There were 21 Races on Friday 29th March 2024 across 3 meetings. There was 7 races at Chelmsford-City, 7 races at Newcastle, 7 races at Lingfield, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Friday 29th March 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(2) Cuban Tiger 3/1, Well supported and duly made a winning debut in 8-runner novice at Southwell (6.1f). Took a step forward when second in class 3 at Kempton and remains with potential. Won at Southwell then ran well in conditions race at Kempton; open to further progress.
2
2nd (6) (6/1 +63%) Sayedaty Sadaty
6/1(+63%)
(6) Sayedaty Sadaty 6/1, Off the mark at the fourth attempt in Kempton novice, though again looked wayward. Decent third of 4 in class 2 at Epsom since but this looks too tough. Has looked quirky on occasions; remains to be seen whether he goes the right way.
3
3rd (1) (5/2 +38%) Orne
5/2(+38%)
(1) Orne 5/2, Horris Hill winner at 2 yrs and returned with a good second of 14 in local Group 2 Al Rayyan Mile at Doha (8f, good). Excellent close third in listed race at Lingfield 3 weeks ago and big shout despite a 5 lb penalty. Very close third in similar event at Lingfield this month; has mostly progressive form.
4
4th (3) (8/1 +27%) Habrdi
8/1(+27%)
(3) Habrdi 8/1, Useful colt. Three wins from 6 runs last year. 7/1, creditable 3 lengths fifth of 10 to Watch My Tracer in listed race at Lingfield (7f, AW) 22 days ago, but held by Orne on that form. Creditable fifth upped to this grade at Lingfield on reappearance; could go well.
5th
5th (8) (28/1 -12%) Yokohama
28/1(-12%)
(8) Yokohama 28/1, €27,000 foal, 35,000 gns yearling, Make Believe colt. Half-brother to several winners, including smart/ungenuine winner up to 9f Questioning. Dam US 2-y-o 8.5f winner. 7/2, won 8-runner maiden at this course (7.1f) on debut, responding well. Off 6 months. Tough ask. Won at this course on sole 2yo run; fits into the could-be-anything category; interesting.
6th
6th (7) (10/3 -33%) Silent Age
10/3(-33%)
(7) Silent Age 10/3, Landed odds in Kempton maiden on debut and defied a penalty in the style of a useful prospect at Wolverhampton. Needs considering. Dubawi gelding who is two from two; brings clear potential to this higher level; respected.
7th
7th (4) (33/1 -32%) Louis Quatorze
33/1(-32%)
(4) Louis Quatorze 33/1, Fairly useful colt. 3/1 and hooded for 1st time, won 8-runner novice at Chelmsford City (7f), all out. Off 148 days. Difficult ask. Took well to hood at Chelmsford on final 2yo start; the headgear is now removed.
8th
8th (9) (33/1 -65%) Manhattan Dreamer
33/1(-65%)
(9) Manhattan Dreamer 33/1, Didn't need to improve to get off the mark in 14-runner maiden at Dundalk (7f) 63 days ago but this demands a whole lot more. Irish filly who has shown steady progress at Dundalk; still unexposed.
13:18 Newcastle Listed (Class 1) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
ORNE may have to give weight away all around, but his recent placed efforts in Listed and Group 2 company set a high standard on form and the fact he won the Horris Hill last year is another plus. The son of Acclamation is narrowly preferred to the unexposed and progressive Silent Age, as well as the returning Room Service, who ended last season with a taking success in a valuable sales race at Doncaster. Cuban Tiger and Habrdi are capable of being in the shake-up as well.
ORNE did well to finish as close as he did given how the race developed when third in a similar event at Lingfield and is worth another chance to defy a penalty at this level. Silent Age made it 2 from 2 in the style of a good prospect at Wolverhampton so is feared, while the form of Room Service's sales win at Doncaster has worked out very well.
Promising Silent Age has to be feared but an interesting alternative at bigger odds is once-raced YOKOHAMA.
(7) God Of Thunder 7/1, Stretched by longer trip when seventh of 13 in handicap (18/1) at this course (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago. Back down in trip. Has shown he can deal with this mark, and 2m would have been too far last time.
2
2nd (3) (33/1 -83%) Enough Already
33/1(-83%)
(3) Enough Already 33/1, Course winner. Latest win here in November. 15/8, Failed to meet expectations when last of 8 in handicap at this course (8f, AW) 50 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Others more persuasive. He could be vulnerable over this longer trip with a strong pace on the cards..
3
3rd (5) (25/1 -79%) Lexington Knight
25/1(-79%)
(5) Lexington Knight 25/1, Good third of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f, 33/1) 48 days ago, better placed than most. Can give a good account. Close up over this far at Wolverhampton last time but around here others appeal more.
4
4th (16) (13/2 +28%) Optician
13/2(+28%)
(16) Optician 13/2, Won 4 on the bounce before very good second of 7 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 9/4) 17 days ago, just failing and clear of rest. Makes polytrack debut. Remains of strong interest. In form but raised 4lb for that latest defeat and has prove he can do it on Polytrack.
5th
5th (14) (9/1 -13%) It's A Love Thing
9/1(-13%)
(14) It's A Love Thing 9/1, Two wins from 4 runs last year. Unlucky to bump into one on a roll when creditable second of 10 in handicap (12/1) at Newcastle (8f) 16 days ago, running on late. Significantly back up in trip. Merits consideration. Drawn wide but otherwise has plenty in his favour in his current vein of form.
6th
6th (2) (33/1 -175%) The Thunderer
33/1(-175%)
(2) The Thunderer 33/1, 25/1, shaped as if back in form when respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at Kempton (12f) 27 days ago, late headway. Often starts slowly. This is his trip and the likelihood of a strong pace up front should work in his favour.
7th
7th (10) (9/1 +10%) Party Island
9/1(+10%)
(10) Party Island 9/1, 3-time C&D winner. Seventh of 9 in handicap at this course (10f, AW, 14/1) 28 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Returning to further a plus and he likes it here, but the draw is offputting.
8th
8th (12) (8/1 +6%) Eleanor Cross
8/1(+6%)
(12) Eleanor Cross 8/1, 5/2, bit below form third of 12 in novice at Southwell (12.1f) 24 days ago. Has work to do. Still a maiden but thereabouts in most of her starts; looks handicapped about right.
9th
9th (11) (17/2 +6%) Sax Appeal
17/2(+6%)
(11) Sax Appeal 17/2, One win from 3 runs last year. 15/2, much improved when winning 7-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 32 days ago, making all and always holding on. May yet have a bit more to offer. Shortlist material. Made most for a narrow win at Wolverhampton a month ago (1m4f); up just 3lb.
10th
10th (8) (20/1 -43%) Masqool
20/1(-43%)
(8) Masqool 20/1, 4-time course winner. Latest win here in February. Respectable sixth of 12 in handicap at Southwell (11.1f, 12/1) 9 days ago. This looks a bit tougher than usual for him and most of his form is at shorter.
11th
11th (6) (11/1 +0%) Western Stars
11/1(+0%)
(6) Western Stars 11/1, Course winner. Three wins from 15 runs last year. Latest win here in December. 2/1, creditable third of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f). Off 94 days. Can make presence felt. Stays 2m and assured stamina could be handy with a strong pace on the cards.
12th
12th (9) (25/1 +0%) Furzig
25/1(+0%)
(9) Furzig 25/1, C&D winner. Fifteen runs since last win in 2022. 9/1, respectable third of 7 in handicap at Doncaster (11.9f, soft) 5 days ago, slowly away. Multiple winner who is now exposed and it's been a while since he got his head in front.
13th
13th (15) (15/2 +25%) Siempre Arturo
15/2(+25%)
(15) Siempre Arturo 15/2, Lightly-raced winner. 2/1, improved when winning 8-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 20 days ago, well ridden. Up in trip. Remains unexposed. Justified favouritism with authority at Wolverhampton and may have more to offer.
14th
14th (4) (8/1 +50%) Wrecking Ball Paul
8/1(+50%)
(4) Wrecking Ball Paul 8/1, 18/1, career best when winning 14-runner handicap at Dundalk (16f) 28 days ago, easily. Back down in trip. This tougher. Clear from an early stage at Dundalk latest (2m) and strolled home by 15l.
15th
15th (13) (28/1 -100%) Suffrajet
28/1(-100%)
(13) Suffrajet 28/1, One win from 3 runs last year. Latest win at Kempton in December. 6/1, creditable fourth of 10 in handicap at Kempton (11f) 37 days ago, having run of race. Not entirely sure what to expect but she's capable on her day; well drawn.
16th
16th (1) (14/1 +13%) Heathen
14/1(+13%)
(1) Heathen 14/1, Latest win at Southwell in December. Respectable eighth of 13 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 13/2) 19 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Back down in class. Up and down since his December win and has something to prove on the Polytrack.
13:30 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
One of the least exposed runners in the field, SIEMPRE ARTURO made a flying start to racing in handicaps when justifying favouritism over the extended 1m1f circuit at Wolverhampton earlier in the month. The four-year-old can follow up with the step back up in trip not expected to be much of an issue off just 4lb higher. The versatile It's A Love Thing is feared most, given his impressive strike-rate on the all-weather, while Optician and Sax Appeal are a couple of other in-form rivals to seriously consider.
OPTICIAN pulled clear of a subsequent winner when just failing to complete the 5-timer at Southwell so remains of strong interest up another 4 lb. Sax Appeal clocked a decent time when making all under this rider at Wolverhampton last month and is another to consider, with It's A Love Thing completing the shortlist.
Plenty with chances but SIEMPRE ARTURO wasn't unduly troubled to make it 2-4 last time and he's bred to appreciate this longer trip.
(5) Tanager 12/1, Foaled January 30. €22,000 Havana Gold gelding. Half-brother to 1m-1¼m winner Le Forban. The betting should help guide to expectations. Stable does well with 2yo newcomers; already gelded and bred to appreciate further.
2
2nd (1) (6/1 -200%) Addictive
6/1(-200%)
(1) Addictive 6/1, Foaled March 15. €50,000 Kodiac colt. Half-brother to useful winner up to 1m Detail. Dam, 6f winner, half-sister to smart winner up to 7f Hamza. Interesting newcomer. Stable has its fair share of winning 2yo newcomers; worth monitoring in the market.
3
3rd (2) (11/10 +63%) Anthropologist
11/10(+63%)
(2) Anthropologist 11/10, Foaled February 26. Study of Man colt. Half-brother to 3 winners, including 2-y-o 5f winners Yorkshire Terrier and Out In Yorkshire. Hails from a leading stable and has the inside stall. Much respected if the betting vibes are strong. Stable has a good record with 2yo newcomers and he should handle the surface; watch market.
4
4th (3) (5/1 -150%) Far Above The Law
5/1(-150%)
(3) Far Above The Law 5/1, Foaled February 19. €20,000 Far Above colt. Dam lightly raced. Trainer no stranger to early-season juvenile success. Check the betting. Stable has a fine record with 2yo newcomers and market support should be noted.
5th
5th (7) (7/2 +30%) Paddy's Courage
7/2(+30%)
(7) Paddy's Courage 7/2, 11/1, sixth of 15 in novice at Doncaster (5f, heavy) on debut 6 days ago. Should have more to offer. Showed speed when sixth in the Brocklesby; that experience counts for plenty.
6th
6th (4) (80/1 -21%) Sunny Time
80/1(-21%)
(4) Sunny Time 80/1, 33/1, last of 15 in novice at Doncaster (5f, heavy) on debut 6 days ago. A switch to AW needs to spark major improvement. Finished last in the Brocklesby; will need to have improved plenty from that first outing.
LTO Selection:hiden content,
13:40 Chelmsford Maiden (Class 2) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
PADDY'S COURAGE ran well for a long way when finishing sixth in the Brocklesby at Doncaster last week and, with normal progression, she could be the one to beat. Addictive changed hands for 50,000 euros and is related to plenty of winners, so he could get into contention on his debut, while any market confidence behind Far Above The Law would be interesting.
A few decent yards are represented in a 2-y-o maiden where the betting should prove informative. ANTHROPOLOGIST is from a family the Johnston stable has enjoyed first-time-out juvenile success with so he's the suggestion before any market clues are known. Addictive is another likely type on paper, while Paddy's Courage showed ability on her Doncaster debut last weekend.
The filly PADDY'S COURAGE showed good pace to lead the Brocklesby field for a long way and could take some catching around here.
(3) Prydwen 10/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. 10/1, good neck second of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago. 1 lb better off with winner here. Enters calculations. Good second in the Marathon Trial, splitting Spartan Army and Vaguely Royal.
2
2nd (10) (18/1 -29%) Duke Of Oxford
18/1(-29%)
(10) Duke Of Oxford 18/1, Four wins from 9 runs last year. Creditable third of 11 in handicap (11/4) at this C&D 88 days ago, albeit no match for principals. Has form figures of 113 since upped to 2m; each-way claims off unaltered mark.
3
3rd (5) (5/1 -50%) Spartan Army
5/1(-50%)
(5) Spartan Army 5/1, 7/4, career best when completing hat-trick in 13-runner handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago by neck from Prydwen, well positioned. Thriving. 3-3 since switched to AW, most recently landing the Marathon Trial at Lingfield.
4
4th (9) (33/1 -18%) Howth
33/1(-18%)
(9) Howth 33/1, Finally got off the mark for this yard in 8-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (14f, 17/2) 25 days ago, keeping on well. Up in trip again. Has a modest strike-rate and is unlikely to follow up his Wolverhampton win.
5th
5th (8) (9/2 +25%) Vaguely Royal
9/2(+25%)
(8) Vaguely Royal 9/2, Course winner. 5/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, good 1¾ lengths third of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 28 days ago, clear of rest. May do better still. Clear third in the Marathon Trial on first attempt over 2m; likely player.
6th
6th (7) (9/1 +44%) Duty Of Care
9/1(+44%)
(7) Duty Of Care 9/1, Had some of these behind when good second of 11 in handicap at Kempton (16f). Not seen to best effect at Lingfield since so not taken lightly. Kicked for home too early in the Marathon Trial; 1-1 here; not dismissed.
7th
7th (11) (5/1 +0%) Palace Boy
5/1(+0%)
(11) Palace Boy 5/1, Fairly useful winner at 16f over hurdles. 1¼ lengths second of 13 to Spartan Army in handicap at Southwell (16.5f, 11/10) 34 days ago, no match for winner but 7 lb better off here. Shortlist material. Good second to Spartan Army at Southwell last time; now gets 7lb pull; big player.
8th
8th (1) (9/1 -64%) Max Vega
9/1(-64%)
(1) Max Vega 9/1, Career best when winning 6-runner handicap (4/1) at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 41 days ago, well on top finish. Unproven over this far but only 2 lb higher here so big shout if he stays. Has the ability to remain competitive, provided he's as effective back at 2m.
9th
9th (13) (80/1 -60%) Sir Chauvelin
80/1(-60%)
(13) Sir Chauvelin 80/1, 4-time course winner. Tenth of 13 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 50/1) 19 days ago, unsuited by way race developed. Significantly back up in trip. 3 lb out of handicap. Veteran who is a multiple winner but has a question mark over current form.
10th
10th (12) (7/1 +56%) Kyle Of Lochalsh
7/1(+56%)
(12) Kyle Of Lochalsh 7/1, Three wins from 7 runs last year. 11/8, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Chelmsford City (14f), well on top finish. Off 106 days. Makes tapeta debut. 2 lb out of handicap. Ended his 2023 campaign with two wins at Chelmsford; may improve further.
11th
11th (4) (14/1 +0%) Citizen General
14/1(+0%)
(4) Citizen General 14/1, Career best when winning 11-runner handicap (15/2) at Kempton (16f) 55 days ago by 4½ lengths from Duty of Care, soon clear. 7 lb higher now but can give another good account. Comfortable success at Kempton took his record under Robert Havlin to 2-3.
12th
12th (2) (18/1 -13%) Tyson Fury
18/1(-13%)
(2) Tyson Fury 18/1, Has done well since joining this yard and produced a career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Dundalk (16f) 49 days ago, easing clear. Respected. Proved suited by the step up to 2m at Dundalk last time; unexposed at this trip.
13th
13th (6) (33/1 -32%) Rainbow Dreamer
33/1(-32%)
(6) Rainbow Dreamer 33/1, C&D winner. 16/1, 12¼ lengths tenth of 11 to Citizen General in handicap at Kempton (16f) 55 days ago. Would be a threat if back to something like his best but, on recent evidence, Spartan Army looks the stable first string. Won this last year when it was still a conditions race; currently out of sorts.
13:53 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
SPARTAN ARMY continues to go from strength to strength since switching to the all-weather and a further 4lb rise for his most recent success at Lingfield, beating the reopposing Prydwen (second), could prove lenient. Alan King's charge can complete the four-timer at the main expense of three-time Group 3 winner Max Vega and Palace Boy, who has over a length to make up with the selection from their clash last month. Improving Irish raider Tyson Fury and Vaguely Royal cannot be ruled out either.
PALACE BOY bumped into the thriving Spartan Army when denied the hat-trick at Southwell 5 weeks ago but a 7 lb swing in the weights (Spartan Army has won again since) may be enough to reverse the placings. The classy Max Vega is another to consider back up in trip.
On better terms, PALACE BOY may reverse Southwell placings with Spartan Army who is strongly respected all the same.
(9) Inspiritus 7/2, Winner at Wolverhampton in January. Creditable 1½ lengths second of 9 to Bystander in handicap at this C&D (AW, 9/4) 28 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Remains of interest. No excuses for recent defeats and has edged up the weights, but should run well.
2
2nd (3) (14/1 +30%) Civil Law
14/1(+30%)
(3) Civil Law 14/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. Creditable sixth of 12 in handicap (14/1) at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago. Proving consistent if not especially well treated. Ran another solid race here last time without being quite good enough.
3
3rd (6) (22/1 -57%) Andaleep
22/1(-57%)
(6) Andaleep 22/1, Latest win at Southwell in February. Good third of 13 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 12/1) 19 days ago, running on. Can give a good account. Both AW wins at Southwell and his lack of course experience has to be a worry.
4
4th (1) (10/1 +38%) Youthful King
10/1(+38%)
(1) Youthful King 10/1, Course winner. Good third of 12 in handicap (33/1) at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago, faring best of those held up. Respected back down in class. Again drawn wide, as here last time when he finished with a right rattle to take third.
5th
5th (12) (25/1 -108%) Arcadian Nights
25/1(-108%)
(12) Arcadian Nights 25/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 11 runs last year. Respectable 2¼ lengths fourth of 9 to Bystander in handicap at this C&D (AW, 9/2) 28 days ago. This career-high mark just found him out when 4th in Bystander's race here the last time.
6th
6th (11) (25/1 -213%) Walhaan
25/1(-213%)
(11) Walhaan 25/1, 7/2, won 11-runner handicap at Dundalk (10.7f) 14 days ago, always holding on. Respected. Recent Dundalk winner but lacks course experience and has competition for the lead.
7th
7th (7) (9/2 +36%) Bystander
9/2(+36%)
(7) Bystander 9/2, Lightly-raced winner. 9/2, resumed progress when winning 9-runner handicap at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago by 1½ lengths from Inspiritus, readily. Open to further improvement. Had the run of things over C&D 28 days ago but he's probably improving; raised 6lb.
8th
8th (10) (9/2 -80%) Asgard's Captain
9/2(-80%)
(10) Asgard's Captain 9/2, Six wins from 16 Flat runs. Two wins from 6 runs last year. Career best when completing hat-trick (11/10) at Newcastle (10.2f) 4 days ago. Carries penalty. Thriving, but didn't travel with much fluency sole start here in January. Completed the hat-trick without much fuss at Newcastle; penalised in a better race here.
9th
9th (8) (20/1 -67%) Light Speed
20/1(-67%)
(8) Light Speed 20/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 5 runs last year. Latest win here in December. Eleventh of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (8f, 14/1) 88 days ago. Back up in trip. Something to prove now. Has a hat-trick to his name but has beat just one runner in his last two appearances.
10th
10th (4) (7/1 -40%) Al Rufaa
7/1(-40%)
(4) Al Rufaa 7/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. 5/2, creditable ¾-length second of 10 to Wadacre Gomez in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 42 days ago, caught further back than ideal. Shortlist material. In form; hold-up performer who could have this run to suit with lots of pace on.
11th
11th (14) (12/1 +76%) Qaasid
12/1(+76%)
(14) Qaasid 12/1, Wasn't disgraced in a better race than he need contest when eighth of 12 in handicap at this C&D (AW, 66/1) 28 days ago. Back down in class. Below par since back from a break and was behind a few of these here last time.
12th
12th (5) (9/1 -29%) Wadacre Gomez
9/1(-29%)
(5) Wadacre Gomez 9/1, Five wins from 17 Flat runs. Three wins from 12 runs last year. Respectable fourth of 12 in handicap at this C&D (AW, 17/2) 28 days ago. Should remain competitive. 5 wins in 12 months; should give his running once more (well drawn) but may come up short.
13th
13th (2) (28/1 -40%) Polling Day
28/1(-40%)
(2) Polling Day 28/1, C&D winner. 12/1, creditable 5 lengths fourth of 10 to Wadacre Gomez in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 42 days ago. Hood on 1st time. No banker to build on that this given his apparent fragility. Bit free when behind 3 of these last time so the first-time hood is interesting.
14th
14th (13) (150/1 -500%) Troon
150/1(-500%)
(13) Troon 150/1, 40/1, eleventh of 13 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 59 days ago. Up in trip. First run for yard after leaving Nigel Tinkler. Tongue strap on 1st time. Must improve. 2yo winner; last two runs below par and sold on for 7,500gns; new trip on stable debut.
14:05 Lingfield Handicap (Class 3) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
ASGARD'S CAPTAIN is motoring through the ranks and, having readily completed a quick-fire hat-trick with a dominant effort at Newcastle on Monday, the four-year-old is hard to oppose turned out under a 5lb penalty. The progressive Bystander, a C&D winner last time, could be the one to capitalise most if the swift turnaround takes a toll on the selection, while Al Rufaa (second) also rates a player and can at least reverse the recent Wolverhampton form with Wadacre Gomez (winner) on revised terms.
AL RUFAA is always going to be something of a hostage to fortune given his keen-going style but he very much caught the eye when runner-up at Wolverhampton 6 weeks ago and is capable of winning off his current mark. Bystander is unexposed and he resumed progress with a ready success over this C&D, suggesting there's more to come. The thriving Asgard's Captain is also considered.
Although forever a hostage to some good fortune, this could set up a treat for AL RUFAA who has to come with a withering late run.
(8) Dark Side Prince 10/3, Three-time C&D winner, the latest when shading a close finish 29 days ago. Should remain competitive after only a 2 lb nudge. Kept on well for narrow C&D win four weeks ago and remains on workable mark after 2lb rise.
2
2nd (10) (22/1 -10%) Popular Dream
22/1(-10%)
(10) Popular Dream 22/1, Lightly-raced maiden. First run since leaving James Tate when respectable sixth of 11 in handicap (40/1) at Southwell (5f) 17 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Returned from absence with respectable sixth on recent stable/handicap debut.
3
3rd (3) (9/2 +44%) Saaheq
9/2(+44%)
(3) Saaheq 9/2, Three-time C&D winner. 25/1, good third of 11 in handicap at Newcastle (5f) on reappearance 21 days ago, faring best of those ridden prominently. Well drawn. Considered. Triple C&D winner; made pleasing return from break this month and has good draw today.
4
4th (12) (18/1 -29%) Sir Rodneyredblood
18/1(-29%)
(12) Sir Rodneyredblood 18/1, Four-time C&D winner. Three wins from 14 runs last year. Latest win here in December. Sixth of 8 in handicap (8/1) at Lingfield (5f) 56 days ago. Forced dead-heat over 6f here in December but both runs this year have been disappointing.
5th
5th (4) (50/1 -52%) Howzak
50/1(-52%)
(4) Howzak 50/1, C&D winner. Five wins from 17 runs. Off 16 months and first outing since leaving Robyn Brisland, shaped as if needing run when sixth of 8 in 6f Kempton handicap 23 days ago. Ought to be sharper now. Soundly beaten on recent seasonal debut; needs to have come on a good deal for the run.
6th
6th (6) (5/1 -11%) Thismydream
5/1(-11%)
(6) Thismydream 5/1, 10/3, won 6-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (5f) 14 days ago, making all. Well drawn to attack from stall 3. Exploited career-low mark this month but still have very modest strike-rate.
7th
7th (1) (28/1 -40%) Dream By Day
28/1(-40%)
(1) Dream By Day 28/1, Won at Goodwood last summer but operating below best since. Hooded first time, fifth of 7 in handicap at Kempton (6f, 28/1) 16 days ago. Yet to strike form after five starts for current stable; not the most obvious answer.
8th
8th (9) (10/1 -122%) Phoenix Star
10/1(-122%)
(9) Phoenix Star 10/1, Made it 2 wins in his last 3 starts (all over 5f at Newcastle) when pushed out to see off 7 rivals last week. Player under a 4 lb penalty but he's another who hasn't been done any favours by the draw. In-form 8yo who has won two of his last three at Newcastle; likely contender again.
9th
9th (2) (11/1 -175%) Conquistador
11/1(-175%)
(2) Conquistador 11/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2023. Fourth of 9 in C&D handicap 15 days ago, faring best of those held up. Visor on first time. Interesting runner, although the draw could have been kinder. 0-7 for new stable but has slipped to a dangerous mark; feared if strong in the betting.
10th
10th (5) (9/1 +73%) Recon Mission
9/1(+73%)
(5) Recon Mission 9/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2022. 20/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5f) 32 days ago. Not the force of old and recent efforts don't suggest he's poised to strike.
11th
11th (11) (13/2 -63%) Let's Go Hugo
13/2(-63%)
(11) Let's Go Hugo 13/2, Latest win at Wolverhampton in October. Off 12 weeks, respectable 1¾ lengths third of 6 to Thismydream in handicap (5/2) at Wolverhampton (5f) 14 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Ran okay on Tapeta this month, after a break; can have a say if switch to Polytrack suits.
12th
12th (7) (18/1 -29%) Boom The Groom
18/1(-29%)
(7) Boom The Groom 18/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 12 runs last year. Latest win at Lingfield in November. 11/1, fourth of 6 in C&D handicap 20 days ago. Front-running teenager; not firing on all cylinders in recent months.
14:15 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Saaheq finished a close-up third in this grade at Newcastle earlier in the month and he is likely to be thereabouts off an unchanged mark. However, the vote goes to THISMYDREAM, who beat Let's Go Hugo by just under two lengths at Wolverhampton last time and a 5lb pull is unlikely to be enough for that form to be overturned. Last-time-out winner Phoenix Star is another to note.
SAAHEQ shaped well on his recent Newcastle reappearance and gets the vote to build on that promise from a handy inside stall. Last-time-out winners Thismydream and Dark Side Prince are also drawn near the rail and should go well again, while Conquistador and Phoenix Star are others who could have a say if their outside stalls don't prove too big an inconvenience.
Three-time C&D winner SAAHEQ posted a good effort at Newcastle three weeks ago, after a break, and returns here on a good mark.
(6) Fire Demon 9/4, Progressive son of Dark Angel who justified good support to double career tally in 10-runner handicap at Kempton (6f, 15/8) 40 days ago by 1¼ lengths from Media Shooter, going on entering final 1f and driven out. Up 5 lb but likely he can do better again. 2 Kempton wins this year, strong at the finish latest; still has more to come; key player.
2
2nd (11) (12/1 +40%) Cross The Tracks
12/1(+40%)
(11) Cross The Tracks 12/1, Successful on debut in a Yarmouth novice (6f) in September. Efforts mixed thereafter but put it all together when running out a convincing winner in 8-runner Kempton handicap (7f) 2 weeks ago. More on his plate back up markedly in grade but yard continue in very good form. Bolted up over 7f here last time but in a considerably weaker event.
3
3rd (4) (13/2 -30%) Blue Prince
13/2(-30%)
(4) Blue Prince 13/2, Progressed well since joining this yard, landing 6f handicaps at Southwell/over C&D. Solid efforts in defeat have followed, runner-up to another improving sort at Lingfield 4 weeks ago, finishing strongly. Unlikely he's finished improving yet and he's one to consider. C&D win on New Year's Day has been followed by two fine runs in defeat; involved again.
4
4th (7) (17/2 -21%) Media Shooter
17/2(-21%)
(7) Media Shooter 17/2, Improved model on AW since the turn of the year, landing 6f Kempton handicaps either side of a solid second behind re-opposing Fire Demon at that venue in February. Handicapper applies a little more pressure back up in grade but he's clearly going the right way. Solid record on AW but no match for Fire Demon on his penultimate start.
5th
5th (8) (25/1 -39%) Roman Emperor
25/1(-39%)
(8) Roman Emperor 25/1, Winner at Southwell (6f) in January and filled runners-up spot next 2 starts in handicaps at Lingfield. However, seemingly beaten on merit behind Fire Demon/Media Shooter on each of his last 2 starts and he'll need to pull out more to play a lead role here. Consistency not an issue but needs to raise his game a level to take this.
6th
6th (3) (28/1 -250%) Tarsus
28/1(-250%)
(3) Tarsus 28/1, Much improved for fitting of a tongue tie, landing a Dundalk maiden (5f) in December and progressed again since, doubling his tally in 4-runner minor event at that venue 7 weeks ago. That race not the easiest to assess and this rates tougher making handicap debut. Much improved for the addition of a tongue tie; could still have more in the tank.
7th
7th (2) (28/1 -409%) Havana Ball
28/1(-409%)
(2) Havana Ball 28/1, £100,000 purchase who confirmed debut promise when readily seeing off a next-time-out winner in a Wolverhampton novice (6f) in November. Improved again when third in French listed race on sole outing since 21 days ago and highly likely there's more to come now handicapping. Promising 3rd in Chantilly Listed event against males 3 weeks ago; still has more to come.
8th
8th (5) (25/1 -56%) G'day Mate
25/1(-56%)
(5) G'day Mate 25/1, 5f maiden winner for Jessica Harrington at 2yrs. Steadily found his feet upon joining new yard, running his best race yet when third of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 28 days ago (Blue Prince placed second). Should give another good account nudged back up 1 lb. Improved with each run for M Appleby but he's finished behind Blue Prince on each occasion.
9th
9th (1) (7/2 +22%) Sommelier
7/2(+22%)
(1) Sommelier 7/2, Progressive sort who won 2 of his 3 starts in novice/maiden company on AW last year and found further progress making handicap debut when very good ½-length second of 10 to Blue Prince in C&D handicap in January. 4 lb better off with that rival here and player with more to come. Two 6f AW wins in November; 2nd to Blue Prince over C&D on h'cap debut; still unexposed.
10th
10th (10) (25/1 -39%) Bazball
25/1(-39%)
(10) Bazball 25/1, Thrived on a busy campaign as a 2-y-o, gaining third success at Chester (5f) in September. Model of consistency on AW subsequently, good 1½ lengths third of 10 to Blue Prince in handicap at this C&D 88 days ago, nearest finish. Should give it her best shot again. Three wins at two; good third over C&D latest; another career best required to feature.
11th
11th (9) (5/1 +72%) Daring Legend
5/1(+72%)
(9) Daring Legend 5/1, Well-bred sort who built on encouraging debut for his new yard when running out an impressive winner of a C&D handicap earlier this month. Far from disgraced when third of 9 returned to 7f at Southwell last week and return to this track/trip rates a plus. Not out of things. Ready C&D success on his 2nd run for this yard; looked a tricky ride late on last week.
14:25 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Narrowly denied on each of his last two starts at Lingfield, and a taking winner over C&D in January, BLUE PRINCE arrives in excellent form and this looks like an ideal opportunity to continue his progression. Behind him over C&D on that occasion was the progressive Sommelier (second), who is open to more improvement, while Fire Demon arrives on the back of a comfortable success at Kempton from Media Shooter (second).
SOMMELIER continued his theme of race-by-race progress when runner-up behind re-opposing Blue Prince over C&D on New Year's Day and, 4 lb better off with that rival here, he gets the vote to come out on top with the prospect of more to come. Blue Prince comes here in fine form and he's a serious player along with Kempton-scorer Fire Demon. Daring Legend, an impressive winner over C&D on his penultimate start, also makes each-way appeal.
The admirable Blue Prince should go well again but FIRE DEMON was strong at the finish last time and has more to offer.
(9) Cephalus 10/3, Eight wins from 24 Flat runs. 5/2, career best when winning 10-runner handicap at this C&D (AW) 7 days ago, easily. Carries penalty. On a roll at the moment and should take the beating again. Resurgent 5yo who is 2lb ahead of the handicapper after his emphatic C&D win a week ago.
2
2nd (6) (4/1 +67%) Dingle
4/1(+67%)
(6) Dingle 4/1, Course winner. Latest win at Newcastle in January. Respectable fourth of 8 in handicap (13/2) at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago. Can't be ruled out. Fourth in Class 2 C&D race this month but would appeal more over a stiffer 1m.
3
3rd (4) (5/1 +33%) Benavente
5/1(+33%)
(4) Benavente 5/1, Career best when winning 12-runner handicap (9/2) at Southwell (8.1f) 34 days ago, slowly away. Going the right way and merits plenty of respect despite tricky draw. Hiked up 7lb for last month's stylish Southwell win but still strongly considered.
4
4th (1) (18/1 -125%) Court Of Session
18/1(-125%)
(1) Court Of Session 18/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Chelmsford City in December. Fifth of 8 in handicap at Kempton (8f, 5/1) 83 days ago, doing too much too soon. Likely to bounce back after a break. Career-best form when narrow winner in December; others look better handicapped.
5th
5th (8) (11/1 -10%) Trip To Rome
11/1(-10%)
(8) Trip To Rome 11/1, One win from 2 runs last year. Seventh of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 85/40) 13 days ago. Must improve. Placed on last month's stable debut and not much has gone his way since; shortlisted.
6th
6th (11) (66/1 -313%) Visibility
66/1(-313%)
(11) Visibility 66/1, Three wins from 20 runs last year. Last of 8 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 10/1) 3 days ago. Others preferred. Dual Tapeta winner during AW season but on tough mark now; well held on Tuesday.
7th
7th (3) (15/2 +17%) Borgi
15/2(+17%)
(3) Borgi 15/2, 4/1, career best when winning 10-runner handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 24 days ago by neck from Gincident, holding on gamely. Should give another good account. Just did enough to collar Gincident at Southwell this month; further progress possible.
8th
8th (5) (125/1 -681%) Bass Player
125/1(-681%)
(5) Bass Player 125/1, Unreliable type. Fourteen runs since last win in 2022. Well-beaten last of 11 to Borgi in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f, 13/2) 82 days ago, hampered. Others have achieved more. Placed on first two stable starts and had excuse for poor run last time; not ruled out.
9th
9th (12) (12/1 +0%) Shoot To Kill
12/1(+0%)
(12) Shoot To Kill 12/1, C&D winner. 6/1, creditable fifth of 10 in handicap at Dundalk (8f) 7 days ago. Not dismissed. First two stable runs were very respectable but he needs to find something extra here.
10th
10th (10) (14/1 -27%) Darwell Lion
14/1(-27%)
(10) Darwell Lion 14/1, C&D winner. 18/1, creditable fifth of 13 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 26 days ago. Needs to up his game but stable going well. Made frame off 6lb higher over C&D in January and returns after a decent effort this month.
11th
11th (2) (16/1 -129%) Baldomero
16/1(-129%)
(2) Baldomero 16/1, 3/1, creditable fourth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 20 days ago. Consistent sort who should put up another solid showing from a handy draw. Admirably consistent in defeat over 6f/7f since the autumn and also suited by 1m.
12th
12th (7) (11/1 -69%) Gincident
11/1(-69%)
(7) Gincident 11/1, Three wins from 10 runs last year. 7/1, good neck second of 10 to Borgi in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 24 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Likely to be thereabouts once more. Lost out only narrowly to Borgi at Southwell this month; makes Polytrack debut today.
14:40 Lingfield Handicap (Class 3) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
CEPHALUS is going from strength to strength and boasts strong claims in his attempt for a fourth victory in succession. Officially 2lb well-in under a penalty, the selection still has room to move from his current mark and is expected to back up last week's course and distance success. Baldomero and Borgi are a couple of others with strong claims to consider, although Dingle is effective over a mile and offers a bit of each-way value, given he is a previous course winner off this same mark.
CEPHALUS is really thriving and again scored with something to spare over C&D last time, so he boasts excellent claims of landing the four-timer in a race that should be run to suit. Benavente is another impressive last-time-out winner and Court of Session could get back on the up after a break.
Cephalus is respected but DARWELL LION is now 6lb lower than when fourth in a good C&D race in January and gets the vote.
(7) Brunel Nation 6/4, Lightly-raced maiden. Off 5 months, sixth of 8 in handicap at Kempton (6f, well-backed 4/1) 23 days ago, left poorly placed. A six-figure breeze-ups buy last year, he looks the part and remains open to improvement. Just a respectable sixth on seasonal/handicap debut but might come on for the run.
2
2nd (4) (11/2 +50%) Old Chums
11/2(+50%)
(4) Old Chums 11/2, 3/1, career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 35 days ago. Improving and he can go well again. 2-3 since fitted with cheekpieces and switched to handicaps; may still be on the upgrade.
3
3rd (13) (28/1 -12%) Gogo Yubari
28/1(-12%)
(13) Gogo Yubari 28/1, 9/1, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 7 days ago. Has had a good year already with 2 victories for new yard but this is tougher under a penalty. Only due 2lb rise for last week's narrow win; faces tough task under 6lb penalty.
4
4th (10) (9/1 +44%) Runaround Sioux
9/1(+44%)
(10) Runaround Sioux 9/1, Improved when winning 8-runner event on handicap bow over C&D in February, overcoming positional bias. Not seen to best effect when sixth of 9 in handicap (13/2) at Southwell (7.1f) 8 days ago, never nearer. Retains potential. Below form over 7f last week but won in good style over C&D on last month's handicap debut.
5th
5th (9) (10/1 +50%) Split The Profit
10/1(+50%)
(9) Split The Profit 10/1, Very good second of 11 in handicap at Southwell (5f, 10/1) 15 days ago, almost running down a well-backed winner who showed bags of speed, coming clear of the others. This is tougher. 0-8 but went close over 5f this month and today's return to 6f ought to suit.
6th
6th (12) (12/1 +64%) Lochaber
12/1(+64%)
(12) Lochaber 12/1, 10/1, fifth of 7 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) 22 days ago, too free after 7 months off. Makes polytrack debut. Difficult ask. Made low-key seasonal/AW debut this month; others have more pressing claims.
7th
7th (3) (40/1 -21%) High Violet
40/1(-21%)
(3) High Violet 40/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Off 168 days. Makes handicap debut. Best effort at 2 yrs came first time up. Failed to build upon last summer's promising debut; reappears with a point to prove.
8th
8th (2) (33/1 +34%) Kapparis Kid
33/1(+34%)
(2) Kapparis Kid 33/1, Temperamental sort. C&D winner. Fifth of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 25/1) 36 days ago. Work to do. C&D novice winner in December but this year's handicap form is underwhelming.
9th
9th (5) (9/2 +72%) Sovereign Knight
9/2(+72%)
(5) Sovereign Knight 9/2, 7/4 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, improved when winning 9-runner event at Lingfield (6f, AW) 47 days ago, always holding on. More needed again now handicapping. Made all in Lingfield when dropped to 6f with cheekpieces added; handicap debut today.
10th
10th (1) (28/1 -273%) Eighth Army
28/1(-273%)
(1) Eighth Army 28/1, Thrice-raced maiden over 6f at 2 yrs. Off 153 days. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Makes handicap debut and potential for better still this term. Signed off in the autumn with two promising 6f novice runs; tough draw for handicap debut.
11th
11th (8) (66/1 +0%) Reveal
66/1(+0%)
(8) Reveal 66/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 8/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, seventh of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 36 days ago. Tricky to fancy. Five-race maiden; not an easy one to predict in his first sprint.
12th
12th (6) (12/1 +40%) Hot Front
12/1(+40%)
(6) Hot Front 12/1, Winner at Lingfield in August. 40/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at Kempton (6f) 40 days ago. Previous Lingfield second was a lot better. Went close two starts ago but not in same form last time; others are less exposed.
14:50 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
OLD CHUMS made it two wins from his last three starts when scoring by two lengths in this grade at Wolverhampton last month and, off a 5lb higher rating, he remains the one to beat. Eighth Army has been gelded after three mediocre efforts last year and he could prove a different proposition on his handicap debut, while Sovereign Knight holds a solid chance following his triumph at Lingfield.
Hard to see past CLOUD KING who won as his rider liked on his handicap debut at Southwell on Tuesday and looks sure to go on improving. Brunel Nation and Runaround Sioux are a couple of interesting rivals who remain with potential.
It's hard to see beyond CLOUD KING, who won very comfortably at Southwell on Tuesday and remains very well handicapped under a penalty.
(5) Cloud Cover 10/1, Three wins from 8 runs last year. 2/1, creditable 2¼ lengths fifth of 9 to Shades of Summer in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, headed final 100 yds. First-time hood may help her settle better and not underestimated. The addition of a hood looks a good move but she'll need a career best to take this.
2
2nd (7) (8/1 +20%) Just A Spark
8/1(+20%)
(7) Just A Spark 8/1, Did well at 3 yrs, winning 4 times and improved furhter on AW since the turn of the year, completing quick-fire hat-trick at Kempton (6f) in February. Not in quite the same form when fifth of 7 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 19 days ago. This rates tougher again. Winning spree on AW ground to a halt latest; stamina for 7f has to be taken on trust.
3
3rd (6) (7/2 -5%) Shades Of Summer
7/2(-5%)
(6) Shades Of Summer 7/2, C&D winner. 3/1, completed hat-trick when winning 9-runner handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, by length from Aramis Grey, kept up to work. Clearly thriving and 6 lb rise shouldn't prevent her going well again on that evidence. Progressing well on AW for new yard, including C&D; may not have reached her ceiling yet.
4
4th (8) (16/1 -60%) Sibyl Charm
16/1(-60%)
(8) Sibyl Charm 16/1, Has done well on AW upon joining this yard, career best when winning 8-runner C&D handicap 16 days ago, closed down final 100 yds and just holding on. Nudged up just 1 lb and thriving but this much tougher up in class. Three course wins this year; today's step up class could find her out.
5th
5th (9) (100/1 -300%) Smiling Sunflower
100/1(-300%)
(9) Smiling Sunflower 100/1, Capitalised on much-reduced mark at Kempton (1m) in February but again started very slowly and never figured when seventh of 9 in handicap back at that venue 37 days ago. Passed over here operating from out of the weights. 1m Kempton win last month; less good latest; stiff task from out of weights at this level.
6th
6th (1) (7/4 +30%) Nine Tenths
7/4(+30%)
(1) Nine Tenths 7/4, Smart filly who boasts an impressive record on synthetics, adding to her tally in 6-runner listed race at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 20 days ago. Rider takes off handy 7 lb returned to handicaps and she looks sure to play a lead role again. Progressing well on AW; has won for today's apprentice; leading contender.
7th
7th (2) (16/1 +11%) Hodd's Girl
16/1(+11%)
(2) Hodd's Girl 16/1, Ended losing run at Dundalk (7f) in January and not disgraced either start since, likely to have benefited from stronger gallop when third of 6 in minor event back at that venue 3 weeks ago. However, she's yet to defy a mark this high. Prolific winner at Dundalk; 3rd in this race last year; will do well to better that today.
8th
8th (3) (10/1 -18%) Aramis Grey
10/1(-18%)
(3) Aramis Grey 10/1, Admirable mare who was a good second in C&D conditions' event 12 months ago. Consistent without tasting success subsequently, second of 9 to Shades of Summer in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 28 days ago, conceding first run. Likely to give it her best shot again. 2nd in this race (non handicap) last year; chased home Shades Of Summer on last two runs.
9th
9th (4) (6/1 +8%) Wild Side
6/1(+8%)
(4) Wild Side 6/1, Four wins from 8 runs last year, the latest at Southwell (1m) in December. 5/1, respectable 2½ lengths third of 8 to Shades of Summer in handicap at this C&D 88 days ago, not ideally placed. That may not prove her limit on AW. Continued her progress on AW this winter; work to do with two of these on latest C&D run.
15:00 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The key to this race could be SHADES OF SUMMER's victory over Nine Tenths (second) and Wild Side (third) over track and trip in January. Jane Chapple-Hyam's mare took a pleasing step forward from that success to defeat Aramis Grey (second) and Cloud Cover (fifth) in this grade at Lingfield earlier in the month and she is fancied to continue on the upward curve and complete the four-timer. Nine Tenths looks the main danger after landing the Wulfruna Stakes at Wolverhampton on her latest outing.
NINE TENTHS enhanced her already excellent strike rate on synthetics when landing a 6-runner listed event at Wolverhampton 3 weeks ago and, with her rider taking off a handy 7 lb returned to handicaps, she can reverse form with Shades of Summer on these more favourable terms than when the pair met over C&D on New Year's Day. The latter-named is thriving though and respected, with Cloud Cover and Wild Side others expected to be thereabouts.
Nine Tenths is a major player but the likeable and progressive SHADES OF SUMMER may be able to lower her colours again.
(3) Aqwaam 4/1, 8/1, creditable second of 6 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 41 days ago, needing stiffer test. Back up in trip. Likely to be on the premises. Two wins (1m6f/2m) in November and he's held his form well since; respected.
2
2nd (1) (28/1 -155%) Diamond Bay
28/1(-155%)
(1) Diamond Bay 28/1, C&D winner. Tenth of 13 in handicap (28/1) at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago, not much room. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Others make more appeal. Five-time AW winner but he's been out of sorts this winter and needs to get back on track.
3
3rd (2) (16/1 +0%) Barenboim
16/1(+0%)
(2) Barenboim 16/1, Course winner. 6/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f) 34 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Significantly back up in trip. Hood back on. Should find this race being run to suit, so return to form isn't out of the question. Returned to form with close third over C&D but he was well held last time; risks attached.
4
4th (10) (4/1 +60%) Tenerife Sunshine
4/1(+60%)
(10) Tenerife Sunshine 4/1, Creditable second of 9 in handicap (5/2) at Kempton (12f) 27 days ago, needing stiffer test. Significantly up in trip. Not discounted. In good form at middle distances this year but this is a new test at this trip.
5th
5th (6) (8/1 +43%) Red Flyer
8/1(+43%)
(6) Red Flyer 8/1, Course winner. Latest win at Kempton in January. Respectable fourth of 13 in handicap at this C&D (AW, 9/1) 28 days ago. Has been in good form since September and he's not ruled out on this drop back in grade.
6th
6th (12) (13/2 +19%) Riyami
13/2(+19%)
(12) Riyami 13/2, Latest win at Dundalk in February. Shaped as if still in form when second of 14 in handicap at Dundalk (16f, 11/8) 28 days ago, running on. Big player. Record of 3-7 on AW and he could find more progress over 2m in this sphere.
7th
7th (4) (12/1 -71%) Yokkell
12/1(-71%)
(4) Yokkell 12/1, Three wins from 11 runs last year. Latest win at Dundalk in February. 13/2, good fourth of 9 in handicap at Dundalk (12f) 21 days ago. Has been in top form for a while and should get the longer trip on this relatively sharp track. 3-6 for current yard but her progress stalled last time and she's untried beyond 1m4f.
8th
8th (5) (13/2 +35%) Bascule
13/2(+35%)
(5) Bascule 13/2, Course winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2021. 7/2, fourth of 7 in handicap at Kempton (16f) 16 days ago. Should strip fitter for that and stable is in excellent form at present. On long losing run but he's been in fair form at 2m this year and shouldn't be far away.
9th
9th (7) (20/1 -43%) First Emperor
20/1(-43%)
(7) First Emperor 20/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 16 runs last year. 12/1, respectable sixth of 13 in handicap at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago, needing stiffer test. Not dismissed. Losing run is mounting up but he's edging down the weights and could get involved.
10th
10th (11) (40/1 -300%) Captain Kane
40/1(-300%)
(11) Captain Kane 40/1, C&D winner. Eight wins from 29 Flat runs. 18/1, sixth of 7 in handicap at Kempton (16f) 16 days ago. Has fallen to a workable mark. Won over C&D last summer but he's been well held in his three runs this year; opposable.
11th
11th (8) (13/2 +46%) Sarsons Risk
13/2(+46%)
(8) Sarsons Risk 13/2, Latest win at Southwell in December. 3/1, respectable fifth of 9 in handicap at Southwell (11.1f) 66 days ago, unsuited by drop in trip. Significantly back up in trip. Has to be taken seriously with stable in good order. Won over 2m in December and had an excuse at 1m3f last time; dangerous back up in trip.
12th
12th (14) (33/1 -267%) Pons Aelius
33/1(-267%)
(14) Pons Aelius 33/1, 9/2, seventh of 9 in handicap at Southwell (14.1f) 9 days ago. Visor on 1st time. Needs the headgear to perk him up. 0-8 since his Goodwood win last June and needs to raise his game with visor added.
15:15 Lingfield Handicap (Class 3) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
AQWAAM boasts a consistent level of form over the winter months and arrives here following yet another solid display when runner-up to Max Vega at Wolverhampton over 1m4f. The step back up in trip promises to suit and he shades the vote in what appears to be a competitive event on paper. Yokkell is likely to be popular having improved since joining John McConnell. That said, she has her stamina to prove on her first attempt over 2m and the main threat may prove to be Bascule, who wasn't disgraced when fourth at Kempton last time.
BASCULE was back from a break and found the steady pace acting against him at Kempton last time so, with his stable in excellent form, he gets the nod over Riyami, who has looked progressive in Ireland. Aqwaam is a consistent sort who should also be involved.
Top of the list is AQWAAM, who has held his form well since his two wins (1m6f/2m) in November. Sarsons Risk is feared most
(16) Merrijig 14/1, 5/2, career best when winning 10-runner handicap at Redcar (14f, good), responding well. Off 6 months but she's a free-going type who may not take much getting fit. Won over this trip at Redcar when last seen; market useful on return/AW debut.
2
2nd (9) (40/1 -150%) Clansman
40/1(-150%)
(9) Clansman 40/1, Latest win at Ayr in October and ran too badly to be true when last of 9 in handicap at Newmarket (16f, soft). Off 147 days. Makes polytrack debut. Four turf wins at up to 1m7f; goes well fresh, but well held in three starts on the AW.
3
3rd (3) (80/1 -567%) Star Legend
80/1(-567%)
(3) Star Legend 80/1, A winner over jumps since last seen on the Flat. Contests his first handicap in this sphere. Fair form over hurdles last year; remains to be seen if he can show that back on the Flat.
4
4th (10) (40/1 -100%) Anisoptera
40/1(-100%)
(10) Anisoptera 40/1, Fifth of 6 in handicap (18/1) at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 47 days ago, lost all chance at start. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Stays 2m well but 5lb above her last winning mark and the outside stall could be a problem.
5th
5th (1) (16/1 +0%) Greatness Awaits
16/1(+0%)
(1) Greatness Awaits 16/1, Modest maiden hurdler but did produce a career best when winning on last Flat run. 0-8 over hurdles since debuting for this yard in February last year; little appeal.
6th
6th (4) (7/1 -27%) Turner Girl
7/1(-27%)
(4) Turner Girl 7/1, Respectable third of 9 in handicap at Kempton (12f, 4/1) 65 days ago, just unable to fend off an unexposed pair. Consistent since winning at Newcastle last August; has won over this far on turf.
7th
7th (7) (22/1 -10%) Coolnaugh Haze
22/1(-10%)
(7) Coolnaugh Haze 22/1, Fair winning hurdler who finished only fifth of 6 in handicap at Southwell (11.1f) 13 days ago. Up in trip and cheekpieces back on. Three wins over hurdles, but well held in his last two starts on the AW; plenty to prove.
8th
8th (11) (20/1 -233%) V Power
20/1(-233%)
(11) V Power 20/1, Lightly-raced maiden who showed improved form on first run since leaving Joseph Patrick O'Brien when very good second of 7 in handicap at Kempton (12f) 44 days ago. In the picture. Looked unlucky not to make a winning stable/handicap debut at Kempton last month.
9th
9th (8) (9/1 -29%) Fox Flame
9/1(-29%)
(8) Fox Flame 9/1, Resumed winning ways at Southwell earlier in the month and shaped better than the bare result when fifth of 12 back there (11.1f) 9 days ago, finishing well. Back up in trip. Merits consideration. Won at Southwell this month and had excuses last time; the trip seems to be within range.
10th
10th (5) (7/2 +13%) Noble Crusade
7/2(+13%)
(5) Noble Crusade 7/2, Arrives on a hat-trick having won his last 2 races at Dundalk (both at 12f). Shortlisted. Up another 10lb in hat-trick bid, but is thriving just now; 2-2 under Keithen Kennedy.
11th
11th (12) (4/1 +43%) Churchella
4/1(+43%)
(12) Churchella 4/1, C&D winner who got straight back on the up when winning 7-runner handicap at Southwell (16.5f) 17 days ago, despite being very slowly away. Potentially more to come and has to be of interest again. 3-6 since returned to the AW including a win over C&D; 5lb higher but still a major player.
12th
12th (2) (14/1 -40%) At Liberty
14/1(-40%)
(2) At Liberty 14/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in March. Not at his best back on turf when sixth of 12 in handicap at Doncaster (10.2f, heavy, 6/1) 6 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Soft ground wouldn't have suited last time, but still has something to prove over this far.
13th
13th (13) (6/1 +82%) Unification
6/1(+82%)
(13) Unification 6/1, Lightly-raced maiden on Flat. 9/4, first run since leaving J. S. Bolger when seventh of 8 in juvenile hurdle at Fontwell (17.7f, good) on NH debut. Off 7 months. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Out of the frame in five starts; plenty to prove after seven months off; cheekpieces on.
14th
14th (6) (25/1 +24%) Victory March
25/1(+24%)
(6) Victory March 25/1, 22/1, virtually refused to race on first run since leaving Seb Spencer when last of 7 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 32 days ago, not looking keen. Visor on for 1st time. Has won over 1m6f, but has shown little in two starts since this time last year; visor on.
15th
15th (15) (22/1 -57%) A Poet's Secret
22/1(-57%)
(15) A Poet's Secret 22/1, Winner at Lingfield in November but failed to repeat that effort at this course (16f, 10/1) when last seen. Off 129 days. May be flattered by his all-the-way success at Lingfield in November.
16th
16th (14) (25/1 +0%) Run Simba
25/1(+0%)
(14) Run Simba 25/1, 40/1, offered little on first run since leaving K. R. Burke when last of 7 in minor event at Newcastle (8f) 85 days ago. Significantly up in trip. First run for yard after leaving Paul Midgley. 0-7; makes her debut for another new yard; lots to prove, not least stamina.
15:25 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 14f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Irish raider NOBLE CRUSADE arrives on the back of two stylish 1m4f victories at Dundalk and, with this longer trip unlikely to pose any problems, he might be able to complete the hat-trick. Churchella won her only previous visit to Chelmsford and produced a career-best performance when successful over an extended 2m at Southwell last time. She looks an obvious danger, while V Power, Fox Flame and Turner Girl are others to note.
There ought to be more to come from CHURCHELLA, who did well to win at Southwell last time having put herself on the back foot at the start (very slowly away), so she receives the vote in a competitive handicap. Bottom-weight Merrijig is a keen-going type who might not take loads of getting fit, while Fox Flame and hat-trick seeker Noble Crusade are two others with solid claims.
The vote goes to CHURCHELLA (nap), the only C&D winner in the field who beat the thriving The Craftymaster at Southwell last time.
(8) Fivethousandtoone 8/1, C&D winner. 9/4, gained reward for his consistency when winning 6-runner handicap at Kempton (6f) 44 days ago, by ¾ length from Batal Dubai. Overall strike rate tempers enthusiasm in follow-up bid but he ought to give another good account. Two good efforts since headgear was switched to a visor; capable of another big run.
2
2nd (10) (16/1 -14%) Misty Grey
16/1(-14%)
(10) Misty Grey 16/1, Sixteen runs since last win in 2022 but come down in weights as a result and cemented good start for new yard when second of 6 in listed race at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 13/2) 20 days ago, running on. Not dismissed lightly. Two promising runs for his new yard; should cope with the return to 6f; one to consider.
3
3rd (5) (33/1 -136%) Chipstead
33/1(-136%)
(5) Chipstead 33/1, 12/1, won 12-runner handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 28 days ago by ½ length from Summerghand, leading 1f out and driven out. Clearly in top form but more on his plate here up 3 lb. Two AW wins this winter, latterly beating a few of these at Lingfield; this looks tougher.
4
4th (14) (12/1 +0%) Billyjoh
12/1(+0%)
(14) Billyjoh 12/1, Yet another good advert for his yard, value for extra when winning handicaps at Southwell/Chelmsford prior to a good second of 12 to Albasheer in handicap (8/1) at this course (5f) 14 days ago. Definite each-way claims returned to 6f. Progressing well and the return to 6f looks sure to suit; has his best days ahead of him.
5th
5th (13) (50/1 -100%) Bergerac
50/1(-100%)
(13) Bergerac 50/1, Capitalised on much-reduced mark over 5f here in November and followed up from 5 lb higher mark at Southwell (5f) a month later. Not disgraced in 3 outings since the turn of the year but others come here with more pressing claims. Two 5f wins to end 2023 but this year's efforts leave him with something to find.
6th
6th (7) (18/1 -13%) Aberama Gold
18/1(-13%)
(7) Aberama Gold 18/1, Smart gelding who tasted success 5 times last year, notably Sky Bet Dash/Stewards' Cup. Should come on for last month's reappearance run in listed company at Southwell (5f) 5 weeks ago and better anticipated with usual visor back on. Back to a good mark and looks set to go well in what should be a truly-run event.
7th
7th (1) (6/1 +8%) Albasheer
6/1(+8%)
(1) Albasheer 6/1, Dead-heated with Summerghand in valuable handicap at York in August and better than ever in recent months, winning back-to-back handicaps here. Lines up here operating from career-high mark but foolish to rule him out in bid for the hat-trick. Impressive in good handicaps here the last twice; lofty mark to defy but folly to ignore.
8th
8th (9) (25/1 -79%) Summerghand
25/1(-79%)
(9) Summerghand 25/1, Veteran who added to his already impressive C.V when dead-heating with Albasheer at handicap at York (6f) last summer. Efforts mixed in recent starts but best effort for a while from reduced mark when ½-length second of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 4 weeks ago. In the mix. Dead-heated with Albasheer at York last summer & reopposes on 21lb better terms; e-w shout.
9th
9th (3) (25/1 -257%) Juan Les Pins
25/1(-257%)
(3) Juan Les Pins 25/1, Solid return back from 4 months off when runner-up in listed company at Southwell (5f) in February and easy to overlook his subsequent run at Wolverhampton (unproven at the trip). This much more his bag and he comes here fresh. Penultimate 5f 2nd was a cracking run; this should be run to suit; big chance back at 6f.
10th
10th (2) (18/1 -80%) Coachello
18/1(-80%)
(2) Coachello 18/1, Recorded smart performances when winning handicaps at Lingfield/over C&D late last year. Not at best when fourth in listed Kachy Stakes last month but good chance he'll be back to his best here. Conditions not an issue but defying such a mark in a hot handicap may be beyond him.
11th
11th (4) (11/4 +45%) Cover Up
11/4(+45%)
(4) Cover Up 11/4, Two wins from 6 runs last year. 5/6, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at this course (5f) 36 days ago, drawing clear to score with plenty in hand. Assessor has had his say but represents leading yard and sure to go well in bid to make it 4-4 on AW. 3-3 on AW and has looked high class over 5f here the last twice; stiff 6f a nagging doubt.
12th
12th (15) (9/1 +25%) Solray
9/1(+25%)
(15) Solray 9/1, New Bay colt who gained a second C&D success in good style in December and possible he was inconvenienced by modest early tempo back from 11 weeks off when third of 8 back here in February. This his toughest ask yet but he remains low-mileage. Two C&D wins to his name; still has potential but this looks too hot.
13th
13th (6) (50/1 -127%) The X O
50/1(-127%)
(6) The X O 50/1, Dual AW winner who posted effort for some time when 1½ lengths seventh of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 28 days ago, keeping at it well given his early exertions. Needs to build on that now. Ran well at this meeting last year; latest run better than bare figures; others stronger.
14th
14th (12) (11/2 -10%) Batal Dubai
11/2(-10%)
(12) Batal Dubai 11/2, C&D winner who showed improved form when adding to his tally at Chelmsford (6f) in October. Solid efforts all 3 starts since, ½-length third of 12 to Chipstead in handicap at Lingfield (6f) 28 days ago, having not looked ideally suited by test of speed. Likely has an even bigger effort in him. Progressing well and conditions hold no terrors; this may prove too competitive though.
15:35 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Cover Up is going from strength to strength at the moment, seeking four wins in a row after proving a comfortable three-length victor over 5f here last time, but a further 13lb rise will make life a lot tougher. Therefore, a chance can be taken on JUAN LES PINS, who hit the frame in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot last year and continued to progress to be placed at Listed level three times after that effort. Michael Appleby's seven-year-old raced over an inadequate trip at Wolverhampton latest but that could have served its cause and put him spot on for this. Albasheer had Billyjoh (second) behind over 5f here last time and can confirm that form to fight it out for the minor honours.
COVER UP continued his rapid rise up the ranks and made it 3-3 on all-weather when readily taking a 5f handicap here 5 weeks ago. The handicapper has reacted but he's unlikely reached his limit on that evidence and he looks a sure-fire player again with the return to 6f holding no fears. Summerghand and Batal Dubai who finished 2-3 at Lingfield 4 weeks ago are others to consider, with Albasheer and Juan Les Pins just another couple to note in a fiendishly-competitive contest.
Billyjoh and Juan Les Pins give Mick Appleby a good hand but ABERAMA GOLD (nap) has strong claims on last season's best form.
(4) Bosh 9/2, Latest win at Chelmsford City in January. 7/1, creditable third of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 20 days ago. Not taken lightly. In good form on AW this winter; latest Wolverhampton third looks strong form; contender.
2
2nd (2) (18/1 -100%) Intervention
18/1(-100%)
(2) Intervention 18/1, C&D winner. Four wins from 20 runs last year. 17/2, eighth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 13 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Ended 2023 in top form and generally run well this year too; form dipped last time though.
3
3rd (8) (50/1 -355%) Clearpoint
50/1(-355%)
(8) Clearpoint 50/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. First run since leaving Charlie Fellowes when last of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (5f, 9/1) 36 days ago. Hard to make a case for. Two wins for C Fellowes in late 2023; low-key stable debut after 75,000gns sale last month.
4
4th (6) (10/3 +49%) Daamberdiplomat
10/3(+49%)
(6) Daamberdiplomat 10/3, Latest win at Dundalk in December. Good third of 9 in handicap at Dundalk (6f, 7/2) 35 days ago. Merits consideration. Run well switched to Dundalk AW this winter; eyecatching run latest; looks a key player.
5th
5th (5) (16/1 -78%) Exalted Angel
16/1(-78%)
(5) Exalted Angel 16/1, C&D winner. Twenty six runs since last win in 2021. 11/1, sixth of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (5f) 36 days ago. Others make more appeal. Without a win since Listed C&D success in February 2021; in and out this winter; opposable.
6th
6th (3) (22/1 -57%) Alligator Alley
22/1(-57%)
(3) Alligator Alley 22/1, 6/1, last of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 48 days ago. Needs to bounce back after a break. On a good mark but 6f, even at this track, looks further than ideal for him.
8th
8th (10) (13/2 -18%) How Impressive
13/2(-18%)
(10) How Impressive 13/2, Course winner. Career best when winning 12-runner handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 4/1) 19 days ago, always holding on. Should be involved again. Thriving in recent times but up in the weights & suspicion 7f is his optimum; yard run two.
9th
9th (9) (25/1 -127%) Dream Today
25/1(-127%)
(9) Dream Today 25/1, Three wins from 14 runs last year. Latest win at Dundalk in January. 18/5, creditable fifth of 9 in handicap at Dundalk (6f) 35 days ago. Worthy of interest. Well suited by AW/sand and comes here in good form; perhaps vulnerable at this level now.
10th
10th (12) (22/1 -10%) Sir Oliver
22/1(-10%)
(12) Sir Oliver 22/1, Course winner. Latest win here in November. 25/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 20 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Second in this race last year off 4lb higher; sharper for recent return; not without hope.
11th
11th (11) (40/1 -150%) Rousing Encore
40/1(-150%)
(11) Rousing Encore 40/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in December. Last of 12 in handicap (20/1) at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 20 days ago. Made all in a 6f handicap at Wolverhampton in December; less good twice since.
12th
12th (7) (11/4 +50%) Prince Of Zenda
11/4(+50%)
(7) Prince Of Zenda 11/4, C&D winner. 9/2, career best when winning 6-runner handicap at Newcastle (6f) 62 days ago, comfortably. Can complete the hat-trick. 2-2 since dropped to 6f; up in weights but may not have reached his ceiling as a sprinter.
15:50 Lingfield Handicap (Class 3) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
Prince of Zenda has benefited from a drop back to 6f on his last couple of starts, winning over C&D and Newcastle in January, but the combination of a wide draw in stall nine and this being a stronger race on paper might be enough to look elsewhere. Apache Outlaw arrives seeking a hat-trick of victories and carries a 5lb penalty for his victory at Dundalk last Friday, but fellow Irish raider DAAMBERDIPLOMAT might prove to be the answer. Johnny Murtagh's gelding likes to be produced late and the nature of this track should play to his strengths.
PRINCE OF ZENDA has excelled since dropped to sprinting and, on the back of an another authoritative success at Newcastle, he's fancied to complete the hat-trick at the possible expense of Apache Outlaw, who had a bit to spare when successful at Dundalk last time. How Impressive is another one to consider.
Prince Of Zenda and Bosh are serious contenders but Irish raider DAAMBERDIPLOMAT (nap) appeals as being well handicapped.
(4) May Night 11/2, Irish raider who ran best race for present stable when second of 12 in a Dundalk claimer (1m) last month. 14/1, bit below form sixth of 12 in handicap at Dundalk (7f) 28 days ago, not looking well served by the drop back in trip. Six-time AW winner in Britain who normally faces better rivals in Ireland; interesting.
2
2nd (9) (7/2 +42%) Kitaab
7/2(+42%)
(9) Kitaab 7/2, Winner at Southwell in February. Good second of 9 in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW, 9/4) 7 days ago, doing well to make up the ground he did from off the pace. Remains on a good mark on that evidence but probably not one to be taking a short price about. Ran well over the easy 7f at Lingfield last time, but not sure this will suit him so well.
3
3rd (1) (25/1 +24%) Hougoumont
25/1(+24%)
(1) Hougoumont 25/1, Dual winner at 2 yrs who failed to progress in handicaps last term. 22/1, fifth of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) when last seen in January and subsequent wind operation needs to have had positive effect ahead of this. Market may guide. Unplaced in last eight starts; hard to warm to despite drop in grade and second wind op.
4
4th (5) (22/1 -175%) Five Winds
22/1(-175%)
(5) Five Winds 22/1, Adaay filly who has seemingly been brought along with handicaps in mind, not posing a threat when sixth of 8 in maiden at Southwell (5f, 14/1) 13 days ago, not knocked about. Likely improver now handicapping up in trip and booking of Colin Keane very eye-catching. Worth keeping an eye on back over a more suitable trip on handicap debut.
5th
5th (11) (18/1 +10%) Lunarscape
18/1(+10%)
(11) Lunarscape 18/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2022. Blinkered for 1st time, 3 lengths sixth of 9 to Laura's Breeze in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 7/2) 15 days ago. No surprise to see her in the mix back at this track. Losing run now up to 14 and another furlong would have been preferable.
6th
6th (12) (14/1 -75%) Laura's Breeze
14/1(-75%)
(12) Laura's Breeze 14/1, Successful over 7f for Ed Dunlop in November and stepped up on yard debut effort when winning 9-runner handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 5/1) 15 days ago. Likely to give another good account. Both wins have come on Tapeta, but she twice went close at Kempton in January; shortlisted.
7th
7th (13) (28/1 -40%) Nights Over Egypt
28/1(-40%)
(13) Nights Over Egypt 28/1, 20/1, fourth of 5 in minor event at Newcastle (6f) 48 days ago, effort over 2f out and no further impression. Return to handicaps rates a plus from this much-reduced mark but others make greater appeal. 0-10; down in grade back in a handicap and interesting to see how he fares in the market.
8th
8th (7) (28/1 -180%) Global Spirit
28/1(-180%)
(7) Global Spirit 28/1, 12/1, not disgraced when fifth of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 28 days ago, no extra final 100 yds. Cheekpieces back on and he's fallen back down to last winning mark. Back off last winning mark, but 0-15 on the AW and drawn widest.
9th
9th (14) (66/1 -560%) Global Warning
66/1(-560%)
(14) Global Warning 66/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in December. 9/1, sixth of 8 in handicap at Kempton (7f) 16 days ago. Worth noting if the market speaks in his favour. Still 6lb above his last winning mark and probably only of interest if backed.
10th
10th (2) (9/2 -13%) Bossy Parker
9/2(-13%)
(2) Bossy Parker 9/2, Firmly back on track from reduced mark of late, landing back-to-back Wolverhampton handicaps (7f) in good style. Remains very well treated on his juvenile form and high on the shortlist in hat-trick bid. Bids for a hat-trick after two wins at Wolverhampton; unproven on Polytrack, but respected.
11th
11th (15) (66/1 -100%) Keep Me Stable
66/1(-100%)
(15) Keep Me Stable 66/1, Latest win at Newcastle in November. 12/1, last of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 26 days ago, headed 2f out and folding tamely. Plenty to prove at present. Off the same mark as for the latest of two wins at Newcastle in November, but poor since.
12th
12th (6) (4/1 +50%) Highfield Viking
4/1(+50%)
(6) Highfield Viking 4/1, Off the mark on handicap debut at Doncaster (6f) 11 months ago and signed off last term with pair of solid runners-up efforts, latterly in a first-time visor at Ayr (7.2f) in September. Returns with yard amongst the winners and possibilities from a handy draw. Consistent after making a successful handicap debut last April; watch market on return.
13th
13th (3) (40/1 -264%) How Bizarre
40/1(-264%)
(3) How Bizarre 40/1, Five wins from 20 runs last year. 28/1, probably needed the run when following 7 months off when eighth of 10 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 11 days ago. Entitled to be sharper here but he remains 4 lb above last winning mark. Five turf wins last year, but 1-21 on the AW and well held in both starts on Polytrack.
14th
14th (10) (14/1 -17%) August
14/1(-17%)
(10) August 14/1, Eighth of 12 in handicap (22/1) at Southwell (7.1f) 17 days ago, brief headway over 1f out and no extra final 1f. Eyeshields on for 1st time and the assessor is relinquishing his grip. 0-10 and seems to have lost his way this year; drawn high; eyeshield on.
15th
15th (8) (14/1 -17%) Dion Baker
14/1(-17%)
(8) Dion Baker 14/1, One win from 30 Flat runs. 9/1, creditable third of 8 in handicap at this course (8f) 29 days ago, headed last ½f and keeping on. Each-way possibilities. Has been running well lately, but is 1-30 and drawn high; others more likely.
16:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Highfield Viking ran consistently well throughout last season and must enter calculations on his return to action, while recent Southwell scorer Laura's Breeze also merits consideration. Five Winds, Dion Baker and Kitaab add further spice to the race, but hat-trick seeking BOSSY PARKER rates the one to beat. Refitted with blinkers (worn again today), he has impressively notched a double over this trip at Wolverhampton of late and a further 5lb rise looks more than fair.
HIGHFIELD VIKING ended last season in good form and looked unlucky not to make his final start at Ayr a winning one in September. A winner on his respective return last spring, he earns the vote to repeat the feat this time around. Bossy Parker has thrived of late and is feared along with Kitaab. May Night and Hougoumont are others to note.
The choice is MAY NIGHT, a six-time AW winner in Britain who has been taking on higher-rated rivals than these in Ireland so far.
(1) Elegant Man 11/4, Low-mileage 4-y-o who is bred to be smart and took another step forward to make it 2 wins from 3 starts in 7-runner minor event (4/7) at Dundalk (10.7f) 63 days ago, impressive despite still looking green. Highly likely there's more to come and respected on handicap debut. Improving colt who has quickly reached a very useful level of form; respected.
2
2nd (11) (11/2 -38%) Penzance
11/2(-38%)
(11) Penzance 11/2, 4-y-o who has progressed at a rate of knots on AW, supplementing his C&D success on New Year's Day with an authoritative victory at Lingfield (10f) 4 weeks ago. 6 lb rise looks fair on that evidence and he looks a big player in bid to land the 5-timer. Record of 4-5 for shrewd new connections; likely hasn't stopped improving yet.
3
3rd (2) (15/2 +32%) Hooking
15/2(+32%)
(2) Hooking 15/2, Smart French performer who has enhanced his excellent strike rate at Cagnes-Sur-Mer in recent months, registering back-to-back victories at listed level. Return to this longer trip will hold no fears with cheekpieces again fitted. 2-2 this year; French runners have a good record on finals day; not dismissed.
4
4th (12) (40/1 -82%) Star Harbour
40/1(-82%)
(12) Star Harbour 40/1, Latest win at Bellewstown in September and best since the turn of the year when second of 9 in handicap at Dundalk (12f, 11/1) 21 days ago. May find some less exposed rivals too good back down in trip, however. Has an underwhelming strike-rate compared to many of these rivals.
5th
5th (8) (16/1 -14%) Sir Busker
16/1(-14%)
(8) Sir Busker 16/1, Smart performer who is winless since landing Group 2 York Stakes in 2022. Running respectably on AW in recent months though, sixth of 11 in Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 20 days ago, running on. Should give another good account. Poor strike-rate since 2020; likely set for another supporting role.
6th
6th (9) (50/1 -150%) Diderot
50/1(-150%)
(9) Diderot 50/1, Latest win at Chelmsford City in December. 12/1, creditable 2¾ lengths fifth of 12 to Penzance in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 28 days ago, no extra final 100 yds. A little more needed from this career-high mark on that evidence. Scored on Good Friday last year but now has a career-high mark to overcome.
7th
7th (4) (33/1 -267%) Claymore
33/1(-267%)
(4) Claymore 33/1, Useful horse who ran respectably when fourth of 6 to Military Order in Winter Derby at Southwell (11.1f, 25/1) 34 days ago, albeit better placed than most. Others make more appeal making handicap debut. Ran respectably in the Winter Derby but isn't certain to back up that effort.
8th
8th (14) (40/1 -150%) Onesmoothoperator
40/1(-150%)
(14) Onesmoothoperator 40/1, Found the switch to this venue firmly in his favour when landing November Handicap and bee in good order of late, conceding first run but keeping on well for second at Southwell (12f) 3 weeks ago. Return to this shorter trip may not be ideal in what is an ultra-competitive affair, though. Landed the November Handicap in 2023 but has a modest strike-rate.
9th
9th (10) (9/1 +44%) Storm Catcher
9/1(+44%)
(10) Storm Catcher 9/1, Likeable sort who was edged out on the post by Penzance over C&D on his penultimate start and deservedly back to winning ways when landing 6-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 55 days ago. Looks sure to give another good account nudged up 2 lb. Back in a deeper field but he's steadily progressive and ties in with Penzance.
10th
10th (13) (11/1 -214%) Oh So Grand
11/1(-214%)
(13) Oh So Grand 11/1, Upwardly mobile filly who resumed winning ways over C&D in October and won both subsequent starts, including Winter Oaks handicap in January, showing a most impressive turn of foot. Unlikely she's reached her limit on that evidence and high on shortlist. Progressive filly who quickened nicely to win the Winter Oaks; now 4-5 on AW.
11th
11th (3) (33/1 +18%) Base Note
33/1(+18%)
(3) Base Note 33/1, Latest win at Chelmsford (10f) in November. 8/1, creditable 3¼ lengths seventh of 12 to Penzance in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 28 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Still, may find a few too good again here. Second in this last year when it was still a conditions race and only six ran.
12th
12th (6) (17/2 +6%) Blanchland
17/2(+6%)
(6) Blanchland 17/2, Smart colt who is 2-2 here, latterly when landing 12.5f handicap in October. Respectable efforts since, 1-length third of 8 to Tyrrhenian Sea in listed race at Lingfield (10f, AW) 89 days ago, very much having run of race. Not discounted for all the trip may be on the short side for him now. Useful colt whose 2-2 record at Newcastle includes sole handicap attempt.
13th
13th (7) (100/1 -355%) Freescape
100/1(-355%)
(7) Freescape 100/1, Latest win at Dundalk (10.7f) in December. 9/2, respectable second of 6 in minor event back at that venue (1m) 21 days ago. Back up in trip now and he may find a few too good from this mark. Irish 9yo who has failed to cut the mustard in previous Good Friday runs.
14th
14th (5) (7/2 +61%) Teumessias Fox
7/2(+61%)
(5) Teumessias Fox 7/2, C&D winner. Career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Kempton (12f, 4/1) 62 days ago, quicken clear impressively. Remains pretty low-mileage on artificial surfaces and manner of latest success suggests he could do better again on AW. Has to overcome a drop back in distance and career-high mark.
16:10 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The handicapper is taking no chances with Elegant Man but the four-year-old, who found only subsequent Doha Group 3 winner Rebel's Romance too good in Kempton's Wild Flower Stakes, is going the right way and can figure strongly, despite the burden of top-weight. However, there are dangers aplenty here, not least C&D winner OH SO GRAND, who has breezed through her last three races and may have enough in hand to defy an 8lb rise for her most recent success. Penzance is also on a roll and makes the shortlist, as does French raider Hooking, who is another intriguing option after two Listed wins in his homeland.
A smashing contest with a host of improving/in-form sorts in opposition with the percentage call in favour of PENZANCE. The 4-y-o has progressed at a rate of knots since joining Mick Appleby and there's highly likely even more to come judged on his authoritative success at Lingfield 4 weeks ago. Dangers aplenty are headed up by another impressive sort in the shape of Oh So Grand, To Catch A Thief and Elegant Man. Storm Catcher is also respected of the older brigade.
Slight preference is for PENZANCE, ahead of Elegant Man and Oh So Grand in a red-hot AW handicap.
(9) Raknah 6/1, 10/3, career best when winning 13-runner maiden at Dundalk (8f), just holding on. Off 112 days. Worth monitoring in the betting returning from a break. Won a Dundalk maiden last time but she needs more progress back in a 7f handicap.
2
2nd (4) (22/1 -193%) Quandary
22/1(-193%)
(4) Quandary 22/1, Creditable short-head second of 7 to Cinque Verde in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 11/4) 19 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Could turn the tables with that rival. Had a near miss at Newcastle last time and she's respected back up in trip; headgear added.
3
3rd (2) (8/1 -14%) Epsom Faithfull
8/1(-14%)
(2) Epsom Faithfull 8/1, C&D winner. Ten wins from 36 Flat runs. Latest win here in February. Seventh of 9 in handicap (10/3) at this course (8f, AW) 39 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Type to bounce back quickly. Record of 7-19 on AW but she didn't shine in her hat-trick bid here last time.
4
4th (3) (12/1 -50%) Cinque Verde
12/1(-50%)
(3) Cinque Verde 12/1, Career best when winning 7-runner handicap (13/2) at Southwell (6.1f) 19 days ago by short head from Quandary, all out. This looks much tougher. Improver who has won her last three starts and is respected at this new trip.
5th
5th (5) (6/1 +40%) Incrimination
6/1(+40%)
(5) Incrimination 6/1, Course winner. One win from 3 runs last year. 6/1, creditable third of 6 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 18 days ago. Worthy of consideration. Sold efforts at 7f last twice and she's in the mix on this drop back into a Class 4 event.
6th
6th (6) (11/1 +21%) Algheed
11/1(+21%)
(6) Algheed 11/1, C&D winner. Fifteen runs since last win in 2023. Fourth of 6 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 5/2) 18 days ago. Has a tough draw to contend with. Generally reliable 6yo but she's doesn't have a great strike-rate and was well held latest.
7th
7th (10) (28/1 -180%) Intoxicata
28/1(-180%)
(10) Intoxicata 28/1, 3-time C&D winner. Three wins from 16 runs last year. Career best when winning 9-runner handicap (7/2) at this C&D (AW) 7 days ago. Carries penalty. Worthy of respect. Made it 3-4 over C&D with her game win last Friday; not ruled out under a penalty.
8th
8th (8) (25/1 -25%) Granary Queen
25/1(-25%)
(8) Granary Queen 25/1, Course winner. Latest win at Kempton in December. Fourth of 7 in handicap (4/1) at this C&D (AW), running on. Off 97 days. Needs to getn back on track. Ended a lengthy losing at Kempton (6f) but she wasn't in the same form over C&D last time.
9th
9th (1) (22/1 -83%) Premiere Beauty
22/1(-83%)
(1) Premiere Beauty 22/1, Latest win at Kempton in January. 13/2, seventh of 9 in handicap at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago. Merits respect. Won at Kempton (6f) in January but she's taken two backward steps since; down the list.
10th
10th (11) (4/1 +11%) Twirler
4/1(+11%)
(11) Twirler 4/1, Promising sort. Career best when winning 6-runner handicap (15/8) at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 25 days ago by length from Algheed, kept up to work. Has good chance on form. Has made all in her last two starts and she's open to more progress; big player again.
11th
11th (13) (7/2 +65%) Blue Virtue
7/2(+65%)
(13) Blue Virtue 7/2, Lightly-raced maiden. Creditable second of 7 in handicap (3/1) at Newcastle (6f) 22 days ago. Can't be ruled out. Runner-up on her handicap debut at Newcastle and she looks interesting back up in trip.
12th
12th (7) (22/1 -144%) Little Keilee
22/1(-144%)
(7) Little Keilee 22/1, Latest win at Dundalk in December. 9/1, creditable sixth of 12 in handicap at Dundalk (8f) 21 days ago, not clear run. Not dismissed. Consistent on AW since November but some others are probably lurking on better marks.
13th
13th (12) (150/1 -200%) Colour Code
150/1(-200%)
(12) Colour Code 150/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 28/1 and hooded for 1st time, last of 7 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) 22 days ago. Others are more persuasive. Still unexposed but well held in both runs for new yard and has something to prove.
16:25 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Representing the Charlie Fellowes yard, TWIRLER had little difficulty in completing a double on her handicap bow at Wolverhampton earlier this month. A 3lb rise in the ratings looks on the lenient side and a hat-trick could be on the cards. Cinque Verde posted a career best when landing a three-timer at Southwell last month. However, the Sioux Nation filly isn't certain to stay this extra furlong and a bigger threat may emerge from fellow in-form rival Quandary.
TWIRLER and Sighter both improved to make winning handicap debuts last time and, with more to come, they're the pair to take against the field, with the first-named making marginally more appeal. Quandry looks the pick of the remainder.
Plenty have possibilities but hat-trick seeker TWIRLER gets the vote ahead of Cinque Verde, Sighter and Blue Virtue.
(1) Two Tempting 17/2, Doubled his tally at Kempton last summer and ran respectably on his final outing of the year, third of 12 in handicap at Ascot (7f, good, 14/1) in October. More required from his current mark returning from 6 months off. Kempton regular with both wins coming there; off since October but has gone well fresh.
2
2nd (13) (10/1 +29%) Longlai
10/1(+29%)
(13) Longlai 10/1, Won at Kempton on his seasonal/stable debut last April. However, pulled up in handicap at Newmarket (8f, good,11/2) next time and has been off the track for 10 months since. Not seen since last May, but record after 200 days off or more reads 141; interesting.
3
3rd (11) (17/2 -89%) Billy Mill
17/2(-89%)
(11) Billy Mill 17/2, Has been going the right way with each start this year, overcoming trouble when making it back-to-back wins in 13-runner handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 16/1) 26 days ago. Respected. Bids for a hat-trick; all bar one of his wins have come over 7f; could be vulnerable.
4
4th (3) (20/1 -43%) Riot
20/1(-43%)
(3) Riot 20/1, Won 3 times at this course (all at 7f) last year. Shaped as if still in form upped in grade when 3 lengths eighth of 13 to Billy Mill in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 16/1) 26 days ago. Can give his running again. Back off last winning mark, but all five wins (including three here) have come over 7f.
5th
5th (10) (7/2 +36%) Deceiver
7/2(+36%)
(10) Deceiver 7/2, Off the mark at Kempton last March and ran well on all-weather final 2 starts in 2023, second of 11 in handicap (6/1) at Wolverhampton (8.6f) in October. Enters calculations with more still to offer at this trip. Looks better on the AW than on turf so far; off five months, but has a good record fresh.
6th
6th (9) (12/1 +25%) Wildfell
12/1(+25%)
(9) Wildfell 12/1, Won his first 4 starts in 2023. Made the frame twice this year, before racing too freely when ninth of 18 in handicap at Doncaster (8f, heavy, 22/1) 6 days ago. Could fare better back on all-weather. Much higher in the weights than when completing a four-timer last year, but could go well.
7th
7th (8) (17/2 +6%) Eligible
17/2(+6%)
(8) Eligible 17/2, Gained a fourth career victory at Southwell when successful there in January. Not discredited under more positive ride when fourth of 8 in handicap (11/2) at Kempton (8f) a month ago. Can give another good account. All four AW successes have come on the Southwell Tapeta so he may come up short again.
8th
8th (16) (9/2 +63%) Ribal
9/2(+63%)
(16) Ribal 9/2, Put experience to good use when making all in 6-runner maiden (runner-up won next time) at this course (7f, 3/1) 36 days ago. This is tougher back in handicap company, but he's not discounted now that he's up and running. Narrowly off the mark last time and each-way claims returned to 1m back in a handicap.
9th
9th (12) (8/1 +68%) Zozimus
8/1(+68%)
(12) Zozimus 8/1, One win from 30 Flat runs. Again not seen to best effect when 3¾ lengths tenth of 13 to Billy Mill in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 12/1) 26 days ago, hampered over 1f out. Visor back on but others still make more appeal. Well treated on best form, but is 1-30 and was behind two of these at Newcastle last time.
10th
10th (6) (50/1 -400%) Duc De Morny
50/1(-400%)
(6) Duc De Morny 50/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2022, but made more impact than previously for current yard when fourth of 9 in handicap at Kempton (8f, 25/1) 16 days ago. Task is now to back up his latest effort. Best effort since arriving from France when fourth at Kempton this month; each-way claims.
11th
11th (14) (150/1 -355%) Blow Your Horn
150/1(-355%)
(14) Blow Your Horn 150/1, Completed a hat-trick last summer but has found things tougher since, running poorly when eleventh of 12 in handicap at Kempton (16f, 50/1) 83 days ago. Significantly down in trip. Hasn't raced over a trip this short in over four years so not hard to have reservations.
12th
12th (5) (22/1 -120%) Al Marmar
22/1(-120%)
(5) Al Marmar 22/1, Scored in good style at this C&D in January. However, produced a lesser effort when eighth of 11 in handicap at Kempton (8f, 17/2) 40 days ago. Bounce back called for returned to this venue. Still 6lb higher than when winning easily over C&D in January; drawn wide.
13th
13th (15) (40/1 -150%) Zu Run
40/1(-150%)
(15) Zu Run 40/1, Course winner. Making his first start since leaving Adrian Nicholls, again below form when ninth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 20/1) 13 days ago. Cheekpieces reapplied but others more persuasive back up in trip. Well held on his stable debut at Wolverhampton 13 days ago; opposed from his high draw.
14th
14th (7) (12/1 -200%) Mulgrave
12/1(-200%)
(7) Mulgrave 12/1, Successful 3 times at Dundalk (all at 8f) last year. Confirmed promise of previous run when also winning 14-runner handicap (6/1) at the same C&D 56 days ago. Remains on a workable mark and he could be able to follow up. Four wins at Dundalk since early last year; still fairly handicapped despite 7lb rise.
16:35 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 4) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Not beaten far over further at Wolverhampton last October, the relatively unexposed DECEIVER should be well suited by dropping back in trip and this looks like an ideal opportunity to regain the winning thread. The four-year-old gets the vote ahead of the hat-trick seeking Billy Mill and Irish raider Mulgrave, who arrives on the back of a taking success at Dundalk. Eligible, Riot and Two Tempting complete the shortlist.
MULGRAVE has been heading back in the right direction on his last 2 starts, returning to winning ways at Dundalk on his latest outing despite meeting trouble early in the straight, so he is taken to score again in his current form. Heading the list of dangers is the hat-trick seeking Billy Mill, while Deceiver and Eligible are also considered.
A chance is taken with LONGLAI who hasn't been seen since last May, but his record after an absence of 200 days or more reads 141.
(7) Talis Evolvere 33/1, 4-y-o who continued run of good form when scoring at Kempton (1m) in January prior to finishing good second behind Fantastic Fox at Lingfield later that month. Excuses when well beaten upped to 10f 4 weeks ago but revised mark demands more in any case back down to 1m. Form dipped sharply last time and is therefore hard to support with confidence.
2
2nd (3) (13/2 +28%) Kingdom Come
13/2(+28%)
(3) Kingdom Come 13/2, Low-mileage 5-y-o who confirmed promise of his run behind Dear My Friend when running out a good winner of the Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 3 weeks ago, leading last ½f and keeping on to repel Final Voyage. Respected for all he does need to brush up his starting. Narrowly beat Final Voyage at Wolverhampton last time, taking AW record to 4-6.
3
3rd (6) (9/2 +50%) Fantastic Fox
9/2(+50%)
(6) Fantastic Fox 9/2, C&D winner. Won 12-runner handicap at Lingfield (8f, AW, 6/1) 69 days ago by ½ length from Talis Evolvere. Should give another good account. Ties in with several of these rivals; won at Lingfield last time; not ruled out.
4
4th (2) (11/2 +15%) Fast Raaj
11/2(+15%)
(2) Fast Raaj 11/2, Smart French performer who was a good second at listed level in February and built on that when landing 6-runner minor event at Chantilly (8f) 21 days ago. Interesting he takes his chance here boasting a very good record on synthetics. Very useful performer; 7-12 on AW; French yard had a winner on this card in 2022.
5th
5th (14) (20/1 -167%) Mclean House
20/1(-167%)
(14) Mclean House 20/1, Dream Ahead gelding who has built up a most impressive strike rate, bagging a fifth success at Lingfield (1m) last month. Lost little caste in defeat from 5 lb higher mark behind Dear My Friend back there 4 weeks ago but any further progress is less obvious on the back of that. Strike-rate is 5-9; ran creditably behind Dear My Friend in the Mile Trial.
6th
6th (5) (6/1 +8%) Symbol Of Light
6/1(+8%)
(5) Symbol Of Light 6/1, :Lightly raced for his age and ran a cracker when second off level weights to Dear My Friend over C&D on New Year's Day. Good second despite steady gallop not helping at Kempton has followed and he's firmly on the shortlist here. Firmly knocking at the door; shade unlucky at Kempton most recently; big player.
7th
7th (9) (22/1 -159%) King's Code
22/1(-159%)
(9) King's Code 22/1, Real success story for his yard, finding further progress when enhancing his excellent strike rate when winning 11-runner handicap at Kempton (1m) last month. Solid fourth in Lincoln Trial has followed and he looks sure to give another good account of himself. Ties in with several of these opponents on 2024 form; frame possibilities.
8th
8th (12) (22/1 +21%) Tropez Power
22/1(+21%)
(12) Tropez Power 22/1, Three of his 4 career victories have come on AW and he again ran well when fourth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (1m) 24 days ago, typically travelling fluently. Cheekpieces on 1st time but suspicion he will find a couple too strong here. Steadily finding his form this year but faces a stiffer task in this field.
9th
9th (8) (20/1 -122%) Final Voyage
20/1(-122%)
(8) Final Voyage 20/1, Irish raider who built on more positive signs to beat a next-time-out winner at Dundalk (1m) in February and ran another solid race when chasing home Kingdom Come in Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 3 weeks ago. Respected up 1 lb. Beaten only narrowly by Kingdom Come on latest run, producing a career-best RPR.
10th
10th (4) (33/1 -106%) Tempus
33/1(-106%)
(4) Tempus 33/1, C&D winner. Seven wins from 24 Flat runs. 45/10, 3½ lengths fifth of 7 to Hooking in listed race at Cagnes-Sur-Mer (8f) 47 days ago, weakening final 1f. Previous C&D fourth behind Dear My Friend was a creditable effort and the handicapper has relinquished his grip ahead of this. The oldest contestant and losing spell goes back to summer 2022.
11th
11th (13) (66/1 -136%) Master Zoffany
66/1(-136%)
(13) Master Zoffany 66/1, Course winner. Latest win over 7f here in December. However, operating below best in recent starts only seventh of 8 in handicap (16/1) at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 41 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Ended his 2023 campaign with a Newcastle win; not in same form this year.
12th
12th (11) (18/1 -50%) Greatgadian
18/1(-50%)
(11) Greatgadian 18/1, C&D winner. Creditable second of 6 in handicap at this C&D (11/8) 16 days ago, picked off close home having had a protracted duel with eventual third. Cheekpieces back on and sound each-way claims. Close second twice here this month, taking Newcastle form figures to 1222.
13th
13th (1) (3/1 -9%) Dear My Friend
3/1(-9%)
(1) Dear My Friend 3/1, Unbeaten on AW (2-2 here) and improved again following wind op/gelded, successful over C&D on New Year's Day and impressive in landing back-to-back contests at Lingfield (1m) since. Big player despite career-high mark to contend with. Produced a smart handicap performance in the Mile Trial, taking AW record to 4-4.
14th
14th (10) (33/1 -32%) Zealot
33/1(-32%)
(10) Zealot 33/1, The all-weather success story of last winter, adding to his most impressive strike rate at Chelmsford (10f) 12 months ago. Operating below best in 3 starts since returning from an absence but assessor has given him a chance and return to this track will play to his strengths. Did extremely well in winter 2022-23; form has dipped sharply this year.
16:40 Newcastle Handicap (Class 2) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Unbeaten since being gelded, DEAR MY FRIEND has already brushed aside a few of these in recent encounters and, whilst he has a further 6lb rise to cope with after a ready success at Lingfield earlier this month, the Charlie Johnston-trained four-year-old still has a lot going for him. Symbol Of Light, Kingdom Come and McLean House all have something to find with the selection judged on past form, therefore Fast Raaj, a Group 3 winner in France last summer, is suggested as a bigger threat.
DEAR MY FRIEND has done nothing but impress on all-weather since the turn of the year, producing a very smart display when maintaining his unbeaten record on synthetics at Lingfield 4 weeks ago, and he looks sure to make another bold bid on that evidence. Symbol of Light, runner-up both starts since the turn of the year, rates a big threat, with Final Voyage and Kingdom Come others to consider. French-raider Fast Raaj also needs factoring into things.
On better terms, SYMBOL OF LIGHT could well reverse January C&D placings with Dear My Friend who is respected all the same.
(4) Pandora's Gift 6/5, Promising type. Won 12-runner minor event at Southwell (6.1f, 9/4) 78 days ago, always holding on. Already two from three and appears to have been handed a feasible opening mark, so makes plenty of appeal. Unexposed 3yo who is 2-3 and is open to more progress on her handicap debut; interesting.
2
2nd (9) (9/1 +10%) Mart
9/1(+10%)
(9) Mart 9/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 10 runs last year. Latest win at Wolverhampton in December. 7/2, last of 5 in handicap at Southwell (5f) 83 days ago. Back up in trip. Not fully dismissed. His progressive spell came to an end at Southwell and has bit to prove again after that.
3
3rd (8) (5/1 +58%) Aidan Andabettin
5/1(+58%)
(8) Aidan Andabettin 5/1, Thrice-raced winner. Winner at Kempton in January. 2/1, fifth of 6 in handicap at Kempton (6f) 55 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Something to find on form. Only fifth of six at Kempton latest but he's still unexposed; hard to rule out.
4
4th (5) (22/1 -450%) Reprised
22/1(-450%)
(5) Reprised 22/1, 4/1, career best when winning 10-runner handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 66 days ago, well on top finish. First run for yard after leaving K. R. Burke. Can't be ruled out. Won at Southwell in January before changing hands for 27,000gns; in the mix for new yard.
5th
5th (11) (66/1 -500%) Milliethemollie
66/1(-500%)
(11) Milliethemollie 66/1, 12/1, won 10-runner nursery at Dundalk (6f), always holding on. Off 107 days. First run for yard after leaving Miss Jennifer Anne Lynch. Worth monitoring in the betting. Won at Dundalk in December but this is tougher and she needs more progress on stable debut.
6th
6th (6) (12/1 +52%) Macanudo
12/1(+52%)
(6) Macanudo 12/1, Winner at Chelmsford City in February. First run since leaving Olly Murphy when seventh of 8 in handicap (12/1) at Kempton (6f) 23 days ago. Not easy to make a case for. Has had three different trainers and was well held at Kempton last time; down the list.
7th
7th (12) (12/1 -71%) Hearitfortheboys
12/1(-71%)
(12) Hearitfortheboys 12/1, Winner at Kempton in November. 13/2, good second of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 10 days ago, well positioned. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Should remain competitive. Front-running second at Kempton last time and he's a key player back in trip.
8th
8th (10) (18/1 -64%) Khamsin
18/1(-64%)
(10) Khamsin 18/1, Sixth of 8 in handicap (13/2) at Newcastle (8f) 16 days ago. Back down in trip. Blinkers back on. Could get back on track. 0-6 and down the field in his three handicaps this year; now returns to 6f in blinkers.
9th
9th (2) (9/1 +55%) Balon D'or
9/1(+55%)
(2) Balon D'or 9/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2023. Tongue strap on for 1st time, eleventh of 12 in handicap (50/1) at this C&D (AW) 28 days ago. Visor on 1st time. Others more persuasive. 0-12 since his winning debut and was out the back over C&D last time; others preferred.
10th
10th (3) (9/1 -20%) Torvar
9/1(-20%)
(3) Torvar 9/1, Latest win at Newcastle in February. 6/1, bit below form third of 7 in handicap at Southwell (5f) 17 days ago. Back up in trip. Not dismissed. Three wins since November but he was well held last time; needs more back up in trip.
11th
11th (1) (33/1 -32%) World Of Darcy
33/1(-32%)
(1) World Of Darcy 33/1, Latest win at Nottingham in October. Last of 7 in handicap at Southwell (5f, 11/1) 17 days ago. Back up in trip. Cheekpieces back on. In rear in his three runs this year and needs to revive back up in trip; headgear back on.
17:00 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Having shouldered a penalty when scoring a brace in novice company at Southwell in January, PANDORA'S GIFT makes plenty of appeal entering handicaps off a mark of 78. The daughter of Churchill may have been targeted at this handy prize and a 78-day layoff may prove no barrier to her success. Torvar has enjoyed a fruitful campaign with three victories to his name and this switch to 6f could squeeze out some further improvement, while Reprised makes some appeal as well.
PANDORA'S GIFT has been impressive on both starts since her debut and she's likely to prove better than a mark of 78, so she's marginally preferred to Reprised, who signed off for Karl Burke with a convincing success at Southwell. Hearitfortheboys has been in excellent form and also merits strong consideration.
The vote goes to PANDORA'S GIFT, who has won the last two of her three starts and is open to more progress on her handicap debut.
(11) Rocket Warrior 15/2, Career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 14 days ago, well positioned. Makes polytrack debut. Player from 4 lb higher mark. Kept on well for Wolverhampton win last month; 4lb higher in more competitive race here.
2
2nd (10) (12/1 +0%) Marefuori
12/1(+0%)
(10) Marefuori 12/1, Winner at Wolverhampton in September. Creditable second of 6 in handicap at same course (9.5f, 11/4) 46 days ago. Frame claims. Sound effort when second at Wolverhampton last month, but others have more potential.
3
3rd (7) (9/1 -29%) Alpen Power
9/1(-29%)
(7) Alpen Power 9/1, Lightly-raced winner. Still bit green but improved further when winning 9-runner maiden at this course (8f, 5/4). Up in trip. Looks competitive on form and he's interesting on return from 6-month absence. Won 1m course maiden in September and can progress in middle-distance handicaps this year.
4
4th (6) (33/1 -136%) Alpine Oasis
33/1(-136%)
(6) Alpine Oasis 33/1, Twice-raced winner. 16/1, showed benefit of exeprience when winning 5-runner minor event at Newcastle (8f) 41 days ago. Up in trip. Makes handicap debut. May do better still but wide draw could make life difficult. Beat 1-4 favourite to win 1m novice last month; up in trip for handicap debut.
5th
5th (5) (3/1 +25%) Keady Town
3/1(+25%)
(5) Keady Town 3/1, Promising individual. 11/2, excellent second of 6 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 14 days ago, needing stiffer test. Can make presence felt with longer trip promising to suit. Sure to have entered several notebooks when running-on second on recent handicap debut.
6th
6th (3) (11/4 +61%) Mr Swivell
11/4(+61%)
(3) Mr Swivell 11/4, Thrice-raced winner. Won 9-runner maiden (4/11) at Southwell (8.1f) 34 days ago, keeping on well. Up in trip. May do better still, so has to be respected on handicap bow. Comfortably won 1m maiden last month and ought to have more to offer in handicaps.
7th
7th (12) (16/1 +0%) Prometeo
16/1(+0%)
(12) Prometeo 16/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Cheekpieces on for 1st time, good ½-length second of 14 to Lord Normandy in minor event at this C&D (7/2). Off 106 days. Makes handicap debut. Gelded since last seen and opening mark looks fair enough. Did well to finish second in C&D novice last month, having raced wide; handicap debut.
8th
8th (16) (28/1 -100%) Opec
28/1(-100%)
(16) Opec 28/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 14/1, first run since leaving James Fanshawe when fourth of 10 in minor event at this course (7f) 15 days ago. Hood on 1st time. Remains with potential now handicapping over further. Stoutly bred filly; fourth in 7f novice here on recent stable debut; up in trip today.
9th
9th (13) (18/1 -157%) Etretat
18/1(-157%)
(13) Etretat 18/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 2/1, creditable 2 lengths fourth of 8 to Rocket Warrior in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 14 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Needs a couple of these to falter. Made the frame in first two handicaps; can improve if/when he settles better.
10th
10th (4) (17/2 +29%) Swordstick
17/2(+29%)
(4) Swordstick 17/2, Twice-raced winner. Winner at Southwell in January and ran to similar level when second of 4 in minor event at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 35 days ago. Makes handicap debut. Not discounted. Won run-of-the-mill maiden on debut; not obviously well treated on handicap debut.
11th
11th (15) (33/1 +34%) Made All
33/1(+34%)
(15) Made All 33/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 66/1, fourth of 7 in maiden at York (7.9f, soft). Off 167 days. Up in trip. Will need more to make winning handicap debut. Improved with experience as a 2yo; further progress required on handicap/AW debut.
12th
12th (14) (20/1 -100%) Calculate
20/1(-100%)
(14) Calculate 20/1, Promising individual. 50/1, fifth of 8 in maiden at Kempton (8f) 44 days ago. Up in trip. Open to improvement and looks to have been allotted lenient mark for handicap bow, so chance is taken he'll be able to overcome his wide draw. Safely held in three 1m novice/maiden races but open to improvement in handicaps.
13th
13th (1) (40/1 -100%) Courageous Strike
40/1(-100%)
(1) Courageous Strike 40/1, Won 8-runner nursery at Wolverhampton (9.5f) penultimate outing in 2023. Creditable eighth of 13 in minor event at Kempton (8f, 40/1) last time. Off 135 days. Up in trip. Blinkers back on. Gelded since last seen. Drawn wider than ideal and others make more appeal. Won Wolverhampton nursery on stable debut; a bit more exposed than some of these.
14th
14th (2) (33/1 -313%) Lord Normandy
33/1(-313%)
(2) Lord Normandy 33/1, Improved from debut when winning over C&D in December. 7/4, fourth of 5 in minor event at Southwell (12.1f) 64 days ago. Makes handicap debut from workable opening mark. C&D novice winner in December; did not see out 1m4f last time; drops back in trip today.
17:10 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
An eye-catcher on his handicap debut when keeping on from off the pace for second at Wolverhampton earlier this month, KEADY TOWN should be well suited by going up in trip and can strike for his in-form connections. A comfortable winner at Southwell, Mr Swivell can give the selection the most to think about and it is also worth keeping an eye on Wolverhampton scorer Rocket Warrior.
A most-competitive handicap with few exposed runners. CALCULATE is drawn higher than ideal in Stall 13 but has very much shaped like one who will be at home handicapping over middle distances and looks to have been given plenty of scope to progress by the BHA handicapper from an opening mark of 67. Keady Town looked ready for this step up in trip when runner-up at Wolverhampton a fortnight ago and rates as the main danger, with Mr Swivell and Rocket Warrior also shortlisted.
Stoutly bred filly OPEC made a pleasing stable debut in a recent 7f novice here and ought to relish today's longer trip.
Racecard Key
Ths is the racecard key.
Icon
Meaning
TomForm top stats, gold rated
TomForm top stats silver rated
Ran similar race before
S
TomForm fatstest rated speed horse, last time out
T
Top Time speeed rated
Top Racingpost rated
At the races watchout for
At the races top pick
Top rated for thet statistic
How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
About U.K Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
The most famous horse racing event in the UK is the Grand National, which is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is a jump racing event that is known for its challenging course and has become a national institution in the UK. Other notable horse racing events in the UK include the Derby, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, and the Royal Ascot, held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
Horse racing in the UK is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which sets rules and standards for the industry. It is responsible for the welfare of racehorses and the safety of jockeys and trainers, as well as ensuring fair and transparent racing practices.
In addition to its economic and cultural importance, horse racing in the UK also plays a significant role in the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses. Many of the world's top thoroughbreds are bred and trained in the UK, and the industry plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Overall, horse racing is an integral part of British culture and a major contributor to the country's economy. It is a thrilling and exciting sport that continues to attract a loyal following and generate significant interest from spectators and bettors around the world.
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