5.30 Wolverhampton: Class 4 Handicap, 7f

Even though this is a competitive race, I feel this could be the ideal opportunity for three-year-old Milbanke on his debut for the Ruth Carr yard.

The gelding caught the eye on his last two runs, then still in the care of Karl Burke; especially last time out, rated as a seriously strong performance in my book.

On his first attempt over 7 furlongs, he moved rapidly forward from his #8 draw, was a bit too excited and clearly did too much in the early part of the race. He attempted to kick on turning for home, and kept on running well to the line to hold on for second.

The form is strong. The winner went back-to-back, the 4th placed won subsequently too. Milbanke can run off the same mark today, which is a fair chance provided by the handicapper.

On pedigree the trip is a clear possibility, and the way he finished lto, not dramatically slowing in the closing stages, but rather gutsily racing all the way to the line, suggests he’ll get every yard of the 7 furlongs distance.

This is only his 7th career run, his 3rd on the All-Weather, and 2nd over 7 furlongs. He’s unexposed and offers upside in this field. Whether he truly has the class against this opposition is another matter. His speed ratings haven’t shown that yet.

But I give Milbanke the benefit of the doubt, given those two fine performances the last two runs. From his #1 draw he will be able to move forward. The likely fast pace should ensure he can settle. This looks the perfect opportunity.

10pts win – Milbanke @ 13/2