7.15 Newcastle: Class 4 Handicap, 7f

A highly competitive affair where half the field has a realistic chance to be in with a chance. That makes it a race difficult to assess for bookies and therefore there could be some wrong prices here. In my book the 14-16/1 available for My Amigo is certainly too big.

The five year old gelding has been running well- and better than the bare form suggested on a number of occasions this season – his first for the Burke yard. Nonetheless he has dropped down the weights to what is now a really dangerous mark.

He had only three starts on the All-Weather to date; a mile on AW debut was too far, however the imposing grey impressed when third in a hot race that works out well form wise the next time when dropped to 7f.

He followed up with another big performance, despite only finishing 7th. The second widest draw was no help over the 7f trip at Wolverhampton where a turn comes soon after the start, and My Amigo made life very difficult for himself when missing the kick.

He had a lot to do to catch up with the field, travelling wide for most parts of the race then and also turning widest for home, however finished the race well enough; at least on the clock.

Nonetheless the handicapper gives him a chance, taking another 2lb off. Given My Amigo ran – either on turf or AW – in his seven starts this season five times to RPR’s higher than his new mark off 73, means, with a top jockey booked, the only runner for the Burke yard on Friday has a serious chance to go close.

Selection: 
10pts win – My Amigo @ 16/1 Bet365