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Predominantly focused on the Flat, though there may be the odd jumps pick thrown in, particularly in juvenile hurdles where Flat horses are switching codes.
Prediction:
The thread will be a slow burner, with plenty of selections from left field or on the speculative side, with a low strike rate in terms of winners and long losing runs are a possibility.
The odds quoted will be what's on oddschecker with at least one of the main firms at the time of posting, usually late morning / early afternoon.
As I will need all the help I can get (and I'm not jesting after last year!), I am going to claim B.O.G where applicable but obviously will keep a close eye on that with some firms now withdrawing the offer.
DISCLAIMER: I'm just a guy putting up a couple or so selections most days at working men's prices with a bit of reasoning, so if the thread fails, well, what can I say other than it's a tough old game!
Prediction:
The thread will be a slow burner, with plenty of selections from left field or on the speculative side, with a low strike rate in terms of winners and long losing runs are a possibility.
The odds quoted will be what's on oddschecker with at least one of the main firms at the time of posting, usually late morning / early afternoon.
As I will need all the help I can get (and I'm not jesting after last year!), I am going to claim B.O.G where applicable but obviously will keep a close eye on that with some firms now withdrawing the offer.
DISCLAIMER: I'm just a guy putting up a couple or so selections most days at working men's prices with a bit of reasoning, so if the thread fails, well, what can I say other than it's a tough old game!
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Fair to say I'm back on the cold list...
Frances Ethel wasn't up to Group 3 level. The RP form comment did note she looked "unbalanced" over 2f out, so perhaps the Rowley Mile on quickish ground isn't for her, but whatever, she should find more realistic opportunities when dropped back in class.
It seemed over a furlong out that Chapel Island was about to deliver a potent challenge down the stands' side, usually a good place to be, but then the centre runners just pulled away from him, with the two he was with on his stands' side dropping away. I've not seen the other races on the card yet so can't comment on whether or not there was something going on with how the track was playing. He did keep on so perhaps he just needs a track with a stiffer finish.
2026 Running P/L: +40.64 pts
Frances Ethel wasn't up to Group 3 level. The RP form comment did note she looked "unbalanced" over 2f out, so perhaps the Rowley Mile on quickish ground isn't for her, but whatever, she should find more realistic opportunities when dropped back in class.
It seemed over a furlong out that Chapel Island was about to deliver a potent challenge down the stands' side, usually a good place to be, but then the centre runners just pulled away from him, with the two he was with on his stands' side dropping away. I've not seen the other races on the card yet so can't comment on whether or not there was something going on with how the track was playing. He did keep on so perhaps he just needs a track with a stiffer finish.
2026 Running P/L: +40.64 pts
Jel Pepper, 1pt EW @ 50-1, 2.10 Haydock
Nobelos, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 4.20 Curragh (4 PLACES)
Nobelos, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 4.20 Curragh (4 PLACES)
Jel Pepper
It's not easy to fancy Jel Pepper on what he's shown this year, particularly as this is his first attempt at 5f and his connections also run a leading contender, having seemingly not gone on for the Cole yard, and a couple of starts for Stuart Wlliams following a 65,000 gns sale haven't suggested he's a winner waiting to happen, however, I'm going to have a speculative pick on him back on more demanding ground.
He ran out an impressive winner of a Goodwood maiden on his debut, the only time he has raced on soft ground to date, and the other two occasions as a juvenile when he raced with officially a bit of ease in the ground, each time in valuable sales races, he fared best of the low drawn horses at Naas (6f, g-y) to finish 4th of 21, and then at Doncaster (6.5f, g-s) he didn't get the clearest of runs before finishing 7th of 21.
It has to be said he had some decent form on a sound surface as a juvenile, so it's not that he's obviously ground dependent, but as a half-brother to Ballymount Boy, who was second in the Group 2 Richmond Stakes on soft ground, before going on to be a Listed winner on heavy, interesting to see if today's ground can be the catalyst for a return to form.
It's not easy to fancy Jel Pepper on what he's shown this year, particularly as this is his first attempt at 5f and his connections also run a leading contender, having seemingly not gone on for the Cole yard, and a couple of starts for Stuart Wlliams following a 65,000 gns sale haven't suggested he's a winner waiting to happen, however, I'm going to have a speculative pick on him back on more demanding ground.
He ran out an impressive winner of a Goodwood maiden on his debut, the only time he has raced on soft ground to date, and the other two occasions as a juvenile when he raced with officially a bit of ease in the ground, each time in valuable sales races, he fared best of the low drawn horses at Naas (6f, g-y) to finish 4th of 21, and then at Doncaster (6.5f, g-s) he didn't get the clearest of runs before finishing 7th of 21.
It has to be said he had some decent form on a sound surface as a juvenile, so it's not that he's obviously ground dependent, but as a half-brother to Ballymount Boy, who was second in the Group 2 Richmond Stakes on soft ground, before going on to be a Listed winner on heavy, interesting to see if today's ground can be the catalyst for a return to form.
Nobelos
Nobelos is a selection based on potential rather than substance, as having shaped with promise on his Windsor (6f, g-f) debut where he finished his race off nicely into 4th, albeit some way behind the winner, it's easy enough to knock his win in an Ascot novice (6f, good, 33-1) given the odds-on favourite blew out badly and it came in a relatively slow time with just 1.5L covering the first five home, however, he showed a good attitude to get on top having raced prominently on a day when there a bit of a headwind, and he'd taken a grip after being bumped at the start. The third has since finished runner-up behind an impressive winner in a Newbury maiden.
This €110,000 purchase steps up in trip to 7f for this valuable sales race, which promises to suit, and although his official rating of 81 after just two starts leaves him with plenty to find, he looks open to further improvement.
Nobelos is a selection based on potential rather than substance, as having shaped with promise on his Windsor (6f, g-f) debut where he finished his race off nicely into 4th, albeit some way behind the winner, it's easy enough to knock his win in an Ascot novice (6f, good, 33-1) given the odds-on favourite blew out badly and it came in a relatively slow time with just 1.5L covering the first five home, however, he showed a good attitude to get on top having raced prominently on a day when there a bit of a headwind, and he'd taken a grip after being bumped at the start. The third has since finished runner-up behind an impressive winner in a Newbury maiden.
This €110,000 purchase steps up in trip to 7f for this valuable sales race, which promises to suit, and although his official rating of 81 after just two starts leaves him with plenty to find, he looks open to further improvement.
A particularly poor week is finished off with a couple of shockers.
I was keen to give Jez Pepper a chance on today's ground for the reasons given, but it was a risky one given he hasn't looked in much form this season, and he offered little again today. Perhaps he'll find his level again for his new connections when down the weights as a 4YO.
Nobelos was still an unknown quantity after just two starts which included an Ascot win, and looked an intriguing runner sent across the Irish Sea with big money up for grabs, but a triple-digit Betfair SP suggested not much was expected and his limitations were exposed.
2026 Running P/L: +36.64 pts
I was keen to give Jez Pepper a chance on today's ground for the reasons given, but it was a risky one given he hasn't looked in much form this season, and he offered little again today. Perhaps he'll find his level again for his new connections when down the weights as a 4YO.
Nobelos was still an unknown quantity after just two starts which included an Ascot win, and looked an intriguing runner sent across the Irish Sea with big money up for grabs, but a triple-digit Betfair SP suggested not much was expected and his limitations were exposed.
2026 Running P/L: +36.64 pts
East Hampton, 1pt EW @ 20-1, 2.35 Curragh
Two against the field in the Irish Cesarewitch
Tennessee Stud, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.20 Curragh (6 PLACES)
Granite Bay, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 4.20 Curragh (6 PLACES)
Two against the field in the Irish Cesarewitch
Tennessee Stud, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.20 Curragh (6 PLACES)
Granite Bay, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 4.20 Curragh (6 PLACES)
East Hampton
With the ground having turned heavy at the Curragh, East Hampton makes a little each-way appeal at the prices, even though 6f is probably a bit on the sharp side for him. His two runs when heavy has appeared in the going description, saw him win a 3YO 7f handicap off a mark of 89, finishing clear with one other, and this season on his reappearance over 7f at the Curragh, finishing second to one of today's rivals Big Gossey, when they had subsequent Royal Ascot Group 1 winner Ten Bob Tony in behind.
As well as the trip being a concern, his usual pilot and stable jockey Luke McAteer has seemingly opted to take an outside ride on a similarly priced longshot, which is hardly a vote of confidence assuming he had the choice, but a chance is taken in the hope that on this drop in trip he can be kept closer to the pace than he usually is.
With the ground having turned heavy at the Curragh, East Hampton makes a little each-way appeal at the prices, even though 6f is probably a bit on the sharp side for him. His two runs when heavy has appeared in the going description, saw him win a 3YO 7f handicap off a mark of 89, finishing clear with one other, and this season on his reappearance over 7f at the Curragh, finishing second to one of today's rivals Big Gossey, when they had subsequent Royal Ascot Group 1 winner Ten Bob Tony in behind.
As well as the trip being a concern, his usual pilot and stable jockey Luke McAteer has seemingly opted to take an outside ride on a similarly priced longshot, which is hardly a vote of confidence assuming he had the choice, but a chance is taken in the hope that on this drop in trip he can be kept closer to the pace than he usually is.
Tennessee Stud
Tennessee Stud has only managed four spaced out runs this season and it's not clear how much ability he retains given his third behind Carmers in a Listed race at Down Royal (2m, good) in May came in a steadily-run affair. However, this is a drop in class for him having finished well beaten in the Irish St Leger last time, and interesting to see what he makes of this test having shaped on occasions as though stamina is his forte, having won a French 10f Group 1 on heavy as a juvenile, albeit against just two rivals, and last season as a 3YO having stayed on well over 1m7f on "very soft" to win a Longchamp Group 2 from his stablemate Emit, who was in good form at the time.
He is drawn very wide so a good ride will be required from 5lb claimer Hugh Horgan, who rides him for the first time.
Tennessee Stud has only managed four spaced out runs this season and it's not clear how much ability he retains given his third behind Carmers in a Listed race at Down Royal (2m, good) in May came in a steadily-run affair. However, this is a drop in class for him having finished well beaten in the Irish St Leger last time, and interesting to see what he makes of this test having shaped on occasions as though stamina is his forte, having won a French 10f Group 1 on heavy as a juvenile, albeit against just two rivals, and last season as a 3YO having stayed on well over 1m7f on "very soft" to win a Longchamp Group 2 from his stablemate Emit, who was in good form at the time.
He is drawn very wide so a good ride will be required from 5lb claimer Hugh Horgan, who rides him for the first time.
Granite Bay
Granite Bay couldn't get the job done last time at Chester (2m, soft) in a class 2 heritage handicap having been well positioned in a steadily run race, having to give best to the rival he had set the pace with, however, he had raced in the two path on a day when the track was back at its innermost configuration and racing around the inner appeared a considerable advantage.
There is a stamina query having appeared not to stay 2m1f at the Galway festival when a beaten favourite in an amateur riders' contest, but otherwise he has shaped as though worth a try over this sort of test including when a rallying 3rd over 14f here in June on yielding.
He appears to handle heavy ground, the latest riding sensation Reece Holohan takes off a useful 7lb and cheekpieces are tried for the first time.
Granite Bay couldn't get the job done last time at Chester (2m, soft) in a class 2 heritage handicap having been well positioned in a steadily run race, having to give best to the rival he had set the pace with, however, he had raced in the two path on a day when the track was back at its innermost configuration and racing around the inner appeared a considerable advantage.
There is a stamina query having appeared not to stay 2m1f at the Galway festival when a beaten favourite in an amateur riders' contest, but otherwise he has shaped as though worth a try over this sort of test including when a rallying 3rd over 14f here in June on yielding.
He appears to handle heavy ground, the latest riding sensation Reece Holohan takes off a useful 7lb and cheekpieces are tried for the first time.
Stapleford Park, 1pt EW @ 50-1, 1.30 Brighton
Molly Valentine, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.22 Wolverhampton
Molly Valentine, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.22 Wolverhampton
Stapleford Park
Stapleford Park probably ran better than his finishing position of 6th of 8 suggested last time at Bath (5f, good) for two reasons, having perhaps not been on the best part of the track and not got the clearest of runs either. Call Time, who finished one place ahead of him having taken a similar route, has won twice since.
He does seem more effective with a bit of give in the ground so today's quicker ground is a concern, but he seemed to run okay over C&D on good to firm on his return from a break in August off a 5lb higher mark, when he had one of today's rivals Dreambird Dolly in behind. He's eligible for weaker races than this one and he could get caught on the outer from a tricky draw, but I'm going to take a chance at a big price as he shaped as though he was in form last time.
Stapleford Park probably ran better than his finishing position of 6th of 8 suggested last time at Bath (5f, good) for two reasons, having perhaps not been on the best part of the track and not got the clearest of runs either. Call Time, who finished one place ahead of him having taken a similar route, has won twice since.
He does seem more effective with a bit of give in the ground so today's quicker ground is a concern, but he seemed to run okay over C&D on good to firm on his return from a break in August off a 5lb higher mark, when he had one of today's rivals Dreambird Dolly in behind. He's eligible for weaker races than this one and he could get caught on the outer from a tricky draw, but I'm going to take a chance at a big price as he shaped as though he was in form last time.
Molly Valentine
Molly Valentine was a selection back in May when I wrote:
Molly Valentine was having her second run back off a break here last time over the 8.5f trip, on what was her stable debut, and although she faded to finish 7th of the 11 runners and beaten just over ten lengths behind the easy winner, she had a notably wide trip from the widest draw in that amateur riders' contest and in the circumstances wasn't disgraced.
She's a C&D winner so the step back up in trip shouldn't be an issue, and has a lower draw this time, with Jack Doughty taking over in the plate.
The two course efforts since that wide trip run have seen her fail to get involved from off the pace, so perhaps she could do with being kept closer to the pace, if fitness isn't an issue back from over three months off. She does have a pull in the weights with the (admittedly easy) winner of that race in April, No Knee Never, and is 5lb lower than when winning over C&D in December 2024 for a different yard.
Molly Valentine was a selection back in May when I wrote:
Molly Valentine was having her second run back off a break here last time over the 8.5f trip, on what was her stable debut, and although she faded to finish 7th of the 11 runners and beaten just over ten lengths behind the easy winner, she had a notably wide trip from the widest draw in that amateur riders' contest and in the circumstances wasn't disgraced.
She's a C&D winner so the step back up in trip shouldn't be an issue, and has a lower draw this time, with Jack Doughty taking over in the plate.
The two course efforts since that wide trip run have seen her fail to get involved from off the pace, so perhaps she could do with being kept closer to the pace, if fitness isn't an issue back from over three months off. She does have a pull in the weights with the (admittedly easy) winner of that race in April, No Knee Never, and is 5lb lower than when winning over C&D in December 2024 for a different yard.
2026 Running P/L: +26.64 pts
Mano Chicago, 1pt EW @ 18-1, 3.05 Ayr
Mano Chicago, 1pt EW @ 18-1, 3.05 Ayr
Mano Chicago
Mano Chicago ran poorly last time at Chester (10.5, soft, class 3) in a first-time visor, when his jockey reported that he never travelled, and the vet reported that the gelding had lost a shoe, however, prior to that it had looked a creditable effort on his stable debut over today's C&D last month on good to soft, following a 48,000 gns sale out of Johnny Murtagh's yard, when he fared best of the prominent racers to finish third (and one place behind Star Cast), with a couple of subsequent Ayr Western meeting winners in behind.
The blinkers that he'd been wearing are back on and he's back down in class, so while there's a query over how deep he'd want the ground (has run well on soft in Ireland), a chance is taken at the prices.
Mano Chicago ran poorly last time at Chester (10.5, soft, class 3) in a first-time visor, when his jockey reported that he never travelled, and the vet reported that the gelding had lost a shoe, however, prior to that it had looked a creditable effort on his stable debut over today's C&D last month on good to soft, following a 48,000 gns sale out of Johnny Murtagh's yard, when he fared best of the prominent racers to finish third (and one place behind Star Cast), with a couple of subsequent Ayr Western meeting winners in behind.
The blinkers that he'd been wearing are back on and he's back down in class, so while there's a query over how deep he'd want the ground (has run well on soft in Ireland), a chance is taken at the prices.
2026 Running P/L: +24.64 pts
Vince Lombardi, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 3.42 Catterick
Sea The Power, 1pt EW @ 20-1, 5.25 Catterick (3 PLACES)
Vince Lombardi, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 3.42 Catterick
Sea The Power, 1pt EW @ 20-1, 5.25 Catterick (3 PLACES)
Vince Lombardi
A speculative pick on Vince Lombardi, who might have been given a prolonged break with an all-weather campaign in mind, particularly with the Bonus Scheme on offer again this winter, however, he is back on his last winning mark (has won off higher on turf over 6f), and he didn't shape too badly at Carlisle (7f, g-s) in August on his return from six months off, where he travelled well into the contest and hit the front over a furlong out before perhaps fitness told and he faded to finish 7th of the ten runners.
He's had another six weeks off since and that latest form leaves him with 3 lengths to make up with current favourite Golden Strike, but if that return to action has brought him forward then not unreasonable to think he could get closer to that rival this time, if able to show his form at this course.
A speculative pick on Vince Lombardi, who might have been given a prolonged break with an all-weather campaign in mind, particularly with the Bonus Scheme on offer again this winter, however, he is back on his last winning mark (has won off higher on turf over 6f), and he didn't shape too badly at Carlisle (7f, g-s) in August on his return from six months off, where he travelled well into the contest and hit the front over a furlong out before perhaps fitness told and he faded to finish 7th of the ten runners.
He's had another six weeks off since and that latest form leaves him with 3 lengths to make up with current favourite Golden Strike, but if that return to action has brought him forward then not unreasonable to think he could get closer to that rival this time, if able to show his form at this course.
Sea The Power
Sea The Power is also trained by Seb Spencer. He's of a little interest being tried over 12f, both on pedigree (by Sea The Moon and out of Galileo mare) and how he shaped over 10f at Redcar (good) last time, when from the widest draw he raced prominently on a decent pace on a day when there was a bit of a headwind, and although he was outpaced from 2f out and lost places, he did keep on. He is eligible for weaker races but this is a slight ease in grade from last time, and a 4lb drop weights can help.
Sea The Power is also trained by Seb Spencer. He's of a little interest being tried over 12f, both on pedigree (by Sea The Moon and out of Galileo mare) and how he shaped over 10f at Redcar (good) last time, when from the widest draw he raced prominently on a decent pace on a day when there was a bit of a headwind, and although he was outpaced from 2f out and lost places, he did keep on. He is eligible for weaker races but this is a slight ease in grade from last time, and a 4lb drop weights can help.
Unfortunately, September has been a month to forget for the thread, the worse one for a while.
I won't say it can't get much worse in October, just in case it does.
2026 Running P/L: +20.64 pts
I won't say it can't get much worse in October, just in case it does.
2026 Running P/L: +20.64 pts
gus stuff george as we nah its a task to show a + over time..and apologies for my previous behaviour.
nah..my dogs injury brings things to reality.
Mighty leaf you trying to turn
You strong enuff
Give you till end of day
GL for mutt
You strong enuff
Give you till end of day
GL for mutt
Thanks for the comments.
No worries Rico, I've hardly been a saint myself at times on here. I'm reminded of the John Lennon / Tom Jones story, when Lennon spotted Jones in the seats during rehearsals and started mocking It's Not Unusual by singing "It's not a unicorn, it's an elephant", before turning to Jones and asking "How you doing, you Welsh p00f?"
Jones, apparently had to be restrained by his manager, who explained to Jones:
It's just his sense of humour...
No worries Rico, I've hardly been a saint myself at times on here. I'm reminded of the John Lennon / Tom Jones story, when Lennon spotted Jones in the seats during rehearsals and started mocking It's Not Unusual by singing "It's not a unicorn, it's an elephant", before turning to Jones and asking "How you doing, you Welsh p00f?"
Jones, apparently had to be restrained by his manager, who explained to Jones:
It's just his sense of humour...
Rousham, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 7.30 Newcastle
Whiskey Pete, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 8.30 Newcastle
Whiskey Pete, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 8.30 Newcastle
Rousham
Rousham has been hooded for all eight of his career starts and clearly isn't straightforward, but he did win at Redcar (7f, g-f) in May, and he would have gone closer to winning over this evening's C&D in June but for hanging badly left and then colliding with the far rail, eventually finishing 4th of 13, beaten 3L. He had travelled noticeably well into that contest before his antics cost him late on, suggesting that there are races to be won with him on this surface if his temperament allows.
He's disappointed the last twice on turf, the latest back from a 54-day break, when on each occasion he has been too keen or hung, but a chance is taken at a double-figure price back here with that previous course run still fresh in the memory.
Rousham has been hooded for all eight of his career starts and clearly isn't straightforward, but he did win at Redcar (7f, g-f) in May, and he would have gone closer to winning over this evening's C&D in June but for hanging badly left and then colliding with the far rail, eventually finishing 4th of 13, beaten 3L. He had travelled noticeably well into that contest before his antics cost him late on, suggesting that there are races to be won with him on this surface if his temperament allows.
He's disappointed the last twice on turf, the latest back from a 54-day break, when on each occasion he has been too keen or hung, but a chance is taken at a double-figure price back here with that previous course run still fresh in the memory.
Whiskey Pete
Whiskey Pete is another who hasn't been looking straightforward, in his case leaving the impression the last twice at this course (one mile then 10f) that he hasn't been putting it all in. He had a peak official rating of 89 when trained by Ralph Beckett, but it's been pretty much downhill all the way since joining his current yard to the point that his mark is now in danger of bottoming out, however, he showed when finishing runner-up at Doncaster (10f, g-f) in August that some ability still lingers, and interesting that he came in for solid market support last time when Rowan Scott was back in the plate, but perhaps he hit the front soon enough and, the like the time before, didn't find what seemed likely.
I'm getting the impression that he needs delivering late, and the application of a visor may help focus his mind on this return to the mile trip, so a chance is taken, with a further 4lb drop in the weights to aid his chance.
Whiskey Pete is another who hasn't been looking straightforward, in his case leaving the impression the last twice at this course (one mile then 10f) that he hasn't been putting it all in. He had a peak official rating of 89 when trained by Ralph Beckett, but it's been pretty much downhill all the way since joining his current yard to the point that his mark is now in danger of bottoming out, however, he showed when finishing runner-up at Doncaster (10f, g-f) in August that some ability still lingers, and interesting that he came in for solid market support last time when Rowan Scott was back in the plate, but perhaps he hit the front soon enough and, the like the time before, didn't find what seemed likely.
I'm getting the impression that he needs delivering late, and the application of a visor may help focus his mind on this return to the mile trip, so a chance is taken, with a further 4lb drop in the weights to aid his chance.
Wd George worth a little tipple to celebrate gl ....
No sober october GB
Drinks on you
Form temp
Class perm
Drinks on you
Form temp
Class perm
Well done.my only winner this week.cheers to you & Pete.
Cheers all. It's a relief to get off the cold list.
As for Rousham, he traded odds-on in the run but once again had taken a grip before hanging to the other rail on this occasion, ultimately having to settle for a place.
2026 Running P/L: +35.04 pts
As for Rousham, he traded odds-on in the run but once again had taken a grip before hanging to the other rail on this occasion, ultimately having to settle for a place.
2026 Running P/L: +35.04 pts
Cheers Rico.
Panelli, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 2.17 Redcar
Tommo's Ginjaninja, 1pt EW @ 12-1, 2.50 Redcar
Rascal Recknell, 1pt EW @ 28-1, 7.30 Southwell (4 PLACES)
Panelli, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 2.17 Redcar
Tommo's Ginjaninja, 1pt EW @ 12-1, 2.50 Redcar
Rascal Recknell, 1pt EW @ 28-1, 7.30 Southwell (4 PLACES)
Panelli
Panelli was campaigned at shorter for his previous Newmarket yards, but shaped as though worth a try at 10f when keeping on over 8.5f at Beverley (heavy) on his stable debut in August to finish 7th of 11, beaten 5L. He failed to confirm his stamina when tried over today's c&d on his latest start, but that was in a 0-87 contest where he could never land a blow, having reportedly been kicked before the start. The Beverley race was also a similar grade, so he should find today's 0-69 contest more his level, with a further 3lb drop in the weights to help.
Panelli was campaigned at shorter for his previous Newmarket yards, but shaped as though worth a try at 10f when keeping on over 8.5f at Beverley (heavy) on his stable debut in August to finish 7th of 11, beaten 5L. He failed to confirm his stamina when tried over today's c&d on his latest start, but that was in a 0-87 contest where he could never land a blow, having reportedly been kicked before the start. The Beverley race was also a similar grade, so he should find today's 0-69 contest more his level, with a further 3lb drop in the weights to help.
Tommo's Ginjaninja
Tommo's Ginjaninja has been a selection a couple of times on the thread on the back of what looked a creditable effort at Doncaster (10, g-f) back in the spring. He hasn't kicked on from there but might have had excuses on occasions, and did run well back from a break at Nottingham (10f, g-f) in August, when he finished a close-up 4th and just behind a subsequent dual winner on the all-weather, with a couple of subsequent winners in behind.
It's possible he could have done without the overnight rain given he failed to get competitive on good to soft at Chester last time, but the going is still being given as good, this track with its longer straight may suit better and he's now 6lb lower than for that Doncaster effort.
Tommo's Ginjaninja has been a selection a couple of times on the thread on the back of what looked a creditable effort at Doncaster (10, g-f) back in the spring. He hasn't kicked on from there but might have had excuses on occasions, and did run well back from a break at Nottingham (10f, g-f) in August, when he finished a close-up 4th and just behind a subsequent dual winner on the all-weather, with a couple of subsequent winners in behind.
It's possible he could have done without the overnight rain given he failed to get competitive on good to soft at Chester last time, but the going is still being given as good, this track with its longer straight may suit better and he's now 6lb lower than for that Doncaster effort.
Rascal Recknell
A tentative pick on Rascal Recknell who seemingly hasn't offered much in three spaced out starts this year following a 226 day break, and there's a query about the drop to 6f, for all he can be a keen-goer.
He ended up finishing last of 8, beaten 13L, on his latest start at Chester (7.5f, soft) when cheekpieces were tried (and are quickly discarded here), but the run might have been needed having taken a grip in the 2-path on a day when racing hard against the rail on the way round was probably an advantage.
He has a decent record (2-2-9) on the all-weather so perhaps he'll be of more interest once the Bonus Scheme gets under way and his mark has come down further, but a chance is taken at the odds on this ease back in grade.
A tentative pick on Rascal Recknell who seemingly hasn't offered much in three spaced out starts this year following a 226 day break, and there's a query about the drop to 6f, for all he can be a keen-goer.
He ended up finishing last of 8, beaten 13L, on his latest start at Chester (7.5f, soft) when cheekpieces were tried (and are quickly discarded here), but the run might have been needed having taken a grip in the 2-path on a day when racing hard against the rail on the way round was probably an advantage.
He has a decent record (2-2-9) on the all-weather so perhaps he'll be of more interest once the Bonus Scheme gets under way and his mark has come down further, but a chance is taken at the odds on this ease back in grade.
)
Cheers Virgin.
Tommo's Ginjaninja finished off well and would have got there in another stride, but that's racing.
Panelli was a big price but I was optimistic of a good run having not shaped too badly in stronger races the last twice, but ridden forward for the first time whilst with his current yard, he backed out of it tamely.
Rascal Recknell only finished 8th but was only beaten 2.5L at the finish in a bunch finish, looking like he had more to offer, which probably means he needs to go back up in trip to 7f, or be given a more positive ride kept to 6f.
2026 Running P/L: +32.44 pts
Tommo's Ginjaninja finished off well and would have got there in another stride, but that's racing.
Panelli was a big price but I was optimistic of a good run having not shaped too badly in stronger races the last twice, but ridden forward for the first time whilst with his current yard, he backed out of it tamely.
Rascal Recknell only finished 8th but was only beaten 2.5L at the finish in a bunch finish, looking like he had more to offer, which probably means he needs to go back up in trip to 7f, or be given a more positive ride kept to 6f.
2026 Running P/L: +32.44 pts
Sayonara, 1pt EW @ 12-1, 2.45 Killarney (4 PLACES)
Chestnut Palace, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 4.30 Killarney (4 PLACES)
Chestnut Palace, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 4.30 Killarney (4 PLACES)
Sayonara
Sayonara's mark has come down 11lb since racing on turf having been initially rated 60 following three qualifying runs at Dundalk, but he's run okay on occasions on grass and has finished in the first four on both his attempts over a mile, including the only time he has encountered yielding ground, at Cork in August when finishing third behind a well-backed stablemate, when he had to use up energy to get across to the rail and lead, where he opened up a few lengths lead before giving way a furlong out, and although he was no match for the winner, he only lost second place close home to ultimately finish 3rd of the 16 runners.
He could only finish 14th of the 22 runners on his latest start back at Cork over 7f on good ground, but being tried over a mile again on easier ground may suit better, with cheekpieces applied for the first time and Andrew Slattery replacing a 7lb claimer.
Sayonara's mark has come down 11lb since racing on turf having been initially rated 60 following three qualifying runs at Dundalk, but he's run okay on occasions on grass and has finished in the first four on both his attempts over a mile, including the only time he has encountered yielding ground, at Cork in August when finishing third behind a well-backed stablemate, when he had to use up energy to get across to the rail and lead, where he opened up a few lengths lead before giving way a furlong out, and although he was no match for the winner, he only lost second place close home to ultimately finish 3rd of the 16 runners.
He could only finish 14th of the 22 runners on his latest start back at Cork over 7f on good ground, but being tried over a mile again on easier ground may suit better, with cheekpieces applied for the first time and Andrew Slattery replacing a 7lb claimer.
Chestnut Palace
Chestnut Palace was having only her second try at 12f at Limerick (g-y) in June, and first in cheekieces, when she seemed to do well to finish fourth of the 16 runners having endured a tough trip from a wide draw, albeit beaten 6L. The third has won twice subsequently, while the first two have run well in defeat on occasions to make the frame.
The selection was absent for over three months after, returning to action over a mile at Punchestown (good) last month, where she ran okay to finish 5th of 14 runners in first-time blinkers, which are retained today.
She's off a mark 3lb lower than for that penultimate effort with Nicola Burns taking off a further 5lb, and the return to further looks a positive.
Chestnut Palace was having only her second try at 12f at Limerick (g-y) in June, and first in cheekieces, when she seemed to do well to finish fourth of the 16 runners having endured a tough trip from a wide draw, albeit beaten 6L. The third has won twice subsequently, while the first two have run well in defeat on occasions to make the frame.
The selection was absent for over three months after, returning to action over a mile at Punchestown (good) last month, where she ran okay to finish 5th of 14 runners in first-time blinkers, which are retained today.
She's off a mark 3lb lower than for that penultimate effort with Nicola Burns taking off a further 5lb, and the return to further looks a positive.
Cheers Virgin
Chestnut Palace ran into third place without threatening to catch the first two, and would appear to need a longer trip on this evidence.
As for Sayonara, he won the dash to lead but was plenty keen enough having done so and, having briefly looked up the home straight that he might take some pegging back, he could offer no resistance once headed under 2f out.
2026 Running P/L: +31.44 pts
Chestnut Palace ran into third place without threatening to catch the first two, and would appear to need a longer trip on this evidence.
As for Sayonara, he won the dash to lead but was plenty keen enough having done so and, having briefly looked up the home straight that he might take some pegging back, he could offer no resistance once headed under 2f out.
2026 Running P/L: +31.44 pts
Indeed, Rico. The thread was +67 at the end of March so it's looking like all-weather has been kinder than the turf, but still plenty of time for that to change 
Soca Star, 1pt EW @ 22-1, 1.31 Leicester
Redredrobin, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 3.58 Brighton
Stapleford Park, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 4.33 Brighton
Redredrobin, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 3.58 Brighton
Stapleford Park, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 4.33 Brighton
Soca Star
Soca Star is a fourteen-race maiden who has been weak in the betting so far today, but she has made the frame for each-way purposes on five occasions, and her latest effort when finishing third at Thirsk (7f, good) can probably be marked up considering she fared best of those ridden prominently, whereas the in-form Hamatoto and Kody B (who won his next on the all-weather) ended up dropping away. The winner was well-backed on his stable debut and had Jake Dickson taking off a valuable 5lb, and both he and the second challenged away from the far rail, which might have been an advantage.
The selection has been eased 2lb and while this apprentice handicap is an ease in grade for her, it admittedly doesn't look any easier with other class droppers in opposition too. Her lowish draw is usually not a bad thing on the straight course at Leicester but being drawn high was no disadvantage at the last meeting here on September 21st, so it remains to be seen how that pans out.
Soca Star is a fourteen-race maiden who has been weak in the betting so far today, but she has made the frame for each-way purposes on five occasions, and her latest effort when finishing third at Thirsk (7f, good) can probably be marked up considering she fared best of those ridden prominently, whereas the in-form Hamatoto and Kody B (who won his next on the all-weather) ended up dropping away. The winner was well-backed on his stable debut and had Jake Dickson taking off a valuable 5lb, and both he and the second challenged away from the far rail, which might have been an advantage.
The selection has been eased 2lb and while this apprentice handicap is an ease in grade for her, it admittedly doesn't look any easier with other class droppers in opposition too. Her lowish draw is usually not a bad thing on the straight course at Leicester but being drawn high was no disadvantage at the last meeting here on September 21st, so it remains to be seen how that pans out.
Redredrobin
Redredrobin has been a selection a couple of times on the thread on the back of a C&D effort in August when I wrote:
Redredrobin probably needed her first three runs back this year following a ten-month break, but ran a lot better at Brighton (7f, g-f) two starts back in first-time cheekpieces when pulling clear with one who came good for James Owen at the fifth attempt following a stable-switch. Redredrobin's effort can probably be marked up given she disputed the lead into a headwind in a contest where the other principals got cover. The fifth has won subsequently.
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Redredrobin made the frame at Epsom under conditions that probably aren't her optimum, and has to be of interest back here at the prices, though it has to be said, after that Epsom run she was sold for 1,500 gns and the stable debut at Wolverhampton (9.5f) was a shocker, dropping out to finish last of ten, but it was over a trip she probably doesn't stay and had raced wide.
It remains to be seen which way she goes for her new yard but a chance is taken back over a C&D where she has a record of 3 seconds from four starts, with a visor applied for the first time.
Redredrobin has been a selection a couple of times on the thread on the back of a C&D effort in August when I wrote:
Redredrobin probably needed her first three runs back this year following a ten-month break, but ran a lot better at Brighton (7f, g-f) two starts back in first-time cheekpieces when pulling clear with one who came good for James Owen at the fifth attempt following a stable-switch. Redredrobin's effort can probably be marked up given she disputed the lead into a headwind in a contest where the other principals got cover. The fifth has won subsequently.
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Redredrobin made the frame at Epsom under conditions that probably aren't her optimum, and has to be of interest back here at the prices, though it has to be said, after that Epsom run she was sold for 1,500 gns and the stable debut at Wolverhampton (9.5f) was a shocker, dropping out to finish last of ten, but it was over a trip she probably doesn't stay and had raced wide.
It remains to be seen which way she goes for her new yard but a chance is taken back over a C&D where she has a record of 3 seconds from four starts, with a visor applied for the first time.
Stapleford Park
Stapleford Park was a selection last week at Brighton over the 5.5f trip when I wrote:
Stapleford Park probably ran better than his finishing position of 6th of 8 suggested last time at Bath (5f, good) for two reasons, having perhaps not been on the best part of the track and not got the clearest of runs either. Call Time, who finished one place ahead of him having taken a similar route, has won twice since.
He does seem more effective with a bit of give in the ground so today's quicker ground is a concern, but he seemed to run okay over C&D on good to firm on his return from a break in August off a 5lb higher mark, when he had one of today's rivals Dreambird Dolly in behind. He's eligible for weaker races than this one and he could get caught on the outer from a tricky draw, but I'm going to take a chance at a big price as he shaped as though he was in form last time.
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He failed to get competitive then and the same concerns remain that the combination of the track and ground won't be ideal, however, the extra yardage may help, there has reportedly been a heavy dew at the track this morning and it has been a misty start, so I'm hoping there will be enough juice in the ground to enable him to be competitive.
Stapleford Park was a selection last week at Brighton over the 5.5f trip when I wrote:
Stapleford Park probably ran better than his finishing position of 6th of 8 suggested last time at Bath (5f, good) for two reasons, having perhaps not been on the best part of the track and not got the clearest of runs either. Call Time, who finished one place ahead of him having taken a similar route, has won twice since.
He does seem more effective with a bit of give in the ground so today's quicker ground is a concern, but he seemed to run okay over C&D on good to firm on his return from a break in August off a 5lb higher mark, when he had one of today's rivals Dreambird Dolly in behind. He's eligible for weaker races than this one and he could get caught on the outer from a tricky draw, but I'm going to take a chance at a big price as he shaped as though he was in form last time.
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He failed to get competitive then and the same concerns remain that the combination of the track and ground won't be ideal, however, the extra yardage may help, there has reportedly been a heavy dew at the track this morning and it has been a misty start, so I'm hoping there will be enough juice in the ground to enable him to be competitive.
West Tyrone, 1pt EW @ 12-1, 1.45 Ayr (4 PLACES)
Big Fun, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 3.30 Ayr (4 PLACES)
Big Fun, 1pt EW @ 33-1, 3.30 Ayr (4 PLACES)
West Tyrone
West Tyrone didn't appear to take to Chester last time when a beaten favourite, but prior to that he'd been running well for his current yard, in June when one of three to pull clear at Carlisle (11f, good to soft, soft in places) from a subsequent dual winner, form that ties him in closely with Nuetralia, who also won subsequently; and then when winning over C&D in August when he had today's current favourite Motawaared less than 2L behind him in fourth.
The selection needs to bounce back from that lesser effort last time but looks worth chancing at the odds given he hasn't had many chances for Lizzie Quinlan, and his previous form leaves him closely matched with a couple of rivals who are shorter in the betting than he is. He clearly copes well with give in the ground though does need to prove himself on today's forecast more testing ground.
West Tyrone didn't appear to take to Chester last time when a beaten favourite, but prior to that he'd been running well for his current yard, in June when one of three to pull clear at Carlisle (11f, good to soft, soft in places) from a subsequent dual winner, form that ties him in closely with Nuetralia, who also won subsequently; and then when winning over C&D in August when he had today's current favourite Motawaared less than 2L behind him in fourth.
The selection needs to bounce back from that lesser effort last time but looks worth chancing at the odds given he hasn't had many chances for Lizzie Quinlan, and his previous form leaves him closely matched with a couple of rivals who are shorter in the betting than he is. He clearly copes well with give in the ground though does need to prove himself on today's forecast more testing ground.
Big Fun
Big Fun has drifted right out in the betting this morning, and this 3YO doesn't face an easy task against mainly older opposition on testing going, however, I'm interested to see how he copes with the ground, which admittedly will be a lot more demanding than anything he has faced before, particularly as he hasn't raced over 6f since his first two juvenile starts, when he finished runner-up at both Pontefract (g-f) and Hamilton (g-s, beaten at odds-on).
The selection kicked off his season with a respectable 4th of 14 at Thirsk (5f, good) in April in a race that worked out well, and following two lesser efforts he's been in better form the last twice, finishing second at Chester on good to soft having been nibbled at in the betting, when he would have got closer to the all-the-way winner with a clearer passage, and last time when finishing 4th of 10 (5f, good) in a competitive handicap at the St Leger meeting.
The fact he was supported in the betting at Chester when the ground was on the easy side of good, but was pulled out of his latest intended start at Pontefract when the ground was good and drying out, could suggest connections believe that he ideally does want some give in the ground, whether he wants it as deep as it is forecast to be today remains to be seen, but a chance is taken at the odds, with him looking fairly handicapped on the pick of his form this season.
Big Fun has drifted right out in the betting this morning, and this 3YO doesn't face an easy task against mainly older opposition on testing going, however, I'm interested to see how he copes with the ground, which admittedly will be a lot more demanding than anything he has faced before, particularly as he hasn't raced over 6f since his first two juvenile starts, when he finished runner-up at both Pontefract (g-f) and Hamilton (g-s, beaten at odds-on).
The selection kicked off his season with a respectable 4th of 14 at Thirsk (5f, good) in April in a race that worked out well, and following two lesser efforts he's been in better form the last twice, finishing second at Chester on good to soft having been nibbled at in the betting, when he would have got closer to the all-the-way winner with a clearer passage, and last time when finishing 4th of 10 (5f, good) in a competitive handicap at the St Leger meeting.
The fact he was supported in the betting at Chester when the ground was on the easy side of good, but was pulled out of his latest intended start at Pontefract when the ground was good and drying out, could suggest connections believe that he ideally does want some give in the ground, whether he wants it as deep as it is forecast to be today remains to be seen, but a chance is taken at the odds, with him looking fairly handicapped on the pick of his form this season.
Lake Muritz, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 3.50 York
Booyea, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 7.00 Dundalk (4 PLACES)
Colugo, 1pt EW @ 28-1, 7.30 Dundalk (4 PLACES)
Booyea, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 7.00 Dundalk (4 PLACES)
Colugo, 1pt EW @ 28-1, 7.30 Dundalk (4 PLACES)
Lake Muritz
I was hoping the ground might ease more than it has at York following the overnight rain but I'm still going to take a chance on Lake Muritz. It was on good to soft at Beverley (5f) in June that she won and pulled clear with one other, and that rival appeared to show improved form when she got the chance to race on easy ground again by finishing a keeping-on 5th of 11 in a 5f York Listed race against mainly male opposition, following which her mark was raised to 87. Lake Muritz is currently rated 75, having been eased 3lb from her initial mark.
Lake Muritz didn't build on that effort when sent to York twice (6f Listed then 5f class 3 novice) but on quicker ground, following which she was then absent for four months. She returned to action at Pontefract (6f, good) with a satisfactory effort in a nursery when although finishing last of the five runners, she didn't shape too badly considering the run might have been needed and would have finished a bit closer with a clearer run at a crucial stage.
It may be she ideally needs a stiffer test but a chance is taken at the odds now she has the chance to race on (hopefully) easier ground again.
I was hoping the ground might ease more than it has at York following the overnight rain but I'm still going to take a chance on Lake Muritz. It was on good to soft at Beverley (5f) in June that she won and pulled clear with one other, and that rival appeared to show improved form when she got the chance to race on easy ground again by finishing a keeping-on 5th of 11 in a 5f York Listed race against mainly male opposition, following which her mark was raised to 87. Lake Muritz is currently rated 75, having been eased 3lb from her initial mark.
Lake Muritz didn't build on that effort when sent to York twice (6f Listed then 5f class 3 novice) but on quicker ground, following which she was then absent for four months. She returned to action at Pontefract (6f, good) with a satisfactory effort in a nursery when although finishing last of the five runners, she didn't shape too badly considering the run might have been needed and would have finished a bit closer with a clearer run at a crucial stage.
It may be she ideally needs a stiffer test but a chance is taken at the odds now she has the chance to race on (hopefully) easier ground again.
Booyea
Booyea appears to have gone off the boil the last twice over 7f, perhaps the positive effect the blinkers were having worn off and they are now removed. He hasn't won since the summer of 2024 but he posted some good efforts in defeat this summer at the Curragh in premier handicaps over a mile, finishing second to the subsequent Cambridgeshire winner Pierre Royal in June when the blinkers were first applied, and again when just behind that rival in August when they finished third and fourth, albeit unable to match for the first two who have both subsequently been Listed-placed.
Booyea has a belated first try on the all-weather this evening, but as he can be a strong-travelling sort when in form he could take to it, and the return to a mile looks a positive, so while there has to be a question mark over whether he will repeat his summer Curragh form here, he's looking fairly handicapped if he can.
Booyea appears to have gone off the boil the last twice over 7f, perhaps the positive effect the blinkers were having worn off and they are now removed. He hasn't won since the summer of 2024 but he posted some good efforts in defeat this summer at the Curragh in premier handicaps over a mile, finishing second to the subsequent Cambridgeshire winner Pierre Royal in June when the blinkers were first applied, and again when just behind that rival in August when they finished third and fourth, albeit unable to match for the first two who have both subsequently been Listed-placed.
Booyea has a belated first try on the all-weather this evening, but as he can be a strong-travelling sort when in form he could take to it, and the return to a mile looks a positive, so while there has to be a question mark over whether he will repeat his summer Curragh form here, he's looking fairly handicapped if he can.
Colugo
Colugo is a risky proposition as she can pull her chance away, however, her record at this track reads 2434463339 and includes finishing third off higher marks on both attempts last AW season over tonight's trip of 10.5f. She faded out of it over the mile trip here last time having done too much too soon, but hopefully the hood being reapplied can help her setter better this evening.
Colugo is a risky proposition as she can pull her chance away, however, her record at this track reads 2434463339 and includes finishing third off higher marks on both attempts last AW season over tonight's trip of 10.5f. She faded out of it over the mile trip here last time having done too much too soon, but hopefully the hood being reapplied can help her setter better this evening.
Yes Virgin, she was only beaten a length by a winner, but not even in the first four.
Colugo was her usual headstrong self, soon circling the field to get to the front, but then virtually stopped to nothing up the home straight.
As for Booyea:
The Raceday Stewards granted a request from Thomas Gibney, trainer of Booyea, for an additional ten minutes to present his charge for identification by an IHRB Official in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90(i). Subsequently, Booyea failed to present on time and was withdrawn by Order of the Raceday Stewards.
2026 Running P/L: +19.44 pts
Colugo was her usual headstrong self, soon circling the field to get to the front, but then virtually stopped to nothing up the home straight.
As for Booyea:
The Raceday Stewards granted a request from Thomas Gibney, trainer of Booyea, for an additional ten minutes to present his charge for identification by an IHRB Official in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90(i). Subsequently, Booyea failed to present on time and was withdrawn by Order of the Raceday Stewards.
2026 Running P/L: +19.44 pts
Wild Bessie, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 3.05 Naas (4 PLACES)
Balmacara, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.42 Goodwood (4 PLACES)
Apercu, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 5.25 Naas (4 PLACES)
Balmacara, 1pt EW @ 40-1, 4.42 Goodwood (4 PLACES)
Apercu, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 5.25 Naas (4 PLACES)
Wild Bessie
Wild Bessie was a selection last time when I wrote:
A speculative pick on Wild Bessie, who faces a tough task on official ratings in this Group 3 contest. She's of a little interest based on her reappearance C&D win on soft-heavy ground back in the spring when she defeated a 92-rated Ballydoyle filly, who had the benefit of a reappearance run behind her, and who subsequently comfortably won a Limerick maiden, before going on to finish runner-up in a Group 3 at Leopardstown, which has seen her rating rise to 102. The third also subsequently won a Limerick maiden, then finished runner-up in a handicap at the Galway festival (to one who is now rated 19lb higher after finishing second in Listed / Group 3 company), before winning a Navan handicap off a mark of 83.
The selection's effort in victory can probably be marked up given she had contested the pace into a headwind. She hasn't been up to Group 3 / Listed company in two starts since at the Curragh / Killarney over a mile, but each time on good ground, and interesting to see how she fares here on ground currently described as yielding, yielding to soft in places.
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If Wild Bessie does need soft / heavy ground to produce her best form then doubt the ground last time at Cork was ideal and won't want the ground to dry out too much here, but she's given another chance on ground that should be easier than anything she has encountered since her Cork win. She still does have her stamina for a mile to prove but being out of a Galileo mare would be encouraging in that regard, and a tongue-tie is applied for the first time.
Wild Bessie was a selection last time when I wrote:
A speculative pick on Wild Bessie, who faces a tough task on official ratings in this Group 3 contest. She's of a little interest based on her reappearance C&D win on soft-heavy ground back in the spring when she defeated a 92-rated Ballydoyle filly, who had the benefit of a reappearance run behind her, and who subsequently comfortably won a Limerick maiden, before going on to finish runner-up in a Group 3 at Leopardstown, which has seen her rating rise to 102. The third also subsequently won a Limerick maiden, then finished runner-up in a handicap at the Galway festival (to one who is now rated 19lb higher after finishing second in Listed / Group 3 company), before winning a Navan handicap off a mark of 83.
The selection's effort in victory can probably be marked up given she had contested the pace into a headwind. She hasn't been up to Group 3 / Listed company in two starts since at the Curragh / Killarney over a mile, but each time on good ground, and interesting to see how she fares here on ground currently described as yielding, yielding to soft in places.
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If Wild Bessie does need soft / heavy ground to produce her best form then doubt the ground last time at Cork was ideal and won't want the ground to dry out too much here, but she's given another chance on ground that should be easier than anything she has encountered since her Cork win. She still does have her stamina for a mile to prove but being out of a Galileo mare would be encouraging in that regard, and a tongue-tie is applied for the first time.
Balmacara
Balmacara hasn't been up to Group 3 / Listed company the last twice following a two-month break, but he's of a little interest here at a big price back into handicap company having not been disgraced the last time he contested a handicap at Sandown (1m, g-f) in June, when in that valuable class 2 contest, from the widest stall, he went with plenty of enthusiam on the front-end until giving way over a furlong out on ground that was likely quick enough for him.
He might not want the ground to dry out too much and may have to work to get across from his draw in 9, but a chance is taken with him being off a 5lb lower mark back down in class.
Balmacara hasn't been up to Group 3 / Listed company the last twice following a two-month break, but he's of a little interest here at a big price back into handicap company having not been disgraced the last time he contested a handicap at Sandown (1m, g-f) in June, when in that valuable class 2 contest, from the widest stall, he went with plenty of enthusiam on the front-end until giving way over a furlong out on ground that was likely quick enough for him.
He might not want the ground to dry out too much and may have to work to get across from his draw in 9, but a chance is taken with him being off a 5lb lower mark back down in class.
Apercu
Apercu was a selection previously on the thread on the back of what looked a creditable effort on soft ground in the Ulster Oaks Fillies Handicap at Down Royal (10.5f) in June, when although she was beaten 6.5L by the winner Chica Guerrera, that filly subsequently finished second of 18 off a 12lb higher mark in a fillies' premier handicap at Leopardstown on Irish Champion Stakes day (and runs today in the 12f f&m Listed race on the card).
Apercu does have comparable form on better ground so it's hard to say that the surface has been the issue in three disappointing efforts since, but I'm going to give her another chance back on easier ground, running off a mark 5lb lower than for that Down Royal effort, with Reese Holohan taking off a further 5lb.
Apercu was a selection previously on the thread on the back of what looked a creditable effort on soft ground in the Ulster Oaks Fillies Handicap at Down Royal (10.5f) in June, when although she was beaten 6.5L by the winner Chica Guerrera, that filly subsequently finished second of 18 off a 12lb higher mark in a fillies' premier handicap at Leopardstown on Irish Champion Stakes day (and runs today in the 12f f&m Listed race on the card).
Apercu does have comparable form on better ground so it's hard to say that the surface has been the issue in three disappointing efforts since, but I'm going to give her another chance back on easier ground, running off a mark 5lb lower than for that Down Royal effort, with Reese Holohan taking off a further 5lb.
Balmacara briefly raised my hopes when he took a length or two out of the field over a furlong out on ground that ought to have suited but, rather disappointingly, it didn't long for him to be swamped.
2026 Running P/L: +13.44 pts
2026 Running P/L: +13.44 pts
Carmel Valley
Carmel Valley posted a couple of decent efforts in defeat at Ayr in July over one mile / 7f when encountering a decent surface, and although there were just the five runners in the latter contest, she set a decent pace and kept on well once headed to finish a length behind one who was completing a C&D hat-trick having plummeted in the weights.
She hasn't been in the same form in three starts since but two of the runs over 7f at Ayr came on easier ground, and in between at Musselburgh (7f, good) she found 0-80 company too strong for her.
This is her all-weather debut so has to prove herself on Tapeta, she's eligible for weaker races, and a slight concern that 7f on a stiff track may suit better than the mile this evening, but she's off a mark 5lb lower than for the second of those two good Ayr efforts, and being a Raven's Pass / Dansili cross offers hope that she can win on synthetics.
Carmel Valley posted a couple of decent efforts in defeat at Ayr in July over one mile / 7f when encountering a decent surface, and although there were just the five runners in the latter contest, she set a decent pace and kept on well once headed to finish a length behind one who was completing a C&D hat-trick having plummeted in the weights.
She hasn't been in the same form in three starts since but two of the runs over 7f at Ayr came on easier ground, and in between at Musselburgh (7f, good) she found 0-80 company too strong for her.
This is her all-weather debut so has to prove herself on Tapeta, she's eligible for weaker races, and a slight concern that 7f on a stiff track may suit better than the mile this evening, but she's off a mark 5lb lower than for the second of those two good Ayr efforts, and being a Raven's Pass / Dansili cross offers hope that she can win on synthetics.
WD George.
A winner never quits and a quitter never wins
A winner never quits and a quitter never wins
Cheers all. A much-needed winner for the thread following a poor run of form.
2026 Running P/L: +39.84 pts
2026 Running P/L: +39.84 pts
Cheers toffee man
High Hazard, 1pt EW @ 20-1, 2.23 Pontefract (4 PLACES)
Changeofmind, 1pt EW @ 16-1, 4.55 Pontefract
Dublin Bay, 1pt EW @ 16-1, 5.15 Wolverhampton (4 PLACES)
High Hazard, 1pt EW @ 20-1, 2.23 Pontefract (4 PLACES)
Changeofmind, 1pt EW @ 16-1, 4.55 Pontefract
Dublin Bay, 1pt EW @ 16-1, 5.15 Wolverhampton (4 PLACES)
High Hazard
High Hazard has shaped on more than one occasion as though a stiff test at a mile may suit, notably twice at Beverley over 7.5f in the summer on his second and third starts when finishing behind useful colts from the Karl Burke yard.
He seemingly hasn't gone on since but he faced stiff tasks on his next two starts over 7f in class 2 nurseries at Glorious Goodwood and the York Ebor festival. He then came in for market support at Haydock over 7f in September when down in grade to a class 5 nursery on soft ground, when putting in his best work late on to finish 5th of 10 having been hampered at the start. Heavy ground at Chester (7f) was too much for him two starts back, but he shaped better last time when finishing 4th at Southwell, when once again shaping as though in need of a stiffer test.
It's possible he may ideally want a quicker surface but the Haydock run showed that he can act on soft ground, and he's now 9lb below his initial mark, so interesting to see how he fares now over what may be a more suitable test, provided he handles the ground.
High Hazard has shaped on more than one occasion as though a stiff test at a mile may suit, notably twice at Beverley over 7.5f in the summer on his second and third starts when finishing behind useful colts from the Karl Burke yard.
He seemingly hasn't gone on since but he faced stiff tasks on his next two starts over 7f in class 2 nurseries at Glorious Goodwood and the York Ebor festival. He then came in for market support at Haydock over 7f in September when down in grade to a class 5 nursery on soft ground, when putting in his best work late on to finish 5th of 10 having been hampered at the start. Heavy ground at Chester (7f) was too much for him two starts back, but he shaped better last time when finishing 4th at Southwell, when once again shaping as though in need of a stiffer test.
It's possible he may ideally want a quicker surface but the Haydock run showed that he can act on soft ground, and he's now 9lb below his initial mark, so interesting to see how he fares now over what may be a more suitable test, provided he handles the ground.
Changeofmind
Changeofmind is effectively 8lb higher than for his C&D win on good to soft in May as he's 5lb higher today and Zak Wheatley no longer has his 3lb claim, but that was just his second try here having also run well over C&D last autumn on his final start of 2025. He showed he can still be competitive off higher marks when just being denied at Newcastle in August, before finishing a respectable third off a 2lb higher mark than today's at Haydock (5f, heavy) last month.
His last two runs have been disappointing but the ground might not have been ideal at the St Leger meeting, and last time at Hamilton on soft ground that ought to have suited, he raced towards the stands' side on a day when that might not have been ideal. The recent rain is a positive for his chance and hopefully he can give another good account at this course.
Changeofmind is effectively 8lb higher than for his C&D win on good to soft in May as he's 5lb higher today and Zak Wheatley no longer has his 3lb claim, but that was just his second try here having also run well over C&D last autumn on his final start of 2025. He showed he can still be competitive off higher marks when just being denied at Newcastle in August, before finishing a respectable third off a 2lb higher mark than today's at Haydock (5f, heavy) last month.
His last two runs have been disappointing but the ground might not have been ideal at the St Leger meeting, and last time at Hamilton on soft ground that ought to have suited, he raced towards the stands' side on a day when that might not have been ideal. The recent rain is a positive for his chance and hopefully he can give another good account at this course.
Dublin Bay
Dublin Bay made it 2-2 over C&D in May when bolting up by 7L, all the remarkable given he'd been about 8-wide into the first turn from a tricky draw, and the 10lb rise he got for that looked fully justified.
He was then absent for three months and ran okay on his return to action at both Southwell and then Chester, but failed to make it 3-3 here last time when dropping away to finish last of the fourteen runners, however, that race didn't pan out well for him from a wide draw. The selection has a better draw this time and has been eased a pound in the ratings.
Dublin Bay made it 2-2 over C&D in May when bolting up by 7L, all the remarkable given he'd been about 8-wide into the first turn from a tricky draw, and the 10lb rise he got for that looked fully justified.
He was then absent for three months and ran okay on his return to action at both Southwell and then Chester, but failed to make it 3-3 here last time when dropping away to finish last of the fourteen runners, however, that race didn't pan out well for him from a wide draw. The selection has a better draw this time and has been eased a pound in the ratings.
Ta Virgin.
A poor day otherwise...
I was worried about the ground for High Hazard, especially after it was changed to heavy after race 1, and he was unable to hold his position from some way out.
The ground was fine for Changeofmind but being the slowest away wasn't, and he could only keep on into a never threatening fifth.
2026 Running P/L: +38.04 pts
A poor day otherwise...
I was worried about the ground for High Hazard, especially after it was changed to heavy after race 1, and he was unable to hold his position from some way out.
The ground was fine for Changeofmind but being the slowest away wasn't, and he could only keep on into a never threatening fifth.
2026 Running P/L: +38.04 pts
Princess Honey Bee, 1pt EW @ 12-1, 6.30 Newcastle (4 PLACES)
Princess Honey Bee
Princess Honey Bee was a selection last time at Yarmouth over 11.5f when I wrote:
Princess Honey Bee is a risky one because there is a stamina question to answer upped 3.5f in trip to 11.5f, however, she's of interest from a handicapping perspective now she contests her first handicap based on a run at Ripon (one mile, g-f) fillies' novice in July when she finished runner-up to a Karl Burke-trained odds-on debutante, who has since followed up under a penalty on the all-weather against a Crisford-trained colt, who himself has since won a maiden race, albeit at very short odds.
Back in third place at Ripon was a Haggas-trained filly rated 75, who finished nearly four lengths behind Princess Honey Bee, who at that point was rated 67, so the mark of the selection could have taken a hit, but she only went up 2lb, while the Haggas-trained filly was dropped 5lb, and she won a handicap on her next start off that revised mark.
The selection failed to justify odds-on favouritism at Windsor (one-mile, g-f) last month but not sure that race panned out well for her, and she has since shed her maiden tag in a fillies' novice contest at Lingfield (AW), following which her mark was nudged up to 70.
Regarding stamina, her dam, a half-sister to a 10f winner, won a 7.5f soft ground novice at Beverley as a juvenile, but was untried over further having not been raced as a older horse.
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Princess Honey Bee didn't settle in that 0-80 contest over the longer trip at Yarmouth and could make no impression. She's back in trip to a mile this evening and down in grade to 0-70 company. Her mark of 69 looks a workable one based on the pick of her form in novice races, so hopefully can give a good account on just her second handicap start if as effective on Tapeta.
Princess Honey Bee was a selection last time at Yarmouth over 11.5f when I wrote:
Princess Honey Bee is a risky one because there is a stamina question to answer upped 3.5f in trip to 11.5f, however, she's of interest from a handicapping perspective now she contests her first handicap based on a run at Ripon (one mile, g-f) fillies' novice in July when she finished runner-up to a Karl Burke-trained odds-on debutante, who has since followed up under a penalty on the all-weather against a Crisford-trained colt, who himself has since won a maiden race, albeit at very short odds.
Back in third place at Ripon was a Haggas-trained filly rated 75, who finished nearly four lengths behind Princess Honey Bee, who at that point was rated 67, so the mark of the selection could have taken a hit, but she only went up 2lb, while the Haggas-trained filly was dropped 5lb, and she won a handicap on her next start off that revised mark.
The selection failed to justify odds-on favouritism at Windsor (one-mile, g-f) last month but not sure that race panned out well for her, and she has since shed her maiden tag in a fillies' novice contest at Lingfield (AW), following which her mark was nudged up to 70.
Regarding stamina, her dam, a half-sister to a 10f winner, won a 7.5f soft ground novice at Beverley as a juvenile, but was untried over further having not been raced as a older horse.
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Princess Honey Bee didn't settle in that 0-80 contest over the longer trip at Yarmouth and could make no impression. She's back in trip to a mile this evening and down in grade to 0-70 company. Her mark of 69 looks a workable one based on the pick of her form in novice races, so hopefully can give a good account on just her second handicap start if as effective on Tapeta.
2026 Running P/L: +36.04 pts
Chestnut Palace, 1pt EW @ 7-1, 5.04 Navan (6 PLACES)
Whiskey Bent, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 5.20 Newmarket (5 PLACES)
Chestnut Palace, 1pt EW @ 7-1, 5.04 Navan (6 PLACES)
Whiskey Bent, 1pt EW @ 10-1, 5.20 Newmarket (5 PLACES)
Chestnut Palace
Chestnut Palace was a selection last time when finishing third at Killarney (11f, soft), when I wrote:
Chestnut Palace was having only her second try at 12f at Limerick (g-y) in June, and first in cheekieces, when she seemed to do well to finish fourth of the 16 runners having endured a tough trip from a wide draw, albeit beaten 6L. The third has won twice subsequently, while the first two have run well in defeat on occasions to make the frame.
The selection was absent for over three months after, returning to action over a mile at Punchestown (good) last month, where she ran okay to finish 5th of 14 runners in first-time blinkers, which are retained today.
She's off a mark 3lb lower than for that penultimate effort with Nicola Burns taking off a further 5lb, and the return to further looks a positive.
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Just to corect an error in that write-up, Nicola Burns claimed 2lb in that apprentice handicap, not 5lb. The selection is a further 2lb lower today with Ben Coen taking over in the plate, and she's selected again with this step up in trip to 14f looking worth a try.
Chestnut Palace was a selection last time when finishing third at Killarney (11f, soft), when I wrote:
Chestnut Palace was having only her second try at 12f at Limerick (g-y) in June, and first in cheekieces, when she seemed to do well to finish fourth of the 16 runners having endured a tough trip from a wide draw, albeit beaten 6L. The third has won twice subsequently, while the first two have run well in defeat on occasions to make the frame.
The selection was absent for over three months after, returning to action over a mile at Punchestown (good) last month, where she ran okay to finish 5th of 14 runners in first-time blinkers, which are retained today.
She's off a mark 3lb lower than for that penultimate effort with Nicola Burns taking off a further 5lb, and the return to further looks a positive.
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Just to corect an error in that write-up, Nicola Burns claimed 2lb in that apprentice handicap, not 5lb. The selection is a further 2lb lower today with Ben Coen taking over in the plate, and she's selected again with this step up in trip to 14f looking worth a try.
Whiskey Bent
Whiskey Bent is of a little interest at the prices based on his penultimate run at Sandown (one mile, g-s), form that ties him in closely with the current favourite Cliniican, whom he meets on 2lb better terms having finished about a length behind when they finished second and fourth in what admittedly was a bunch finish between five rivals, so the form may not be the most reliable.
They're both back in trip to 7f here and Clinician is understandably the more favoured by the market having not had the clearest of runs from off the pace before being narrowly denied, but the selection, who had won over 7f (heavy) in France on his second start, travelled well, if a little too keenly through the contest at Sandown so should be fine back in trip.
He's since finished well held in a Listed race in Germany (one mile, good), but this looks more realistic and he won't mind if there is any further rain.
Whiskey Bent is of a little interest at the prices based on his penultimate run at Sandown (one mile, g-s), form that ties him in closely with the current favourite Cliniican, whom he meets on 2lb better terms having finished about a length behind when they finished second and fourth in what admittedly was a bunch finish between five rivals, so the form may not be the most reliable.
They're both back in trip to 7f here and Clinician is understandably the more favoured by the market having not had the clearest of runs from off the pace before being narrowly denied, but the selection, who had won over 7f (heavy) in France on his second start, travelled well, if a little too keenly through the contest at Sandown so should be fine back in trip.
He's since finished well held in a Listed race in Germany (one mile, good), but this looks more realistic and he won't mind if there is any further rain.
2026 Running P/L: +32.04 pts
Rodoya, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 5.30 Southwell (4 PLACES)
Rodoya, 1pt EW @ 25-1, 5.30 Southwell (4 PLACES)
Rodoya
Rodoya, a 12f winner in France on good to soft, has yet to make the frame in five starts since joining the Camacho yard, and her mark is down to 67 from an initial rating of 82, however, following an eight-month break there have been some encouraging signs the last twice at Newcastle (10f then 12.5f) having perhaps not had the most efficient of trips, notably last time when she raced close-up on a decent gallop in a contest that set up for the closers, before being short of room inside the final furlong and fading to to be beaten 7L into fifth.
This is a slightly higher grade, she could do with settling better than she did last time having become a bit lit up after a couple of furlongs, and has to prove her effectiveness at this track now down in trip, but a chance is taken at the prices as an improved effort may be in the offing now she has had time to acclimatise.
Rodoya, a 12f winner in France on good to soft, has yet to make the frame in five starts since joining the Camacho yard, and her mark is down to 67 from an initial rating of 82, however, following an eight-month break there have been some encouraging signs the last twice at Newcastle (10f then 12.5f) having perhaps not had the most efficient of trips, notably last time when she raced close-up on a decent gallop in a contest that set up for the closers, before being short of room inside the final furlong and fading to to be beaten 7L into fifth.
This is a slightly higher grade, she could do with settling better than she did last time having become a bit lit up after a couple of furlongs, and has to prove her effectiveness at this track now down in trip, but a chance is taken at the prices as an improved effort may be in the offing now she has had time to acclimatise.
2026 Running P/L: +30.04 pts
Lake Muritz, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 1.35 Doncaster
Lake Muritz, 1pt EW @ 14-1, 1.35 Doncaster
Lake Muritz
Lake Muritz was a selection last time at York when I wrote:
I was hoping the ground might ease more than it has at York following the overnight rain but I'm still going to take a chance on Lake Muritz. It was on good to soft at Beverley (5f) in June that she won and pulled clear with one other, and that rival appeared to show improved form when she got the chance to race on easy ground again by finishing a keeping-on 5th of 11 in a 5f York Listed race against mainly male opposition, following which her mark was raised to 87. Lake Muritz is currently rated 75, having been eased 3lb from her initial mark.
Lake Muritz didn't build on that effort when sent to York twice (6f Listed then 5f class 3 novice) but on quicker ground, following which she was then absent for four months. She returned to action at Pontefract (6f, good) with a satisfactory effort in a nursery when although finishing last of the five runners, she didn't shape too badly considering the run might have been needed and would have finished a bit closer with a clearer run at a crucial stage.
It may be she ideally needs a stiffer test but a chance is taken at the odds now she has the chance to race on (hopefully) easier ground again.
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She was only beaten a length into fifth place last time at odds of 50-1 when perhaps a more even gallop would have suited. It remains to be seen how deep she wants the ground but her two best efforts have come when encountering give in the ground. I think she should be fine at 6f given how well she saw it out over 5f at Beverley, and would have finished closer over 6f at Pontefract but for meeting a bit of trouble at a crucial stage, when the run was likely needed back from a break.
Lake Muritz was a selection last time at York when I wrote:
I was hoping the ground might ease more than it has at York following the overnight rain but I'm still going to take a chance on Lake Muritz. It was on good to soft at Beverley (5f) in June that she won and pulled clear with one other, and that rival appeared to show improved form when she got the chance to race on easy ground again by finishing a keeping-on 5th of 11 in a 5f York Listed race against mainly male opposition, following which her mark was raised to 87. Lake Muritz is currently rated 75, having been eased 3lb from her initial mark.
Lake Muritz didn't build on that effort when sent to York twice (6f Listed then 5f class 3 novice) but on quicker ground, following which she was then absent for four months. She returned to action at Pontefract (6f, good) with a satisfactory effort in a nursery when although finishing last of the five runners, she didn't shape too badly considering the run might have been needed and would have finished a bit closer with a clearer run at a crucial stage.
It may be she ideally needs a stiffer test but a chance is taken at the odds now she has the chance to race on (hopefully) easier ground again.
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She was only beaten a length into fifth place last time at odds of 50-1 when perhaps a more even gallop would have suited. It remains to be seen how deep she wants the ground but her two best efforts have come when encountering give in the ground. I think she should be fine at 6f given how well she saw it out over 5f at Beverley, and would have finished closer over 6f at Pontefract but for meeting a bit of trouble at a crucial stage, when the run was likely needed back from a break.
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