There were 46 Races on Friday 1st November 2024 across 6 meetings. There was 8 races at Uttoxeter, 7 races at Down Royal, 7 races at Newmarket, 7 races at Wetherby, 9 races at Newcastle, 8 races at Dundalk, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Friday 1st November 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(1) Lookaway 4/6, Likeable sort who completed a hat-trick in Cheltenham Grade 2 a year ago and several pretty useful efforts in defeat after at up to 20.5f. Winning Irish pointer and a quick jumper over hurdles so really should take to chasing. Grade 2 winner over hurdles and he should take some catching on chase debut.
2
2nd (2) (5/4 +23%) Personal Ambition
1.25
5/4(+23%)
(2) Personal Ambition 5/4, Placed in an Irish point and quickly built up a good record over hurdles, looking more polished than previously when landing Grade 1 Premier Novice at Kelso (18f) in March. Found out in better company a month later but he has the physique for chasing. Useful hurdler but this looks a tough enough starting point over fences against Lookaway.
LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,
12:20 Uttoxeter Maiden Chase (Class 3) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
Just the two runners and with the pair making their debuts over fences and the chance of a tactical race, anything could happen. Both have been known to front run, but Ben Pauling has his horses in the better form so PERSONAL AMBITION gets the nod. He does have a few pounds to find on hurdles ratings with Lookaway, but he is lightly raced and could go on to be even better over the larger obstacles. His rival, also a Grade 2-winning novice hurdler, has an exciting future at this game too.
There wasn't a massive amount between LOOKAWAY and Personal Ambition as hurdlers and both possess the physique to excel over the larger obstacles this term. The former won his point and was notably slick over timber, which tilts the scales his way.
Both of the runners were Grade 2 winners over hurdles but LOOKAWAY had the best form in that sphere and he gets the vote.
(7) The Yellow Clay 4/11, Very smart form in bumpers. Player now hurdling significantly up in trip for top yard that targets this (1 of 2 runners). Top bumper horse; potentially exciting recruit to hurdling; likely to take the beating.
4
2nd (4) (125/1 -25%) Healdsburg
125
125/1(-25%)
(4) Healdsburg 125/1, Twice-raced maiden under NH rules. 8/1, sixth of 11 in novice hurdle at Limerick (16.3f, good to soft) on hurdles bow 12 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Well beaten in a Limerick maiden hurdle last time; others far more likely.
3
3rd (3) (22/1 +89%) Garnacho
22
22/1(+89%)
(3) Garnacho 22/1, Fair hurdler. Below form seventh of 15 in novice hurdle (9/1) at Gowran (16f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Disappointing last twice and will do better in handicaps in due course.
9
4th (9) (80/1 -60%) Interchangeable
80
80/1(-60%)
(9) Interchangeable 80/1, Twice-raced maiden. 80/1, thirteenth of 17 in bumper at Punchestown (16.7f, good to soft). Off 6 months. Makes hurdles debut. Significantly up in trip. Hooded for 1st time. Makes little appeal on the evidence of two bumpers; tried in a hood here.
5
5th (5) (12/1 +40%) John The Spark
12
12/1(+40%)
(5) John The Spark 12/1, Modest hurdler. 4/1, creditable second of 9 in novice hurdle at Fairyhouse (18.5f, good) 20 days ago, unsuited by drop in trip. Back up in distance now and not ruled out. Maiden hurdle form does leave him with something to find but the trip will suit.
1
6th (1) (28/1 -12%) Augusta George
28
28/1(-12%)
(1) Augusta George 28/1, Fair hurdler. Winner in bumper at Downpatrick in August. 5/1, second of 5 in novice hurdle at Downpatrick (21.8f, good to soft) 21 days ago, better placed than most. Well in the mix. Runner-up in a maiden hurdle at Downpatrick last month; this looks much more difficult.
6
7th (6) (10/3 -48%) My Lyka
3.333333
10/3(-48%)
(6) My Lyka 10/3, Useful Flat winner. Promising individual (shaped well on hurdles debut). 50/1, twenty ninth of 30 in handicap at the Curragh (16.8f, good to soft) 33 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Solid claims. Very interesting on his one run over hurdles and the step up in trip could suit.
12:25 Down Royal Maiden Hurdle 22f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
THE YELLOW CLAY was far from disgraced when finishing sixth in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham on his penultimate start, before finding only a classy sort too good in a Punchestown Grade 1 on his most recent start. Now stepping up in trip on his hurdles debut, he looks a novice hurdler to keep on side. Stable companion Wingmen impressed when winning a Punchestown bumper in May and he merits respect on his debut over flights, while My Lyka can also go well.
Willie Mullins' MY LYKA is the clear pick of those with experience and fancied to get off the mark in this sphere. Gordon Elliott saddles two interesting hurdling newcomers though in the shape of Wingmen (second choice) and The Yellow Clay and they should ensure the selection doesn't have things all his own way.
Gordon Elliott's challenge looks a daunting one and good bumper performer THE YELLOW CLAY looks to possess most of the guns
(13) Sacred Fire 18/1, Foaled April 7. 70,000 gns yearling, Cracksman colt. Half-brother to 3 winners, including smart winner up to 9.5f Move Swiftly and useful 1m-1¼m winner Habit Rouge. Dam 6f winner. 70,000gns yearling; half-brother to three winners; yard have good record in this race.
4
2nd (4) (11/4 +61%) Grow Old With Me
2.75
11/4(+61%)
(4) Grow Old With Me 11/4, Foaled April 19. 260,000 gns yearling, No Nay Never colt. Half-brother to several winners, including smart winner up to 1m Raaeq and useful winner up to 5.7f Rathaath. Dam 2-y-o 6f/7f winner. One to note. 260,000gns half-brother to 6 winners (2 with RPRs in excess of 100); interesting newcomer.
9
3rd (9) (16/1 +0%) Nightime Dancer
16
16/1(+0%)
(9) Nightime Dancer 16/1, Foaled April 7. 110,000 gns foal, Ghaiyyath colt. Half-brother to Itlalian 7f winner Clarissa For Ever. Dam lightly-raced half-sister to useful French winner up to 1m Rock'n Swing out of useful 2-y-o 7f winner Ragsah. 110,000gns foal; half-brother to a winner in Italy; others bring stronger paper claims.
2
4th (2) (9/2 -29%) Charming Life
4.5
9/2(-29%)
(2) Charming Life 9/2, Foaled March 1. €400,000 yearling, Dubawi gelding. Half-brother to useful 2-y-o 7f winner Opera Mundi. Dam, 9.6f-1½m winner, closely related to Prix Vanteaux/Prix de la Nonette winner Rumi. Noteworthy newcomer. 400,000euros half-brother to a Listed winner out of a Listed winner; newcomer of note.
10
5th (10) (11/4 +8%) Noble Champion
2.75
11/4(+8%)
(10) Noble Champion 11/4, Foaled March 2. 140,000 gns foal, 500,000 gns yearling, Lope De Vega colt. Half-brother to several winners, including smart winner up to 1m Pogo and useful 9.4f-2m winner Birds of Prey. Dam, maiden (would have stayed 1m), half-sister to very smart 6f/7f winner Arabian Gleam. 500,000gns yearling; half-brother to 5 winners, notably Pogo (G2; RPR 118); not ruled out.
11
6th (11) (18/1 +64%) Opening Bat
18
18/1(+64%)
(11) Opening Bat 18/1, 80,000 gns yearling, Bated Breath colt. Half-brother to several winners, including smart winner up to 7f Gale Force Ten and useful 9f-1½m winner Eynhallow and useful winner up to 1¼m Rousay. Seventh of 12 in novice (50/1) at Salisbury (8f, good to soft) on debut 49 days ago. 50-1 when dropping away at Salisbury seven weeks ago (1m, good to soft); needs a lot more.
8
7th (8) (14/1 -27%) Merchant
14
14/1(-27%)
(8) Merchant 14/1, Foaled March 18. €135,000 yearling, Teofilo colt. Brother to useful 1m-9.4f winner Glor Tire. Dam unraced sister to smart winner up to 1m (stayed 1¼m) Steip Amach. 135,000euros brother to 1m/9.4f winner Glor Tire (RPR 98); top yard; worth a market check.
3
8th (3) (10/1 +29%) Great Dream
10
10/1(+29%)
(3) Great Dream 10/1, Foaled March 24. Invincible Spirit colt. Dam, 1m winner, closely related to high-class 8.3f winner King of Change. Dam a 1m winner from a good family; stable having a good year with 2yos; check betting.
7
9th (7) (13/2 -8%) Magnetite
6.5
13/2(-8%)
(7) Magnetite 13/2, Foaled May 16. 575,000 gns yearling, Frankel colt. Brother to very smart winner up to 11f Elarqam and untrustworthy 1¼m winner Sayf Al Dawla, and closely related to useful 9f-1¼m winner Cushion. Dam 5f/6f to 1m (including 1000 Guineas) winner. Likely type. 575,000gns yearling; top-class pedigree; one of two interesting newcomers for the yard.
1
10th (1) (22/1 -10%) Baloo's Blues
22
22/1(-10%)
(1) Baloo's Blues 22/1, Foaled January 29. £50,000 yearling, Havana Grey colt. Half-brother to 7f winner Nammos and useful winner up to 7f Diligent Resdev. Dam unraced, out of useful 8.5f winner Absolute Crackers. £50,000 half-brother to two winners; yard have had a quiet season with their 2yos.
15
11th (15) (200/1 -100%) Top Of Pleinmont
200
200/1(-100%)
(15) Top Of Pleinmont 200/1, Twice-raced maiden. Seventh of 10 in maiden at Kempton (7f, 100/1) 9 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Looks one for next year judged on his two starts last month.
12
12th (12) (150/1 -127%) Reload
150
150/1(-127%)
(12) Reload 150/1, Foaled February 22. 1,500 gns yearling, Advertise colt. Dam unraced out of half-sister to Dewhurst Stakes winner Distant Music. 1,500gns yearling; minor appeal on paper and others boast stronger claims.
6
13th (6) (50/1 -213%) Luminous Warrior
50
50/1(-213%)
(6) Luminous Warrior 50/1, Foaled April 15. 80,000 gns yearling, Kingman colt. Closely related to smart winner up to 8.6f Via Serendipity and half-brother to several winners, including smart winner up to 1¼m Le Juge. Dam German 7f/1m winner. 80,000gns yearling; bred to be useful but starts out in potentially warm race; tongue tied.
5
14th (5) (125/1 -25%) Knockabaroff
125
125/1(-25%)
(5) Knockabaroff 125/1, Twice-raced maiden. 80/1, eighth of 9 in novice at this course (8f, soft) 9 days ago. Just modest form in two runs last month; handicaps more suitable after this.
14
15th (14) (150/1 -127%) Silk And Steel
150
150/1(-127%)
(14) Silk And Steel 150/1, Foaled March 29. El Kabeir gelding. Half-brother to 2-y-o 6f winner Cuban Thunder. Dam 2-y-o 7f winner who stayed 1¼m. Half-brother to 6f 2yo winner Cuban Thunder (RPR 84); unlikely winner on debut.
12:35 Newmarket Stakes (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Noble Champion cost 500,000gns last year and goes for an in-form yard, as does 400,000gns purchase Charming Life. However, a chance can be taken on fellow newcomer MAGNETITE, who changed hands for 575,000gns as a yearling and is a full-brother to Group 2 winner Elarqapm. Therefore, it would be no surprise to see him make an instant impression, while any market confidence behind Baloo's Blues would be interesting.
WHITE CROWN STAR left his debut behind when third at Yarmouth 6 weeks ago and can put his experience to good use up against some interesting newcomers, notably Charming Life, Magnetite and Grow Old With Me.
There are some interesting newcomers to consider and CHARMING LIFE gets a tentative vote over Sacred Fire.
(6) Telemetry 33/1, Ran to a fair level when 12 lengths second of 8 on his debut in a bumper here in April 2023 but has failed to build on that since, last seen finishing a distance tenth starting out over hurdles at Kelso during the spring. Promising debut run here; hasn't progressed and plenty to prove after modest hurdle debut.
3
2nd (3) (22/1 +33%) Express Run
22
22/1(+33%)
(3) Express Run 22/1, Failed to complete both starts in maiden points and safely held on Rules debut in a Kelso bumper. Fell both starts in points; modest effort in Kelso bumper; hurdles debut; more needed.
5
3rd (5) (18/1 +10%) Lathan
18
18/1(+10%)
(5) Lathan 18/1, Cost €90,000 as a 3-y-o and was originally in the care of Dan Skelton (unraced for that yard). However, failed to make an impact on debut in a Hexham maiden during the summer and will need to leave that form well behind if he's to have a say here. Sixth of nine at Hexham on hurdle debut (2m4f); should improve for that experience.
7
4th (7) (50/1 +38%) The Geordie Ginge
50
50/1(+38%)
(7) The Geordie Ginge 50/1, Fair hurdler at best but, having been sold out of Nigel Twiston-Davies' yard for just 4,800 gns, he didn't show much on debut for this yard back from almost a year off at Sedgefield 12 days ago. Ex-Nigel Twiston-Davies; some promise over hurdles, but well beaten on stable debut.
8
5th (8) (50/1 +38%) Elusive Shine
50
50/1(+38%)
(8) Elusive Shine 50/1, £15,000 half-brother to useful hurdler/chaser Palmers Hill. Made frame all 3 starts in Irish points, runner-up on latest start in that sphere in May 18, but he was beaten a long way on hurdles debut at Uttoxeter. In the frame in three Irish points; well beaten on hurdles debut; others appeal more.
2
6th (2) (8/13 -9%) Kart D'estruval
0.615385
8/13(-9%)
(2) Kart D'estruval 8/13, Showed plenty of promise in 2 starts over hurdles in France, building on abundant debut promise when landing a juvenile event at Fontainebleau in March. Interesting recruit for the Skelton yard (responsible for the winner of this race last year and in 2020) and he's very high on the shortlist. Winner in France in March; has a penalty; interesting contender on stable debut.
4
|PU| (4) (11/4 +58%) I Play County
2.75
11/4(+58%)
(4) I Play County 11/4, Winner of sole start in Irish points and off the mark at the third attempt in bumpers at Taunton (16.5f, soft) when last seen in March, making all. Appeals as the type to make his mark in this sphere and it'll be interesting to see how he shapes up in the betting. Irish point winner who won Taunton bumper in March; interesting now going hurdling.
10
|PU| (10) (40/1 +0%) Dunstall Angel
40
40/1(+0%)
(10) Dunstall Angel 40/1, Glimmers of ability in a couple of bumpers last season but not enough to suggest that she will be a significant threat on this hurdles debut. Modest form in two bumpers and hard to fancy on first run over hurdles.
9
|PU| (9) (66/1 -65%) Bea My Shadow
66
66/1(-65%)
(9) Bea My Shadow 66/1, Some appeal pedigree-wise but not judged on what she showed starting out in a mares' bumper at Sedgefield in March. Last of seven in a Sedgefield bumper in March; best watched on jumps debut.
12:45 Wetherby Maiden Hurdle (Class 3) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
Battle Born Lad struck on his debut over hurdles at Hexham in October and should mount a bold bid, but he might find it tough to give 1lb KART D'ESTRUVAL. A hurdles winner in France, Dan Skelton's charge is related to plenty of winners and he looks to have found a suitable assignment on his British debut. I Play County was victorious in a bumper at Taunton when last seen in March and completes the shotlist.
French recruit KART D'ESTRUVAL is taken to provide the Skelton yard with its third winner in this novice since 2020. The 4-y-o looked highly promising in a couple of runs in France and he is not short of potential. Battle Born Lad made a positive start to his hurdles career at Hexham and, with the promise of better to come from him now upped in trip, he is second choice ahead of bumper winner I Play County.
Having got off the mark on his jumps debut BATTLE BORN LAD is taken to follow up by beating the ex-French Kart D'Estruval.
(10) Walkadina 10/3, Placed on her sole outing in points and sound start to her Rules career with a brace of runner-up efforts in bumpers during the spring. One to consider now hurdling with a tongue tie on. Placed in a point and runner-up in two bumpers; needs watching in market on hurdling debut.
9
2nd (9) (5/2 -11%) Sunset Marquesa
2.5
5/2(-11%)
(9) Sunset Marquesa 5/2, Related to winners and made a successful start herself at Aintree a year ago. Solid efforts to hit the frame at listed level later that season and makes hurdles debut for bang in-form yard. Did well in bumpers last term including at Listed level; interesting recruit to hurdling.
1
3rd (1) (7/1 +7%) Irish Chorus
7
7/1(+7%)
(1) Irish Chorus 7/1, Just modest form at best in 3 bumper outings and given a considerate introduction to hurdling on the back of 3 months off/a wind op at Kempton (2m) in March. Clearly derived plenty from that as she found only one too good at Warwick 2 months later. Good second behind odds-on rival at Warwick in May and she's respected on her return.
5
4th (5) (15/8 +25%) Queens Melody
1.875
15/8(+25%)
(5) Queens Melody 15/8, £60,000 4-y-o, Jukebox Jury mare. Placed both starts in points and despite showing inexperience, she won 13-runner bumper at Hereford in March. Found out in a better race at Punchestown 2 months later but has to be of interest at this level now hurdling. Bumper winner who wasn't disgraced in Grade 3 latest; key player on hurdling debut.
4
5th (4) (200/1 -100%) Primary Explosive
200
200/1(-100%)
(4) Primary Explosive 200/1, Blue Bresil mare. Dam, bumper/fair 2m hurdle winner, half-sister to fairly useful hurdler (stayed 27f) Trackmate and bumper winner/useful hurdler (stayed 25f) Desilvano. Well held both starts. Some promise on her Worcester debut but was pulled up at Bangor next time.
8
6th (8) (17/2 -70%) Seas The Day
8.5
17/2(-70%)
(8) Seas The Day 17/2, Half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/fair chaser Feel The Pinch and bumper winner Billams Legacy. Best of those held up when second in a bumper at Wetherby in November and again shaped well when occupying same spot 2 months later. Good platform for hurdling. Runner-up in two bumpers last season and she's an interesting contender on hurdling debut.
7
7th (7) (300/1 -200%) Royal Malinas
300
300/1(-200%)
(7) Royal Malinas 300/1, Dam, maiden on Flat, closely related to very smart hurdler/useful chaser (stayed 21f) Nicanor: Third both starts in Irish points in late-2022 but off a long time and limited promise on last month's hurdles debut. Back from long absence with a tailed-off effort on hurdling debut at Chepstow last month.
3
8th (3) (50/1 -100%) Made For Me
50
50/1(-100%)
(3) Made For Me 50/1, Runner-up completed start in Irish points (March 2023) but only minor promise under Rules so far, showing a bit more but no match for the principals on last month's return to action. Promising third on hurdling debut at Hereford and has claims if she can build on that.
12:55 Uttoxeter Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
An interesting mares' maiden that sees the highly-regarded QUEENS MELODY make her hurdling debut. A comfortable Hereford bumper winner in March, she was then thrown in at the deep end in a Grade 3 at Punchestown when only 10th, but ought to find this company more to her liking. Seas The Day was second in both her bumpers and should be a different proposition now sent jumping, making her a serious danger to all, while Walkadina and Sunset Marquesa are others for the shortlist.
This looks wide open but SUNSET MARQUESA displayed plenty of ability in bumpers last season and returning with her yard in fine form, she could be the answer. Queens Melody and Seas The Day also displayed plenty of ability in that sphere and rate likely types, too.
An interesting race in which the vote goes to useful bumper performer SUNSET MARQUESA, who could have a bright future over hurdles.
(6) Kelly's Birr 11/2, 10/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, tenth of 15 in novice chase at Tramore (21.8f, good to soft) on debut over fences 154 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Hard to assess but the very fact that Elliott is running her at this meeting is a positive.
4
1st (4) (10/1 +17%) Paddy's Milestone
10
10/1(+17%)
(4) Paddy's Milestone 10/1, 17/2, below form eleventh of 24 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (19.4f, good to soft). Off 6 months. Up in trip. Has to be taken seriously if shrugging off latest effort. Good maiden form; steps up in trip here but capable of a bold showing if he stays.
10
2nd (10) (16/1 +20%) Schiehallion
16
16/1(+20%)
(10) Schiehallion 16/1, 11/2, fell 3rd in handicap hurdle at Downpatrick (21.8f, good to soft) 21 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. No impression of late although did fall early in a Downpatrick handicap hurdle last month.
3
3rd (3) (7/1 +18%) Emily In Paris
7
7/1(+18%)
(3) Emily In Paris 7/1, 16/1, creditable third of 17 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, good to soft) 12 days ago. Can give a good account. Stays well and acts on good ground; well capable of getting into the shake-up.
16
4th (16) (12/1 +52%) Container Madness
12
12/1(+52%)
(16) Container Madness 12/1, 16/1, good fourth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (21f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Ought to be thereabouts. Up in trip here with a good 5lb claimer on board and has to be respected.
12
5th (12) (7/2 +53%) Brandt
3.5
7/2(+53%)
(12) Brandt 7/2, Winner in chase at Roscommon in August. 5/1, clear when unseated rider last in handicap chase at Sligo (21.1f, good) 30 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles and merits serious consideration off a reduced mark here. Hurdles mark is now 13lb lower than chase rating and makes plenty of appeal here.
9
6th (9) (14/1 -40%) Mullaghmore Wave
14
14/1(-40%)
(9) Mullaghmore Wave 14/1, Creditable second of 9 in handicap chase at Downpatrick (23.7f, good to soft, 9/2) 21 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Visored for 1st time. New headgear tried here on her return to hurdles; respected despite being 2lb higher.
7
7th (7) (66/1 -164%) Falak
66
66/1(-164%)
(7) Falak 66/1, 20/1, first run since leaving Miss Tracy M. Reilly when eighth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (16.3f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Uphill task. Twice a winner over hurdles but little to be encouraged by anything he has done this year.
1
8th (1) (10/1 +17%) Sammy Smart
10
10/1(+17%)
(1) Sammy Smart 10/1, 16/1, creditable third of 16 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (22.8f, good) 17 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Ought to be in the shake-up. Addition of a tongue tie could help him get home over this extra furlong; each-way chance.
5
9th (5) (9/1 -13%) Tilloughna
9
9/1(-13%)
(5) Tilloughna 9/1, Winner in hurdle at Ballinrobe in July. Creditable fourth of 17 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, good to soft, 16/1) 12 days ago. Trainer going well. Likely to continue in form. Ballinrobe winner ran well at Limerick; trip and ground are fine and she should have a say.
13
|F| (13) (10/1 +50%) Il Silenzio
10
10/1(+50%)
(13) Il Silenzio 10/1, 12/1, good 12 lengths fourth of 12 to Jimli's Cave in handicap hurdle at Downpatrick (21.8f, good to soft) 21 days ago. Plenty to find on form however. Worth a market check and could well improve enough to have an each-way chance.
14
10th (14) (14/1 +44%) Speranza Wilde
14
14/1(+44%)
(14) Speranza Wilde 14/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Tongue strap on for 1st time, solid sixth of 18 in novice hurdle (10/1) at Limerick (21f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Respected. New headgear tried for her handicap debut and could outrun her likely odds.
8
11th (8) (50/1 +0%) Mon Storm
50
50/1(+0%)
(8) Mon Storm 50/1, C&D winner. Fourth of 5 in minor event hurdle at this course (24f, good, 100/1) 63 days ago so more is required. Veteran has been well beaten in two starts since returning from two years off; no appeal.
11
|PU| (11) (9/2 -13%) Jimli's Cave
4.5
9/2(-13%)
(11) Jimli's Cave 9/2, 17/2 and blinkered for 1st time, career best when winning 12-runner handicap hurdle at Downpatrick (21.8f, good to soft) 21 days ago, always holding on. Likely player. Up 7lb for first win over hurdles on latest start at Downpatrick; should go well again.
13:00 Down Royal Handicap Hurdle 24f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
JIMLI'S CAVE accounted for Il Silenzio (fourth) when scoring in decisive fashion over 2m6f at Downpatrick on his latest outing and he has a 7lb higher mark to contend with. Considering the manner of that success, he could prove very hard to beat again. Mullaghmore Wave has been thereabouts on each of her last two starts over fences and has to be respected on her return to this sphere, while Emily In Paris is another to keep an eye on.
BRANDT has been much improved over fences since joining his current yard and is fancied to translate that form to hurdles here and strike. Downpatrick scorer Jimli's Cave heads the list of dangers, although a case can also be made for Tilloughna, Paddy's Milestone and Sammy Smart in this very open handicap.
The one to beat is likely to be BRANDT who would have collected over fences at Sligo last month but for a last-fence unseat
(1) Marching Mac 5/2, Arrives here in fine fettle, following up his emphatic Nottingham success last month with a wide-margin verdict in a 4-runner affair at Leicester (5f, heavy) on Monday. This is more competitive but he's nevertheless the one to beat under a penalty. Thriving on heavy ground of late; well in under penalty but this will be a stiffer test.
9
2nd (9) (15/2 -7%) Bang On The Bell
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(9) Bang On The Bell 15/2, Back to form when second of 5 in handicap at Yarmouth (5.2f, good) in August. Has subsequently made the frame at Sandown and Chester, and he has to enter calculations here off a workable mark. Better on AW but handicapped accordingly; likely to give his running once again.
5
3rd (5) (11/2 +39%) Thunder Star
5.5
11/2(+39%)
(5) Thunder Star 11/2, Three-time winner in 2023 and, though yet to get her head in front this year, she shaped well when making the frame on first 3 starts of present campaign. Not at her best since but mark is on the slide and she will be a serious player if on-song. On a dangerous mark; quiet the last twice but returning to Class 5 can help matters.
4
4th (4) (9/1 +25%) Kiss And Run
9
9/1(+25%)
(4) Kiss And Run 9/1, Regained the winning thread at Goodwood in August and best effort since when hitting the crossbar in a heavy-ground 5f Windsor handicap last time. Each-way chance off the same mark here. Prominent racer; chased home a thriving rival latest; should be involved again.
3
5th (3) (9/2 +50%) Seantrabh
4.5
9/2(+50%)
(3) Seantrabh 9/2, Has become well handicapped and shaped as though his turn may well be near when a close third at Redcar (5f, good to soft) on penultimate start. However, failed to build on that next time and he's probably worth taking on. Yet to win this year but on a good mark and penultimate run was promising; not ruled out.
2
6th (2) (8/1 -14%) Stash The Cash
8
8/1(-14%)
(2) Stash The Cash 8/1, Back-to-back 5f Hamilton scorer in September but good run of form came to a grinding halt when bidding for the hat-trick at Nottingham recently. Others preferred. Came up well short in recent hat-trick bid; perhaps too high in the weights now.
8
7th (8) (33/1 -65%) Monsieur Beaulieu
33
33/1(-65%)
(8) Monsieur Beaulieu 33/1, Fair performer in France, winner of a 5f handicap at Vichy last September. Creditable third on sole start so far this year in June and he will probably come up short on what will be his first appearance on these shores. 2-18 in France; ran OK at Toulouse in June without suggesting the return to 5f was needed.
11
8th (11) (16/1 0%) It's Showtime
16
16/1(0%)
(11) It's Showtime 16/1, Has just one win to her name from 17 career starts, namely a Class 6 turf handicap at Lingfield during the spring. Followed that with a string of solid efforts in defeat but form not so good during second half of this season. On a fair mark on this year's best; never landed a blow on AW last week.
10
9th (10) (33/1 -175%) Little Miss Magic
33
33/1(-175%)
(10) Little Miss Magic 33/1, Successful on debut for this yard at Bath (5f, good to firm) in August and wasn't far off the target when a close third at Windsor on penultimate start. Beaten over 8 lengths when third to Marching Mac at Brighton last time, though, and she clearly has work to do here based on that piece of form. Finished over 8l behind Marching Mac latest and looks vulnerable for win purposes.
7
10th (7) (12/1 +40%) Level Up
12
12/1(+40%)
(7) Level Up 12/1, Notched third success of this season at Salisbury in August before finding just one too good at Bath (5f, good). Failed to fire at Windsor since but conditions were testing on that occasion and he's not without each-way hope. Poor run on heavy latest but he'd been in good order beforehand; type to bounce back.
6
11th (6) (25/1 -25%) Jungle Run
25
25/1(-25%)
(6) Jungle Run 25/1, Career best when completing the hat-trick at Southwell (5f) in September but came up short off this revised mark over the same C&D next time. Opposable. Three Class 6 wins in September but well beaten in his bid for a four-timer last month.
13:08 Newmarket Handicap (Class 5) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Marching Mac hosed up by 11 lengths in a class 4 event at Leicester last time and he holds an obvious chance to complete the hat-trick under a 6lb penalty. However, he might be worth taking on with KISS AND RUN, who occupied the runner-up berth in a stronger contest than this at Windsor in October and goes off the same mark today. If she can run to a similar level, she could be the one to beat. Monsieur Beaulieu completes the shortlist.
THUNDER STAR has failed to fire on all cylinders in both starts since returning from a break in September but she's down to an attractive mark and is an appealing alternative to likely favourite Marching Mac. It's rare for sprint handicaps to be won by margins such as those via which the latter has scored of late and he is a much-respected main danger. Bang On The Bell is third choice ahead of Kiss And Run and Level Up.
Marching Mac has obvious claims but KISS AND RUN is also on the up and she can record her third win of the season.
(1) Cadell 6/4, Unbeaten in points and impressed when making a winning hurdling bow at Kelso last October. Showed better form when second in 3m Musselburgh novice in February and should come on for this reappearance/chase debut third in a Perth handicap in September. Open to improvement in this sphere. Dual winning pointer; promise over hurdles and on chase debut last month; no easy task.
3
2nd (3) (8/11 +78%) Farnoge
0.727273
8/11(+78%)
(3) Farnoge 8/11, Winner of first 3 starts under Rules, including novice hurdles at Newton Abbot and Ascot. Pulled up twice before getting back on track in a first-time tongue strap when third in a Perth listed event (3m, soft) during the spring (since undergone a wind op) and he could make up into a better chaser. Good 2nd in Irish point; decent form over hurdles; had wind op; interesting chase prospect.
2
3rd (2) (10/1 +75%) Edison Kent
10
10/1(+75%)
(2) Edison Kent 10/1, Back to his best when scoring over hurdles at Uttoxeter in June but hasn't come close to reproducing that in 5 subsequent starts, including in this sphere at Worcester at the beginning of September. Mountain to climb on these terms. Won 2m7f handicap hurdle in June; disappointing since; stiff task on chase debut.
13:15 Wetherby Maiden Chase (Class 3) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
WEST BALBOA put in an underwhelming display on her first chase start at Worcester last time, but she should improve with that experience under her belt. If she can run to the level of form she showed over hurdles, then she will prove very difficult to beat. Farnoge finished third in a Listed event over the smaller obstacles at Perth in April and is an interesting contender on his chase debut, while Cadell can beat Edison Kent home for third.
WEST BALBOA was turned over when odds on for her chase debut at Worcester but she can be expected to leave that form well behind now moving back up in trip for the yard that has saddled two of the last three winners of this novice. If Farnoge's jumping passes the test he will likely emerge as the main danger, for all that Cadell first run over fences at Perth was not devoid of promise and he should have more to offer.
The choice is FARNOGE who looks the sort to make a useful novice chaser this term. West Balboa is an obvious danger.
(6) Railway Bell 2/1, 2/1 and tongue strap on, won 11-runner bumper at Newton Abbot (16.8f, good to firm) on NH debut 165 days ago. Likely player now going hurdling. Placed in two points and won her sole bumper; interesting contender on hurdling debut.
8
2nd (8) (5/6 +67%) Star Walking
0.833333
5/6(+67%)
(8) Star Walking 5/6, 10/11, emphatically won 7-runner bumper at Fakenham (16f, good to soft) on NH debut 7 months ago. This Irish points scorer merits serious consideration on her first go in this sphere. Sold for £115,000 after her point win and she won a bumper in May; interesting contender.
2
3rd (2) (50/1 -400%) Jessie Jump Jet
50
50/1(-400%)
(2) Jessie Jump Jet 50/1, Fourth of 9 in bumper (3/1) at Huntingdon (15.8f, good to firm) on NH debut 176 days ago. Respected on her hurdles debut. Promise in her sole bumper and she's out of a useful hurdler; one to keep an eye on.
7
4th (7) (14/1 -100%) Reel Rosie
14
14/1(-100%)
(7) Reel Rosie 14/1, Fairly useful Flat winner, disappointing at Wolverhampton (AW debut) 25 days ago though. Certainly has the ability to play a part on jumps debut if the switch can ignite her. Useful at her best on the Flat and needs checking in market on hurdling debut.
10
5th (10) (50/1 -100%) Little Venice
50
50/1(-100%)
(10) Little Venice 50/1, Fair handicapper on Flat (stays 12f), opening her account at Beverley (9.9f) in June. Low-key hurdling start at Plumpton and Ludlow and looks more of a long-term project in this sphere. Sole Flat win was in a Class 6 and well held in both hurdle runs this autumn.
5
6th (5) (100/1 -52%) Now Then Wendy
100
100/1(-52%)
(5) Now Then Wendy 100/1, A fair winner at 12f on Flat for Hughie Morrison. 20/1, encouraging fifth of 8 in novice hurdle at Market Rasen (16.6f, good to firm) 34 days ago. 1m4f Flat winner but she's been pulled up and tailed off in her two hurdle runs.
4
7th (4) (25/1 0%) Nobody's Perfect
25
25/1(0%)
(4) Nobody's Perfect 25/1, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. 16/1, sixth of 9 in novice hurdle at Market Rasen (16.6f, good) on hurdles bow 17 days ago. Needs to build on it. Some promise in points/bumpers but was well held on hurdling debut last month.
9
8th (9) (150/1 -50%) Windsor Wife
150
150/1(-50%)
(9) Windsor Wife 150/1, Point winner. Ninth of 10 in novice hurdle at Carlisle (17.2f, soft, 66/1) 15 days ago. Dead-heated in her sole point but was tailed off on hurdling debut last month.
3
9th (3) (16/1 -129%) Kenmya
16
16/1(-129%)
(3) Kenmya 16/1, A fair French scorer on Flat but off for 15 months since winning a claimer at La Teste. Still very much one to consider starting out in this sphere for top handler. Five Flat wins in France and Spain and she needs close look on hurdling/stable debut.
1
|PU| (1) (33/1 -136%) Adaaylight Dancer
33
33/1(-136%)
(1) Adaaylight Dancer 33/1, A fair 9f Flat winner in Spain but off for 15 months. Needs to hit the ground running on yard/hurdling debut. Seven Flat wins in Spain; now goes hurdling for new yard and needs checking in market.
13:25 Uttoxeter Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Star Walking arrives unbeaten after a victory between the flags and a bumper success at Fakenham, although the form isn't really working out. RAILWAY BELL reached the frame in both her point-to-points and made the best possible start under Rules with a comfortable win in a Newton Abbot bumper in May. She may prove good enough to run the leaders down late on over this trip, while Kenmya is a multiple Flat winner on the continent and is worth a market watch ahead of her debut for Dan Skelton.
The market should reveal plenty but it's hard to ignore the claims of STAR WALKING who followed up her Irish points success with a stylish winning bumper debut at Fakenham and can now follow suit going hurdling. Fellow newcomer Railway Bell also comes here on the back of a bumper victory and is feared most, although fellow debutantes Kenmya, Reel Rosie and Jessie Jump Jet need factoring in too.
An interesting race in which bumper winner RAILWAY BELL gets the vote ahead of Star Walking, who is unbeaten in a point and bumper.
(5) Sansrisk 7/2, Fairly useful hurdler. 2 wins from 3 runs this season. Career best when winning 12-runner novice hurdle (2/5) at Fairyhouse (16f, good) 25 days ago. Worth a chance at this level. Useful form overall; well worth her place in the field and could get into the shake-up.
1
2nd (1) (4/1 +50%) Royal Hollow
4
4/1(+50%)
(1) Royal Hollow 4/1, Fairly useful hurdler. 2 wins from 4 runs this season. 11/10, respectable second of 5 in minor event hurdle at Gowran (16f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Should be thereabouts. Has a bit to find to be competitive here giving weight all round but should run her race.
8
3rd (8) (18/1 -13%) Stormalong
18
18/1(-13%)
(8) Stormalong 18/1, Fairly useful hurdler. 11½ lengths sixth of 7 to Jetara in listed mares event (10/1) at Limerick (22.8f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Back down in trip. Enters calculations. Big ask for her back at 2m here but consistent and likely to run her race.
2
4th (2) (14/1 +50%) Amanha
14
14/1(+50%)
(2) Amanha 14/1, Fair hurdler. Winner in hurdle at Roscommon in August. 28/1, third of 5 in minor event hurdle at Gowran (16f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Booking of Flanagan a plus. Roscommon winner held by Royal Hollow twice since; likely to struggle here.
6
5th (6) (11/4 -10%) Savante
2.75
11/4(-10%)
(6) Savante 11/4, Promising type. 2 wins from 3 runs this season. Won 11-runner novice hurdle (8/11) at Tramore (20.3f, good to soft) on hurdles bow 22 days ago, forging clear. More to come and looks a definite player. Connections won this with Impervious three years ago; has the potential to improve.
4
6th (4) (7/2 +30%) Mystical Goddess
3.5
7/2(+30%)
(4) Mystical Goddess 7/2, Won 10-runner novice hurdle at Clonmel (16.8f, good, 10/3) on NH debut 29 days ago, comfortably. Should improve from that impressive start but this is a big ask. Ready winner on her hurdles debut at Clonmel last month; this is a big step up.
9
7th (9) (14/1 +30%) Yokkell
14
14/1(+30%)
(9) Yokkell 14/1, Thrice-raced winner over hurdles. C&D winner. Hooded for 1st time, second of 9 in novice hurdle (5/6) at Kelso (16.2f, good to soft) 26 days ago. More required in this company. Bolted up in C&D maiden; two defeats at odds-on in Britain are more difficult to assess.
3
8th (3) (20/1 +20%) Miss Dishy
20
20/1(+20%)
(3) Miss Dishy 20/1, Fair hurdler. Career best when winning 14-runner novice hurdle at Limerick (16.3f, good to soft, 11/4) 12 days ago, pushed out. Uphill task. Readily landed an ordinary mares contest at Limerick two weeks ago; much more needed here.
13:30 Down Royal Maiden Hurdle 17f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
In a wide-open contest where cases can be made for the majority of the field, it may be worth siding with SPECULATRIX, as Gordon Elliott looks to win this race for the third time in six years. She looked sure to win before falling at the last on her hurdling debut at Killarney last month and could well make amends here. Mystical Goddess won as she pleased at Clonmel and may prove her biggest rival, followed by Sansrisk, Miss Dishy and Savante, who could all have a say in the finish.
Bumper winner SAVANTE made an emphatic start to her hurdling career at Tramore recently and can find enough improvement to make an immediate breakthrough at Grade 3 level. Royal Hollow sets the standard and Speculatrix can get involved if she's recovered from a nasty fall (when looking set to win) on hurdling debut.
The Cullentra runner SPECULATRIX(nap) would have bolted up on her hurdles bow at Killarney but for falling at the last and can win this
(2) It Ain't Two 9/2, Has stood up very well to a busy year, winning 3 times. Also second at listed level a couple of times, including at York latest. Should be on the premises. Exposed but ran right up to her best when second in a 6f Listed race on soft at York.
3
2nd (3) (4/1 +0%) Kodilicious
4
4/1(+0%)
(3) Kodilicious 4/1, Improving daughter of Kodi Bear who opened account in a Sligo maiden (5.7f) in August and has posted some creditable efforts since in handicaps. Good chance on these terms up in class. Has no form in Pattern races but she's going the right way and has form claims.
9
3rd (9) (11/1 -22%) Running Queen
11
11/1(-22%)
(9) Running Queen 11/1, Learnt plenty from debut when winning 7-runner novice at Salisbury in May and backed it up with a solid showing when third in a listed contest at Chester 5 months ago. Not ruled out on return. It was a strong Listed race in which she ran third in May and could improve for 6f.
10
4th (10) (14/1 +0%) Sea Emily Run
14
14/1(+0%)
(10) Sea Emily Run 14/1, Half-sister to several winners and built on an encouraging debut at the second attempt when landing a novice at Goodwood a couple of months ago. Capable of better again but this is a big step up. This is a stiff rise in class from winning a 6f novice at Goodwood in August.
8
5th (8) (22/1 -10%) Pearl Of Windsor
22
22/1(-10%)
(8) Pearl Of Windsor 22/1, Advanced her form when a close sixth of 14 to Star of Mehmas in listed race at Ayr but didn't fire when failing to beat a rival in similar event at York last time. Struggled when tackling stronger company and it's likely to be a similar tale here.
6
6th (6) (9/4 +25%) Magic Mild
2.25
9/4(+25%)
(6) Magic Mild 9/4, Given a bit of time after finishing down the field in a York listed race in May and returned to win a 6f maiden and nursery on July Course, making all. Gave it a good shot from the front when third in Group 3 Dick Poole at Salisbury last time and should be very competitive. Improving filly with strong form claims and drying conditions are welcomed.
5
7th (5) (9/1 +0%) Magic Basma
9
9/1(+0%)
(5) Magic Basma 9/1, Expert Eye filly who cosily won 7-runner maiden (25/1) at Carlisle (5.8f, good to soft) on her debut and shaped well behind another promising sort at Newcastle next time. Looks well worth a go at this level. Made a bright start and the potential is there to hold her own on this rise in class.
11
8th (11) (14/1 -17%) Spherical
14
14/1(-17%)
(11) Spherical 14/1, Winner on debut at Yarmouth in May. Solid efforts since and doubled her tally in a novice at Kempton three weeks ago. Others have more potential, however. Has earned a crack at something like this but others have stronger credentials.
4
9th (4) (40/1 +0%) Lady Luzon
40
40/1(+0%)
(4) Lady Luzon 40/1, Consistent sort who doubled her tally at Chepstow (5f) and similar form when second of 7 in nursery (15/2) at Goodwood next time. Underwhelming at this level last time, though and set for another struggle. Consistent filly but Ayr last time seemingly confirmed that she's not up to this level.
1
10th (1) (20/1 -25%) Cold Hearted
20
20/1(-25%)
(1) Cold Hearted 20/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 10/1, creditable second of 12 in maiden at Naas (5.9f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Plenty to find on form. Best run yet when second at Naas but that was her fourth defeat at maiden level.
13:43 Newmarket Listed (Class 1) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Magic Mild attempted to make every yard of the running when fading into third in a Group 3 at Salisbury in September and another prominent role is forecast. However, the vote goes to KODILICIOUS, who has been far from disgraced in nursery company in Ireland of late and she looks capable of landing a race of this nature. It Ain't Two arrives on the back of a solid second in the Rockingham at York and is another to consider.
KODILICIOUS has run well off big weights in handicaps the last twice and could be the way to go up in class. Magic Mild is feared most, with Magic Basma also considered on just her third start.
Jessica Harrington's KODILICIOUS (nap) won a Sligo maiden that has worked out terrifically well and she has continued to improve.
(3) Welsh Charger 3/1, Took his form up a notch last season, bagging handicaps at Market Rasen and Musselburgh. Found his run of good form coming to halt at Kempton on final start but reappears with his yard amongst the winners. 4-8 over hurdles, including two last season; on stiffish mark but has a chance if wound up.
2
2nd (2) (10/1 +17%) Foster'sisland
10
10/1(+17%)
(2) Foster'sisland 10/1, Winless last season but ran up to his best when third of 14 in handicap hurdle at Ayr (21.4f, soft) on final outing and has gone well fresh before. Six hurdle wins at up to 2m5f; suited by soft; usually needs the race on reappearance.
7
3rd (7) (15/8 +58%) Kaituna River
1.875
15/8(+58%)
(7) Kaituna River 15/8, Winning Irish pointer and progressive in 3 runs over hurdles last season, opening his account in 8-runner maiden at Plumpton (20.5f, good to soft) 7 months ago. Into handicaps now and more needed. Irish point winner; won Plumpton maiden hurdle; interesting on handicap debut.
4
4th (4) (17/2 -42%) Isle Of Sark
8.5
17/2(-42%)
(4) Isle Of Sark 17/2, Fairly useful Flat winner who wasted no time getting back to form when second of 11 in maiden hurdle at Sedgefield (19.8f, good to soft) 31 days ago. Goes handicapping now but opening mark could have been a bit kinder. Fair stayer on the Flat; close second in maiden hurdle last time; this looks tougher.
5
5th (5) (11/2 +15%) Singapore Trip
5.5
11/2(+15%)
(5) Singapore Trip 11/2, Returned to the pick of his French form to open his account on British soil in 10-runner handicap hurdle at Perth (20.2f, good to soft) in May, always holding on. Nudged up 6 lb but can remain competitive if ready to roll back from a break. Ex-French; Perth winner in May; 6lb higher; not sure to be spot on after summer break.
1
6th (1) (5/1 +75%) Docpickedme
5
5/1(+75%)
(1) Docpickedme 5/1, Boasts an all-or-nothing profile, producing a career-best over fences here in January. Disappointing last 3 starts, however, and now returns to hurdling with something to prove. Won C&D handicap chase in January; not so good after; first run hurdling since April 2023.
13:50 Wetherby Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
A lengthy spell on the sidelines hasn't set LUCKIE SEVEN back because he has returned with a couple of Perth victories. The form of his latest win has been franked by the runner-up and 115 could be a lenient initial figure now Nicky Richards' useful prospect goes handicapping. Isle Of Sark and Kaituna River also dip their toes into handicap waters for the first time, although the biggest threat could come in the shape of Singapore Trip, who tasted success at Perth when last seen.
LUCKIE SEVEN had appreciably more in hand than the narrow margin of victory implies when defying a penalty at Perth in September and, open to more improvement now venturing into handicaps, he makes plenty of appeal. Welsh Charger has a good strike rate and reappears with his yard amongst the winners, so is second choice ahead of the lightly-raced Kaituna River.
The two unexposed sorts appeal most here with dual Perth scorer LUCKIE SEVEN (nap) preferred to Plumpton winner Kaituna River.
(12) Western Knight 22/1, Showed plenty when runner-up in bumper at Plumpton on debut but well held at Taunton a year later. Off 6 months. Makes hurdles debut. Up in trip. Best bumper run isn't strong form but on breeding he should do much better over hurdles.
10
2nd (10) (10/3 -48%) Julius Des Pictons
3.333333
10/3(-48%)
(10) Julius Des Pictons 10/3, Fair form in bumpers in France and similar form when runner-up both outings over hurdles in 2023/24, beaten short neck on second occasion. Left M. Mescam €120,000 in November 2023. Form pick starting out for new yard. Won a 1m4f bumper in France and just missed out on his final hurdle run there.
7
3rd (7) (25/1 -25%) Icare Colombe
25
25/1(-25%)
(7) Icare Colombe 25/1, Unfancied in the betting but showed ability in bumpers for Thomas Gallagher. Off 6 months. Makes hurdles debut. Up in trip. Middle bumper run far better than the others; has joined a top yard to go hurdling.
3
4th (3) (28/1 -100%) Boston Boy
28
28/1(-100%)
(3) Boston Boy 28/1, Runner-up sole start in Irish points but failed to see race out both starts in bumpers. Off 6 months. Makes hurdles debut. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Expensive point recruit but it was a quiet start under rules in bumpers.
1
5th (1) (1/1 +70%) Diamond Dealer
1
1/1(+70%)
(1) Diamond Dealer 1/1, Point winner who hasn't looked an easy conveyance under Rules, but under a change of tactics and tongue tie, he left his previous efforts behind when off the mark in C&D novice last month. Must be respected under a penalty. In a first-time tongue-tie when left clear to win easily here; penalised but respected.
9
6th (9) (9/2 +0%) J J Moon
4.5
9/2(+0%)
(9) J J Moon 9/2, Much improved away from soft ground when making third bumper start a winning one at Southwell in May. Showed plenty to work on by the end when third of 6 in novice at Market Rasen (20.6f, good, 11/2) on hurdles bow 17 days ago, finishing with running left. Will do better. Bumper winner; beaten 14l into third on hurdling debut and this could be stronger.
8
7th (8) (11/1 -57%) Jax Junior
11
11/1(-57%)
(8) Jax Junior 11/1, Fair form in bumpers, placed last 2 starts. Off 8 months. Makes hurdles debut. Up in trip. Beaten 3l and 13l in two Huntingdon bumpers on soft ground, posting similar RPRs.
13
8th (13) (66/1 0%) Livy's Lad
66
66/1(0%)
(13) Livy's Lad 66/1, Kayf Tara gelding. Dam useful 2m-2½m hurdle winner. Fourth of 6 sole start in points and offered little debuting under Rules in a tongue strap here last month. Well beaten in a point bumper and again in Diamond Dealer's maiden hurdle here last month.
5
|PU| (5) (33/1 -230%) Gamblergo
33
33/1(-230%)
(5) Gamblergo 33/1, €40,000 5-y-o who was successful sole outing in Irish points (Mar 2024). One to note on Rules debut. Bought for £40,000 but it's now looking a weak Irish point that he won in March.
11
|PU| (11) (150/1 -127%) Nelsons Star
150
150/1(-127%)
(11) Nelsons Star 150/1, Once-raced maiden. Last of 12 in bumper (22/1) at Ludlow (15.8f, heavy) on NH debut. Off 11 months. Makes hurdles debut. Up in trip. In trouble a long way out in a bumper at Ludlow (soft; 22-1) and eventually tailed off.
4
|PU| (4) (200/1 -300%) Casting Aspersions
200
200/1(-300%)
(4) Casting Aspersions 200/1, Runner-up both completed starts in points but looks one for the longer term under Rules based on early evidence. Point/bumper promise but not shown much in two maiden hurdles, latterly at 150-1.
14:00 Uttoxeter Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
DIAMOND DEALER had plenty in hand when winning over C&D by 26 lengths just under a month ago and the five-year-old is hard to oppose on the back of that performance, despite a 7lb penalty. Julius Des Pictons showed ability when trained in France and has to be of interest on his debut for these connections, while J J Moon and Gamblergo are also noted.
GOT A DREAM was the best of these in bumpers, finishing better than mid-field in a Grade 2 at Aintree on final start, and is preferred over last month's C&D winner Diamond Dealer, who shoulders a 7 lb penalty. Julius des Pictons looks an interesting recruit from France having split a pair of subsequent winners when just edged out in a novice hurdle at Fontainebleau when last seen 12 months ago.
The penalty asks a question of him but DIAMOND DEALER delivered a useful performance here last time, for all that he was left clear.
(2) Brighterdaysahead 4/5, Useful hurdler. C&D winner. 6/5, didn't need to improve to win 8-runner Mersey Novices' Hurdle at Aintree (20f, good to soft) by 7½ lengths from Staffordshire Knot, plenty in hand. Remains with potential. Impressively beat geldings in 2m4f Grade 1 at Aintree; travels well 2m1f should be fine.
4
2nd (4) (13/2 -117%) King Of Kingsfield
6.5
13/2(-117%)
(4) King Of Kingsfield 13/2, Useful hurdler. Creditable 11½ lengths fourth of 9 to Mystical Power in Champion Novices' Hurdle at Punchestown (16.7f, good to soft, 28/1), unable to sustain effort. Brighterdaysahead appears to be the stable No 1 but he feared nonetheless. Course bumper winner had classy novice form; fair fourth in Punchestown Grade 1 in April.
1
3rd (1) (7/4 +7%) Daddy Long Legs
1.75
7/4(+7%)
(1) Daddy Long Legs 7/4, Smart hurdler. Career best when winning 5-runner Horse & Jockey Hotel Hurdle at Tipperary (16.2f, good to soft, evens) 26 days ago by 16 lengths from Smooth Tom. The one to beat. Made all to trounce Smooth Tom on similar ground in Tipperary Grade 3 last time.
6
4th (6) (66/1 +0%) Miss Fourie
66
66/1(+0%)
(6) Miss Fourie 66/1, Unreliable type. Career best when winning 10-runner handicap hurdle (17/2) at Killarney (17f, soft) 71 days ago, doing better under change of tactics. Much more on her plate here. Bolted up in Killarney handicap but that was off mark of only 113; very stiff task here.
5
|F| (5) (250/1 -25%) Breagagh
250
250/1(-25%)
(5) Breagagh 250/1, Modest hurdler. Creditable seventh of 19 in handicap at Navan (14f, good to soft, 20/1) 9 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Creditable on last hurdle outing. Uphill task. Only making up the numbers and has no chance in this company.
3
|U| (3) (33/1 -32%) Smooth Tom
33
33/1(-32%)
(3) Smooth Tom 33/1, Lightly-raced winner over hurdles. Successful on the Flat in first-time cheekpieces (retained here) 10 days ago but he was beaten 16 lengths by Daddy Long Legs on latest start in this sphere at Tipperary and he's just 3 lb better off with that rival now. Flat winner at the Curragh since he was trounced by Daddy Long Legs at Tipperary.
14:05 Down Royal Conditions Hurdle 17f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Although official ratings would suggest Daddy Long Legs, an emphatic winner at Tipperary last month, is the one to beat, BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD can prove too strong. Six from seven so far, Gordon Elliott's mare put the boys in their place when routing the field in the Mersey Novices' Hurdle at Aintree in April. Her only defeat came at the Cheltenham Festival the previous month and she will take all the beating if returning on song. Stablemate King Of Kingsfield appeals most of the remainder.
BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD is taken to enhance Gordon Elliott's fine recent record in this Grade 3 contest, a race he has saddled the winner of three times in the last four years. The 5-y-o has tasted defeat just once from seven career starts and she looked very good indeed when landing a Grade 1 at the Aintree Grand National meeting. Daddy Long Legs thumped Smooth Tom and three others in a Tipperary Grade 3 last month and he is the main danger ahead of the selection's stablemate King of Kingsfield.
Impressive against geldings in a Grade 1 at Aintree in April, BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD can make a winning start to her campaign
(5) Sixtygeesbaby 10/3, Foaled March 21. €125,000 yearling, 65,000 gns 2-y-o, Starspangledbanner half-brother to smart winner up to 6f Rogue Lightning. Dam 2-y-o 6f winner. Tongue tie on and showed plenty to work on amidst greenness when fourth starting out at Windsor in August. Gelded and sure to progress. Fourth of seven from well off pace at Windsor (6f, good to firm) three months ago; gelded.
7
2nd (7) (33/1 -65%) Zubaru
33
33/1(-65%)
(7) Zubaru 33/1, Foaled April 1. 32,000 gns foal, Zoustar gelding. Half-brother to 3 winners, including 2-y-o 5f winner Emilia James and 6f/7f winner Opening Time. 32,000gns foal; eighth foal; Zoustar half-brother to three winners, two fairly useful.
3
3rd (3) (6/4 +33%) Jolly Roger
1.5
6/4(+33%)
(3) Jolly Roger 6/4, Foaled April 15. Dark Angel colt. Brother to 7f winner Silver Feather. One to take seriously on debut given connections. Brother to French 7f winner (RPR 92); dam 6f-1m winner (including 2yo Group 2; 111).
12
4th (12) (20/1 +0%) Sarteano
20
20/1(+0%)
(12) Sarteano 20/1, Foaled March 20. Teofilo filly. Dam, 1m winner, half-sister to smart winner up to 1m Havana Gold (by Teofilo). In top hands but bred to stay well and her opening effort was hardly brimming with promise. Bred for 1m+; hood is enlisted and she needs to improve a ton after Lingfield AW debut.
4
5th (4) (5/2 -43%) Montezuma
2.5
5/2(-43%)
(4) Montezuma 5/2, Lot to like on paper and wasn't seen to best effect when fifth of 12 in novice at Kempton (7f) on debut 16 days ago, trapped wide throughout and showing speed before weakening close home. Sure to build on that. 5th of 12 in novice at Kempton (7f, AW) 16 days ago, fair form which is the best in this.
6
6th (6) (17/2 +15%) Stardancer
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(6) Stardancer 17/2, Foaled April 30. 80,000 gns yearling, Dark Angel colt. Brother to 3 winners, including 5f winner Linda Barrett and 5f winner Cariad Angel. Bred to be sharp. 80,000gns yearling by Dark Angel; fifth foal; brother to three winners, two fairly useful.
11
7th (11) (100/1 -52%) Olympic Melody
100
100/1(-52%)
(11) Olympic Melody 100/1, Oasis Dream filly. Half-sister to several winners, including 5f winner Autumn Trail and 8.6f winner Back On The Trail. Debut fourth at Lingfield wasn't devoid of promise but failed to back that up at Kempton since. Better effort on debut; admittedly 100-1 next time but probably a longer-term project.
2
8th (2) (80/1 -21%) Grey Operations
80
80/1(-21%)
(2) Grey Operations 80/1, Tenth of 11 in novice (80/1) at Southwell (7.1f) 11 days ago. Dropped right away in 7f AW novice events at Kempton and Southwell (made most) last month.
9
9th (9) (125/1 -89%) Hot Breath
125
125/1(-89%)
(9) Hot Breath 125/1, Foaled February 18. Bated Breath filly. Half-sister to several winners, including smart 6f winner Mobsta and useful 6f-7f winner Cincuenta Pasos. Showed only greenness on recent Southwell debut. 66-1 at Southwell (6f, AW) 15 days ago, getting upset in stalls and always towards rear.
8
10th (8) (100/1 -150%) Castellina
100
100/1(-150%)
(8) Castellina 100/1, Looks like a long-term project after 2 starts. Improved when seventh of 11 at Southwell (6f, AW) but that is modest form.
10
11th (10) (80/1 -100%) Manara
80
80/1(-100%)
(10) Manara 80/1, Limited impact both starts, still green when sixth of 8 in novice at Southwell (6.1f) 15 days ago. Modest form in 6f AW novice races at Kempton and Southwell last month.
14:17 Newmarket Stakes (Class 4) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
MONTEZUMA showed plenty of pace over 7f at Kempton on debut, but paid the price when tiring in the closing stages. This drop to 6f looks the logical move and the Godolphin colt may prove the one to side with. Sixtygeesbaby finished strongly to take fourth at Windsor on his introduction and he can feature with improvement expected having been subsequently gelded, while Stardancer is a brother to three winners and the son of Dark Angel is preferred to Jolly Roger of the newcomers.
Things conspired against MONTEZUMA on his recent Kempton debut and given his pedigree and connections, it would come as no surprise whatsoever were he a different proposition this time. Sixtygeesbaby also shaped nicely on debut and he can improve, with Jolly Roger perhaps the pick of the newcomers.
Charlie Appleby's MONTEZUMA is preferred to Sixtygeesbaby among those who have run, but they don't set a particularly high standard
(1) Liam Swagger 11/8, Fairly useful maiden on Flat and half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Father of Jazz (2m winner). Created an excellent impression in a first-time tongue tie when readily seeing off Torrent on hurdling debut at Market Rasen a month ago. Worth a chance to defend the unbeaten record in this sphere. Useful Flat maiden; odds-on winner on hurdles debut at Market Rasen; major contender.
2
2nd (2) (14/1 -320%) Static
14
14/1(-320%)
(2) Static 14/1, Fairly useful hurdler in France who has run out on both outings over fences. Interesting runner starting out for new yard. Useful form in France, winning two 3yo hurdles at Auteuil; interesting on stable debut.
6
3rd (6) (11/1 +45%) Torrent
11
11/1(+45%)
(6) Torrent 11/1, Fair Flat performer who has made a good start to his hurdling career, already a two-time winner and not disgraced when second to Liam Swagger at Market Rasen a month ago. May struggle to reverse form with that rival. Good second to Liam Swagger last time and now 11lb better off; chance.
7
4th (7) (16/1 -78%) Inspire Hope
16
16/1(-78%)
(7) Inspire Hope 16/1, Built on promise of her hurdles debut when winning 11-runner juvenile contest at Killarney and respectable second at Down Royal a couple of months ago. Has left Joseph O'Brien and has the form to compete at the weights. Ex-Joseph O'Brien; three good runs over hurdles and quite interesting on stable debut.
5
5th (5) (14/1 +53%) Play Pretend
14
14/1(+53%)
(5) Play Pretend 14/1, Overcame inexperience to score on debut at Market Rasen in June. Crashed out at the first at Uttoxeter a month later, then third here last time. Needs to up his game in first-time cheekpieces. Looked green when winning on debut; pulled hard when third here last time; others stronger.
3
6th (3) (5/1 +9%) Denzil
5
5/1(+9%)
(3) Denzil 5/1, Dink gelding. Brother to yard's useful hurdler/high-class chaser Nube Negra and fair chaser Noche Negra. Easy winner of three-runner event at Stratford on debut and should be capable of better. Home-bred; won 3-runner event on debut by 55l (left clear at the last); considered.
4
|F| (4) (11/4 +69%) Model Approach
2.75
11/4(+69%)
(4) Model Approach 11/4, Fairly useful maiden on Flat for Jim Bolger and has made a bright start to his hurdle career, confirming the promise of his opening Market Rasen third when making all at Sedgefield and Kempton. Should give it another good go from the front. Fair on the Flat; 3rd to Liam Swagger on debut; has progressed to win next 2 races; chance.
14:25 Wetherby Conditions Hurdle (Class 1) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
LIAM SWAGGER is part of a good team of early-season juveniles for James Owen and the Gredley family, and comfortably accounted for Torrent and subsequent dual winner Model Approach when making a successful start to his jumping career at Market Rasen. Torrent is much better off at the weights but, even so, Liam Swagger is fancied to take the next step up the hurdling ladder. Denzil didn't have much to beat at Stratford but still couldn't have done it any easier, while Static has picked up plenty of experience in France.
LIAM SWAGGER is a relative to one that connections have already enjoyed success with and he looked a good prospect in his own right when scoring easily at Market Rasen on his first hurdling outing, so he's marginally preferred to Model Approach, who should take a hand under a positive ride. Inspire Hope is another one to consider.
The vote goes to TORRENT, who was second to Liam Swagger at Market Rasen last time and can reverse the form on these better terms.
(2) Charlotte's Web 13/8, Promising individual. 13/8, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 41 days ago, impressively. Has to be taken seriously. 5lb higher than for her successful handicap debut at Wolverhampton; has more to come.
3
2nd (3) (11/2 -22%) Johnny Ringo
5.5
11/2(-22%)
(3) Johnny Ringo 11/2, Course winner. 18/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, good fourth of 12 in handicap at this C&D 17 days ago, staying on strongly. Heading back in the right direction recently. Fourth in a slowly run race over C&D last time; may not have this run to suit either.
7
3rd (7) (7/2 +42%) Humble Spark
3.5
7/2(+42%)
(7) Humble Spark 7/2, C&D winner. 3 wins from 12 runs this year. Creditable second of 17 in handicap (11/2) at York (10.2f, soft) 54 days ago. Can give a good account. Consistent since the spring including two wins over C&D, but race may not be run to suit.
4
4th (4) (9/2 +25%) Typical Woman
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(4) Typical Woman 9/2, 2 wins from 6 runs this year. Creditable second of 11 in handicap at Newmarket (12f, good to soft, 12/1) 27 days ago, clear of rest. Player. Major improver on turf of late and has winning form on Polytrack; a player.
5
5th (5) (25/1 +0%) Highwaygrey
25
25/1(+0%)
(5) Highwaygrey 25/1, C&D winner. Seventh of 9 in handicap at this C&D (10/1) 29 days ago, slowly away. Tongue strap on 1st time, cheekpieces back on. C&D winner but modest here last time and still 7lb above last winning mark; tongue-tie on.
1
6th (1) (8/1 +60%) Cockalorum
8
8/1(+60%)
(1) Cockalorum 8/1, Below-par twelfth of 14 in handicap at York (10.2f, heavy, 10/1) 20 days ago. Back down in grade, but has to put a modest effort at York last month behind him.
6
7th (6) (25/1 -355%) Three Platoon
25
25/1(-355%)
(6) Three Platoon 25/1, 15/2 and visor on for 1st time in this code, last of 7 in handicap hurdle at Downpatrick (17.3f, good to soft) 21 days ago. Visor back on. Fair on the Flat, won on last Flat run. Well beaten over hurdles last time, but had previously twice won well over C&D; respected.
14:30 Newcastle Handicap (Class 4) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
CHARLOTTE'S WEB made a winning handicap debut over an extended 1m1f at Wolverhampton in September. The Night Of Thunder filly looks certain to have more in the locker, and she is taken to defy a 5lb rise en route to further success. Typical Woman came up short when finishing second in her hat-trick bid at Newmarket last month but this is a drop in class and she features prominently in calculations. Three Platoon struggled over timber last time out, but he's of definite interest back on the Flat.
CHARLOTTE'S WEB took a big step forward when making a winning handicap bow at Wolverhampton in good style 6 weeks ago and can defy a 5 lb rise with further progress likely. Typical Woman was unable to complete the hat-trick when second at Newmarket but she still pulled clear of the rest and remains of interest, while Johnny Ringo caught the eye over C&D last month.
This can go to CHARLOTTE'S WEB (nap) who won nicely on her Wolverhampton handicap debut. It's likely she still has improvement left.
(12) Hawaii Du Mestivel 15/8, Much improved since tongue tied and bids for a hat-trick after wide-margin handicap wins at Fontwell and Bangor of late. Up another 12 lb but he's still a big player. Emphatic wins in last two runs and he's open to more progress; big player again.
7
2nd (7) (12/1 -9%) Bertie B
12
12/1(-9%)
(7) Bertie B 12/1, Scored at Hereford in February but signed off with a below form third of 13 in handicap hurdle at Warwick (21f, heavy, 9/2) 7 months ago. Needs to hit the ground running on his return. Record of 1-9 over hurdles and needs more progress after 236 days off.
8
3rd (8) (16/1 -33%) My Monty
16
16/1(-33%)
(8) My Monty 16/1, 33-length winner in 23f handicap here in May and backed it up with a good second there following month. Much respected after a break. Easy win and creditable second here (2m7f) in last two runs; dangerous on his return.
5
4th (5) (28/1 +44%) North Parade
28
28/1(+44%)
(5) North Parade 28/1, In need of the run on his return when ninth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Wetherby (24.1f, good to soft, 20/1) 16 days ago. A three-time 2m4f scorer last term so he needs considering. Three hurdle wins at Newcastle last winter but he's finished in rear in last two starts.
11
5th (11) (11/1 -10%) Kay Tara Tara
11
11/1(-10%)
(11) Kay Tara Tara 11/1, Ended her time with Alan King under a cloud, only ninth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Huntingdon (19.6f, good) 173 days ago. Since had breathing surgery (also tongue tied) so needs considering for her new yard given she goes well fresh. Returns after wind for surgery for new yard and has claims if she can get back on track.
10
6th (10) (9/1 +25%) Call To Duty
9
9/1(+25%)
(10) Call To Duty 9/1, Only a fair furth of 7 in novice hurdle at Exeter (18.5f, good, 4/1) 22 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut with more required if he's to open his account here. Lightly raced handicap newcomer but he needs to resume his progress at this new trip.
3
7th (3) (14/1 +13%) Icare Allen
14
14/1(+13%)
(3) Icare Allen 14/1, Seventeen runs since last win in 2022. 12/1, last of 8 in handicap hurdle at Bangor (19.6f, good) 126 days ago. Others appeal more. Well treated on old form but he's not shown much for current yard; lots to prove on return.
4
8th (4) (4/1 +56%) Tommie Gun
4
4/1(+56%)
(4) Tommie Gun 4/1, Held when fell last in handicap chase (7/2) at Warwick (20f, good) on debut over fences 29 days ago. Switches back to hurdles and this fair 2m winner can't be discounted with his yard going well. Fell on recent chase debut but he still has potential in this sphere and is not ruled out.
2
9th (2) (7/2 -5%) Honneur D'ajonc
3.5
7/2(-5%)
(2) Honneur D'ajonc 7/2, Improved to win 8-runner handicap hurdle (11/4) at Fontwell (17.7f, good) 38 days ago. Can make his presence felt despite taking a 6 lb rise. Ended lengthy losing run off reduced mark at Fontwell last time; respected back up in trip.
9
10th (9) (33/1 -230%) Chankaya
33
33/1(-230%)
(9) Chankaya 33/1, Got off the mark with a career best in 12-runner handicap hurdle at Taunton (19f, soft) 8 months ago on his final run for Mitchell Hunt. Not taken lightly on his return/yard bow. Won at Taunton in February and has claims if he can pick up where he left off for new yard.
6
11th (6) (28/1 -40%) Norley
28
28/1(-40%)
(6) Norley 28/1, First run since leaving Tom Gretton when 33½ lengths fifth of 8 to Honneur D'ajonc in handicap hurdle at Fontwell (17.7f, good, 10/1) 38 days ago. Needs to build on it. On dangerous mark but last win was 19 months ago and he's lost his way; passed over.
14:35 Uttoxeter Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
HONNEUR D'AJONC bounced back to form when winning over an extended 2m1f at Fontwell, on just his third start for this yard. A 6lb rise for that success seems fair as he may have more improvement left to come. The hat-trick seeking Hawaii Du Mestivel is an obvious threat, but he is 14lb higher than when scoring at Bangor in September. Others to consider are Call To Duty and Tommie Gun.
A case can be made for a few of these but HAWAII DU MESTIVEL arrives firmly on the up so is taken to bag his hat-trick and defy a career-high mark. Honneur d'Ajonc is feared most on the back of his Fontwell victory, with Kay Tara Tara, Horsesomeharry and Chankaya all in the mix too.
The pick is hat-trick-seeker HAWAII DU MESTIVEL (nap) who won in emphatic style in his last two runs and is open to more progress.
(6) Tuckmill 9/2, Latest win in hurdle at Wexford in August. Bit below form sixth of 10 in novice chase at Tramore (20.4f, good to soft, 11/2) 22 days ago. Blinkers back on for handicap debut in this sphere. 10lb pull with his Downpatrick conqueror Someone's Wish and 2m4f was too far last time.
5
2nd (5) (2/1 0%) Someone's Wish
2
2/1(0%)
(5) Someone's Wish 2/1, Winner of a maiden chase at Downpatrick in September. 9/4, third of 5 in a Cork novice (17.6f, good) 19 days ago. Big player on handicap debut in this sphere. Beat Tuckmill on chase debut and beaten less than a length in rated novice at Cork since.
3
3rd (3) (15/8 +58%) If You Let Me
1.875
15/8(+58%)
(3) If You Let Me 15/8, Fairly useful 2m winner over hurdles. Good second of 11 in maiden at Navan (14f, good to soft, 25/1) 9 days ago, closing all way to line. Switches from Flat to chase and he's open to improvement. Was behind stablemate Hypotenus at Sligo but stable jockey prefers to ride him.
7
4th (7) (28/1 +15%) Ricky Langford
28
28/1(+15%)
(7) Ricky Langford 28/1, Unreliable sort. Latest win in chase at Downpatrick in August. 33/1, ninth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (15.8f, good) 17 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase. Gained third chase win at Downpatrick in August but well beaten since; 2lb wrong.
4
5th (4) (5/1 +38%) General Clermont
5
5/1(+38%)
(4) General Clermont 5/1, Creditable fourth of 8 in handicap chase at Clonmel (20.7f, good to soft, 10/1) 8 days ago. Down in trip and he's not without each-way hope. Dual chase winner will enjoy the ground; only beaten 3l at Clonmel last week.
1
6th (1) (11/2 -10%) Calico
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(1) Calico 11/2, Respectable second of 6 in handicap chase (11/2) at Cork (17.6f, good) 19 days ago. Yard saddles a more appealing candidate in Someone's Wish. Beaten 12l when second to The Banger Doyle on handicap debut at Cork; down in grade.
2
7th (2) (6/1 +0%) Hypotenus
6
6/1(+0%)
(2) Hypotenus 6/1, Fairly useful 2m winner over hurdles. Eighth of 12 in novice chase (8/1) at Punchestown (16.6f, good) 16 days ago. May well take a step forward now pitched into a handicap. Not the strongest of finishers and can make errors but opening mark could be exploitable.
14:40 Down Royal Handicap Chase 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
SOMEONE'S WISH won a beginners chase at Downpatrick in September and was only narrowly denied at Cork last time. Now switched to handicaps, the four-year-old could be hard to beat off a workable mark. If You Let Me hit the crossbar on the level last week and should not be underestimated, while Calico and Hypotenus are others who merit places on the shortlist in an open event.
SOMEONE'S WISH has made a positive start over fences, proving 1¼ lengths too strong for the re-opposing Tuckmill on debut in this sphere at Downpatrick prior to going close in his follow up bid at Cork last month. The 4-y-o probably has more to offer as a chaser and earns preference ahead of Hypotenus and General Clermont.
Most of them have a life but maybe CALICO, after a couple of runs to blow away the cobwebs, can capitalise on a drop in grade
(3) Sixfiveseven 12/1, Fairly treated and back to form when runner-up at Brighton recently. Can get involved if he's able to back that up. Ability in France as 2yo; hiccups in Britain but fared better when 2nd at Brighton latest.
1
2nd (1) (16/1 -129%) Dakota Power
16
16/1(-129%)
(1) Dakota Power 16/1, Latest win at Ffos Las in August. Respectable seventh of 13 in handicap (4/1) at Ascot (7f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Drops back in grade now and is likely to be on the premises. Two wins at about 7f on soft; below best at Ascot latest but claims on earlier efforts.
4
3rd (4) (14/1 -27%) Optiva Star
14
14/1(-27%)
(4) Optiva Star 14/1, Creditable third of 11 in handicap at Brighton (8f, heavy, 12/1) 15 days ago, making effort earlier than ideal. First run for yard after leaving Richard Hannon. Well treated on his best form and can't be ruled out. All 3 wins at Brighton; fair 3rd there latest; left R Hannon for £4,000 since.
8
4th (8) (9/1 +44%) Fihrayn
9
9/1(+44%)
(8) Fihrayn 9/1, Generally respectable efforts prior to a tame effort at Windsor last time, possibly unsuited by the testing conditions. Could bounce back. Had some trip/surface excuses in handicaps; close 2nd over 7f on AW in September; now 0-10.
6
5th (6) (5/1 +9%) Dembe
5
5/1(+9%)
(6) Dembe 5/1, Relished the return to AW when overcoming a pace bias to land a 9-runner handicap at Kempton (8f) 42 days ago. Clearly well treated on this surface but serious reservations as to whether he's as effective. Back to form when 1m AW winner in September; has much more to prove on previous turf runs.
10
6th (10) (11/4 +39%) Claxton Bay
2.75
11/4(+39%)
(10) Claxton Bay 11/4, Going the right way of late and produced another likeable display when making all at Beverley last time. Should put up another bold showing. Has proved well suited by a stiff 1m on turf in three runs for this yard; every chance.
7
7th (7) (5/1 +23%) Buy The Dip
5
5/1(+23%)
(7) Buy The Dip 5/1, Latest win at Lingfield in June. 13/2, creditable third of 9 in handicap at Brighton (8f, good) 86 days ago. Holding form well when last seen and fancied to return with another solid showing. Winner over 1m and 7f this year; has underperformed when racing on slower than good ground.
12
8th (12) (25/1 +11%) Obee Jo
25
25/1(+11%)
(12) Obee Jo 25/1, Struggling for form at present and others look more persuasive. Multiple wins at 6f and 7f; stamina query back at 1m and has gone quiet of late.
9
9th (9) (12/1 +25%) Grovely Belle
12
12/1(+25%)
(9) Grovely Belle 12/1, Stepped forward on previous efforts when third in a novice at Redcar last time but handicapper hasn't taken any chances with opening mark. Showed promise in 7f Redcar event in September; can give it a good shot now handicapping.
5
10th (5) (16/1 -33%) Woodleigh
16
16/1(-33%)
(5) Woodleigh 16/1, Winner at Ripon in May. Bit below form sixth of 10 in handicap (15/2) at Thirsk (7f, good) 46 days ago. Needs to get back on track after a break. Best form when clear winner over 6f (soft) in May; stays 7f; this trip could be a stretch.
11
11th (11) (9/1 +44%) Dazitoo
9
9/1(+44%)
(11) Dazitoo 9/1, Lightly raced maiden who is yet to better modest form, only seventh in a handicap at Yarmouth last time. Others make more appeal. Started off with a promising 5th on debut but hard to fancy on subsequent runs.
2
12th (2) (18/1 -100%) Makes Sense
18
18/1(-100%)
(2) Makes Sense 18/1, Shaped well on his first two starts, notably on debut and, while he's yet to build on that, this step up in trip should be in his favour starting out in handicaps, so not a forlorn hope. Early promise over 7f/6f; not so good since; needs to prove stamina for 1m; handicap debut.
14
13th (14) (33/1 0%) Heer's Sadie
33
33/1(0%)
(14) Heer's Sadie 33/1, Has been out of sorts for a while and failed to fire at Brighton again last time. Others make more appeal. Latest three wins over 7f at Brighton; has yet to shine at 1m; other days.
13
14th (13) (33/1 -32%) Bo Taifan
33
33/1(-32%)
(13) Bo Taifan 33/1, 33/1, ran creditably after just 4 days off when fourth of 9 in handicap at Yarmouth (8f, good to soft). Has left Denis Quinn and been off five months since, so worth a market check. Three 7f AW wins in 2023; close 4th in only his second turf run, over 1m in May; new yard.
14:52 Newmarket Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
CLAXTON BAY has improved for a change of scenery and was having only his third start for Richard Hannon when winning at Beverley in September. He has scope for further improvement off his current rating and is taken to defy a 3lb rise. Sixfiveseven appreciated the drop in distance when finishing runner-up over a mile at Brighton and there looks more to come from him, while Buy The Dip placed at Brighton in August and he makes more appeal than Dembe.
CLAXTON BAY has been bang in form lately and, while this is a step up in grade, he's fancied to put up another bold showing. Dembe is an obvious threat in that he scored off the same mark at Kempton last time, but he's seemingly not as effective on turf. Buy The Dip should give another good account.
Dakota Power is interesting on his best form but GROVELY BELLE looks a potential improver now she goes handicapping.
(5) Genois 15/8, Useful hurdler/chaser at his best for Enda Bolger in Ireland. Sole win was a in a maiden hurdle over 3 years ago but he shaped well when third on debut for this yard at Warwick (2½m, good) where he wasn't knocked about. Down another 2 lb and he's dangerous to discount. Weak in the market when third on stable debut; peak form offers hope off his low weight.
4
2nd (4) (16/5 +0%) Galop De Chasse
3.2
16/5(+0%)
(4) Galop De Chasse 16/5, Produced a career-best when landing a competitive Newbury handicap (19.8f, good to soft) on what turned out to be his sole appearance of last season. 9 lb rise fair given that he pulled well clear of the rest with the runner-up and this 8-y-o evidently goes well fresh. Strong claims. Good reappearance record but a 9lb rise for Newbury last November asks a question of him.
1
3rd (1) (5/2 +33%) Midnight River
2.5
5/2(+33%)
(1) Midnight River 5/2, Very smart performer who signed off fine 2022/23 season by landing a Grade 3 handicap upped to 25f at the Aintree Grand National meeting. Below par in the Charlie Hall and fell in a major Newbury handicap in 2 starts of a truncated campaign last term. This trip may be on the sharp side nowadays. Light season latest; has the form to feature provided he's wound up back from break.
3
4th (3) (4/1 -14%) Prairie Wolf
4
4/1(-14%)
(3) Prairie Wolf 4/1, Winner of 3 of his half-a-dozen starts switched to fences last term, finishing a solid third off this mark in a strong 10-runner Ayr handicap on final start of that campaign in April. Reappearance spin over hurdles here last month will have blown away the cobwebs and he's of strong interest. Progressive 2m4f chaser last season; can improve for recent hurdle reappearance.
15:00 Wetherby Handicap Chase (Class 1) 19f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Galop De Chasse has been off for the best part of a year but proved by winning at Newbury that he goes well fresh. Midnight River has been absent for almost as long - since falling in the Coral Gold Cup - but is another who doesn't usually need a run to put him right. His stablemate Heltenham came to grief in the Ayr race in which PRAIRIE WOLF finished third and that seven-year-old is given the nod to get a win on the board for the new partnership of Joel Parkinson and Sue Smith, with last month's spin over timber here expected to have brought him to the boil.
Compelling cases can be tabled for each member of the quintet. PRAIRIE WOLF made good progress in this sphere last season and, with the promise of better to come from him this time round and a recent run over hurdles under his belt, he gets the nod. Galop de Chasse enhanced his good record when fresh by landing a Newbury handicap on his sole start of last season and he is a big threat, while Heltenham could be the pick of the Skelton-trained duo, despite jockey bookings suggesting otherwise.
A trappy handicap. PRAIRIE WOLF was a progressive chaser last season and he's readily forgiven his comeback run over hurdles.
(4) Monticristo Boy 9/2, Tongue strap on for first time, another sound effort when fourth of 10 in nursery at this course (6f, 9/2) 14 days ago. No reason why he won't give it another good go. In the frame in all four starts in nurseries; shouldn't mind the return to 5f.
2
2nd (2) (15/8 +53%) Blue Lakota
1.875
15/8(+53%)
(2) Blue Lakota 15/8, Limited impact in his qualifying runs, 150/1 when last of 10 in novice at Carlisle (5.8f, soft) 64 days ago. In good hands switched to a nursery. Well beaten in three starts on turf, but is a half-brother to a couple of AW winners.
1
3rd (1) (4/1 +56%) Lima Sierra
4
4/1(+56%)
(1) Lima Sierra 4/1, Backward step on third start when sixth of 10 in novice (100/1) at Nottingham (6.1f, heavy) 23 days ago. Makes handicap debut. Stable won this with a nursery/AW debutant last year; worth a market check.
5
4th (5) (3/1 -118%) Kaleidoscope Eyes
3
3/1(-118%)
(5) Kaleidoscope Eyes 3/1, First run since leaving Michael Attwater when good second of 12 in nursery (2/1) at Southwell (7.1f) 8 days ago, no match for winner. Down in trip. Shortlist material with prospect of more to come for this stable. Second on stable debut over 7f last time and 2lb well in; drop to 5f an interesting move.
3
5th (3) (10/1 +17%) Invincible Love
10
10/1(+17%)
(3) Invincible Love 10/1, Raced wider than ideal but ultimately finished last of 11 in nursery at Kempton (6f, 18/1) 18 days ago. Makes tapeta debut trying the minimum trip for the first time. Moderate form to date; needs the drop in trip and switch to Tapeta to make a difference.
6
6th (6) (28/1 -100%) La Mer Grise
28
28/1(-100%)
(6) La Mer Grise 28/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Seventh of 9 in maiden at Bath (5.7f, firm, 150/1). Off 91 days. Makes handicap debut. Well held in three starts on turf, but her dam won twice on the AW; worth a market check.
15:05 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Kaleidoscope Eyes finished a creditable second over 7f at Southwell last time out. If coping with the drop in trip, he can be a real force from an unchanged rating, but preference is for BLUE LAKOTA, who showed signs of ability across his three runs in novice company. A half-brother to two winners on the all-weather, the switch to nurseries looks more realistic and an opening mark of 55 may underestimate Kevin Ryan's gelding. Monticristo Boy can chase the pair home.
KALEIDOSCOPE EYES surpassed the form for her previous yard when runner-up at Southwell last week and she has strong claims of going one place better. Monticristo Boy is solid at this level and feared most.
Preference is for KALEIDOSCOPE EYES, second on stable debut at Southwell last time. He is 2lb well in and a drop to 5f is interesting.
(4) Crystal Glance 3/1, Showed plenty to work on when third at Hereford on debut and confirmed that promise when scoring in maiden at Bangor (16.7f, good) in May. Open to further improvement as she goes handicapping so she's a major player. Early promise more than confirmed when winning at Bangor; can improve now handicapping.
7
2nd (7) (9/2 +63%) El Vigaro
4.5
9/2(+63%)
(7) El Vigaro 9/2, Best effort so far when fifth of 11 on his handicap debut at Stratford. Off 5 months after never looked like justifying support fitted with a tongue tie 3 weeks ago. Ran well for a long way on handicap debut in May; had excuses since; too soon to rule out.
9
3rd (9) (7/1 -155%) Gwennie May Jem
7
7/1(-155%)
(9) Gwennie May Jem 7/1, In a top yard but little promise in a bumper/ 3 starts over hurdles so far. ALlotted a basement mark so a market check is vital. Modest form in a valuable bumper (10-1) and 3 qualifying hurdles; much easier race here.
8
4th (8) (7/2 +56%) George Mallory
3.5
7/2(+56%)
(8) George Mallory 7/2, C&D winner who gave another reasonable account of himself when third here a month ago. Cheekpieces on first time over jumps and others more persuasive. Sole win over C&D and has a generally sound record here; not far away.
5
5th (5) (15/2 +38%) Northern Rose
7.5
15/2(+38%)
(5) Northern Rose 15/2, 4-y-o filly who finished runner-up twice at Stratford this summer. Off 6 weeks and effort at Bangor since was a little underwhelming. Maiden who has shown up well in handicaps; well held latest; this could be tricky too.
3
6th (3) (18/1 +18%) African Lady
18
18/1(+18%)
(3) African Lady 18/1, Fitted with headgear and low-key start in handicaps for current yard. Tongue tie added. Fairly encouraging handicap debut; pulled up, then finished remote since; tongue-tie added.
6
7th (6) (20/1 +39%) Saint Vic
20
20/1(+39%)
(6) Saint Vic 20/1, Not really threatened in 6 starts in this sphere, including from a modest mark in handicap company. Hood on. Glimmer of promise but beaten long way on handicap debut; fitting a hood needs to help.
1
8th (1) (20/1 -344%) Ivegotdapower
20
20/1(-344%)
(1) Ivegotdapower 20/1, Winning Irish pointer who left his hurdles debut form well behind when taking a match race at Carlisle in December. Off since and opening mark asks for more, though he is in good hands. 2-11 in Irish points; beat one rival in the second of two hurdle runs; off since December.
2
9th (2) (17/2 -13%) Military Tycoon
8.5
17/2(-13%)
(2) Military Tycoon 17/2, Fairly useful Flat winner who has shown a bit in maiden hurdles for this yard this year and has the potential to do better now handicapping. Flat winner at 1m6f in 2023; modest for new yard; goes handicapping in an ordinary event.
15:10 Uttoxeter Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
CRYSTAL GLANCE confirmed the promise that she displayed on debut when scoring at Bangor in May. An opening mark of 85 should be workable for the four-year-old and she edges out Ivegotdapower to be the pick in an open event. The latter also won on his most recent outing and may have more to offer, while George Mallory is next best.
It wasn't a deep race that CRYSTAL GLANCE won at Bangor during the spring but the assessor has by no means gone overboard and, very much the type to go improving, this well-bred filly makes plenty of appeal. She isn't the only runner in here with potential though as Gwennie May Jem and Military Tycoon and surely open to progress.
Alarm bells ring for Gwennie May Jem but there's guesswork involved and CRYSTAL GLANCE is taken to improve on her Bangor win in May
(2) Firefox 2/7, Smart hurdler. Good 1¾ lengths second of 9 to Mystical Power in Champion Novices' Hurdle at Punchestown (16.7f, good to soft, 9/2), clear of rest. Off 6 months ahead of this chase debut. Could take high rank in the novice chasers' division this season. Classy novice hurdler should take all the beating on chase debut if jumping adequately.
4
2nd (4) (4/1 +0%) Mossy Fen Park
4
4/1(+0%)
(4) Mossy Fen Park 4/1, Thrice-raced winner over hurdles. Runner-up in a Grade 2 novice hurdle at Fairyhouse (2½m, heavy, 14/1) when last seen in March. This former point winner is an interesting recruit to the chasing ranks. Fine effort in Grade 2 novice hurdle when last seen at Fairyhouse in March; chase debut.
1
3rd (1) (18/1 +28%) Big Stage
18
18/1(+28%)
(1) Big Stage 18/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Successful at Downpatrick in May. 8/1, eleventh of 14 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (20f, soft) 36 days ago. Makes chase debut. Point winner is rated 119 over hurdles; needed the run at Listowel and now goes chasing.
5
4th (5) (33/1 +0%) No Time To Wait
33
33/1(+0%)
(5) No Time To Wait 33/1, First run since leaving Gordon Elliott when pulled up in novice chase at Kilbeggan (25.4f, good to soft, 8/1) on debut over fences 112 days ago, eased between last 2. Likely to leave that form well behind in time. Pulled up on stable/chase debut at Kilbeggan in July where it looked like 3m1f was too far.
3
5th (3) (8/1 0%) Gringo D'aubrelle
8
8/1(0%)
(3) Gringo D'aubrelle 8/1, Useful hurdler. Latest win in hurdle at Fairyhouse in November 2021. Placed in Graded novice events on final 2 starts of 2021/22 campaign. Subsequent absence an obvious concern ahead of this chase debut. Point winner as 4yo and landed a bumper and maiden hurdle in November 2021; mammoth layoff.
6
6th (6) (40/1 +60%) One Night Standard
40
40/1(+60%)
(6) One Night Standard 40/1, Promising sort. 2 wins from 5 runs this season. 11/8, fifth of 8 in novice chase at Sligo (21.1f, good) on debut over fences 30 days ago. Open to improvement in this sphere. Well held when 11-8 fav for a beginners' contest at Sligo and this is way better race.
15:15 Down Royal Maiden Chase 20f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Gordon Elliott has won seven of the last eight renewals of this contest, and the smart hurdler FIREFOX makes the most appeal of the yard's three runners this time. The six-year-old finished runner-up in the Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown in April and is the one to beat if transferring that level of form to the larger obstacles. Stablemate Big Stage could also go well, although Mossy Fen Park may prove a bigger threat on his chasing bow.
This maiden chase has been won by some smart types over the years and FIREFOX is taken to add his name to that list. He performed with great credit in Grade 1 novice hurdles at the three big festivals on both sides of the Irish Sea during the spring, and he has the potential to develop into a top-notch novice chaser. Mossy Fen Park showed plenty over hurdles last season, too, and he gets the nod for forecast purposes ahead of the long-absent Gringo D'aubrelle.
It will be a shock if classy novice hurdler FIREFOX, placed in Grade One company at the spring festivals, doesn't score on chase debut
(12) Chourmo 13/2, Bagged his third victory of 2024 at Brighton in August and recorded another good effort when second of 9 there (9.9f, heavy) 15 days ago. Winner has gone in again so he's expected to be bang there. Three 1m2f wins this year, the latest in August, and short-headed on latest outing.
8
2nd (8) (33/1 +0%) Foreseen
33
33/1(+0%)
(8) Foreseen 33/1, Made a winning debut at Chantilly (8f, heavy) in March but hasn't been able to repeat that effort, last of eight at Epsom (8.5f) last time. Blinkered for the first time here. Won on debut in France; failed to live up to that in his four races since; blinkers now.
7
3rd (7) (8/1 +56%) Imperial Cult
8
8/1(+56%)
(7) Imperial Cult 8/1, Bagged third win of year at Epsom (10.1f) last month. Not in same form at Kempton and Newbury since though and remains on career-high mark now. Backward steps on his last two outings but perhaps heavy ground excuses latest.
11
4th (11) (13/2 +13%) Astronomica
6.5
13/2(+13%)
(11) Astronomica 13/2, Lightly-raced in 2024 and posted a very good second of 10 in handicap (16/5) at Leicester (8.2f, heavy) 17 days ago. Very much one to consider despite a 2 lb weights rise. This first attempt beyond 1m may help but peak efforts have been on softer than good.
9
5th (9) (11/2 +45%) Midsummer Music
5.5
11/2(+45%)
(9) Midsummer Music 11/2, Still a maiden but he comes here in decent form, sixth of 10 in handicap at Chelmsford City (10f, 6/1) 29 days ago. Can give another good account off an easing mark. Ten-race maiden but she's edging down the weights and was not far away on last two outings.
5
6th (5) (11/1 +21%) Phone Tag
11
11/1(+21%)
(5) Phone Tag 11/1, Winless this term and only sixth of 7 in handicap (11/1) at Leicester (10f, heavy) 17 days ago on his second run for current yard. Cheekpieces are reached for now. Second run for this yard was not nearly so good and he now tries cheekpieces.
13
7th (13) (10/1 -25%) Little Tiger
10
10/1(-25%)
(13) Little Tiger 10/1, Landed 10f handicaps at Leicester and Brighton but possibly found the run coming too quickly when fifth of 9 back at Brighton 15 days ago. Worth another chance. Two wins this term, latter by wide margin in October (up 11lb today); flop nine days later.
6
8th (6) (22/1 -38%) Ataser
22
22/1(-38%)
(6) Ataser 22/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2022 and he came in last of 8 in handicap (22/1) at Chelmsford City (7f) 15 days ago. Visored for 1st time. One win (2022) last four years; first cheekpieces had a positive effect, now tries a visor.
10
9th (10) (14/1 +13%) Blue Collar
14
14/1(+13%)
(10) Blue Collar 14/1, Fafiled to win for Richard Hannon and he came in last of 10 in handicap (17/2) at Leicester (8.2f, heavy) 17 days ago for his new yard. Needs a couple of these to falter. Fair fifth on stable debut and perhaps heavy ground was against him on latest start.
1
10th (1) (14/1 -27%) Marsh Benham
14
14/1(-27%)
(1) Marsh Benham 14/1, Has scored twice at Brighton this month but he's not one to rely on and came in only sixth of 8 in handicap at Leicester (8.2f, heavy) 4 days ago. Others remain more persuasive. Very in and out in recent starts but he was 1m winner at Brighton on two of his last four.
2
11th (2) (11/2 +31%) Jack Sparowe
5.5
11/2(+31%)
(2) Jack Sparowe 11/2, Yet to score in 2024 but he arrives in good form, fourth of 10 in handicap at Kempton (11f, 5/1) 42 days ago. In the mix once more with a hood back on. Won twice last term and back near that level on last two outings.
14
12th (14) (22/1 -100%) Saachi
22
22/1(-100%)
(14) Saachi 22/1, Failed to build on earlier promise when only fifth of 7 in handicap at Yarmouth (10.1f, soft) 17 days ago. More is required if he's to open his account. Minor honours in his first two handicaps but backward steps last two starts.
4
13th (4) (8/1 -7%) Swatch
8
8/1(-7%)
(4) Swatch 8/1, Scored at Bath in April for Alice Haynes and made a solid start for his new yard when fourth of 10 in handicap at Leicester (8.2f, heavy) 17 days ago. Can make his presence felt. Made a respectable start for new yard 17 days ago; a career best may well be needed.
3
14th (3) (18/1 -29%) Moonlit Cloud
18
18/1(-29%)
(3) Moonlit Cloud 18/1, Resumed winning ways at Bath in May and largely in good nick since, cheekpieces on when a hampered eighth of 11 in handicap at Nottingham (8.3f, heavy) 23 days ago. Not taken lightly. Last won in May; she's back to that mark today, having run badly on last two starts.
15:27 Newmarket Handicap (Class 5) 9f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Marsh Benham has been kept busy and seems to have two ways of running, but he did win twice last month and can't be written off following a Leicester defeat. Astronomica and SWATCH were both ahead of him there, though, and while the former gave favourite-backers a good run for their money in second, the Moores' new recruit might be able to improve past her now faced with an additional furlong. Chourmo went agonisingly close at Brighton and is another to consider.
CHOURMO comes here at the top of his game and, with the form of his recent Brighton second having been franked, he looks the way to go. Astronomica signalled he is ready to go close though when runner-up at Leicester last time out so rates a big threat, while Little Tiger, Midsummer Music, Swatch and Moonlit Cloud all command respect too in this competitive handicap.
This looks open but JACK SPAROWE, Chourmo and Ataser make up the shortlist.
(5) Perculator 12/1, Course winner who looked rusty dropping back in trip when ninth in 11-runner handicap hurdle at Sedgefield (19.8f, soft, 12/1) 23 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Disappointing since her win here in January and is now 1-13 over hurdles.
2
2nd (2) (9/2 +18%) Bitsnbuckles
4.5
9/2(+18%)
(2) Bitsnbuckles 9/2, Improved when making a winning handicap debut at Huntingdon (19.6f, soft) in January. Hasn't really gone on since but is entitled to come on for his Market Rasen reappearance. Won at Huntingdon in January but he's not gone on from that and has something to prove.
4
3rd (4) (11/4 +39%) Knacker Trapper
2.75
11/4(+39%)
(4) Knacker Trapper 11/4, Landed 2m4f handicap at Southwell in May and got back on track when second of 11 in handicap hurdle at Sedgefield (19.8f, soft) 23 days ago. Thereabouts with a repeat. Easy win at Southwell in May and he went close at Sedgefield last time; respected.
1
4th (1) (11/10 +0%) Queens Venture
1.1
11/10(+0%)
(1) Queens Venture 11/10, Westerner filly who made a mockery of her opening mark in 12-runner handicap at Market Rasen (23.1f, good) last month, quickening clear before 2 out. Defied a penalty with authority at Southwell last week and the hat-trick beckons. Comfortable wins in both her handicaps and she's open to more progress; big player again.
6
5th (6) (33/1 +0%) Balkotic
33
33/1(+0%)
(6) Balkotic 33/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2022 and again ran poorly when ninth in 12-runner handicap hurdle (22/1) at Hexham (23.3f, good) 28 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Others more persuasive. All hurdle wins were in 2022 and he's been tailed off last twice; cheekpieces return.
7
6th (7) (22/1 +0%) Titanium Bullet
22
22/1(+0%)
(7) Titanium Bullet 22/1, Modest maiden who ran poorly on his last 2 starts over fences. Had breathing operation ahead of this return to hurdling and has lots to prove. 15-race maiden who has struggled over fences last twice and has plenty to prove.
15:35 Wetherby Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 21f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
QUEENS VENTURE made it two wins from two handicap starts when fairly bolting up over an extended 2m4f at Southwell recently, defying a 7lb penalty in the process. He races off an 11lb higher mark now, but the suspicion is that the handicapper might not have her where he wants her just yet and she is can complete the hat-trick. Knacker Trapper just failed to get up over 2m4f at Sedgefield last time and, stepping up in trip off a 1lb higher mark, he must enter calculations. Sauce Of Life is also noteworthy.
QUEENS VENTURE is improving too fast for the penalty system to keep a lid on her, so she's taken to complete the hat-trick. Knacker Trapper and Bitsnbuckles can battle it out for minor honours.
This can go to QUEENS VENTURE who is 2-2 in handicaps and has plenty of scope for further progress. Knacker Trapper is feared most.
(7) Eva's Eyes 15/2, Thrice-raced maiden. 100/1 and hooded for 1st time, first run since leaving Darryll Holland when sixth of 7 in maiden at Chester (7f, soft) 48 days ago, slowly away. Makes handicap debut. Well held in three starts on turf; probably only of interest if backed on nursery/AW debut.
1
1st (1) (7/1 +50%) Say What You See
7
7/1(+50%)
(1) Say What You See 7/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Sixth of 15 in novice at Redcar (8f, soft, 66/1) 14 days ago, not knocked about. Makes handicap debut. Hinted at ability in three starts on turf; open to improvement on AW/nursery debut.
4
2nd (4) (16/1 -100%) Falaise Blanc
16
16/1(-100%)
(4) Falaise Blanc 16/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 11/1, below form seventh of 12 in nursery at this course (7.1f) 17 days ago. Finished behind Fastnet Jenkins on nursery debut here last time; more needed.
3
3rd (3) (10/1 -54%) Miss Lalita
10
10/1(-54%)
(3) Miss Lalita 10/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 6/1, eighth of 10 in maiden at Leicester (8.2f, heavy) 24 days ago. Makes handicap debut. Worth another chance back on AW. Regressive since a fair debut here; needs to bounce back on nursery debut.
2
4th (2) (7/2 +42%) Coverbridge
3.5
7/2(+42%)
(2) Coverbridge 7/2, Course winner. Winner here in June. 22/1, sixth of 9 in nursery at Chelmsford City (10f) 22 days ago. Respected returned to a more suitable trip. Course winner over 7f who has been held in nurseries since, but this stiff mile may suit.
5
5th (5) (4/1 -33%) Fastnet Jenkins
4
4/1(-33%)
(5) Fastnet Jenkins 4/1, Improved when fourth of 12 on nursery bow at this course (7.1f) 17 days ago. Has good chance with a repeat. Finished a staying-on fourth on nursery debut here this month; extra furlong should suit.
6
6th (6) (9/1 +18%) Owt For Nowt
9
9/1(+18%)
(6) Owt For Nowt 9/1, Seventh of 11 in nursery (28/1) at this course (10.2f) 29 days ago, slowly away. Back down in trip. Cheekpieces back on. Third over C&D in September but held over 1m2f last time; frame possibilities.
8
7th (8) (2/1 +60%) U S Grant
2
2/1(+60%)
(8) U S Grant 2/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 150/1 and blinkered for 1st time, last of 9 in novice at York (7.9f, good to soft) 54 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Makes handicap debut. Failed to beat a rival in three starts on turf; bred to be much better than that.
15:40 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
An open contest with a few of these expected to improve for the switch to nurseries, so only a tentative vote can go to U S GRANT. The gelded son of Camelot faced a stiff task at York last time and, though yet to beat a rival, his latest effort wasn't devoid of promise. He's a half-brother to a few useful types and, from a basement mark with cheekpieces applied for the first time, it would come as no surprise to see him step forward. Miss Lalita has already proven her liking for this surface and she is considered, along with Fastnet Jenkins.
FASTNET JENKINS took a step forward when fourth on her nursery bow here last time and gets the vote over Miss Lalita and Coverbridge.
The vote goes to previous course winner COVERBRIDGE. The evidence of his last two starts suggests this stiff mile may suit him.
(11) Pep Talking 9/4, Lightly raced 6-y-o who improved on hurdles form when making winning chase debut at Huntingdon (16.5f) in March. Runner-up on 2 of his 4 starts thereafter, shaping as if the run was needed starting out for this yard at Southwell last month. Remains of interest. Chase winner in March and he looks worth another try at this trip; in the mix.
2
2nd (2) (40/1 -100%) Kelce
40
40/1(-100%)
(2) Kelce 40/1, Lightly-raced maiden for Colm Murphy. Shaped as if needing run after 16 months off at Fontwell on yard debut last month. Enough to prove sent chasing in first-time headgear. Still lightly raced but he needs a transformation on this switch to fences; headgear on.
1
3rd (1) (28/1 -75%) Cluain Aodha
28
28/1(-75%)
(1) Cluain Aodha 28/1, Fair handicap hurdler who was in contention when slipping up at Worcester 15 months ago. Not seen since but should make a chaser (Irish point winner). Conditions should be fine on chase debut but has fitness to prove after 458 days off.
9
4th (9) (4/1 +0%) Bridget Mary
4
4/1(+0%)
(9) Bridget Mary 4/1, Point winner who bettered hurdles form at the first attempt over fences in handicap at Stratford last month despite making some mistakes. Capable of better still in this sphere providing she jumps better. Produced strong finish when scoring on chase debut at Stratford and she's respected up 4lb.
6
5th (6) (28/1 -133%) Song Of Earth
28
28/1(-133%)
(6) Song Of Earth 28/1, A three-time winner for Margaret Mullins in Ireland. Well below that level for this yard but at least made much more of an impact off reduced mark when third at Worcester in June. Signs of revival at Worcester in June and has claims if he can build on that after a break.
13
6th (13) (9/1 +44%) Dreamsundermyfeet
9
9/1(+44%)
(13) Dreamsundermyfeet 9/1, Has become disappointing and easy enough to look elsewhere. His last win was three years ago and he hasn't threatened this year; needs to find more.
8
7th (8) (5/1 +44%) Paddy In The Caddy
5
5/1(+44%)
(8) Paddy In The Caddy 5/1, Lightly-raced winner over hurdles but he ended last season with a below-par fifth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Exeter (18.5f, good) in April. Runner-up in an Irish point so can't be discounted now going chasing after breathing surgery. Hurdle win in March and had wind op in May; looks an interesting prospect for fences.
5
8th (5) (20/1 -122%) Boleyn Boy
20
20/1(-122%)
(5) Boleyn Boy 20/1, Modest winning hurdler. Not seen since taking a heavy fall at Fakenham almost a year ago. Best watched on chase bow. Only 1lb higher than for his hurdle win and needs a close look on his chase debut.
7
9th (7) (25/1 -108%) Outside Adesa
25
25/1(-108%)
(7) Outside Adesa 25/1, Runner-up both outings in Irish points. Just modest form for Mitchell Hunt over hurdles last season. Makes chase/yard debut. Some promise over hurdles and runner-up in both his points so he should make a chaser.
12
10th (12) (16/1 -60%) Eric Carmen
16
16/1(-60%)
(12) Eric Carmen 16/1, Irish point winner who capitalised on his falling mark over hurdles at Southwell (20.4f, heavy) in May. Showed more than on first 2 starts in this sphere when third of 13 at Southwell last month but reverted to his weak-finishing ways at Stratford since. Reached the frame in the last two of his four chase runs and he has each-way claims.
10
11th (10) (9/1 +10%) Call Blue
9
9/1(+10%)
(10) Call Blue 9/1, Remains a maiden but she's returned from a lengthy absence with good placed efforts at Stratford/Newton Abbot over hurdles this summer. Shade below that level at Perth 36 days ago but her yard continue in fine form and respected now tackling larger obstacles. Well handicapped on best hurdles form and has claims if she takes to this new discipline.
3
12th (3) (25/1 -79%) Blue Ridge Hill
25
25/1(-79%)
(3) Blue Ridge Hill 25/1, Runner-up all 3 starts in bumpers but only modest form since switched to hurdles, running poorly when last seen at Fontwell in May. Makes chase debut. Inconsistent ten-race maiden and comes with risks attached on chase debut; new headgear.
4
|PU| (4) (14/1 -75%) Minella Miracle
14
14/1(-75%)
(4) Minella Miracle 14/1, Modest in bumpers for Thomas Gallagher and has looked difficult over hurdles for this yard. Makes chase debut. Yard is in good form and he needs watching in market on handicap/chase debut.
15:45 Uttoxeter Handicap Chase (Class 5) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
BRIDGET MARY wasn't always the most fluent on her chasing bow, but that didn't stop her from winning at Stratford. The six-year-old ought to have learned plenty from that experience and, with the prospect of more to come, a 4lb rise might prove lenient. Blue Ridge Hill showed only moderate form over hurdles, but he's bred to appreciate the switch to fences and is of interest with cheekpieces applied for the first time. Others to note include Minella Miracle and Song Of Earth.
PEP TALKING failed to meet expectations after 4 months off at Southwell but she's worth another chance with that run under her belt. Bridget Mary made a winning chase bow at Stratford despite making mistakes so is entitled to progress, while Paddy In The Caddy makes most appeal of the chasing newcomers.
This looks tricky but it might be worth sticking with BRIDGET MARY who produced a strong finish when scoring on her recent chase debut.
(8) Kalypso'chance 10/3, £85,000 4-y-o, Masked Marvel gelding. Dam, placed over hurdles/fences in France, half-sister to French hurdler/chaser (17f/2½m winner) Escort'Jet. Won sole start in British points (Apr 20). Respected. Point winner in Britain on his sole start; interesting runner if he takes his chance.
5
(5) (33/1 0%) Coup D'etat
33
33/1(0%)
(5) Coup D'etat 33/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 25/1, second of 6 in bumper at Cork (19f, good) 19 days ago. Place claims. Needs more here than at Cork and the drop back in trip might not be a positive.
7
1st (7) (11/8 0%) Jacob's Ladder
1.375
11/8(0%)
(7) Jacob's Ladder 11/8, 11/2, second of 14 in bumper at Punchestown (16f, soft) on NH debut, travelling best. Off 6 months. Sets a good standard. Made a fine bumper debut when beaten a short head at the Punchestown festival; big chance.
2
2nd (2) (11/2 -57%) Jerry From Kerry
5.5
11/2(-57%)
(2) Jerry From Kerry 11/2, Thrice-raced winner in bumpers. 1 win from 3 runs this season. Winner in bumper at Ballinrobe in September. Third of 7 in bumper (4/5) at Punchestown (16.3f, good) 16 days ago. Considered. Has a question to answer after Punchestown but comes right into it on his winning form.
3
3rd (3) (4/1 +71%) Quint Major
4
4/1(+71%)
(3) Quint Major 4/1, Career best when winning 6-runner bumper at Clonmel (16.8f, good, 6/1) 29 days ago, pushed out. Needs to improve again. Picked up well to win a 2m1f Clonmel bumper last month on his fifth start; more needed.
1
4th (1) (40/1 -82%) Arctic Craft
40
40/1(-82%)
(1) Arctic Craft 40/1, Won weak 7-runner bumper at Fairyhouse (16f, good, 6/1) 20 days ago. This looks a lot tougher and he's likely to come up short. Much more needed here under his penalty but seems to be a horse going the right way.
4
5th (4) (80/1 -21%) Big Lez
80
80/1(-21%)
(4) Big Lez 80/1, Diamond Boy gelding. Dam (b93), bumper winner, half-sister to useful hurdler/chaser (winner around 2m) Pepe Simo and bumper winner/useful hurdler (stayed 25f) The Eaglehaslanded. Bred to do well in a bumper but best watched in this company.
6
|PU| (6) (14/1 -87%) Hinter Wish
14
14/1(-87%)
(6) Hinter Wish 14/1, €32,000 3-y-o, Night Wish gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Wasdell Dundalk. Pulled up sole start in points (Mar 2024). Tailed off when pulled up in a point-to-point in March; best watched here.
15:50 Down Royal NH Flat Race 17f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Gordon Elliott won this with Firefox last year and has a strong chance once again with JACOB'S LADDER. The five-year-old was caught at the finish on his Rules debut in a Punchestown bumper and a repeat of that level of form would make him a tough nut to crack. Stable companion Kalypso'chance was bought for 85,000 pounds after winning a point-to-point in England and he is likely to pose a solid threat along with Jerry From Kerry, who scored at Ballinrobe on his penultimate start.
Point winner JACOB'S LADDER travelled like the best horse in the race when runner-up at Punchestown on debut and, 6 months on, he should be able to go one better at the likely expense of stablemate Kalypso'chance, who has also tasted success between the flags. Jerry From Kerry deserves some respect, too.
There was nothing to dislike about the debut of JACOB'S LADDER at Punchestown in May and he should take the beating
(3) Loving Look 2/1, Gamely opened her account in 11f Kempton novice in August and has run really well to be placed in handicaps at Newbury and Kempton since. Another bold showing is on the cards. Mark looks about right; wasn't beaten far last time and no strong ground preferences.
2
2nd (2) (5/2 +9%) First Officer
2.5
5/2(+9%)
(2) First Officer 5/2, Resumed winning ways in 5-runner handicap here (9f, soft) 35 days ago and nudged up just 1 lb. Won this (in September) last season before running well in another C&D handicap at this meeting. Big shout. Has won two of his four races on this Rowley Mile and raised just 1lb for the latest.
1
3rd (1) (9/2 -80%) On The River
4.5
9/2(-80%)
(1) On The River 9/2, Bagged fourth win of present campaign in 1m handicap at Haydock two weeks ago. Up 5 lb but he's not taken lightly in his current mood. Bang in form but this is a belated first run beyond an extended 1m.
4
4th (4) (5/2 +29%) Sea Journey
2.5
5/2(+29%)
(4) Sea Journey 5/2, Sea The Stars filly was narrowly denied in 1¼m Lingfield novice on reappearance but well held in 11f Kempton maiden following month. Could still have more to offer for her top stable now going into handicaps back on turf. High-class pedigree and the handicapper has given her a chance off this initial mark.
16:02 Newmarket Handicap (Class 3) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
On The River has justified market support in testing conditions at York and Haydock, while First Officer also arrives in winning form following a determined display over a furlong shorter here. Loving Look has made the frame twice since going handicapping on the back of a Kempton triumph, but a chance is taken that SEA JOURNEY's initial mark is a workable one. The beautifully-bred filly offered encouragement at this venue and Lingfield prior to a Kempton disappointment and is open to any amount of improvement.
LOVING LOOK has taken her form up a notch since sent into handicaps and can gain a deserved victory here at the chief expense of On The River, who rates a major danger in his bid for a fifth win of 2024. Both First Officer and Sea Journey can't be discounted either in an intriguing event.
The consistent LOVING LOOK is taken to get the better of First Officer. On The River is unraced over this far.
(4) Jack The Boss 11/1, Jack Hobbs gelding. Dam, ran once in bumper, half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser (15f-2m winner) Sea Wall. One to consider. Yard 11% with hurdlers this season and market should guide on debut.
3
2nd (3) (11/10 +32%) Global Eclipse
1.1
11/10(+32%)
(3) Global Eclipse 11/10, Pether's Moon gelding. Brother to fairly useful French 2¼m hurdle winner Quiniland. Dam (h115) 17f-19f hurdle winner. Looks the one to beat on paper. Has a striking pedigree and yard is 35% with hurdlers here in recent years.
5
|B| (5) (9/2 +40%) Romancier
4.5
9/2(+40%)
(5) Romancier 9/2, Roman Candle gelding. Half-brother to 9f-11f winner Perdriolle. Dam 9f-1½m winner. Of obvious interest on debut and is preferred by Brian Hughes. One of two runners for Donald McCain and the market should be informative.
1
|B| (1) (10/3 -11%) Adaay Forever
3.333333
10/3(-11%)
(1) Adaay Forever 10/3, Adaay gelding. Half-brother to 4 winners on Flat, including useful 6f winner Dunkerron. Highly respected on debut. Half-brother to four Flat winners at up to 1m3f; needs watching in market on debut.
7
|U| (7) (12/1 -71%) Snow Dragon
12
12/1(-71%)
(7) Snow Dragon 12/1, Decorated Knight gelding. Closely related to smart 11f-2m winner Amtiyaz and half-brother to 2 winners. Worth monitoring in the betting. Has useful Flat pedigree but he starts off over hurdles and market should guide.
2
|U| (2) (18/1 +18%) For You Buzz
18
18/1(+18%)
(2) For You Buzz 18/1, Workforce gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to smart hurdler/high-class chaser (stayed 21f) Felix Yonger. Interesting newcomer but may need more time than some of his rivals. Plenty to like on paper and interesting to see how he figures in the market.
LTO Selection:
16:10 Wetherby Conditions Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
In a race stacked with unknown quantities, GLOBAL ECLIPSE gets the tentative vote. The three-year-old son of Pether's Moon is out of a half-sister to Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Long Run and, making his debut for the in-form Dan Skelton team, he may have enough in the locker to score first time up. Adaay Forever is a half-brother to several Flat winners and Alan King's gelding may emerge as the main danger, while 11,000gns purchase Snow Dragon completes the shortlist for a yard among the winners of late.
This is tricky to assess without the benefit of market clues but GLOBAL ECLIPSE is bred for hurdling where as the majority of his rivals have predomintantly Flat-based breeding, so he's worth a chance to make a winning start for a top yard. Romancier and Adaay Forever are both worthy of consideration bearing in mind their trainers should have them well schooled.
The market should be highly informative, but at this stage the vote goes to GLOBAL ECLIPSE, who is a brother to a French hurdle winner.
(1) Dimsons 1/3, Fair gelding. Seventh of 10 in handicap at Chelmsford City (7f, 25/1) 22 days ago. Makes tapeta debut. Claims are crystal clear in a very thin race with 6f likely to suit. Hasn't built on his Kempton reappearance, but won't find many easier opportunities.
2
2nd (2) (5/2 +58%) Instant Bond
2.5
5/2(+58%)
(2) Instant Bond 5/2, Sixth of 9 in maiden at Southwell (7.1f, 66/1) on debut 22 days ago, very slowly away. Probably needs more time. A hint of ability on his Southwell debut last month, but improvement will be required.
4
3rd (4) (20/1 -167%) Bear Rock
20
20/1(-167%)
(4) Bear Rock 20/1, Hooded, sixth of 7 in novice at Wolverhampton (5.1f, 150/1) on debut 32 days ago. Entitled to build on that up in trip. Well held on her Wolverhampton debut; extra furlong may suit but improvement required.
3
4th (3) (66/1 +0%) Turkish Tiger
66
66/1(+0%)
(3) Turkish Tiger 66/1, Remains a maiden after 7 Flat runs. Last of 10 in handicap at Redcar (7f, soft, 100/1) 14 days ago. Poor form in seven starts and has an official mark of 40; no appeal.
16:15 Newcastle Maiden (Class 5) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
A small field over the six furlongs could play into the hands of DIMSONS, who may make all dropping back a furlong. Caught late on over further at Kempton to go down by a neck in May before being beaten twice since, that still looks the best form on offer. Instant Bond showed some promise despite a slow start when sixth at Southwell and he may follow the suggestion home, leaving Bear Rock as the tentative suggestion for third place.
This is a good deal easier than the handicap DIMSONS contested at Chelmsford 3 weeks ago and with 6f no issue and credible rivals thin on the ground, he really should make no mistake. Instant Bond is the tentative forecast shout.
This is about as weak as you can get. DIMSONS hasn't built on his promising return, but his form is still way above that of the others.
(7) Norr's Cross 11/4, Failed to complete both starts between the flags but plenty to like about his second in maiden bumper at Tipperary in the spring. Sold from Roger McGrath £40,000 later in May and well worth considering for new stable. Near miss in a Tipperary bumper (2m2f) in May; sold for £40,000 soon after; sets standard.
4
1st (4) (11/4 +50%) Fresh Perspective
2.75
11/4(+50%)
(4) Fresh Perspective 11/4, €62,000 buy who won only outing in points (Jan 2024). In good hands now contesting bumper and must be respected. Not sure what he achieved when winning a maiden point in January; betting to guide.
6
2nd (6) (9/1 -50%) Nathan's Run
9
9/1(-50%)
(6) Nathan's Run 9/1, £16,000 3-y-o, Nathaniel gelding. Half-brother to 5f/6f winner Lawn Boy. Dam unraced half-sister to smart winner up to 1½m (stayed 2m) Glencadam Glory. Yard's bumper runners showing up well again and he's got to be respected. £16,000 3yo; half-brother to a winning sprinter in the US; yard does well in bumpers.
10
3rd (10) (14/1 +30%) Surrey Lord
14
14/1(+30%)
(10) Surrey Lord 14/1, £35,000 3-y-o, Getaway gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser (stayed 25f) Moonshine Bay. £35,000 3yo; unraced dam from a good jumping family; yard does well in bumpers.
5
4th (5) (14/1 -17%) Little Dipper
14
14/1(-17%)
(5) Little Dipper 14/1, Half-brother to 3 winners, including useful bumper winner/useful hurdler Gaitway and fairly useful hurdler Diamond Gait. Promising start in Ludlow bumper in April and entitled to improve. One to consider. Promising 4th at Ludlow in April when green off the bridle; open to improvement; e/w shout.
2
5th (2) (28/1 -12%) Bells Of Ufford
28
28/1(-12%)
(2) Bells Of Ufford 28/1, The subject of some positive reports after landing the odds in a point bumper but, easy to back, fell some way short of expectations in Aintree bumper 5 months ago. Tailed off on rules debut in May; had won a point bumper in April but remains best watched.
11
6th (11) (11/2 +31%) The Hawkstonian
5.5
11/2(+31%)
(11) The Hawkstonian 11/2, €45,000 3-y-o, Jukebox Jury gelding. Half-brother to 3 winners, including one over jumps in Czech Republic. One to consider on debut. 45,000euros 3yo; half-brother to three winners; interesting newcomer.
3
7th (3) (40/1 -60%) Fast Work
40
40/1(-60%)
(3) Fast Work 40/1, £28,000 3-y-o, Workforce gelding. Half-brother to 5f winner Daddies Diva. Dam maiden on Flat (stayed 1½m). £28,000 3yo; half-brother to a winning sprinter; likely a longer-term prospect.
1
8th (1) (4/1 +33%) Beau Gold
4
4/1(+33%)
(1) Beau Gold 4/1, €92,000 3-y-o, Beaumec De Houelle gelding. Half-brother to bumper winner/useful 19f hurdle winner Predators Gold, stays 2¾m. Newcomer to note. 92,000euros 3yo; half-brother to useful hurdler (bumper winner too); betting to guide.
8
9th (8) (33/1 -175%) River Rider
33
33/1(-175%)
(8) River Rider 33/1, 25/1, produced a more encouraging first effort than might have been anticipated when second first time up at Warwick in April, let down by inexperience after cruising up to the leaders in the straight. Entitled to improve for new trainer 6 months on. Travelled like a dream when 2nd on Warwick debut in April; sold £35,000 since; unexposed.
9
|RO| (9) (28/1 +15%) Rochester Brinks
28
28/1(+15%)
(9) Rochester Brinks 28/1, Pulled up only start in Irish points (Nov 2023). Likely to need more time. Pulled up in an Irish point last November; best watched on stable/rules debut.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Norr's Cross was just touched off at Tipperary on his Rules debut in May and, now in the care of David Pipe, he is likely to prove popular. Fergal O'Brien often does well in this type of contest so Nathan's Run warrants a market check, as does Jamie Snowden's Fresh Perspective, who won between the flags in January. However, a chance can be taken on BEAU GOLD. The 92,000-euro purchase is a half-brother to the smart Predators Gold, who won on his sole bumper appearance, and it would come as no surprise were the O'Neills' four-year-old to follow suit.
This looks an interesting bumper on paper with point winner FRESH PERSPECTIVE selected before any betting clues. Good cases can also be made for Norr's Cross, Nathan's Run, Beau Gold and Little Dipper.
Little Dipper and RIVER RIDER shaped well in one start last season and the selection is fancied to make a winning stable debut.
(1) Blue Force 11/2, C&D winner. Winner here in September. Good second of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f, 11/2) 18 days ago. Looks competitive on form. His two best runs have come over C&D; not fully exposed; should go well again.
8
2nd (8) (5/1 +17%) Calafrio
5
5/1(+17%)
(8) Calafrio 5/1, Winner at Thirsk in August. Cheekpieces on for 1st time, good second of 11 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 13/2) 11 days ago. Has to be taken seriously. 6f win at Thirsk in August; good 2nd at Southwell latest; drop to 5f worth exploring.
2
3rd (2) (14/1 -75%) Howzak
14
14/1(-75%)
(2) Howzak 14/1, Respectable third of 9 in handicap at Southwell (5f, 7/2) 8 days ago. Possibilities. Prominent racer; solid efforts in 5f Tapeta handicaps the last twice; vulnerable late on.
10
4th (10) (12/1 0%) She'sashambles
12
12/1(0%)
(10) She'sashambles 12/1, Winner at Thirsk in August. 12/1, respectable third of 12 in handicap at this course (6f) 17 days ago. Needs considering. Comes here in good order and she holds each-way claims once again.
11
5th (11) (22/1 -22%) Cuban Rock
22
22/1(-22%)
(11) Cuban Rock 22/1, Creditable fifth of 12 in handicap (5/1) at this C&D 10 days ago. One for the shortlist. Ran okay over C&D ten days ago but more will be needed to win here.
3
6th (3) (11/1 -83%) Rogue De Vega
11
11/1(-83%)
(3) Rogue De Vega 11/1, Eighteen runs since last win in 2023. Creditable second of 9 in handicap (5/1) at Southwell (5f) 15 days ago. Can give a good account. Good second at Southwell last time but overall record suggests he's not sure to back it up.
4
7th (4) (17/2 +29%) Phoenix Star
8.5
17/2(+29%)
(4) Phoenix Star 17/2, 5-time C&D winner. 10/1, seventh of 8 in handicap at Sandown (5f, good), missing break. Off 99 days. Has work to do. Has his optimum conditions today and returns to AW on a good mark; one for the shortlist.
6
8th (6) (9/2 +44%) Three Beauz
4.5
9/2(+44%)
(6) Three Beauz 9/2, C&D winner. Winner here in July. Below form sixth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (5f, 13/2) 4 days ago so needs to bounce back. C&D win in July; had wind op prior to Monday's Southwell sixth; not discounted.
9
9th (9) (14/1 +44%) Second Collection
14
14/1(+44%)
(9) Second Collection 14/1, Latest win at Bath in June. 25/1, eleventh of 16 in handicap at Bath (5.7f, good to firm) 47 days ago. Others more persuasive. Not at her best on last two starts; most recent AW run was a winning one; first course run.
5
10th (5) (10/1 -67%) Jack Of Clubs
10
10/1(-67%)
(5) Jack Of Clubs 10/1, Latest win at Beverley in July. 18/5, creditable second of 11 in handicap at Hamilton (5f, good) 40 days ago. In the picture once more. Not the most consistent but capable off this mark and a stiff 5f no problem; respected.
7
11th (7) (15/2 -15%) Northerner
7.5
15/2(-15%)
(7) Northerner 15/2, Good second of 12 in handicap (9/2) at this C&D 10 days ago. Can go well again. 8-race maiden but her last two C&D runs have been encouraging and she's a strong contender.
16:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Trainer Jessica Macey took this race last year with Jenever and bids to repeat the dose with Phoenix Star, a five-time C&D winner (the latest off 2lb higher) who could get involved again. Blue Force may prove popular despite carrying top-weight after his Wolverhampton second, but NORTHERNER is narrowly preferred. Due to go up 1lb for future contests after his recent C&D second, stall one has produced two of the six winners of this contest and that may be all the advantage he needs.
Plenty are in with a shout but the vote goes to CALAFRIO who is able to race off the same mark as when a resurgent Southwell second last time out. C&D winner Blue Force heads the list of dangers with in-form pair Northerner and Jack of Clubs both firmly in the mix too. Cuban Rock completes the shortlist.
An open race in which PHOENIX STAR is marginally preferred to Blue Force and Northerner.
(2) Perfect Pacemaker 14/1, Foaled March 15. Arizona gelding. Dam, 5f winner, half-sister to smart winner up to 6f Unfortunately. Speedy pedigree and comes from a yard that does well with his type; noted; check market.
10
2nd (10) (9/2 +44%) Smiling
4.5
9/2(+44%)
(10) Smiling 9/2, Once-raced filly. Seventh of 12 in maiden (12/1) at Naas (5.9f, good to soft) on debut 19 days ago. Should have more to offer. Was 2.25l behind Never Not Lucky on debut; should have improved from that and get involved.
4
3rd (4) (3/1 -50%) Bobbi Rosa
3
3/1(-50%)
(4) Bobbi Rosa 3/1, Lightly-raced filly. 4/1, excellent second of 11 in nursery at this C&D 7 days ago. Form pick. Second to an improved rival last week in a C&D nursery; a repeat will see her go close.
6
4th (6) (3/1 +40%) Flash The Cash
3
3/1(+40%)
(6) Flash The Cash 3/1, Fair filly. Remains a maiden after 7 Flat runs. Creditable 4 lengths seventh of 13 to Lady With The Lamp in listed race at this C&D (100/1) 28 days ago, met some trouble. Has run well in defeat at this track; drops in grade today and should be a major player.
7
5th (7) (80/1 -60%) Good No Nay Never
80
80/1(-60%)
(7) Good No Nay Never 80/1, Once-raced filly. 33/1 and cheekpieces on, twelfth of 14 in maiden at Naas (7f, good to firm) on debut 43 days ago. Down in trip. Beaten 12l on debut over 7f; this shorter trip should suit but still has lots to find.
1
6th (1) (7/1 +13%) Ohmyviette
7
7/1(+13%)
(1) Ohmyviette 7/1, Once-raced gelding. Sixth of 8 in minor event (50/1) at this C&D on debut 42 days ago. A respectable debut behind a useful type over C&D; with improvement to come can go closer.
9
7th (9) (18/1 -50%) Never Not Lucky
18
18/1(-50%)
(9) Never Not Lucky 18/1, Twice-raced filly. Fourth of 12 in maiden (50/1) at Naas (5.9f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Fourth over 6f; drop to this trip should suit and can go close once handling the surface.
11
8th (11) (6/1 -9%) Tempest Star
6
6/1(-9%)
(11) Tempest Star 6/1, Promising sort. Third of 7 in maiden (5/6) at Down Royal (5f, good). Off 105 days. Should progress. Disappointing when last seen in July but a repeat of her debut effort will see her go well.
3
9th (3) (8/1 +0%) Bansha Belle
8
8/1(+0%)
(3) Bansha Belle 8/1, Promising type. 7/2, sixth of 14 in maiden at this course (6f) on debut 42 days ago. Open to progress. Beaten just 2l on debut; should have come forward from that experience and can be involved.
8
10th (8) (125/1 -150%) Miss Susanna
125
125/1(-150%)
(8) Miss Susanna 125/1, Foaled February 12. Equiano filly. Dam runner-up at 1½m. Not a bad pedigree but likely best watched on debut.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
FLASH THE CASH wasn't disgraced at a big price in Listed company on her last visit here and is up to winning a maiden. She finished mid-division in the Legacy Stakes after meeting some trouble in running. The Bungle Inthejungle filly had run a big race when second in a maiden here previously and her mark of 84 sets the standard. Tempest Star had a couple of nice placed efforts in the summer and she is one to note on her return from a little break. Aidan O'Brien runs two and Brightest Star could be an improver. She was too keen on her debut at Naas and may be capable of better now.
BOBBI ROSA took a big step forward on her nursery bow when second over C&D last week and sets the standard back in a maiden. Tempest Star is worth another chance to confirm debut promise back from a break so is next best head of Bansha Belle, who caught the eye on debut here 6 weeks ago.
Plenty of these have a shout but a chance is taken on NEVER NOT LUCKY who appeals as the type to improve dropping to 5f.
(3) Rogue Encore 7/2, Below form sixth of 11 in handicap (11/4) at Haydock (8.2f, good) 55 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Disappointing at Haydock last time and now 0-6; needs to resume progress; cheekpieces on.
7
2nd (7) (10/1 +50%) Wind River
10
10/1(+50%)
(7) Wind River 10/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Last of 10 in handicap at Redcar (10f, good to soft, 33/1) 37 days ago, slowly away. Makes tapeta debut with more required. Two poor efforts since a promising return; needs the switch to the AW to help.
2
3rd (2) (12/1 +40%) Bear Force One
12
12/1(+40%)
(2) Bear Force One 12/1, Quirky sort. 40/1, eleventh of 12 in handicap at this course (10.2f) 17 days ago. Back down in trip. Chance if rediscovering old form. Six runs since returning for this yard in June have yielded little; best watched.
1
4th (1) (7/1 -8%) Siam Fox
7
7/1(-8%)
(1) Siam Fox 7/1, Latest win at Windsor in June. 66/1, respectable fourth of 11 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f) 27 days ago. Needs considering. Has won on Tapeta; considered down to a Class 5 handicap for the first time on the AW.
5
5th (5) (11/4 +8%) Commander Of Life
2.75
11/4(+8%)
(5) Commander Of Life 11/4, Eleven runs since last win in 2023. 15/2, good fourth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 7 days ago, better than the result. Should go well. Has twice run well since joining this yard and looked unlucky not to go closer last time.
6
6th (6) (28/1 -40%) Carnival Zain
28
28/1(-40%)
(6) Carnival Zain 28/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. Eighth of 12 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 33/1) 8 days ago. More is needed. Unplaced in all 13 starts since his latest success despite a sliding mark.
8
7th (8) (7/2 +13%) Paladin
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(8) Paladin 7/2, 6/1, respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at Kempton (7f) 9 days ago. Ought to be in the shake-up. Has run well a couple of times since returning; still to convince that he wants this far.
4
8th (4) (10/1 -11%) African Spirit
10
10/1(-11%)
(4) African Spirit 10/1, Course winner. Last of 12 in handicap at this course (10.2f, 11/1) 17 days ago. Back down in trip. Every chance if back to best. Impressive winning debut here as a 2yo, but ended up well beaten in last three starts.
17:15 Newcastle Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Rogue Encore was supported in the market at Haydock when finishing sixth of 11, but connections add first-time cheekpieces here as he drops a class looking for a better performance. He can go well, but AFRICAN SPIRIT could make the most of a drop in trip after campaigning unsuccessfully over further in better company. His one win was here over 7f on debut, and a repeat of that form may be all he needs. Wind River is another dropping back in trip and he may follow them home.
COMMANDER OF LIFE is on a long losing run but is weighted to go close on the back of his good recent Wolverhampton fourth. In-form top-weight Siam Fox appeals next, with Bear Force One the pick of the remainder.
The selection is COMMANDER OF LIFE who looked unlucky not to go even closer when fourth of 11 at Wolverhampton a week ago.
(15) I'm Spartacus 8/1, Course winner. Latest win here in September. Twelfth of 14 in handicap at this course (6f, 7/2) 7 days ago. RESERVE. First win for yard came here over 6f off 56; well held over that trip last week; reserve.
11
1st (11) (7/1 +0%) My Girl Sioux
7
7/1(+0%)
(11) My Girl Sioux 7/1, Remains a maiden after 33 Flat runs. 10/1, respectable fifth of 19 in handicap at Navan (5.8f, good to soft) 9 days ago, never nearer. Maiden was only beaten a short-head over C&D in March and again went close at Bellewstown.
9
2nd (9) (9/2 +25%) Babyface
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(9) Babyface 9/2, 33/1, good fourth of 17 in handicap at the Curragh (5f, good to soft) 15 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Merits consideration. Maiden makes AW debut; some good efforts on turf, one of them being at the Curragh latest.
4
3rd (4) (10/1 +55%) Livingston Range
10
10/1(+55%)
(4) Livingston Range 10/1, Course winner. Fourteen runs since last win in 2023. Tenth of 14 in handicap at this course (6f, 33/1) 7 days ago. Course winner had a break before finishing down the field over 6f here last week.
2
4th (2) (14/1 -17%) Land Lover
14
14/1(-17%)
(2) Land Lover 14/1, Tenth of 15 in handicap at Roscommon (7.5f, soft, 12/1) 18 days ago. Significantly back down in trip. Others more persuasive. Well held on turf lately and hasn't featured in two previous visits here; hard to fancy.
6
5th (6) (40/1 -233%) Carrigans Grove
40
40/1(-233%)
(6) Carrigans Grove 40/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 200/1, seventh of 13 in maiden at Cork (8f, good to firm) 51 days ago. Significantly down in trip. Makes handicap debut. Well held in three turf maidens; market best guide on AW/handicap debut dropped in trip.
5
6th (5) (5/1 +29%) Sam's Xpress
5
5/1(+29%)
(5) Sam's Xpress 5/1, C&D winner. Blinkered for 1st time, tenth of 13 in handicap at Tipperary (5f, good to firm, 10/1) 84 days ago. Below last winning mark on return to all-weather. Dual course winner last year when placed in this; hasn't been getting home lately.
13
7th (13) (22/1 -57%) Stopitnowjulia
22
22/1(-57%)
(13) Stopitnowjulia 22/1, 10/1, respectable seventh of 12 in handicap at this C&D 28 days ago. Tongue strap back on. Difficult ask. Fair C&D nursery run; her fourth at Naas in August was promising but well held since.
1
8th (1) (4/1 +50%) Senado Square
4
4/1(+50%)
(1) Senado Square 4/1, C&D winner. Respectable seventh of 14 in handicap at this course (6f, 10/1) 7 days ago. Dual course winner back to form here early last month when second over this trip.
14
9th (14) (11/2 +50%) Wild Mountain
5.5
11/2(+50%)
(14) Wild Mountain 11/2, Fifteen runs since last win in 2021. 20/1, creditable sixth of 14 in handicap at this course (6f) 7 days ago. Polytrack winner at Kempton and not beaten far over 6f here on second run back from break.
8
10th (8) (8/1 0%) Phil's Dream
8
8/1(0%)
(8) Phil's Dream 8/1, C&D winner. Last of 12 in handicap (8/1) at this C&D 28 days ago. Good spell of form here early in the year; 8-1 for latest C&D outing when finished in rear.
10
11th (10) (66/1 -65%) Conversant
66
66/1(-65%)
(10) Conversant 66/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2023. Fifteenth of 19 in handicap at Navan (5.8f, good to soft, 50/1) 9 days ago. Softer the better on turf for six-time winner and only had one run here which was ages ago.
12
12th (12) (80/1 -100%) Sophia Klimt
80
80/1(-100%)
(12) Sophia Klimt 80/1, Ninth of 12 in handicap at Down Royal (5f, good, 16/1). Off 154 days. Couple of okay runs over 6f here early in the year; held in three turf handicaps in May.
3
13th (3) (33/1 -136%) Tamazu
33
33/1(-136%)
(3) Tamazu 33/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2022. 150/1, last of 5 in minor event at this C&D 28 days ago. Runner-up in a couple of handicaps last year but yet to make an impact on Polytrack.
7
14th (7) (22/1 -267%) Iva Batt
22
22/1(-267%)
(7) Iva Batt 22/1, Course winner. Twenty six runs since last win in 2022. Creditable fourth of 19 in handicap at Navan (5.8f, good to soft, 25/1) 9 days ago, doing too much too soon. Not taken lightly. Course winner showed up well for a long way when fourth over 6f at Navan last week.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
BABYFACE ran a nice race when fourth at the Curragh last time and looks up to winning a race of this standard. The Kuroshio gelding was beaten two and a quarter lengths in a competitive contest, won by Art Of Unity, and that run looks even better considering he was racing from 3lb out of the handicap. Senado Square tops the weights and drops back to five again having run well over this trip on his penultimate visit. He could be a big player in a moderate looking contest. My Girl Sioux is a long standing maiden but has been knocking on the door and might grab prize-money again.
It could be worth chancing SAM'S XPRESS, who's potentially on a good mark back on AW. Babyface and Iva Batt are feared most.
A few interesting jockey bookings here including Ben Coen's presence on SENADO SQUARE who was runner-up over C&D two runs ago
(9) Starliner 8/1, Hooded for 1st time, seventh of 9 in handicap (20/1) at Ayr (8f, good) 31 days ago, left poorly placed. Not found his best form for this yard; down in the weights but others look stronger.
8
2nd (8) (6/5 +40%) Project Geofin
1.2
6/5(+40%)
(8) Project Geofin 6/5, Well-backed 11/4, career best when winning 12-runner handicap at this C&D 29 days ago. Remains unexposed and can make it 3-3 here. 2-2 on AW, the latter win over C&D four weeks ago; still has time to do better.
7
3rd (7) (28/1 -180%) Bobby Joe Leg
28
28/1(-180%)
(7) Bobby Joe Leg 28/1, 7-time C&D winner. 18/1, respectable fifth of 14 in handicap at this C&D 6 months ago. Might need this. Thrived early in the year but resumes on a tough mark and may come on for this.
2
4th (2) (9/1 +10%) Swiss Ace
9
9/1(+10%)
(2) Swiss Ace 9/1, 3-time C&D winner. 33/1, bit below form seventh of 13 in handicap at Doncaster (7f, good to firm) 153 days ago. Conditions to suit but he'll need to be cherry ripe returning from five months off.
3
5th (3) (9/2 -64%) Follow Your Heart
4.5
9/2(-64%)
(3) Follow Your Heart 9/2, Won 10-runner handicap at Kempton (7f, 4/1) 18 days ago. Nudged up 2 lb and can go well again. First run at Newcastle. Exploited good AW mark at Kempton last month (7f); still feasibly treated; contender.
1
6th (1) (12/1 -100%) Danielsflyer
12
12/1(-100%)
(1) Danielsflyer 12/1, Won 4 in a row here earlier this year. 33/1, last of 10 in handicap at Redcar (8f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Could do better back at this track and one to consider. Four wins here early in the year; latest run excusable; one to take seriously.
5
7th (5) (17/2 +23%) Mighty Power
8.5
17/2(+23%)
(5) Mighty Power 17/2, Course winner. Eighth of 9 in handicap at Ayr (7.2f, good, 11/1) 22 days ago, slowly away. On a good mark now returned to preferred surface; positive jockey booking; leading claims.
4
8th (4) (100/1 -52%) Dream Show
100
100/1(-52%)
(4) Dream Show 100/1, Very lightly raced in recent years and doesn't appear to retain much ability, seventeenth of 18 in handicap at York (7f, soft, 100/1) 21 days ago. Shown nothing for current yard and easy to have reservations at present.
6
9th (6) (12/1 +40%) Remarkable Force
12
12/1(+40%)
(6) Remarkable Force 12/1, Seventeen runs since last win in 2022. Off 160 days. First run after leaving John & Sean Quinn. Well handicapped if staging a revival for another new stable. Won his first two but beaten 17 times since; plenty to prove on stable debut after a break.
17:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
PROJECT GEOFIN's two previous visits to Gosforth Park have yielded two victories, and he looks well capable of going in again here. Geoff Oldroyd's charge did it well when scoring over this track and trip last time, making eye-catching headway before finding plenty when asked, and the suspicion is that a 3lb rise underestimates him. A 2lb rise for a recent Kempton victory doesn't discount Follow Your Heart, while this represents an ease in grade for Swiss Ace and he completes the shortlist.
PROJECT GEOFIN resumed winning ways with his best effort to date when scoring over C&D 4 weeks ago and can make it 3-3 here. Danielsflyer and Follow Your Heart are feared.
Follow Your Heart remains feasibly weighted but the return to AW can see MIGHTY POWER bounce back to his best.
(5) Daamberdiplomat 16/5, C&D winner. 15/2, sixth of 8 in handicap at this course (7f) 28 days ago. Trainer going well and return to 6f in his favour. C&D winner; don't rule out him bouncing back here back to 6f and off a reduced mark.
2
2nd (2) (5/1 0%) Harry's Bar
5
5/1(0%)
(2) Harry's Bar 5/1, 4-time C&D winner. Fifteen wins from 55 Flat runs. Respectable second of 5 in minor event at this course (5f, 15/8) 28 days ago. Higher AW mark is justified but he isn't the force of old. An 8-time winner here; recent run encouraging and off a fair mark nowadays.
9
3rd (9) (10/1 -11%) Dontspoilasale
10
10/1(-11%)
(9) Dontspoilasale 10/1, One win from 27 Flat runs. 22/1, fourteenth of 17 in handicap at the Curragh (5f, good to soft) 15 days ago, met some trouble. Higher AW mark fully justified. Soft ground probably not ideal on latest and not one to rule out back on AW.
7
4th (7) (6/1 +40%) Imperial Dream
6
6/1(+40%)
(7) Imperial Dream 6/1, Latest win at the Curragh in August. Bit below form tenth of 16 in handicap at the Curragh (7f, good to soft, 15/2) 34 days ago. Didn't quite get home over 7f on latest; one to consider back at 6f on AW.
8
5th (8) (11/1 +8%) Profit Refused
11
11/1(+8%)
(8) Profit Refused 11/1, Tongue strap on for 1st time, eleventh of 16 in handicap at the Curragh (7f, good to soft, 11/1) 34 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Makes polytrack debut. Visor back on. Others more persuasive. Fair turf handicap form without winning; AW debut and visor back on.
3
6th (3) (7/1 +30%) Arnhem
7
7/1(+30%)
(3) Arnhem 7/1, C&D winner. Seventeen runs since last win in 2023. 3¼ lengths ninth of 13 to Ostraka in Mercury Stakes at this course (5f, 100/1) 7 days ago. Back at a more suitable level. Out of depth here a week ago in Group 3; bit to find with Harry's Bar on previous run here.
1
7th (1) (5/1 -11%) Tango Flare
5
5/1(-11%)
(1) Tango Flare 5/1, Latest win at Fairyhouse in June. 7/1, 5 lengths fifth of 8 to My Mate Alfie in listed race at Naas (5.9f, good to soft) 20 days ago. Makes polytrack debut and this mark doesn't leave any margin for error. Sprinter just below stakes-class; respected on AW debut.
6
8th (6) (14/1 -27%) Dream Today
14
14/1(-27%)
(6) Dream Today 14/1, 4-time C&D winner. Last of 10 in handicap (7/2) at Laytown (6f) 46 days ago. Cheekpieces back on and return to this venue in his favour. Laytown run poor, penultimate run her encouraging; first start for trainer.
4
9th (4) (18/1 -13%) Miss Black Jack
18
18/1(-13%)
(4) Miss Black Jack 18/1, C&D winner. 33/1, tenth of 15 in handicap at the Curragh (6f, soft) 10 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time and return to the AW in her favour. Largely struggled since C&D win back in April; cheekpieces now tried.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Course specialist HARRY'S BAR can bag another win here. The Exceed And Excel gelding has eight course victories under his belt and ran well on his return to the track when chasing home Valiant Force in a conditions race early last month. He looks capable of scoring off this kind of mark in handicap company. Tango Flare is another smart sort and heads the weights. He has been behind progressive sprinter My Mate Alfie on his last couple of outings and this looks like a slightly easier task. Arnhem was a couple of lengths behind the selection here last month and is weighted to get closer now.
This looks decidedly trappy so a chance is taken on DONTSPOILASALE, who is anything but prolific but the assessor has given him a chance returned to his favoured surface. Arnhem is back at a much more suitable level so is feared, along with Daamberdiplomat returned to his optimum trip.
It may be worth taking a chance on DAAMBERDIPLOMAT, not the most straightforward but down to just 1lb above what he won off last winter
(4) Beattie Is Back 18/1, C&D winner. Eighth of 12 in handicap at this course (6f, 6/1) 29 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Claims if he's back to the form he showed last time. Record over 7f on Tapeta reads 31612 including a win here; interesting.
1
2nd (1) (14/1 +22%) Judgment Call
14
14/1(+22%)
(1) Judgment Call 14/1, Unreliable type. Twelve runs since last win in 2023. Refused to race in handicap at Ayr (7.2f, good to firm, 16/1) 41 days ago. Hard to make a case for on the back of that. Unexposed on the AW, but refused to race at Ayr last time so has something to prove.
3
3rd (3) (8/1 +33%) Modern Times
8
8/1(+33%)
(3) Modern Times 8/1, 16/1, tenth of 12 in handicap at Ayr (7.2f, good to firm) 41 days ago, hampered. Others make more appeal. 0-8 and last two efforts not amongst his best; has been gelded.
7
4th (7) (33/1 +0%) Angel Of England
33
33/1(+0%)
(7) Angel Of England 33/1, First run since leaving Edward Bethell when eighth of 9 in handicap at Pontefract (8f, heavy, 33/1) 25 days ago. Makes tapeta debut. Cheekpieces back on. Has work to do. Well held on stable debut; half-brother to a Listed AW winner, but needs to step up.
5
5th (5) (4/1 -45%) Cancan In The Rain
4
4/1(-45%)
(5) Cancan In The Rain 4/1, Creditable third of 12 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 3/1) 8 days ago. Holding form well of late and should be on the premises again. 3lb below his last winning mark and running well in defeat lately; should go well again.
9
6th (9) (7/1 -40%) Patontheback
7
7/1(-40%)
(9) Patontheback 7/1, C&D winner. Respectable third of 10 in handicap (9/2) at this C&D 31 days ago. Lingering on a feasible mark and can't be ruled out in a race that lacks depth. C&D winner who has finished third back here the last twice; each-way claims again.
8
7th (8) (4/1 +0%) Alreet Cha
4
4/1(+0%)
(8) Alreet Cha 4/1, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, career best when winning 6-runner novice (10/11) at this C&D 31 days ago, driven clear. Has to be taken seriously. Easily off the mark at the 13th attempt over C&D a month ago; may still have more to offer.
6
8th (6) (16/1 -78%) Streak Lightning
16
16/1(-78%)
(6) Streak Lightning 16/1, 3-time C&D winner. Below form sixth of 10 in handicap at this C&D (13/2) 31 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Not discounted. Triple C&D winner but wasn't helped by a slow break last time; capable on his day.
2
9th (2) (9/4 +68%) Bajan Bandit
2.25
9/4(+68%)
(2) Bajan Bandit 9/4, Tenth of 12 in handicap at Doncaster (8f, soft, 22/1) 7 days ago. Makes tapeta debut. On a handy mark but needs to bounce back quickly. Patchy form on turf this year; needs to get back on track now switched to the AW.
18:15 Newcastle Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
STREAK LIGHTNING impressed when scoring cosily over this track and trip on his penultimate start and, with excuses for his recent low-key display over C&D, he gets the vote to return to winning ways here. Cancan In The Rain has been knocking on the door of late and, on the back of a solid third over this trip at Southwell last time out, he can emerge as the main danger to the selection off an unchanged mark. This ease in grade should see Bajan Bandit in a better light and he merits consideration.
ALREET CHA reacted well to first-time cheekpieces when landing a C&D novice last time and the handicapper has given her a chance by not altering the mark too much, so she gets the nod over in-form pair Cancan In The Rain and Patontheback.
The vote goes to BEATTIE IS BACK whose record over 7f on Tapeta reads 31612.
(10) Daboya 10/1, Lightly-raced filly. 6/1 and blinkered for 1st time, bit below form eighth of 18 in maiden at the Curragh (10f, good to soft) 33 days ago, looking awkward. Makes polytrack debut. Remains with potential. Claims on best form and a chance this drop in trip could suit on AW debut.
3
2nd (3) (9/2 +36%) Polaris Dancer
4.5
9/2(+36%)
(3) Polaris Dancer 9/2, Fair gelding. 10/1, respectable sixth of 10 in handicap at Cork (9f, good to firm) 51 days ago. Limerick third in June hasn't been built on but still can't be ruled out.
13
3rd (13) (4/1 +47%) Quatrain
4
4/1(+47%)
(13) Quatrain 4/1, Lightly-raced filly. Below form sixth of 12 in maiden (4/1) at Killarney (8.1f, heavy) 25 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Should have a race in her. Heavy ground probably not ideal latest; big player on her best form if handling surface.
12
4th (12) (9/2 +10%) Lady Pagasa
4.5
9/2(+10%)
(12) Lady Pagasa 9/2, Fair filly. Off 11 weeks/first run since leaving Charles Hills when good second of 12 in maiden (7/1) at Naas (8f, good to soft) 20 days ago. Strong claims. Recent Naas second on yard debut puts her in the mix here.
14
5th (14) (9/2 +18%) Touch The Sound
4.5
9/2(+18%)
(14) Touch The Sound 9/2, Thrice-raced filly. 11/4, fifth of 11 in maiden at Navan (8f, good) 55 days ago. Strong claims on previous Leopardstown second. Dam won on AW so good chance she'll handle it and one to consider.
8
6th (8) (13/2 +35%) Authenticate
6.5
13/2(+35%)
(8) Authenticate 13/2, Once-raced filly. 11/1, ninth of 10 in maiden at this course (7f) on debut 6 months ago, very slowly away. Open to improvement. Showed little here in April but worth market check on return with yard in hot form.
4
7th (4) (6/1 +25%) Sportingsilvermine
6
6/1(+25%)
(4) Sportingsilvermine 6/1, Fairly useful gelding. Remains a maiden after 14 Flat runs. 25/1, good fourth of 14 in handicap at this course (10.7f) 14 days ago. Claims with a repeat of that effort. Recent handicap fourth here was a good effort; trip on the short side but place claims.
6
8th (6) (25/1 +50%) Annaghmccanns
25
25/1(+50%)
(6) Annaghmccanns 25/1, Kuroshio filly. Dam 1¾m winner out of half-sister to useful winner up to 1½m Tameen. Wears tongue strap. 4yo filly tongue-tied for belated debut and likely best watched.
11
9th (11) (14/1 -367%) Empress Xj
14
14/1(-367%)
(11) Empress Xj 14/1, €160,000 half-sister to useful 2-y-o 6.3f winner King X J. Dam, maiden (stayed 1m), half-sister to smart 6f/7f winner Golden Steps. 11/4, fifth of 11 in maiden at Naas (7f, good to soft) on debut 20 days ago, not knocked about. Should have more to offer and this is very winnable. Didn't land a blow but showed a bit of ability on Naas debut; entitled to come on for that.
5
10th (5) (80/1 -60%) Suil Awan
80
80/1(-60%)
(5) Suil Awan 80/1, 25,000 gns foal, Time Test gelding. Dam 1½m winner who stayed 1¾m. Newcomer likely best watched.
1
11th (1) (250/1 -25%) Angelus Griseo
250
250/1(-25%)
(1) Angelus Griseo 250/1, Thrice-raced gelding on Flat. 200/1, pulled up in novice hurdle at Kilbeggan (19f, good) 14 months ago. Shown very little in three maidens and pulled up on recent hurdles debut.
9
12th (9) (125/1 -89%) Coney Rose
125
125/1(-89%)
(9) Coney Rose 125/1, Once-raced filly. 40/1, eighth of 12 in maiden at Naas (8f, good to soft) on debut 20 days ago. Beaten a fair way on last month's Naas debut when a 40-1 shot; may need more time.
7
13th (7) (200/1 +0%) Noble Hilltop
200
200/1(+0%)
(7) Noble Hilltop 200/1, Fair winning hurdler. Tenth of 15 in maiden at Gowran (9.4f, heavy, 100/1) on Flat debut 11 days ago. Winning hurdler; didn't count on recent Flat debut at Gowran; can only be watched.
2
14th (2) (200/1 +0%) Dream Big Eireann
200
200/1(+0%)
(2) Dream Big Eireann 200/1, Thrice-raced gelding. 200/1, tenth of 13 in maiden at Navan (5f, good to soft) 9 days ago. Significantly back up in trip. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Nothing so far in three maidens.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
EMPRESS XJ looks the potential improver in the field and may be able to step forward from her debut effort at Naas. The Inns Of Court filly missed the kick that day and made up ground in the straight before flattening out in the closing stages to finish fifth to Whispersinthewind. The second and fourth from that race have won since so the form looks solid. There are a few of these are rated very similarly. Touch The Sound is still relatively unexposed. She didn't get home after travelling well at Navan last time but had run a big race when second previously at Leopardstown and could be the danger. Polaris Dancer is more exposed but has some solid form.
Not a strong-looking maiden and EMPRESS XJ might be the way to go. She was fancied in the betting when showing a fair bit on debut at Naas 3 weeks ago, and with 2 of her rivals in front of her that day having scored since she could be set for a big run with improvement likely. Lady Pagasa and Touch The Sound are a couple of the threats.
A very open look to this maiden but TOUCH THE SOUND may have more improvement in her than most
(12) Just Typical 9/4, 10/1, good second of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 8 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. 0-11 but second on Tapeta the last twice; claims if drop in trip doesn't count against him.
1
2nd (1) (11/2 -10%) Gunnerside
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(1) Gunnerside 11/2, C&D winner. 7/2, below form fifth of 10 in handicap at this course (6f) 3 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. 1-1 over C&D but he is mainly seen over shorter; interesting back over this trip.
2
3rd (2) (4/1 +67%) End Zone
4
4/1(+67%)
(2) End Zone 4/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2023. 16/1, below form fifth of 11 in handicap at this course (8f) 4 days ago, merely passing beaten rivals. Blinkers back on. 11lb below his last winning mark but patchy form this year; not sure what to expect.
6
4th (6) (12/1 -140%) Believe Me Now
12
12/1(-140%)
(6) Believe Me Now 12/1, Winner at Ayr in August. 7/1, creditable third of 11 in handicap at Musselburgh (8f, good) 30 days ago. Makes tapeta debut. Expected to be bang there. Back off sole winning mark; chance if taking to the AW at the first time of asking.
5
5th (5) (16/1 -113%) Ballyare
16
16/1(-113%)
(5) Ballyare 16/1, Course winner. Thirteen runs since last win in 2023. Better than result when seventh of 12 in handicap at this course (6f, 7/1) 17 days ago, not knocked about. Merits consideration from sliding mark. Dual 5f winner, but didn't get home in only previous attempt over this far.
4
6th (4) (5/1 -25%) Concert Boy
5
5/1(-25%)
(4) Concert Boy 5/1, C&D winner. One win from 32 Flat runs. Twenty seven runs since last win in 2023. 13/2, shaped as if still in form when third of 8 in handicap at this C&D 17 days ago, left poorly placed. Threatening to come good when things drop right. 1-32 but has been placed in his last two starts over C&D; each-way claims again.
8
7th (8) (33/1 -32%) Tathmeen
33
33/1(-32%)
(8) Tathmeen 33/1, 8-time course winner. 28/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at this course (6f) 10 days ago, slowly away. Not easy to make a case for. 13 Tapeta wins including eight here, but unplaced in all 11 attempts over this far.
11
8th (11) (9/1 +18%) Clotherholme
9
9/1(+18%)
(11) Clotherholme 9/1, 12/1 and visored for 1st time, respectable fourth of 14 in handicap at Beverley (8.4f, good to firm) 44 days ago. Not dismissed. Placed in all three starts over C&D this time last year; slightly lower in the weights now.
9
9th (9) (14/1 +13%) Asmund
14
14/1(+13%)
(9) Asmund 14/1, Course winner. Ninth of 10 in handicap at Redcar (7f, soft, 10/1) 14 days ago. Others make more appeal. 7lb lower than when a close fourth of 12 at Southwell in March; worth a second look.
7
10th (7) (14/1 -17%) Alice's Impact
14
14/1(-17%)
(7) Alice's Impact 14/1, Winner at Beverley in July. 11/1, tenth of 13 in handicap at this C&D 38 days ago. Blinkers on 1st time. Needs the headgear to perk her up. Well beaten on AW debut over C&D last month; blinkers on.
18:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
This may prove to be a good opportunity for JUST TYPICAL to land a breakthrough victory. Ian Williams' charge was touched off late on when finishing a half-length second over an extended mile at Wolverhampton recently and, eased in trip off an unchanged mark now sporting cheekpieces for the first time, he looks well capable of going one place better. Gunnerside wasn't disgraced when a staying-on fifth over 6f here on Tuesday and, stepping up in trip off the same mark, he can make his presence felt. Concert Boy fared best of those held up off the pace when third over C&D latest and he completes the shortlist off a 1lb lower mark.
CONCERT BOY is well handicapped and has been shaping up well, again travelling well in rear when third over C&D last time, so he can make his presence felt if the race is run to suit. Believe Me Now and Just Typical are obvious dangers.
The vote goes to the top-weight GUNNERSIDE who is usually seen over shorter trips but is 1-1 over this C&D.
(9) Proleek Prince 9/1, Winner at Punchestown in September. Bit below form seventh of 18 in handicap (11/1) at Galway (8.3f, heavy) 4 days ago. Looks vulnerable. Bit to find on recent form although rider's claim a positive.
12
2nd (12) (5/1 +41%) Letiza
5
5/1(+41%)
(12) Letiza 5/1, First run since leaving Thomas Dowling when creditable third of 12 in handicap (10/3) at Cork (8f, good to soft) 31 days ago. Stepping back in the right direction. Yard debut at Cork an improved showing; more likely here.
1
3rd (1) (9/2 +44%) Pier Pressure
4.5
9/2(+44%)
(1) Pier Pressure 9/2, Course winner. Latest win at Gowran in July. 8/1, respectable fifth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 21 days ago, never nearer. Place possibilities. Dual course winner (7f); okay form of late on turf and has to be respected back on AW.
7
4th (7) (5/1 +9%) Punk Poet
5
5/1(+9%)
(7) Punk Poet 5/1, Five-time C&D winner. Respectable third of 14 in handicap at this course (7f, 6/1) 21 days ago. Shortlist material off the same mark. Won this two years ago and recent effort here makes him a leading player.
4
5th (4) (12/1 -9%) Perfect Judgement
12
12/1(-9%)
(4) Perfect Judgement 12/1, Course winner. Creditable fourth of 12 in handicap (13/2) at Listowel (7.1f, good to soft) 38 days ago. Needs to raise his game. Good recent turf form; first attempt at 1m for new yard and player if he stays.
15
6th (15) (25/1 -178%) Rock Etoile
25
25/1(-178%)
(15) Rock Etoile 25/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Gowran in September. Ninth of 14 in handicap at this C&D (5/1) 35 days ago. RESERVE. C&D winner in August but on a high enough mark right now; reserve.
5
7th (5) (16/1 +0%) Clarita
16
16/1(+0%)
(5) Clarita 16/1, Course winner. 13/2, ninth of 10 in handicap at the Curragh (8f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Blinkers back on and it's easy enough to look elsewhere. Penultimate Listowel run puts her in the mix; headgear combination tried for AW return.
8
8th (8) (12/1 -20%) Mooretown Lad
12
12/1(-20%)
(8) Mooretown Lad 12/1, Respectable 4¼ lengths sixth of 14 to Proleek Prince in handicap (7/1) at Punchestown (8.1f, good) 45 days ago, never nearer. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals. Leopardstown winner held since; others preferred.
11
9th (11) (22/1 -38%) Seti
22
22/1(-38%)
(11) Seti 22/1, Lightly-raced winner. Course winner. Sixth of 7 in handicap at Naas (10.4f, good to soft, 12/1) 19 days ago. Back down in trip. Plenty to find on form. Unexposed 3yo all the better for recent comeback turf run; goes well here.
14
10th (14) (25/1 +24%) Free Solo
25
25/1(+24%)
(14) Free Solo 25/1, Course winner. 22/1, seventh of 14 in handicap at this course (7f) 7 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Winner here in January but recent form leaves him with plenty to find.
2
11th (2) (20/1 +9%) Current Option
20
20/1(+9%)
(2) Current Option 20/1, Tenth of 12 in handicap (11/1) at Roscommon (7.5f, soft) 18 days ago. Hopes pinned on the first-time visor sparking a return to form. 110-rated in his prime; visor tried in order to arrest his decline but others preferred.
6
12th (6) (7/1 +65%) Chavajod
7
7/1(+65%)
(6) Chavajod 7/1, C&D winner. 20/1, last of 10 in handicap at Cork (9f, good to firm) 51 days ago. Visor back on and will be a danger to all if he puts his best foot forward. Dual C&D winner last winter; back from turf off reduced mark so warrants respect.
13
13th (13) (20/1 -43%) No Knee Never
20
20/1(-43%)
(13) No Knee Never 20/1, 8/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time, respectable sixth of 17 in maiden at the Curragh (6f, good) 69 days ago. First run for yard after leaving Joseph Patrick O'Brien. Makes handicap debut. Was 0-6 in maidens for Joseph O'Brien; AW/handicap debut for new yard.
10
14th (10) (12/1 -20%) Rampage
12
12/1(-20%)
(10) Rampage 12/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in September. Good second of 10 in handicap (7/2) at Bellewstown (7.9f, soft) 30 days ago. Cheekpieces back on and he's one to consider. C&D winner two starts back; career-best needed here.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
All PUNK POET's wins here have come over a mile and he may be able to bag a sixth course success now. The Power gelding ran well over seven here three weeks ago when third to Eddie G and remains on the same mark of 73. Black Storm won a weak enough maiden here early last month and has been given a mark of 79 for his handicap debut. This is tougher now but he's open to further improvement on just his third career outing. The handicapper has been giving the consistent Pier Pressure a bit of a chance and he's another that has to come into calculations.
PUNK POET has slipped to a handy mark and left the strong impression that his turn is near when third over 7f here three weeks ago. The return to this trip will be no bad thing and he is preferred to Black Storm, who confirmed his debut promise when landing a maiden here and there should be better to come from this unexposed 3-y-o. Letiza took a step back in the right direction when third on debut for new yard at Cork and she is a live each-way player, along with Rampage.
Following a good debut run for Henry de Bromhead at Cork recently when well-backed, LETIZA can recoup losses here
(1) Comfort Line 9/2, 3-time C&D winner. Latest win here in July. Creditable second of 14 in handicap (13/2) at this C&D 35 days ago. Can give a good account despite being nudged up 3 lb. Three C&D wins; solid efforts in defeat here the last twice and looks a player again.
7
2nd (7) (4/1 +43%) Finsceal Annie
4
4/1(+43%)
(7) Finsceal Annie 4/1, Winner at Tipperary in August. 7/2, respectable fifth of 13 in handicap at Killarney (8.1f, heavy) 25 days ago, going with enthusiasm. Won over 7.5f and solid efforts in defeat since up to 1m1f; has to be considered.
9
3rd (9) (8/1 +43%) Hope And Innocence
8
8/1(+43%)
(9) Hope And Innocence 8/1, Remains a maiden after 22 Flat runs. Creditable sixth of 14 in handicap (16/1) at this course (7f) 14 days ago, slowly away. Hasn't been beaten far at this venue twice lately, over this trip and 7f; needs her best.
10
4th (10) (33/1 +34%) Draiocht
33
33/1(+34%)
(10) Draiocht 33/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Last of 15 in handicap at Roscommon (7.5f, soft, 22/1) 18 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Uphill task. Found the ground too soft last time but needs to improve on his earlier handicap debut.
8
5th (8) (14/1 -75%) Nawraq
14
14/1(-75%)
(8) Nawraq 14/1, Last of 9 in handicap hurdle (25/1) at Downpatrick (17.8f, good) 67 days ago, racing lazily. Down in trip. Cheekpieces back on and he was an excellent second in a big-field handicap when last seen on the level. Maiden after 24 starts under all rules; poor over hurdles lately; has run well here.
11
6th (11) (20/1 +50%) Hastily
20
20/1(+50%)
(11) Hastily 20/1, Seventh of 12 in claimer (100/1) at this course (7f) 7 days ago, merely passing beaten rivals. Has been regressive in the last year and has to stage a revival.
13
7th (13) (22/1 -57%) Perfect Curves
22
22/1(-57%)
(13) Perfect Curves 22/1, 11/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Bellewstown (7.9f, soft) 30 days ago, merely passing beaten rivals. Blinkers replace cheekpieces. Maiden was well beaten over C&D two runs ago and blinkers need to have a positive effect.
12
8th (12) (17/2 +29%) Jalo
8.5
17/2(+29%)
(12) Jalo 17/2, Course winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2023. 11/2, bit below form sixth of 14 in handicap at this course (7f) 14 days ago. Been dropping down the weights and a bit better over 7f here last time; this trip a help.
4
9th (4) (33/1 +34%) Top Of The Pops
33
33/1(+34%)
(4) Top Of The Pops 33/1, 50/1, seventeenth of 20 in handicap at the Curragh (10f, soft) 10 days ago. Well beaten in two runs lately after a huge lay-off and not easy to fancy.
3
10th (3) (4/1 +0%) Feature This
4
4/1(+0%)
(3) Feature This 4/1, 4-time C&D winner. Good second of 14 in handicap (11/1) at this course (7f) 14 days ago, running on. Of interest again. Four C&D wins; solid lately at Bellewstown over 1m and here over 7f; up 4lb; player.
5
11th (5) (17/2 +39%) Hale Bopp
8.5
17/2(+39%)
(5) Hale Bopp 17/2, C&D winner. Seventeen runs since last win in 2023. Bit below form eleventh of 27 in handicap at the Curragh (7f, good to soft, 18/1) 15 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Merits consideration. Two C&D wins; just denied at the Curragh but found the ground too soft there since.
6
12th (6) (17/2 +23%) Task Ahead
8.5
17/2(+23%)
(6) Task Ahead 17/2, Lightly-raced maiden. 22/1, creditable seventh of 14 in handicap at this course (7f) 14 days ago. Something to find on form. Not a bad handicap debut over 7f at this track last time; worth considering.
2
13th (2) (33/1 -136%) Sky Legend
33
33/1(-136%)
(2) Sky Legend 33/1, Unreliable type. Course winner. 1 win from 2 runs this year. 100/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time in this code, ninth of 10 in novice hurdle at Fairyhouse (16f, good) 25 days ago. Down in trip. Course winner over 1m2f; well beaten in two maiden hurdles since; others appeal more.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Four-time C&D winner FEATURE THIS may be able to strike again at the venue. He has run well on his two starts since joining Ian Donoghue and was a bit unlucky when meeting traffic and failing by a nose to get up here a fortnight ago. The handicapper gave him 4lb for that effort but connections take 10lb off now by legging up Sam Coen. Comfort Line ran really well on his last visit here when going down by half a length to Dynamite Defense and is an obvious contender again. Finsceal Annie has been holding her form well and has place claims.
NAWRAQ has never really looked a natural over hurdles so his recent efforts in that code can be excused and he's fancied to get back on track returned to the Flat. Feature This has a good-value 10 lb claimer up so she's in the mix, along with Comfort Line.
Already a four-time C&D winner, FEATURE THIS can add another to that haul after running a fine race in defeat over 7f here.
(1) Moyassr 9/4, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, very good second of 14 in handicap (13/2) at this course (7f) 2 days ago. That was a big step forward and he's got good claims if turned out again. Improved from Irish debut when beaten 2.5l over 7f here last time; cheekpieces now.
4
2nd (4) (16/1 +0%) Shining Aitch
16
16/1(+0%)
(4) Shining Aitch 16/1, C&D winner. Creditable fourth of 14 in claimer (25/1) at this C&D 2 days ago. Beaten 5l in a C&D claimer here Wednesday and needs to step up on that.
13
3rd (13) (9/2 +47%) Glencullen
4.5
9/2(+47%)
(13) Glencullen 9/2, Below form ninth of 27 in handicap (15/2) at the Curragh (7f, good to soft) 15 days ago. Good runs over C&D and on turf but ground perhaps too soft last time; needs a bit more.
8
4th (8) (16/1 -45%) The Blue Panther
16
16/1(-45%)
(8) The Blue Panther 16/1, Latest win at Listowel in June. Blinkered for 1st time, bit below form sixth of 15 in handicap at Roscommon (7.5f, soft, 20/1) 18 days ago. Not taken lightly. Four turf wins and a solid run at Roscommon last time; is 0-3 on AW; others preferred.
5
5th (5) (20/1 -25%) Marians Gal
20
20/1(-25%)
(5) Marians Gal 20/1, Below form sixth of 12 in claimer (28/1) at this course (7f) 7 days ago. Maiden ran respectably in a 7f claimer here last week and has to step up on that.
6
6th (6) (7/2 +75%) Deed Pole
3.5
7/2(+75%)
(6) Deed Pole 7/2, 33/1 and visored for 1st time, seventeenth of 25 in handicap at the Curragh (8f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Won on AW over this trip when trained in UK; 5th over C&D before a lesser run on turf.
12
7th (12) (9/1 +25%) Poppy Pimento
9
9/1(+25%)
(12) Poppy Pimento 9/1, Creditable seventh of 12 in handicap at Clonmel (9.6f, good, 12/1) 57 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Some decent runs in defeat on turf over the summer; needs a bit more on AW debut.
11
8th (11) (18/1 -177%) Viva Voce
18
18/1(-177%)
(11) Viva Voce 18/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2023. 22/1, fourth of 15 in handicap at Bellewstown (8f, good to soft) 66 days ago. Makes polytrack debut (did well on tapeta in England). One to consider. Three of six wins have been on AW; solid runs in defeat lately and one to consider.
3
9th (3) (14/1 -17%) Monzoon
14
14/1(-17%)
(3) Monzoon 14/1, C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2023. 9/1, twelfth of 14 in handicap at this course (7f) 14 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Three wins here; not a bad run at Cork but below that form over 7f here since; tongue-tie.
9
10th (9) (66/1 -313%) Ascendent
66
66/1(-313%)
(9) Ascendent 66/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 125/1, first run since leaving Joseph Patrick O'Brien when seventh of 8 in maiden at this course (6f) on return 14 days ago. Hooded for 1st time. Makes handicap debut and could do better. Won a barrier trial last year but disappointed in maidens; hood on for h'cap bow.
7
11th (7) (8/1 -14%) Master Garvey
8
8/1(-14%)
(7) Master Garvey 8/1, One win from 26 Flat runs. Respectable sixth of 19 in handicap at Navan (5.8f, good to soft, 16/1) 9 days ago. Significantly back up in trip. Others more persuasive. Sole win came on heavy ground earlier this year; has run well on AW; needs more.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
GLENCULLEN looks capable of landing one of these based on recent showings. He has run solid races on his last couple of outings at the Curragh and was a good third on his last visit here in late September. This doesn't look the strongest race now and is a nice opportunity for the relatively lightly-raced four-year-old. Poppy Pimento was placed a couple of times on the turf during the summer and could be a big player here if taking to the all-weather surface first time. Master Garvey has dropped a few pounds and ran a decent race at Navan last time. He could get involved now.
VIVA VOCE continues in form and looks the way to go making a belated return to AW (this is his polytrack debut but he did well on tapeta when trained in Great Britain). Moyassr and Ascendent are a couple of the other likely players.
RAGTIME MILLY likely found the ground too soft at the Curragh last time and can get off the mark today.
(2) Slieve Binnian 4/5, Course winner. Ninth of 14 in handicap at the Curragh (10f, good, 22/1) 47 days ago. Claims on premier handicap third here in August but unproven over this far.
5
2nd (5) (18/1 -157%) Pralognan
18
18/1(-157%)
(5) Pralognan 18/1, 17/2, fifth of 11 in handicap at Naas (10.4f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Well treated on pick of form and interesting back on AW (went close only other start on surface in France). Back with Tony Martin but hard to be confident in on recent profile.
7
3rd (7) (8/1 +33%) Encosta
8
8/1(+33%)
(7) Encosta 8/1, Latest win at Leopardstown in May. Good third of 11 in handicap at this course (8f, 11/1) 2 days ago. Significantly back up in trip. Beaten two short-heads here on Wednesday over inadequate 1m; back up in trip now.
6
4th (6) (25/1 -150%) Autocrat
25
25/1(-150%)
(6) Autocrat 25/1, C&D winner. Creditable fifth of 12 in claimer at this course (10.7f, 11/4) 14 days ago. First run for yard after leaving Denis Hogan. On a good mark. C&D winner claimed for 9,000euros after close fifth here last month.
9
5th (9) (12/1 +0%) Trethorn
12
12/1(+0%)
(9) Trethorn 12/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 25/1, good seventh of 14 in handicap at this C&D 21 days ago, not ideally placed. C&D promise last month; 7lb claimer aboard this time and could prove a lively one.
1
6th (1) (14/1 -75%) Burren Song
14
14/1(-75%)
(1) Burren Song 14/1, Course winner. Fourth of 6 in handicap at this C&D (17/2) 21 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Too keen and never involved over C&D latest but drops in class here.
4
7th (4) (10/1 -150%) Church Mountain
10
10/1(-150%)
(4) Church Mountain 10/1, 17/2, won 14-runner handicap at this course (10.7f) 14 days ago. Good chance in hat-trick bid if he stays. Twice a recent winner over 1m2f under hold-up tactics; could improve again for longer trip.
8
8th (8) (10/1 0%) It'sonlyjustbegun
10
10/1(0%)
(8) It'sonlyjustbegun 10/1, Winner at Navan in July. 8/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, fourth of 7 in handicap at Naas (10.4f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Still a work in progress and this longer trip could bring improvement on AW debut.
3
9th (3) (17/2 -6%) Polemon
8.5
17/2(-6%)
(3) Polemon 17/2, 3 wins from 12 runs this year. 17/2, respectable tenth of 19 in handicap at the Curragh (14f, good to soft) 15 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Booking of Lee a plus. Done well on turf this year for new yard; needs to improve on previous AW form.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
BURREN SONG has run well in competitive contests on his last couple of outings and looks to have a big chance under title chaser Wayne Hassett. He was eased a pound after finishing fourth to Squire Danagher here three weeks ago and this looks a slightly lesser contest now. Church Mountain obviously commands respect coming here in search of a hat-trick. He got up late on over the extended 1m2f here a fortnight ago but went up 7lb for that victory and doesn't have a claimer on board this time. Slieve Binnian has gained three of his four wins around here and is another that has to come into the mix.
PRALOGNAN lurks on a tempting mark and is worth chancing back on AW having gone close on his only other start on polytrack. Autocrat and the hat-trick seeking Church Mountain, if he stays, are dangers.
It could pay to keep the faith with IT'SONLYJUSTBEGUN, who looks to have been crying out for this sort of trip
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TomForm top stats, gold rated
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Ran similar race before
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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.
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