirsk (12f, good to firm) 16 days ago, slowly away. Headgear probably overdue given he looks awkward so interesting to see what cheekpieces do for him having tumbled in the weights. Good chance off current mark, provided he takes well to first-time headgear.
9
8th (9) (66/1 -65%) Schumann
66
66/1(-65%)
(9) Schumann 66/1, 50/1, twelfth of 13 in handicap at this course (17.1f, good) 13 days ago. Significantly down in trip and has a lot to prove. Poor form for new yard this term; drops back markedly in trip.
14:30 Pontefract Handicap (Class 6) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
THREE PLATOON returned to form with a creditable third at Beverley earlier in the week and the son of Kingman looks to hold strong claims from an unchanged mark. The unexposed Ballsbridge, runner-up over C&D last time out, could prove to be the main threat, especially given his ability to handle this track. Yarmouth winner Duchess was unsuited by the undulations of Chepstow, but it would come as no surprise were she to fare better now.
Despite going about things in very contrasting manners, BALLSBRIDGE and Bay Dream Believer both shaped with promise in the same C&D race a fortnight ago. The former looked to have them in trouble before worn down by one late and he looks the way to go. Of the others, Duchess is a threat having had an excuse at Chepstow last time.
Preference is for BALLSBRIDGE (nap) whose encouraging C&D effort can be upgraded. Bay Dream Believer is second choice.
(5) Miami Memories 5/1, Sent off 2/1 but held back by inexperience when sixth of 9 in maiden at Chepstow (5.1f, good to firm) on debut 15 days ago. Open to plenty of improvement for powerful stable. Ran okay without threatening on her Chepstow debut (well backed); can do better.
3
(3) (22/1 -83%) Jagetme
22
22/1(-83%)
(3) Jagetme 22/1, Foaled February 17. €26,000 foal, 25,000 gns yearling, €62,000 2-y-o, Soldier's Call filly. Half-sister to several winners, including 1¼m winner Sir Zelmer and 2-y-o 9.5f winner Sol Cayo. Dam 10.5f-1½m winner. Likely to need further. 62,000euros breeze-up 2yo; half-sister to seven winners; bred to need further than this.
1
1st (1) (2/5 +50%) Cayman Tai
0.4
2/5(+50%)
(1) Cayman Tai 2/5, Runner-up all 3 starts, latest in a novice event at Salisbury (6f, good to firm) 12 days ago. Sets a solid standard back over 5f. Runner-up all three starts; his 6f form sets the standard; major player back at 5f.
4
2nd (4) (3/1 +0%) Hettie Jack
3
3/1(+0%)
(4) Hettie Jack 3/1, Very green on debut and still looked a work-in-progress when winning 8-runner seller at Goodwood (5f, good to firm, 7/2) 14 days ago, driven out. Hung both ways but still won a Goodwood seller decisively last time; no penalty; e-w shout.
2
3rd (2) (80/1 -300%) Roysdelight
80
80/1(-300%)
(2) Roysdelight 80/1, Minor promise so far, 4¼ lengths sixth of 8 to Hettie Jack in seller at Goodwood (5f, good to firm) 14 days ago. Visor on first time and more needed in this company. Has shown promise but over 4l behind Hettie Jack in a Goodwood seller latest; now visored.
14:40 Ffos Las Stakes (Class 5) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
CAYMAN TAI has filled the runner-up spot on all three starts to date and this looks an excellent opportunity for him to go one better. Richard Hannon's colt showed plenty of promise to be beaten just a length after a poor start over 6f at Salisbury last time and his turn looks very near. Hettie Jack, who landed a seller at Goodwood a fortnight ago, looks the main threat, ahead of Miami Memories.
CAYMAN TAI hasn't done a lot wrong despite finishing second all 3 starts and is taken to put that experience to the best possible use. Nala Star is bred to be sharp and showed plenty of pace when runner-up at Lingfield recently so she could be the main danger.
Cayman Tai is respected but HETTIE JACK, unpenalised for her win in a seller, can follow up.
(3) Jeteye 10/1, Runner-up on completed start in points and in handicap hurdle at Southwell in April. Not made much of an impact in pair of chase tries subsequently but not out of the question a switch back to hurdling could have a positive effect. Interesting if market speaks in his favour. Blinkers on 1st time. Recent chase form is underwhelming; good claims if judged on hurdle run in April, though.
7
2nd (7) (15/2 +46%) Wotyoudunnow Buddy
7.5
15/2(+46%)
(7) Wotyoudunnow Buddy 15/2, Belatedly off the mark when taking 7-runner selling hurdle here (16.2f, soft) early last month but let down by his jumping in a strongly-run handicap back here 33 days ago. Takes a significant step back up in trip here. Won 2m seller here last month, his ninth hurdling start; has stamina to prove today.
13
3rd (13) (11/1 +0%) Lady Hamilton
11
11/1(+0%)
(13) Lady Hamilton 11/1, Still a maiden but she has found some consistency in recent starts, third of 7 in handicap hurdle (7/1) at this course (20.1f, soft) 22 days ago, staying on run-in. Longer trip here worth exploring on that evidence. 0-10 over hurdles but posted three fairly good efforts this spring; new trip/headgear now.
8
4th (8) (7/1 +30%) Dapper Gent
7
7/1(+30%)
(8) Dapper Gent 7/1, Runner-up in selling/maiden company in May and not disgraced when third of 10 in novices' handicap hurdle at Perth (16.2f) 2 weeks ago. Steps up markedly in trip now and fact he arrives in good heart very much a plus. Placed three times over 2m in recent weeks (one here); hiked up in trip today.
1
5th (1) (350/1 -7678%) Breakdance Kid
350
350/1(-7678%)
(1) Breakdance Kid 350/1, Improved for the switch to chasing, opening his account at Market Rasen (23.8f) in February and dispelled 2 distinctly lesser efforts with a career-best success over 3m here 8 days ago. Positively ridden then and claims if translating that improvement back to the smaller obstacles. 2-5 over fences after wide-margin course win last week; back hurdling today.
11
6th (11) (300/1 -5900%) Iturgeon Du Breuil
300
300/1(-5900%)
(11) Iturgeon Du Breuil 300/1, Lightly-raced maiden who has stepped up markedly for switch to handicaps/application of cheekpieces, second of 9 in a C&D handicap 33 days ago. One of the likelier types here. Placed in both handicaps, latterly when going close over C&D last month; likely contender.
2
7th (2) (300/1 -1775%) Defence Witness
300
300/1(-1775%)
(2) Defence Witness 300/1, Fairly useful form when landing a Catterick bumper in November. Made the frame both starts in novice/maidens thereafter but disappointed (after 4 months off) on handicap debut at Uttoxeter 17 days ago. Cheekpieces go on now tackling this marked longer trip and it remains early days. Well beaten when dropped to 2m for handicap debut; tries new trip and cheekpieces here.
14
8th (14) (100/1 -100%) Robert D'ores
100
100/1(-100%)
(14) Robert D'ores 100/1, Shaped with definite promise over fences this time last year but he's failed to complete on each of his last 4 starts since the turn of the year, latterly when pulled up in a C&D handicap hurdle 6 weeks ago. Best watched from out of the weights here. Tongue tie left off. Failed to complete his last four races and has took much to prove.
9
9th (9) (200/1 -300%) Emotional Roller
200
200/1(-300%)
(9) Emotional Roller 200/1, First sign of promise under Rules when third of 12 on 2½m Wetherby handicap debut on Boxing Day. Fell next time and low-key return from 4 months off when pulled up at Southwell (24.2f) 3 weeks ago. Needs to step up considerably on that if he's to figure here. Placed on handicap debut in December (2m3f) but pulled up when upped to 3m this month.
4
10th (4) (350/1 -12627%) Better Be Definite
350
350/1(-12627%)
(4) Better Be Definite 350/1, Much improved away from testing ground in recent months, making it 2 wins from his last 3 starts in 10-runner C&D handicap 33 days ago, leading on line. Looks a live player again nudged up another 3 lb. 2-7 over hurdles after last month's narrow C&D win; further progress possible.
5
11th (5) (300/1 -809%) Agilulf
300
300/1(-809%)
(5) Agilulf 300/1, Still looking for first success and whilst he dispelled a poor run at Perth when finishing midfield over 2m here last time, others appeal more for win purposes upped significantly in trip. Ran well in April, after a break, but two lesser efforts followed; not bred for this trip.
6
12th (6) (350/1 -961%) Toscan Genius
350
350/1(-961%)
(6) Toscan Genius 350/1, Modest Flat winner who had showed promise in this sphere prior to a low-key handicap debut display at Cartmel (17.2f) 25 days ago. Needs to leave that well behind upped significantly in trip but too soon to be writing him off. Low-grade Flat winner; well beaten in 2m1f seller on last month's handicap hurdle debut.
10
|PU| (10) (300/1 -3233%) Milan Echo
300
300/1(-3233%)
(10) Milan Echo 300/1, Ex-Irish maiden who took a step back in the right direction on first run for this trainer in November. However, failed to beat a rival both starts since. Steps up in trip here following 2 months off. Has a bit to prove (including stamina) but has dropped to a tempting mark.
12
|PU| (12) (450/1 -1700%) Ice Day
450
450/1(-1700%)
(12) Ice Day 450/1, Well held only start in bumpers and failed to pull up any trees in trio of mares' maiden hurdles at up to 20f. Connections quick to opt for a step up in trip on handicap debut which could well help. Market should prove a useful guide. Tongue strap on 1st time. Has not shown a great deal in maidens; improvement possible over new trip in handicaps.
14:48 Hexham Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 23f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Having finished a half-length second here 17 days earlier, BETTER BE DEFINITE made it two wins from his last three starts when successful by a short head over C&D last month. He was value for more than the winning margin suggests, so a 3lb rise in the handicap shouldn't prevent him from going close. Sam England's stable is in good form, with three winners this month, and his representative Jeteye may be worth a second look. Lady Hamilton shaped nicely when third here at the beginning of the month and could improve for the step-up in trip.
BETTER BE DEFINITE has proved a different proposition since stepped up in trip/faced with less testing ground, making it 2 wins from his last 3 starts over C&D 33 days ago. Up 3 lb for that success, he looks a likely player again. Facile chase scorer here Breakdance Kid, low-mileage Defence Witness and Iturgeon du Breuil, who was runner-up himself over C&D last time, head up the dangers.
Preference is for BETTER BE DEFINITE (nap), who kept on strongly from off the pace to double his hurdling tally over C&D last month.
(7) River Of Stars Evens, Group 3 winner at York last May and runner-up twice at Group 2 level later in the summer. No more than a respectable third in that same York Group 3 on her reappearance 4 weeks ago but she'll be hard to beat if back to anywhere near her best. Ran respectably when bidding for a second success in the Bronte Cup; leading player.
3
2nd (3) (40/1 -186%) Ching Shih
40
40/1(-186%)
(3) Ching Shih 40/1, Good efforts in the Geoffrey Freer at Newbury and Park Hill at Doncaster at the end of last summer but well below that level in her 2 outings this year. Has something to prove for now. Respectable third in this race last year but has a question mark over current form.
4
3rd (4) (8/1 +64%) Divina Grace
8
8/1(+64%)
(4) Divina Grace 8/1, Useful filly. 6/4, creditable fourth of 8 to Iron Lion in handicap at Haydock (1½m, good to firm) 15 days ago. Ties in with Vera Verto and Ayyab on handicap form but this is a tougher task.
10
4th (10) (66/1 -267%) Three Priests
66
66/1(-267%)
(10) Three Priests 66/1, Fairly useful mare. 50/1, 21½ lengths last of 5 to King of Conquest in listed race at Goodwood (1½m, good to firm) 14 days ago. Uphill task. 33-1 fourth in this contest last year; well held on sole run since.
8
5th (8) (100/1 -1011%) Scenic
100
100/1(-1011%)
(8) Scenic 100/1, Won 1½m Kempton handicap on reappearance in May. 25/1, good 3¾ lengths sixth of 13 to Queen of The Pride in Group 3 Pinnacle Stakes at Haydock (1½m, good to firm) 15 days ago. Looks more a place than win contender. Ran well on difficult terms in Haydock Group 3 most recently; not dismissed.
2
6th (2) (100/1 -355%) Ayyab
100
100/1(-355%)
(2) Ayyab 100/1, Has returned in good form, placing twice on AW before resuming winning ways in 1½m Goodwood handicap last month. Held on narrowly in Goodwood handicap last month; steadily progressive.
6
7th (6) (50/1 -257%) Never Ending
50
50/1(-257%)
(6) Never Ending 50/1, Better than ever on just her second start for David O'Meara yard when landing a 1¼m Haydock handicap (soft) in a first-time tongue tie (retained) last month. Likely quicker ground a slight concern but thereabouts on form. Form of Haydock win was boosted when the runner-up scored at Royal Ascot; new trip.
12
8th (12) (200/1 -614%) Zarabanda
200
200/1(-614%)
(12) Zarabanda 200/1, Useful filly who was a creditable fourth in 1¼m Ripon handicap 24 days ago. More needed to get heavily involved at this level and her record suggests she's ideally suited by softer ground than she's likely to encounter here. Unconvincing record at Listed level; enough to prove back up in trip.
11
9th (11) (100/1 -1011%) Vera Verto
100
100/1(-1011%)
(11) Vera Verto 100/1, Useful mare. Respectable eighth of 16 in handicap at Navan (13f, good to soft, 5/1) on reappearance 57 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Entitled to come on for the outing and runner-up at listed level in Britain last autumn. Irish mare who showed useful form in two British races last October; interesting.
5
10th (5) (50/1 -900%) Ermesinde
50
50/1(-900%)
(5) Ermesinde 50/1, Placed 3 times at listed level last year. Below par in Longchamp listed race on reappearance but better when 4¾ lengths sixth of 10 to Term of Endearment in Bronte Cup at York (1¾m, good) 29 days ago, although River of Stars was ahead of her. Non-stayer over 1m6f last time; placed three times in Listed grade; each-way hopes.
1
11th (1) (100/1 -25%) Avon Light
100
100/1(-25%)
(1) Avon Light 100/1, Won a brace of AW handicaps earlier this year. Proved herself on turf when third at Ascot last month but well behind Ayyab at Goodwood since. Plenty to find at this level. Form dipped sharply in the Goodwood race won by Ayyab; stiff task.
15:00 Pontefract Listed (Class 1) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
This represents a fine opportunity for RIVER OF STARS, who has upwards of 9lb in hand on official ratings and arrives following a solid third when attempting to lift a second Bronte Cup at York. A drop in trip shouldn't be a hindrance to Ralph Beckett's mare and she will be hard to beat if running to form. Scenic was far from disgraced in a Group 3 at Haydock last time and is a worthy candidate, while others to note include Ayyab and Irish raider Vera Verto.
If RIVER OF STARS is back to anywhere approaching her best she'll be a tough nut to crack in a listed race in which her yard has a good record. Vera Verto and Never Ending can fight it out for minor honours.
River Of Stars has to be feared but VERA VERTO looks an interesting alternative, while Never Ending is another appealing type.
(2) Darkened Edge 22/1, Heavy defeats both starts this season, last of 6 in handicap at Chepstow (5.1f, good to firm, 28/1) 15 days ago. Modest form in two handicaps this year; down in grade and still has time to do better.
1
1st (1) (8/1 -14%) Brandy Station
8
8/1(-14%)
(1) Brandy Station 8/1, C&D winner. 22/1, below form fifth of 11 in handicap at Southwell (5f). Off 8 months and he's entitled to need this. C&D win in 2019; not at best when last seen and absent for 257 days; opposable.
3
2nd (3) (14/1 -645%) Red Walls
14
14/1(-645%)
(3) Red Walls 14/1, Modest gelding. 3 wins from 13 runs this year, latest of them at Wolverhampton in April. Creditable fourth of 9 in handicap at Chester (7.6f, good, 40/1) 9 days ago. Return to 5f no issue and this is a drop in class. 0-21 on turf but has run well over C&D; good effort over 7.5f latest; major player.
4
3rd (4) (20/1 -789%) We're Reunited
20
20/1(-789%)
(4) We're Reunited 20/1, Modest gelding. 7/2, creditable second of 10 in minor event at Bath (5.7f, good) 16 days ago. Repeat of that will put him bang there again. Front-runner; solid placed efforts at Bath the last twice; more appealing than many.
5
4th (5) (50/1 -2122%) Ten O'clock
50
50/1(-2122%)
(5) Ten O'clock 50/1, Best effort yet when second of 7 in handicap at Lingfield (5f, good to firm) 24 days ago. Not as exposed as these so has to be considered. Went close at Lingfield last time but had the rail to help; needs more to break his duck.
15:10 Ffos Las Stakes (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
TEN O'CLOCK went agonisingly close to breaking her duck at Lingfield last month, but the three-year-old drops into classified company for the first time and she can go one better. We're Reunited, who also filled the runner-up spot last time out, can give the selection plenty to think about. Brandy Station hasn't been seen since October, but he has gone well fresh in the past and should not be underestimated.
This is much more suitable for RED WALLS down in trip and class and he knows how to get the job done at this level. We're Reunited and Ten O'Clock look the dangers.
We're Reunited comes here in good form but RED WALLS ran surprisingly well over 7.5f last time and can gain a first turf success.
(8) Pop The Question 66/1, Third foal, half-sister to 2 point winners, dam point winner. Successful between the flags herself but pulled up last time (May 27). 1-11 in points, the win gained in a good-ground maiden last month; rules debut today.
5
2nd (5) (50/1 -2560%) The Flying Poet
50
50/1(-2560%)
(5) The Flying Poet 50/1, €90,000 3-y-o, Milan gelding. Half-brother to fair 19f hurdle winner King of Cong. Hooded and flashed tail briefly but showed a bit to work on when a keeping-on fourth at Bangor last month (16.7f). More to come over this trip. Kept on from the rear for fourth on last month's Bangor debut; can improve here.
3
3rd (3) (10/1 -150%) Major Champion
10
10/1(-150%)
(3) Major Champion 10/1, No impact in Irish points but left opening hurdles run well behind when third of 9 over C&D a month ago, sticking to his task. That places him right in the mix here. Outran 66-1 odds when placed over C&D last month; ought to make his presence felt again.
2
4th (2) (8/1 -129%) Independent Jimmy
8
8/1(-129%)
(2) Independent Jimmy 8/1, Related to winners over obstacles but looked green in bumpers. More like it over hurdles, second of 6 at Market Rasen last month, albeit no match for the winner. Up in trip. Stuck to his task well when clear second to 1-12 favourite at Market Rasen last month.
6
5th (6) (125/1 -1463%) Fairland
125
125/1(-1463%)
(6) Fairland 125/1, Merit looks established in handicaps. Plugged on for fifth at Sedgefield last month and looks vulnerable back in maiden. Not beaten far off her lowly handicap mark last month and has each-way claims here.
4
6th (4) (8/1 +33%) My Friend Yeats
8
8/1(+33%)
(4) My Friend Yeats 8/1, Sixth foal, dam unraced. Off mark in Irish points at seventh attempt (May 26) and this looks a reasonable starting point under Rules. Won good ground Irish point last month; market may guide on rules debut.
9
7th (9) (450/1 -5525%) Tamlaght Eyes
450
450/1(-5525%)
(9) Tamlaght Eyes 450/1, Sister to fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Shut The Box and has won a point. Showed more than on bumper debut when third of 7 at Kelso but that was back in May 2022. Hurdles bow up in trip. Absent since third in Kelso bumper in May 2022; wait for encouragement from market.
7
8th (7) (450/1 -3114%) Florita
450
450/1(-3114%)
(7) Florita 450/1, Third foal, sister to fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Windance (19f-3¼m winner). Dam (c106/h115) 2m hurdle winner. Runner-up on last 2 of 3 starts in Irish points (latest Mar 31). Market may guide. Second in two slow-ground Irish point last season; market can guide on rules debut.
1
|PU| (1) (400/1 -1112%) Golden Swift
400
400/1(-1112%)
(1) Golden Swift 400/1, Well held in a bumper/completed start over hurdles. Struggled in maiden hurdles during the winter and unseated rider on handicap debut.
15:18 Hexham Maiden Hurdle (Class
4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Olly Murphy's only runner on the card THE FLYING POET looked in need of the experience on hurdles debut at Bangor last month, but shaped promisingly to finish fourth and any improvement could see him get competitive. Major Champion has undergone wind surgery since filling the third spot here 33 days ago and could give the selection the most to think about. Independent Jimmy is another to consider on the back of a fine second at Market Rasen.
THE FLYING POET cost plenty as a 3-y-o and the way he shaped on last month's debut at Bangor suggests there's plenty more to come from him over this sort of trip. He can improve beyond the level set by Major Champion and Independent Jimmy.
Sean Bowen's only ride on the card, THE FLYING POET, can take a big step forward from last month's Bangor debut.
(1) Trooper Bisdee 13/8, A four-time winner in 2023 who, following 9 months off, posted a career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Nottingham (16f, good) 33 days ago by 1½ lengths from Valley of Flowers. Feasible to think he can do better again and respected up 5 lb. Comfortably beat Valley Flowers at Nottingham, taking handicap record to 5-8; respected.
7
2nd (7) (28/1 -100%) Weddell Sea
28
28/1(-100%)
(7) Weddell Sea 28/1, Fairly useful winner at 2m over hurdles. 80/1, first run since leaving Andrew McNamara when fifth of 9 in handicap hurdle at Market Rasen (20.6f, good) 31 days ago, steady headway from 2 out without getting on terms. Others preferred back on the Flat/following a wind op. 2m hurdle winner; first Flat attempt beyond 1m4f.
5
3rd (5) (11/2 +0%) Valley Of Flowers
5.5
11/2(+0%)
(5) Valley Of Flowers 11/2, Progressed well in 2023 and started her 2024 campaign in positive fashion when second behind Trooper Bisdee at Nottingham (2m) in May. Far from disgraced when seventh of 15 in handicap at Thirsk (14f) 7 days ago and not discounted over longest trip she's faced to date. Ties in with Trooper Bisdee on Nottingham form; still unexposed at 2m+; one to consider.
2
4th (2) (80/1 -142%) Percy's Word
80
80/1(-142%)
(2) Percy's Word 80/1, Ended time with Dan Skelton with a facile success in Newton Abbot selling hurdle in 2022. Missed whole of last year though and always behind on yard debut/return from 20 months off when fourteenth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Kelso (22.7f) 46 days ago. Passed over back on the level. Not seen on Flat since 2018; second run for new yard; best watched.
3
5th (3) (100/1 -3900%) Yorkindness
100
100/1(-3900%)
(3) Yorkindness 100/1, A five-time winner in 2023, three of those victories coming over 17f at this venue. Shaped encouragingly when fourth on return in Chester Plate and whilst not in quite the same form in 2 starts since, her mark is steadily easing. Very much one to bear in mind back here. Interesting back at Pontefract, being 3-3 here (all last summer); rebound is likely.
6
6th (6) (50/1 -317%) Ginistrelli
50
50/1(-317%)
(6) Ginistrelli 50/1, Showed little both starts over hurdles last year but proved he retains ability after 9 months off when second of 6 in handicap at this course (12f, good, 125/1) 13 days ago, staying on. Needs to build on that tackling this marked step up in trip. 1m4f effort here on reappearance suggests this step back up in distance will suit.
4
7th (4) (100/1 -1567%) Animato
100
100/1(-1567%)
(4) Animato 100/1, Ended losing run at Catterick in May and, nudged up 2 lb, followed up at Chester (15.9f, soft) later that month. Latest Haydock run in hat-trick bid was disappointing but no great surprise to see him bounce back. Scored twice last month, then had an excuse in hat-trick attempt; not dismissed.
15:30 Pontefract Handicap (Class 4) 18f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Having posted a career-best victory on his seasonal bow at Nottingham, TROOPER BISDEE could make light work of a 5lb rise in the ratings. The four-year-old should have more to offer, with this step up in distance likely to suit. The biggest threat may emerge from Yorkindness, who races off her last winning mark, while Animato may have found his disappointment at Haydock earlier this month coming too soon and better can be expected.
A 4-time winner as a 3-y-o. TROOPER BISDEE resumed progress on the back of 9 months off when successful at Nottingham 33 days ago (Valley of Flowers placed second) and a 5 lb rise in the weights shouldn't prove beyond him on that evidence. Yorkindness, who is 3-3 at this track, is steadily easing in the weights and is feared, ahead of aforementioned Valley of Flowers.
Progressive Trooper Bisdee commands respect but the Pontefract factor swings the vote in favour of YORKINDNESS.
(4) Clan Chieftain 11/4, Low-mileage 4-y-o. Creditable second of 8 in handicap (11/4) at Salisbury (1¾m, good) 29 days ago. Claims if he can build on that now stepping up in trip again. Promising 2nd at Salisbury (1m6f, good) last month; 2m could suit; not fully exposed.
7
(7) (14/1 +0%) Teqany
14
14/1(+0%)
(7) Teqany 14/1, Won 2 staying handicaps on the Flat in summer 2021 but not seen since placing at listed/Grade 2 level over hurdles in the autumn of that year. The betting is perhaps the best guide to expectations after such a long absence. In fine form on Flat and over hurdles when last seen but that was 960 days ago.
1
1st (1) (8/1 -129%) Shagpyle
8
8/1(-129%)
(1) Shagpyle 8/1, Quite useful at around 1½m. Fared as well as could be expected in 1¾m York Group 3 latest. Shapes as if worth a go at this longer trip and respected back in much calmer waters. Highly tried (Group 3) latest and ran creditably; up in the weights as a result; new trip.
3
2nd (3) (5/1 -82%) Zoran
5
5/1(-82%)
(3) Zoran 5/1, 11/10, career best when making all in 7-runner handicap at Kempton (2m) 18 days ago. A 4 lb rise for that looks manageable. Easy front-running win at Kempton 18 days ago (2m); 4lb higher in a stronger race.
8
3rd (8) (8/1 +20%) Cubana Habana
8
8/1(+20%)
(8) Cubana Habana 8/1, 40/1, good second of 9 in handicap at Chepstow (1½m, good) on reappearance 23 days ago, no match for winner. Significantly up in trip. Good second at Chepstow on his return last month (1m4f); new trip worth exploring.
2
4th (2) (20/1 -208%) Oceanline
20
20/1(-208%)
(2) Oceanline 20/1, Won at Ascot last October but below par over hurdles and on the Flat later in 2023. Not seen for 6 months but the booking of Oisin Murphy suggests she could be primed for this comeback run. Received fine ride when winning at Ascot last October; struggled since; risky on return.
5
5th (5) (20/1 -344%) Navarre Express
20
20/1(-344%)
(5) Navarre Express 20/1, Course winner. Good third of 7 in handicap at Hamilton (13f, soft, 7/1) 25 days ago. Up in trip. Not taken lightly. Course winner last September; good run at Hamilton latest; 2m may suit; best form on soft.
6
6th (6) (300/1 -650%) Monsieur Lambrays
300
300/1(-650%)
(6) Monsieur Lambrays 300/1, Temperamental sort. Nineteen runs since last win in 2020. Distant sixth of 7 in C&D handicap last August and off since. Cubana Habana has to be considered the yard first string unless the betting strongly hints otherwise. Ran well on return last year but that was followed by three heavy defeats; long losing run.
15:40 Ffos Las Handicap (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Zoran is proven over this far having landed a lower grade race at Kempton earlier in the month. Navarre Express finished a close-up third over 1m5f at Hamilton, although fast ground is a worry for her, while Clan Chieftain posted an improved effort when upped to 1m6f at Salisbury and should make his presence felt. SHAGPYLE faced a difficult task in Group 3 company at York, but good efforts in handicaps over 1m4f prior to that offer plenty of encouragement and she gets the vote to go close if staying the longer distance.
ZORAN doesn't look overburdened up 4 lb for his recent Kempton success and might be able to go in again. Navarre Express and Shagpyle are 4-y-o fillies who could have more to come now stepping up to 2m for the first time and may provide the main opposition.
Teqany is intriguing back from his mammoth absence but CLAN CHIEFTAIN looks a safer option after a good run at Salisbury
(1) Kilmore Rock 12/1, First foal, dam unraced. Placed on 2 of 4 starts in points, runner-up last time (Apr 20). Has shown ability in points; makes rules debut in a modest race and could be involved.
3
2nd (3) (15/8 -25%) R S Ambush
1.875
15/8(-25%)
(3) R S Ambush 15/8, Fair maiden hurdler who showed he can be very competitive in handicaps when second over 19f at Carlisle (soft) in December. Too free back at that venue in February but returns with yard among the winners and he's a danger back in maiden company. Tailed off at Carlisle in February but on heavy ground; leading claims on previous form.
8
3rd (8) (28/1 -1389%) Stuti
28
28/1(-1389%)
(8) Stuti 28/1, Southwell bumper winner who made an encouraging start in this sphere when third of 13 in novice over 20.6f at Market Rasen in November. Hasn't really built on that since, though didn't do a lot wrong behind a pair of reasonable types at that venue a fortnight ago. Bumper winner who has been a fair third over hurdles the last twice; key player in this.
9
4th (9) (250/1 -6150%) Vanilla Dancer
250
250/1(-6150%)
(9) Vanilla Dancer 250/1, Progressive in bumpers, scoring at Sedgefield in November. Hasn't yet replicated that over hurdles but she caught the eye last time and this step up in trip could really see her in a better light. Bumper winner; three fair runs over hurdles & this step up in trip may help; not ruled out.
7
5th (7) (400/1 -300%) Dear Dot
400
400/1(-300%)
(7) Dear Dot 400/1, From quite a good family but looks a long-term project. Down the field at big odds on both starts.
2
6th (2) (250/1 -3233%) Lathan
250
250/1(-3233%)
(2) Lathan 250/1, €90,000 3-y-o, Doctor Dino gelding. Dam (c89/h107), jump winner in France, half-sister to fair useful chaser (stays 3½m) Vaucelet. Wears tongue strap. Interesting to see what that market makes of him. Half-brother to Scottish National winner Macdermott; found a winnable race on first start.
4
7th (4) (350/1 -430%) Stonegate
350
350/1(-430%)
(4) Stonegate 350/1, Modest form in bumpers and, while he's bred to make a hurdler, he failed to take to new discipline here last week. Up in trip. Tailed off at 150-1 on last Saturday's hurdle debut here.
6
8th (6) (250/1 -658%) Away She Goes
250
250/1(-658%)
(6) Away She Goes 250/1, Well held in 2 bumpers but mid-field effort on last week's hurdling debut at this venue (16.2f) was a bit more like it, not given a hard time. More to come. Well beaten in both bumpers and same story when 100-1 here on recent hurdle debut.
5
9th (5) (300/1 -355%) You're Kidding Me
300
300/1(-355%)
(5) You're Kidding Me 300/1, Limited impact both starts in Ireland for Enda Bolger. Tailed off in the spring on first two starts; probably best watched on stable debut.
15:48 Hexham Maiden Hurdle (Class
4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
The Hughie Morrison-trained STUTI could be the answer to this tricky little race. Third at Market Rasen last time out, the seven-year-old has shown enough to suggest her turn might be near. Vanilla Dancer hasn't looked short of ability in three starts over timber and appears to be the main danger, while hurdles debutant Lathan could surprise a few if taking to this discipline for the Rebecca Menzies team.
VANILLA DANCER has yet to match her bumper form over hurdles but this step up in trip could be the catalyst for a much-improved showing. R S Ambush returns from a break with his yard in good order and he sets the standard, with Stuti likely to give it another good go.
The pick of last season's handicap form makes R S AMBUSH a strong contender in this field and he earns the vote ahead of Stuti.
(6) Dancing In Paris 11/2, Powered clear when landing 20-runner York handicap (11.8f) in May and suggested he's capable of defying his revised mark when reeled in late on at Goodwood (12f) 8 days ago. Remains one to be interested in. Back in good form recently, with York success flanked by a couple of seconds.
3
1st (3) (9/4 +36%) Forceful Speed
2.25
9/4(+36%)
(3) Forceful Speed 9/4, Steady improver as a 3-y-o who completed hat-trick at Epsom (12f) in October. Had excuses on account of the heavy ground on his return over 10f here in April and he may yet resume progress back up in trip/returned to a sounder surface. Sole 1m4f attempt resulted in Epsom win; unexposed at the trip; interesting.
5
2nd (5) (11/1 +8%) Appier
11
11/1(+8%)
(5) Appier 11/1, Did very well to add to his tally on the back of a very slow start at Lingfield (12f, AW) at the start of the month and ran well when chasing home a better treated rival back at that venue 13 days ago. Remains 1 lb above last winning mark. Regular slow-starter; in decent form but faces a tougher task in this grade.
1
3rd (1) (9/4 +18%) Al Anoud
2.25
9/4(+18%)
(1) Al Anoud 9/4, Kingman filly who won both starts as a 3-y-o and she ran well after 8 months off when second of 11 on handicap debut at Windsor (10f) 4 weeks ago. Likely she can do better again now stamina is tested further and respected for excellent yard. 2-2 last year; ran well at Windsor on reappearance; open to further improvement.
2
4th (2) (16/5 -7%) Knightswood
3.2
16/5(-7%)
(2) Knightswood 16/5, Successful on 2 of his 5 starts last year and has performed with plenty of credit on 3 of his 4 outings this campaign, looking an unlucky loser having been short of room when second of 8 in handicap at Haydock (11.8f) 2 weeks ago. One to be interested in. Unlucky at Doncaster and Haydock the last twice; good chance granted better fortune.
4
5th (4) (16/1 -14%) Saratoga Gold
16
16/1(-14%)
(4) Saratoga Gold 16/1, Resurgent in blinkers when completing quick-fire hat-trick in 2022 and added to his tally at Kempton (12f) last July. Has largely struggled since, including in 2 starts for new yard in recent months. However, mark has eased and refitted blinkers could revive him. May stage a revival with blinkers reapplied; last four wins in this headgear.
16:00 Pontefract Handicap (Class 3) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
AL ANOUD found only a fellow progressive rival too strong on her seasonal/handicap bow at Windsor and this step up in distance looks a good move. A 1lb nudge up the ratings is unlikely to be the ceiling of the four-year-old's ability and she can make it three wins from four attempts. Recent Goodwood runner-up Dancing In Paris races off an unchanged mark and also enters the reckoning. Knightswood and Appier aren't easily dismissed either.
Competitive fare despite the small field with the narrow vote in favour of DANCING IN PARIS. Ian Williams' charge has thrived in recent starts, adding to his tally in good style at York before being reeled in late on by a subsequent winner at Goodwood 16 days ago. He's a player from the same mark. Knightswood was very unlucky at Haydock and is respected, with Forceful Speed and Al Anoud others in the mix.
Provided he gets some luck, KNIGHTSWOOD may well be the answer. Al Anoud is second choice.
(2) Kalama Sunrise 5/4, Improved when scoring from a basement mark at Chepstow early this month before taking another step forward to follow up over same C&D 6 days, Up on the recently and should be able to defy a penalty. 2-2 in cheekpieces, winning two 1m handicaps at Chepstow this month; leading claims.
4
2nd (4) (4/1 -60%) Dappled Light
4
4/1(-60%)
(4) Dappled Light 4/1, Got back on track returned to less testing conditions when a nose behind Kalama Sunrise in handicap at Chepstow (8.1f, good to firm, 13/2) 15 days ago. Remains lower in the weights than when winning in Ireland last season and rates as the main danger. A nose behind Kalama Sunrise last time and 6lb better off today; has to be in the picture.
5
3rd (5) (9/1 -13%) Zambezi Magic
9
9/1(-13%)
(5) Zambezi Magic 9/1, Better than result when sixth at Bath in May but below expectations when filling the same position at Chepstow (10f, good, 11/4) 6 days ago. Probably needs a couple to falter if he's to score. Tumbled down the weights since October but with some justification.
6
4th (6) (18/1 -100%) Signature Blue
18
18/1(-100%)
(6) Signature Blue 18/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 250/1, tenth of 12 in minor event at Kempton (7f) 18 days ago. Capable of better now handicapping. Poor form in three AW novices; makes handicap debut at a low level; check betting.
3
5th (3) (400/1 -1500%) Mykonos St John
400
400/1(-1500%)
(3) Mykonos St John 400/1, Runner up at Lingfield twice in the autumn but little impact this year and looks opposable again. Nearly four year since his sole turf win; not in top form since returning in April.
1
6th (1) (80/1 -789%) Thewaytothestars
80
80/1(-789%)
(1) Thewaytothestars 80/1, Some encouragement when fourth at Chepstow on penultimate outing but soundly beaten on other 3 starts this season. Has slipped in the weights but others make greater appeal. Not found her best this year, finishing behind Kalama Sunrise the last twice.
16:10 Ffos Las Handicap (Class 6) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
The application of cheekpieces appears to have worked the oracle with KALAMA SUNRISE. Jack Channon's filly has won both starts since being fitted with the headgear and, given the ease of Monday's four-length success at Chepstow, the hat-trick looks a distinct possibility. Dappled Light was narrowly beaten by the selection earlier in the month and may prove the main threat once again on more favourable terms. Mykonos St John slides further down the handicap and could bounce back to form.
KALAMA SUNRISE is going the right way now and can complete the hat-trick, once again at the chief expense of Dappled Light, who finished well from rear in their meeting at Chepstow earlier in the month. Handicap-newcomer Signature Blue may do better in this sphere and completes the 1-2-3.
Dappled Light is weighted to reverse recent Chepstow form with KALAMA SUNRISE (nap) but it may not be that straightforward.
(5) Belvedere Blast 8/1, A three-time 2m winner last June, including here. Stepped up on his reappearance when third at Southwell (20.5f0 under Brian Hughes 19 days ago. On a winning mark and needs considering. Seemingly back in good form this month and runs this track well; respected.
6
2nd (6) (17/2 -31%) Parvos
8.5
17/2(-31%)
(6) Parvos 17/2, Fair maiden hurdler in Ireland who produced an improved performance to get off the mark on third start for this yard at Sedgefield in February. Back from a lesser run at Musselburgh when a creditable fourth at Cartmel 4 weeks ago. Came good with comfortable Sedgefield win in February; may still have a bigger run in her.
3
3rd (3) (17/2 -55%) Invictus World
8.5
17/2(-55%)
(3) Invictus World 17/2, Bumper/maiden hurdle winner in Ireland. Creditable fourth on Down Royal handicap debut last September but off since unseating at Downpatrick later that month. Remains unexposed and betting interesting back from 9 months off. Unexposed 6yo; absent since falling in September but still enters calculations.
1
4th (1) (2/1 +27%) Imperial Data
2
2/1(+27%)
(1) Imperial Data 2/1, Likeable sort with an excellent strike rate under Rules, producing another improved showing to score at Cartmel last month. Progressed again when narrowly denied over C&D since. Nudged up another 5 lb but still much respected. Clear second over C&D in first-time cheekpieces last week, and might still be improving.
4
5th (4) (28/1 -12%) Dallas Des Pictons
28
28/1(-12%)
(4) Dallas Des Pictons 28/1, Useful hurdler/chaser at his best. Not so good nowadays but landed a C&D handicap last autumn. Pulled up over fences at Ayr in March and freshened up since. Surprise C&D winner in September but quickly back in the doldrums since; hard to predict.
2
6th (2) (25/1 -257%) Salsada
25
25/1(-257%)
(2) Salsada 25/1, Useful Flat winner who was placed twice in 2m handicap hurdles in March but she does need to shrug off a couple of lesser efforts since. Not at best last time but was placed off 2lb higher in valuable series final in March.
7
7th (7) (33/1 -1550%) Haarar
33
33/1(-1550%)
(7) Haarar 33/1, On a hat-trick after maiden/novice wins around 2m last month. His opening handicap mark in this sphere looks fair so he ought to go well if his stamina holds. Dual novice winner last month (2m/2m1f); up in trip for handicap debut; can progress again.
16:18 Hexham Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Having scored a shade cosily at Southwell and Cartmel last month, Haarar makes his handicap debut in this sphere off what looks a workable mark. Sam England's charge is also a potential improver upped in distance and isn't taken lightly, but the course experience of IMPERIAL DATA may prove key. The seven-year-old looked set to complete a double over C&D recently but for idling late on, and a 5lb rise in the ratings may not be enough to prevent him getting back in the winning groove. Invictus World may chase the pair home.
BELVEDERE BLAST came good at this time last year and might be ready to strike after a back-to-form third at Southwell earlier this month. Thriving-pair Imperial Data and Haarar look the obvious dangers.
Topweight IMPERIAL DATA was reeled in by a stout stayer close home over C&D last weekend but can quickly regain the winning thread.
(8) Lennon 6/4, Promising individual. 15/8, career best when winning 11-runner event on handicap at Bath (8f, good) 8 days ago. Likely to improve further and merits plenty of respect. Justified favouritism at Bath last weekend and looks the type to progress further.
2
2nd (2) (22/1 -120%) Naval Academy
22
22/1(-120%)
(2) Naval Academy 22/1, Stepped up on reapperance when fourth of 10 in handicap at Wetherby (8f, good to soft, 100/1) 12 days ago, better placed than most. Needs a couple of these to falter. Mixed results in Britain; remains to be seen whether he builds on latest effort.
7
3rd (7) (2/1 -14%) New Kings Road
2
2/1(-14%)
(7) New Kings Road 2/1, Lightly-raced winner. 7/2, career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Salisbury (8f, good) 7 days ago, pushed out. Carries penalty. Still unexposed and is expected to be bang there. Reappearance form has worked out well; off the mark at Salisbury last Sunday; respected.
4
4th (4) (15/2 +17%) Coolree
7.5
15/2(+17%)
(4) Coolree 15/2, Latest win at Beverley in May. Respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at Nottingham (8.3f, good, 8/1) 21 days ago. Tongue strap back on. Place claims. Won at Beverley last month; unable to follow up at Nottingham having raced freely.
1
5th (1) (66/1 -313%) Visibility
66
66/1(-313%)
(1) Visibility 66/1, Unreliable sort. Course winner. Fourteen runs since last win in 2023. 40/1, twelfth of 13 in handicap at Beverley (7.4f, good to firm) 15 days ago, hampered. Others more persuasive. Inconsistent during a busy 2024 but this drop back in grade may suit.
6
6th (6) (100/1 -525%) Arranmore
100
100/1(-525%)
(6) Arranmore 100/1, Twenty six runs since last win in 2021. 20/1, seventh of 11 in handicap at Catterick (7f, good to firm) 15 days ago. DIfficult to fancy on recent efforts. Far from solid on his form for current stable; long time since last win.
3
7th (3) (66/1 -450%) Mount King
66
66/1(-450%)
(3) Mount King 66/1, C&D winner was back to best when fourth of 16 in handicap at Thirsk on penultimate outing. Only seventh of 10 in handicap (10/1) at Wetherby (8f, good to soft) 12 days ago. Can give a good account if able to bounce back. Won over C&D (narrowly off 1lb lower) last October; possibilities back here.
5
8th (5) (80/1 -400%) Eastvan
80
80/1(-400%)
(5) Eastvan 80/1, Fair form when placed both starts in 2022 but absent for 19 months ahead of comeback at Wetherby (7f, soft) 56 days ago. Failed to beat a rival there, so hard to know what to expect on handicap debut.. Raced only on soft/heavy; forecast faster ground is an unknown on handicap debut.
16:30 Pontefract Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
NEW KINGS ROAD is penalised for last week's Salisbury triumph, but he overcame a tardy start to score with plenty left in the tank and there should be more to come from Richard Hannon's charge. Lennon returned to action with a victory at Brighton. He's raised 4lb and upped in class, but the presence of William Buick in the saddle suggests further progress is expected. He's preferred to handicap debutant Eastvan of the remainder because Beverley winner Coolree failed to cope with a 3lb rise when only fourth at Nottingham.
Hard to look beyond the 3yos in this contest, with last week's Bath winner LENNON narrowly preferred to Salisbury-scorer New Kings Road, the pair both completely unexposed in handicaps. Mount King wasn't at his best at Wetherby last time but his previous Thirsk effort means his completes the shortlist.
Salisbury scorer NEW KINGS ROAD is taken to improve further and defy a 6lb penalty. Bath winner Lennon is feared most.
(8) Alabama Anna 11/2, Thrice-raced maiden. 14/1 and hooded for 1st time, sixth of 8 in maiden at Salisbury (6f, good) 29 days ago, hampered. Back up in trip. Booking of Murphy a plus. Makes handicap debut. Uphill task. Top-class pedigree; likely improver now handicapping at a low level.
6
(6) (12/1 -33%) The Cola Kid
12
12/1(-33%)
(6) The Cola Kid 12/1, Course winner. 7/2, seventh of 10 in handicap at Chepstow (6.1f, good to firm) 15 days ago. Back up in trip. Becoming well treated. On last winning mark and this return to a longer trip should suit; one to consider.
3
(3) (14/1 +0%) Airshow
14
14/1(+0%)
(3) Airshow 14/1, Latest win at Chelmsford City in March. Seventh of 9 in handicap (8/1) at Chepstow (6.1f, heavy) 40 days ago. Back up in trip. Others preferred. Beat Conquest Of Power over 7f on AW in March; quiet over shorter since; could revive.
5
1st (5) (10/3 +17%) Rockymountainway
3.333333
10/3(+17%)
(5) Rockymountainway 10/3, Lightly-raced maiden. Very good third of 8 in handicap at Leicester (6f, soft, 15/2) 26 days ago, nearest finish. Back up in trip. Expected to be bang there. Unexposed filly who ran well on last month's h'cap debut (6f, heavy); return to 7f a plus.
7
2nd (7) (8/1 +20%) Yellow Pages
8
8/1(+20%)
(7) Yellow Pages 8/1, 12/1, ninth of 11 in handicap at Leicester (6f, good) 8 days ago. Back up in trip. Shaped nicely on previous outing and merits respect. Not progressing in handicaps; stamina for an extended 7f unconvincing thus far.
1
3rd (1) (13/2 -117%) Conquest Of Power
6.5
13/2(-117%)
(1) Conquest Of Power 13/2, 3 wins from 11 runs this year. 16/5, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Chelmsford City (7f) 45 days ago, kept up to work. Solid claims in the hat-trick bid. 2-2 in the visor and not yet fully exposed at 7f; could probably use some rain though.
9
4th (9) (17/2 -13%) Indication Court
8.5
17/2(-13%)
(9) Indication Court 17/2, Career best when winning 8-runner claimer (40/1) at Leicester (7f, soft) 26 days ago. First run for yard after leaving Craig Lidster. Will find this tougher. Bolted up in heavy-ground claimer last month; new yard; different conditions to deal with.
2
5th (2) (6/4 +50%) King Of Scotia
1.5
6/4(+50%)
(2) King Of Scotia 6/4, Improved on recent efforts to win 8-runner handicap (12/1) at Brighton (8f, good) 5 days ago, readily. Carries penalty. Makes plenty of appeal. Ended losing run for the yard at Brighton on Tuesday; 5lb penalty not insurmountable.
16:40 Ffos Las Handicap (Class 5) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Conquest Of Power recorded a quick double on the Polytrack last month. He's 6lb higher back on turf, while King Of Scotia is penalised 5lb for ending a long losing run at Brighton. ROCKYMOUNTAINWAY finished a creditable third at Leicester on her handicap debut, especially considering it was testing ground. A faster surface should suit Charlie Fellowes' unexposed filly and she's fancied to make a bold bid with further progress likely. Alabama Anna is another with scope for improvement as she goes handicapping for the first time.
ROCKYMOUNTAINWAY shaped like she's ahead of her opening mark when third at Leicester 26 days ago and, with the step back up in trip firmly in her favour, she's the one to side with. Conquest of Power is on a roll and deserves respect in his hat-trick bid, while King of Scotia can't be ruled out.
King Of Scotia can go well under a penalty but unexposed handicap debutante ALABAMA ANNA might be the answer.
(6) Dream Jet 5/1, Placed in an Irish point and left his previous form under Rules behind when landing a Stratford maiden hurdle last summer. Best effort over fences when runner-up to Going Mobile in handicap chase at this C&D (good to soft) 8 days ago and he's respected again. Ran well when second to Going Mobile over C&D last week and is 9lb better off today.
3
1st (3) (4/1 -45%) Carcaci Castle
4
4/1(-45%)
(3) Carcaci Castle 4/1, Promising debut in this sphere when runner-up at Carlisle last month but backwards steps both following outings over fences. Took a step back in the right direction back hurdling when fifth at Kelso last month, so not discounted back chasing. Fair fifth over hurdles last month; drops in grade for return to fences; on good mark.
1
2nd (1) (11/1 +21%) Findthetime
11
11/1(+21%)
(1) Findthetime 11/1, Landed a pair of small-field handicaps in the winter for Nicky Richards, albeit very fortunate to do so at Newcastle on latter occasion. Not fired in pair of outings for current yard though, so others preferred. Won twice for Nicky Richards last season but has not fired on first two stable starts.
2
3rd (2) (10/3 +5%) Grain D'oudairies
3.333333
10/3(+5%)
(2) Grain D'oudairies 10/3, Scored at Market Rasen in March and has held his form well in a pair of outings since, chasing home a couple of younger rivals and beating the remainder convincingly when third of 7 in handicap chase at Bangor (17.4f, good) 15 days ago. Player. Third twice at Bangor since 14l win at Market Rasen in March; likely contender again.
4
4th (4) (125/1 -942%) Animore
125
125/1(-942%)
(4) Animore 125/1, Capitalised on the drop to a career-low mark when scoring in an Ayr handicap hurdle in March 2023 but now absent for over a year (left Iain Jardine in interim) and is probably best watched on comeback. C&D winner; makes stable debut from workable mark but absent since May 2023.
7
|DQ| (7) (2/1 +27%) Going Mobile
2
2/1(+27%)
(7) Going Mobile 2/1, Represents an in-form yard and proved suited by the drop back in trip when beating Dream Jet in a 10-runner handicap chase at this C&D (good to soft) 8 days ago. This is tougher from just out of weights but has to be shortlisted again. Clearcut C&D winner last weekend; effectively 11lb higher today but still considered.
5
|PU| (5) (400/1 -5614%) Conquer The Breeze
400
400/1(-5614%)
(5) Conquer The Breeze 400/1, Good effort when runner-up in a novice hurdle here in May. Came down too far out to suggest the outcome when falling in a Market Rasen handicap on chase debut but has the physique to make an impact over fences, so not discounted second time up. Second in a novice hurdle here last month; fell heavily on recent chase/handocap debut.
16:48 Hexham Handicap Chase (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
The reapplication of blinkers and a drop in distance saw an improved performance from Going Mobile when he scored in some style over track and trip last week. However, the nine-year-old is effectively 11lb higher in the ratings here due to being 5lb out of the handicap. With that in mind, this could prove a suitable opportunity for CARCACI CASTLE to open his account over fences, with last month's Kelso fifth over hurdles likely to have put Sandy Thomson's gelding spot on for this. Grain D'oudairies is also noted.
GRAIN D'OUDAIRIES is still relatively low-mileage over fences and has produced a pair of solid performances since scoring at Market Rasen, so gets the nod ahead of last week's C&D winner Going Mobile. Carcaci Castle showed better signs hurdling last time and is on an interesting mark if able to reproduce that form back over fences.
He has to compete from 5lb out of the weights today but GOING MOBILE looked in excellent nick over C&D last weekend and is selected.
(4) The Turpinator 15/2, Latest win at Newcastle in December. Below form eighth of 16 in handicap at York (7f, good to soft, 18/1) 9 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Likely to strip fitter for latest outing and merits consideration. Promising return from a break last week; yet to win at 6f but still one for the shortlist.
10
2nd (10) (6/1 -71%) Travis
6
6/1(-71%)
(10) Travis 6/1, 6/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at this C&D (good) 13 days ago, running on. Fancied to go in again. Ready winner over C&D two weeks ago with cheekpieces added; yard flying; unexposed.
7
3rd (7) (9/1 -29%) Royal Zabeel
9
9/1(-29%)
(7) Royal Zabeel 9/1, C&D winner. 16/1, thirteenth of 19 in handicap at Newmarket (7f, good) 50 days ago, eased down. First run for yard after leaving Kevin Ryan. Worth a market check with the return to this track in his favour. Ran away with a C&D maiden last summer; low-key reappearance (7f); new yard; unexposed.
3
4th (3) (16/1 -78%) Rousing Encore
16
16/1(-78%)
(3) Rousing Encore 16/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Wolverhampton in December. Eleventh of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW, 40/1) 86 days ago. Not firing this year but has slipped to a handy mark and shouldn't be ruled out back from a break. C&D winner; 2lb lower than for an AW win in December; quiet since.
1
5th (1) (4/1 +27%) Yanifer
4
4/1(+27%)
(1) Yanifer 4/1, Respectable seventh of 17 in handicap at York (7f, soft, 17/2) 8 days ago. Worthy of respect down in grade from useful draw. Two good runs back from a long absence; well drawn; should go well back at 6f.
6
6th (6) (10/1 -54%) Hectic
10
10/1(-54%)
(6) Hectic 10/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2022. 11/2, bit below form fifth of 16 in handicap at York (7f, good to soft) 9 days ago, sticking to task. Not sure to be suited by this drop in trip but has the plum draw. Just one win from 15 runs but in form & well drawn to attack back at 6f; big run expected.
8
7th (8) (100/1 -456%) Bicep
100
100/1(-456%)
(8) Bicep 100/1, 40/1, fifteenth of 16 in handicap at York (7f, good to soft) 9 days ago. Needs to bounce back if he's to make any sort of impact. Last time was excusable and he's on a fair mark; this track may not play to his strengths.
9
8th (9) (18/1 -64%) Rathbone
18
18/1(-64%)
(9) Rathbone 18/1, C&D winner. Ninth of 12 in handicap at Newbury (6f, good to firm, 22/1) 10 days ago, rallying. Has slipped in the weights and threatening to get back on track. Dangerous mark now & latest run was better; 2nd in this race last year; revival imminent.
5
9th (5) (100/1 -257%) Desert Falcon
100
100/1(-257%)
(5) Desert Falcon 100/1, First run since leaving Sir Mark Prescott Bt when last of 20 in handicap (33/1) at York (7f, good) 37 days ago. Cheekpieces back on but has a bit to prove. Two wins for Sir Mark Prescott last June; well beaten on stable debut; had a wind op since.
17:00 Pontefract Handicap (Class 3) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
TRAVIS opened his account with a cosy success over C&D. He's facing tougher opposition but hasn't finished improving yet, and George Boughey's yard is in top form at present. Royal Zabeel is worth a second glance on his debut for a new trainer given he won his maiden over C&D last summer, while most of the remainder drop down in distance, including Yanifer and Darkness. They ran well over 7f at York and Goodwood respectively and both attempt this trip for the first time.
TRAVIS responded well to a first-time cheekpieces and a more positive ride when scoring here recently and he's capable of following up even if this is a stronger contest. Yanifer is down in grade and well drawn, so he's a danger along with Hectic.
The Turpinator can step up on his latest run but HECTIC is well drawn to attack and can make a successful return to 6f.
(4) Backbyjet 6/1, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, career best when winning 7-runner handicap chase (15/2) at this C&D (soft) 22 days ago, finding extra. Every chance he will go well again. Won over C&D three weeks ago and this lightly raced 6yo could continue to improve.
3
2nd (3) (11/4 +54%) Meetmeinthemorning
2.75
11/4(+54%)
(3) Meetmeinthemorning 11/4, Has yet to kick on from a positive start over hurdles but switch to chasing brought more encouragement here last time and the return to this trip will suit, so he's a player. Fair 5th at 2m here on chase debut; this 3m point winner could relish today's longer trip.
2
3rd (2) (8/1 -300%) Elleon
8
8/1(-300%)
(2) Elleon 8/1, Not a fluent jumper but has clicked of late, supplementing a Haydock success with another career-best effort to score here last time. Should put a bold bid for the hat-trick. Arrives on hat-trick after two 3m course wins; different trip here but has to be respected.
7
4th (7) (15/2 -36%) Dr Shirocco
7.5
15/2(-36%)
(7) Dr Shirocco 15/2, Winless following 20 attempts over hurdles but has already won 3 times in this sphere, the latest here in May. Respectable effort behind Elleon last time and is on better terms now. Two-time course winner (including this last year) who might not be far away.
8
5th (8) (100/1 -52%) Play By The Rules
100
100/1(-52%)
(8) Play By The Rules 100/1, Failed to fire over hurdles last term and has fared no better switched to chasing. Soundly beaten recently on his first two chase starts and needs to raise his game.
9
6th (9) (80/1 -700%) Edgewell
80
80/1(-700%)
(9) Edgewell 80/1, Modest form in bumpers and only poor over hurdles/fences so far, although may come on for latest fourth over C&D. Cheekpieces are on for the first time. Fourth on last month's chase debut over C&D and could be sharper for that run; interesting.
5
7th (5) (350/1 -1650%) Deadheat
350
350/1(-1650%)
(5) Deadheat 350/1, Completely lost his way last season and he's hard to weigh up back from a further 5 months off. Has travelled from Northern Ireland; on a reduced mark but for good reason.
6
8th (6) (100/1 -1150%) Grand Du Nord
100
100/1(-1150%)
(6) Grand Du Nord 100/1, Fair maiden hurdler who was runner-up in a 3m Wetherby handicap last month but hasn't reproduced that form since, including on chasing debut at Kelso last time. On a handy mark on best hurdle form and may have needed recent chase debut after absence.
1
9th (1) (450/1 -3114%) Hidden Commander
450
450/1(-3114%)
(1) Hidden Commander 450/1, Got back on track when landing back-to-back handicaps over this C&D and at Hexham during the autumn. Has struggled for form since but there was a bit more promise last time. C&D winner who runs off last winning mark; needs another step back in right direction.
17:18 Hexham Handicap Chase (Class 4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
The fitting of a first-time visor appeared to eke out further improvement in BACKBYJET, who showed a willing attitude when scoring over C&D earlier in the month. A 4lb higher rating looks more than workable and the six-year-old is taken to follow up. The hat-trick seeking Elleon is also likely to prove popular, but a drop in distance and career-high mark may prove his undoing. Sam England's inmate still enters calculations, but a bigger threat may emerge from Hidden Commander.
ELLEON arrives in a rich vein of form and is fancied to complete the hat-trick at the possible expense of Backbyjet. Meetmeinthemorning should step up on an encouraging chasing debut, so he's another one to respect.
The step back up in trip could be just what MEETMEINTHEMORNING needs on his second chase start and he earns the vote.
(2) Born In The West 4/1, Point winner who made a solid Rules debut when runner-up at Newton Abbot 9 days ago. Should do better and he's likely to feature. Point winner who was runner-up on recent bumper debut; can be bang there once more.
4
(4) (7/2 +13%) Jehol De Thaix
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(4) Jehol De Thaix 7/2, £23,000 3-y-o, Masked Marvel gelding. Dam maiden chaser in France. Half-sister to dam of smart hurdler/chaser up to 3m Volnay de Thaix. Respected on debut. Trainer does well in bumpers, and at this course; could play a leading role on debut.
5
(5) (50/1 +0%) The Beekeeper
50
50/1(+0%)
(5) The Beekeeper 50/1, Failed to beat a rival on debut at Worcester and is probably going to need more time. Backed into 11-1 from 16-1 on debut at Worcester three weeks ago but finished tailed off.
1
1st (1) (Evens +43%) Takt De Touques
0
Evens(+43%)
(1) Takt De Touques Evens, Winning pointer who has shown an excellent attitude to land both bumpere outings to date. Giving plenty of weight away but still appeals as the likeliest winner. 2-2 in bumpers (both at Perth); carries double penalty but has strong claims nevertheless.
3
2nd (3) (15/2 +6%) Drumlee Myth
7.5
15/2(+6%)
(3) Drumlee Myth 15/2, Watar gelding. Dam (c99/h103), 2m-2½m hurdle/chase winner (stayed 2¾m), sister to winning hurdler/fairly useful chaser (stayed 25f) Kentford Legend. Every chance when fell last sole start in Irish points (Apr 27). One to note. Disputing lead when falling at final fence in sole point; one to consider on rules debut.
6
3rd (6) (150/1 -355%) Blakey Boy
150
150/1(-355%)
(6) Blakey Boy 150/1, Ocovango gelding. Dam unraced from family of Grand National winner Rule The World and smart staying hurdler Venalmar. 5,000euros foal; this 4yo may be one for further down the line.
7
4th (7) (300/1 -1775%) East Eagle
300
300/1(-1775%)
(7) East Eagle 300/1, From the family of high-class hurdler/smart chase winner (stayed 21f) Sutton Place. Just signs of ability for Tom Weston and looks up against it starting out for new yard with a tongue strap on. Showed some ability on both runs for Tom Weston but improvement needed on stable debut.
9
5th (9) (250/1 -2678%) Lewesdon Dancer
250
250/1(-2678%)
(9) Lewesdon Dancer 250/1, Related to a couple of winners and showed something to work on when third at Kelso first time out. Can make her presence felt if the emphasis is sufficiently on stamina. Promising third at 25-1 on last month's debut and she's open to improvement; player.
10
6th (10) (250/1 -279%) Sunset Hill
250
250/1(-279%)
(10) Sunset Hill 250/1, €13,000 3-y-o, £8,000 5-y-o, Kingston Hill mare. Dam unraced half-sister to bumper winner/useful hurdler (stayed 3m) Shantou Bob. Unplaced both starts in Irish points (latest Apr 27). Fifth/six in her two points; sold for £8,000 last month; others make greater appeal.
11
7th (11) (300/1 -1400%) Ava's Angel
300
300/1(-1400%)
(11) Ava's Angel 300/1, Stoutly bred and shaped in kind when plugging on for third here on debut. Wasn't in the same form next time but he can't be written off. Encouraging 3rd over C&D on debut; not written off but a lesser run followed at Southwell.
8
8th (8) (250/1 -279%) Bellmount Lady
250
250/1(-279%)
(8) Bellmount Lady 250/1, Half-sister to 4 winners but showed nothing at Kelso first time out, so will need to leave that form well behind. There's potential in her pedigree, but always behind when 18-1 for last month's debut.
12
9th (12) (400/1 -3233%) Starlit Wave
400
400/1(-3233%)
(12) Starlit Wave 400/1, €7,000 3-y-o, Affinisea filly. Half-sister to 3 winners, including useful hurdler/chaser Final Nudge, stayed 4¼m, and bumper winner Fons Vivus. Dam unraced. Worth monitoring in the betting. Half-sister to three winners; in good hands; no surprise to see her go well on debut.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
TAKT DE TOUQUES arrives on the back of two bumper victories at Perth and a hat-trick could be on the horizon. The five-year-old looks more than capable of defying a 10lb penalty, particularly with a 7lb claimer on his back. The biggest danger is Born In The West, who offered plenty to work with when runner-up on his Rules debut at Newton Abbot recently, while market support for the Nicky Richards-trained newcomer Jehol De Thaix would be interesting.
TAKT DE TOUQUES is unbeaten in a point and two bumpers and his likeable attitude can pull him through again. Born In The West has already won between the flags and is expected to build on a positive Rules debut, so he's the main threat ahead of Drumlee Myth.
The mare LEWESDON DANCER was a promising third on last month's debut at Kelso and is the selection under Brian Hughes.
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
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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.
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