TimeformBlog

The five-furlong handicap at Thirsk looks a very competitive affair. Timeform run the rule ove the field...


Oldjoesaid got back to winning ways over this C&D in May, but below par since runner-up at Ayr in June and refitted blinkers need to perk him up (ran moderately only previous try).

Magical Macey narrowly cashed in on reduced mark on AW debut at Wolverhampton (5f) in April. Mixed bag since, though better than bare result over 6f here last time and one to consider back over optimum trip.

Red Cape belatedly got back to winning ways at Newcastle (5f) in July. Disappointing he was unable to build on that last time, though, and others more reliable these days.

Walvis Bay has been a mixed bag since landing a gamble at Ripon (5f) a year ago. Looked short of peak fitness in 2 starts this season, so 8-week break since last run a concern and stall 1 probably no help.

Invincible Lad hasn't gone on from promising third for new yard at Ripon in April, but easing in the weights as a result and didn't fare too badly on return from a break at Goodwood last time.

Nadeen improved when landing 5f Musselburgh handicap on reappearance in April. 3 lb lower now, but can't be supported with any confidence given his modest achievements since.

Mayoman wore headgear when winning 4 of 8 starts in 2010 (including over C&D). Gradually working way back to form, catching the eye after meeting trouble last time and visor back in place now.

Haajes landed big-field 5f handicap at York in October. More like old self for first time this year when second off this mark at Beverley recently and solid claims if continuing resurgence.

Mey Blossom is a hold-up handicapper who was better than ever when scoring 4 times in 2010 (including twice over C&D). Little to get excited about this time round, though, and not difficult to look elsewhere.

Go Go Green was back in good heart third time up for this yard when third at Ayr (5f) in June, but took a backward step at Hamilton later the same month and hard to know what to expect now.

Boogie Waltzer is a front runner who landed 5 sprint handicaps in 2010. Back to near best last 4 starts, blindfold removed late when fifth at Goodwood last month and possible he could be in the mix again.

Stratton Banker was back on the up returned to 5f when going in again at Kempton in January. Well below par over this C&D 4 months later and given another break since. Market often best guide with this yard.

Captain Scooby is a hold-up handicapper who won twice in 2010. Back to near best in cheekpieces when third at Beverley last month, but that aid quickly dispensed with now.


Timeform 1-2-3:

1. Haajes
2. Mayoman
3. Boogie Waltzer

Timeform View: Haajes has taken a while to find his feet this year, but is well treated as a result and shaped as if his winning turn wasn't far away when second at Beverley last week. Mayoman and Boogie Waltzer complete the shortlist.


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