TimeformBlog

Nottingham's feature race is an interesting minor event, in which Sarrsar and King Torus may be the pick at the weights, but the thriving Stevie Thunder (14:30) makes the most appeal. The Ian Williams-trained six year old has won twice this year, at Newmarket and Ripon, and has followed up with placed efforts in both the Cambridgeshire and a minor contest at Newmarket. He really is at the top of his game at the moment and will have no problems with the softer conditions so, with doubts surrounding his two main rivals in view of their lacklustre recent efforts, Stevie Thunder looks to have an excellent chance of sealing his third win of the campaign.

Smart Step's (15:05) career has taken off of late, looking a real mudlark when making it three wins from her last four starts last month at Haydock. With conditions once again in her favour, the Mark Johnston-trained filly looks more than capable of defying a further 6 lb rise in the weights today. She seemingly won with a little bit in hand on that latest occasion, beating Icy Blue by half a length, with the front pair gaining extra credit for pulling away from the field. Today's line up would arguably present a slightly easier task and, although she will have to be at her best once again to defy the further hike in the handicap, Smart Step looks the one to beat.

On the opposing side of the coin to Smart Step, Cut The Cackle (17:40) has not had the best of seasons since joining current trainer Richard Guest, but her third-placed effort behind Glastonberry over course and distance last month gave the first signs of encouragement, and her current mark gives her a tremendous chance this evening. Cut The Cackle's last win came at this track off a 16 lb higher mark than she races off now, leaving no doubt that she is incredibly well treated, and she should be able to take advantage if building on that latest effort.

Back Stevie Thunder @ 3.3 in the 14:30 at Nottingham
Back Smart Step @ 3.3 in the 15:05 at Nottingham
Back Cut the Cackle @ 5.5 in the 17:40 at Kempton

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