Tag Archives: Wolverhampton

Betting

Monday Selections: 3rd February 2025

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It’s St Brigid’s Day, which marks the the beginning of spring, and I can certainly feel a spring in my step, knowing the days get longer, the sun is supposed to show itself more often from now on, and the flat season isn’t too far away, either.

It’s a low-key racing day in Ireland, where today is also a public holiday, as well as the usual stuff in the UK on a typical Monday during the winter months. But I’ve got some spare time on my hands and found two decent looking bets to try and make the day pay, nonetheless.

Looking 5km to the south from where I live, lies Punchestown. It’s not a card that gets me out of the door to get myself over there today, but the 4.10 Mares Handicap Hurdle appears to shape like an intriguing race.

In this race over 2m 7f it should pay dividends to be close to the pace, given more than half the field may not want to be to soon in front.

Slotty Dotty and Slim Marvel, currently first and second favourite in the betting, could be ideally placed, while No Fussing, who also features prominently in the market, could be left with a lot to do when it matters most.

Slotty Dotty, thanks to her recent course win, stares as the natural favourite. However, despite that commanding 7 lengths victory over 2m 6f, it was a poor race, and she has to define a 10lb hike in her mark also.

Slim Marvel in contrast drops into an easier race after a superb runner-up effort from out of the weights at Cork over todays trip, beaten behind a winner who was highly tried subsequently.

She won a maiden hurdle in July and was placed off 102 and 104 (107 effectively) and this is only her sixth handicap run, and the first time on this type of deep ground. She was placed in maiden hurdle on heavy going, though.

There could be improvement to come in these conditions over this trip, given ran well to the the line, jumped and travelled strongly, and was only beaten by a better quality of horse, that she is unlikely to meet today.

At about 5/1 on the exchanges I’ll take the punt that she gets home strongly today.

Over at Wolverhampton the lucky last 8.30 6f Handicap appeals from a pace point of view. Few want the lead here, which could add to the overall bias towards front-runners.

Nevernay is one who doesn’t mind to run from the front or race prominently, at the very least, and has ran his best races if allowed to stride on.

From the #6 draw he shouldn’t have too much trouble to move forward here. This 11-race maiden drops ever so slightly in class and has been given an opportunity by the handicapper as well, having dropped the gelding to 59.

He ran a huge race over 7f at this venue back in December, though doing too much during the mid-section of the race, and didn’t quite get home to finish 3rd, only 1.5l beaten in the end.

A poor showing at Southwell subsequently, was followed by an awkward effort three weeks ago at Southwell. He was seriously keen, and hard to keep in check by an inexperienced female rider. The race was lost in the first two furlongs. but as a consequence he can race officially in 0-60 off 59 now.

If Nevernay can find back the form he showed in December, he’ll be a big chance today off this mark. Adding to the intrigue is the headgear combination of hood and tongue tie.

The yard has had plenty of success with this type of headgear in the past, so if it can help him to settle, and he is up with the pace, he may not be stopping and hard to peg back.

Joanna Mason goes through a dry spell at the moment, but normally as good rides for the yard, so the booking adds more cautious optimism to the chances of this son of No Nay Never. There is some money coming this morning, so at 9’s he’s one I back.

Selections:
10pts win – Slim Marvel @ 5/1
10pts win – Nevernay @ 8/1

Eyecatchers

All-Weather Eyecatchers 24/25 #1

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Winter is coming… With that in mind I’m starting a fresh list of All-Weather eyecatchers for this new winter season.

All-Weather Eyecatchers is going to be a fortnightly updated list of horses that caught my eye during the recent weeks of racing on the sand. Find all previous eyecatchers always here.

……..

Ancient Times
10/10/24 – 8.30 Southwell:

Right up with the fast pace, being just about the quickest through the early part of the race. Fought gamely but eventually fell away in the final furlong in a hot race.

One who caught the eye a number of times in the past. Down to a career-lowest mark, with options to improve on the AW. First run since a small break and could be dangerous in 0-70 class.

Oso Rapido
10/10/24 – 6.00 Southwell:

Overcame the widest draw thanks to a rapid start, charging up wide to grab the lead just before the bend. For a long time in the race, a massive performance in a decent field.

Not as prolific on the sand as on turf, but didn’t have too many chances to show his best over his preferred 6f on AW. Clearly in decent form, ran some fine races this season, and will benefit from a drop in grade.

Dimsons
10/10/24 – 7.15 Chelmsford:

Very keen from the #8 draw, moved forward, pulling hard in the lead. Got badly tired in the closing stages but was in the mix for a while in a strong race. Did better than bare form suggest here on handicap debut.

Seemed to have improved since being gelded. A drop in grade could help, maybe some headgear, given he can be quite free. Still lightly raced, may also enjoy a drop in trip. There should be a bit of improvement in him once the penny drops.

Punk Poet
11/10/24 – 6.30 Dundalk:

Moved quickly forward from a wide draw to grab the lead, uncontested, but also did a lot to keep it that way. Travelled best into the home straight, before getting tired in the final furlong.

Huge run, following on from to decent prior runs, staring to take advantage of an ease in the mark. Dangerous off 73, if the handicapper is kind, next time over 7f or perhaps slightly better over a mile at Dundalk from a better draw.

Won last November off 78 over a mile here, and doesn’t look too far off that form, judged by this big performance, that also warranted a decent speed rating.

Little Empire
11/10/24 – 6.30 Dundalk:

Runner-up in the Punk Poet race – had to overcome the widest draw. Travelled wide through the first furlong, before making rapid progress to settle just behind the leader. Gutsy in the closing staged to grab second eventually.

Could have still a bit more to offer on this surface off this sort of mark given he was largely progressive all season. Had valid excuses (ground and reared in stalls) in his last two runs.

Achieved a career-best speed rating here and hopefully the handicapper won’t react too harshly, then he’s a proper chance over 7f with a better draw.

Tamrat
11/10/24 – 7.00 Dundalk:

Quickest through the first two furlongs in a fast race. Never let the tempo ease too much and was going pretty well from the front, where not much else got involved. Eventually just beaten by a seriously well handicapped winner.

Clearly improved from the application of blinkers, as evident last time already. The drop in trip helped also here. Ran a career-best speed rating, in line with his current rating, that suggests now that the trip has been found he could have a good deal more to offer off this current rating.

Princess Shabnam
12/10/24 – 7.20 Chelmsford:

Set way too hot early fractions and no surprise to see her fade away eventually. Strong run, nonetheless, confirming the excellent form the mare produced over the last weeks and months.

The Kempton 2nd in September is seriously strong form, especially the way she held on for so long, with the winner ridden with a lot more patience, as she achieved a 80 speed rating also.

Strong Johnson
17/10/24 – 6.30 Southwell:

Soon chased the leader having a perfect #2 draw but also did a lot in the first half of the race. Travelled quite well into the home straight and showed excellent attitude in the closing stages to keep going despite multiple challengers to hold on for 3rd place.

Appears quite well handicapped now, achieved a 70 speed rating here, matching his current mark. Showed a handful of decent performances this season without winning, but now a return to the sand should help if the handicapper is kind.

At his best over 5f but stays the additional furlong. Won last November over the minimum trip at Newcastle.

Bell Shot
17/10/24 – 6.45 Chelmsford:

Quickly into the lead, set seriously hot fractions, helped by the eventual winner who pushed it further. Fell apart in the second half but no shame behind the impressive winner.

Ran to some serious ratings this season and should be able to translate this to the sand as well now. Will benefit from a drop in class and eased mark soon. Would also be intriguing if dropped in trip.

Hedge Fund
17/10/24 – 7.45 Chelmsford:

Moved forward from wide draw to grab the lead. Did way too much early on yet travelled very strongly into the home straight, still ahead at the final furlong marker.

Surely ready to win soon, down to a career-lowest mark, especially in a slightly easier race (0-80). Possesses enough pace to win over minimum trip as well.

Pop Dancer
17/10/24 – 8.15 Chelmsford:

Rapidly moved forward to win the race for the lead in the first furlong, doing too much there and then. Ran an honest race to the lead for 3rd eventually.

Slowly drops in the mark, coinciding with two improving performances lately. Not the force of old but in this grade always dangerous from the front when he can dominate.

Guiteau
19/10/24 – 6.00 Wolverhampton:

Off to a decent start from #5 to chase a hot pace. Midway followed the leader closely with small gap to the main field. Headed leader 2f out, but soon beaten. Ran honest race to the line.

Could become intriguing soon with additional help from handicapper and possible drop in class on the cards. Ran 3x 66 speed ratings on turf this year, and ran to a fair 59 speed rating here as well, a career-best on sand.

Salamanca Lad
19/10/24 – 7.00 Wolverhampton:

Brave performance from the front and only ran down deep in the final furlong, with the winner coming from well off the pace.

Two huge runs prior as well. The Sandown form worked out well in the meantime, and he ran a career-best speed rating at Southwell when beaten in the dying strides.

Uncomplicated front-runner, starts well, and could still be a couple of pounds ahead in the right race. Probably doesn’t truly stay 10f, although always a chance if no pace pressure.

Betting

Tuesday Selections: 4th June 2024

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8.30 Wolverhampton: Class 6 Handicap, 6f

Eldeyaar can be a frustrating sort, only two wins on the sand, while seemingly catching the eye on multiple occasions throughout his career, this lad is difficult to catch. Saying that, today looks a prime chance to score.

The 5-year-old gelding ran a massive race last time out over this course and distance. He was caught wide thanks to his draw and moved forward in the fastest part of the race on the outside to get close to the leader.

He made a strong move from 3 furlongs out and only got caught late, deep inside the final furlong, by two horses staying on from off the pace.

The handicapper has let his grip go, and Eldeyaar can race off 51 today once again. Though, he drops down a bit in class, and should have too much class, so to speak, for his rivals in this 0-55 Handicap, with his form and wellbeing assured over a course and distance all his sand wins have come.

Top pilot Callum Rodriguez is in the saddle today, and a decent #5 draw should help him not getting caught wide this time. He’s usually quick into stride, so a good position chasing the pace should be where we see him settle and then hopefully run away with it in the home straight.

Quite a bit of money is on its way this morning. Of course I missed the boat, checking my trackers too late. Currently 7/2 looks a big enough price, still, though, in a poor contest.

10pts win – Eldeyaar @ 7/2

Betting

Sunday Selections: 28th April 2024

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15.30 Weatherby: Class 5 Handicap, 1m

The pace may not be the strongest, and that could help proven front-runner Crownthorpe to outrun his price. Not sure how many want to be truly up there in testing conditions, perhaps the favourite Harswell Duke, who’s got form, is one of those.

Obviously he’s one I like, as he was a recent eyecatcher, but at prices Crownthorpe is a much better bet. This is his third run off a break, and he ran with plenty of credit on sand the two times prior.

Especially his most recent effort was quite likeable, as he was at the front of proceedings for a long time. If fitness has improved, with the return to turf and a track possibly to suit on ground he won’t mind, the veteran could be hard to pass.

The last time seen on turf was about a year ago, at Beverley on good to soft over 8.5f and he was a gallant 2nd off 6lb higher than today, behind a well-handicapped winner.

He’s got a really strong record in these lower grades and this race represents another slight drop in class.

10pts win – Crownthorpe @ 11/1

……..

5.15 Wetherby: Class 6 Handicap, 1m 6f

Flowering caught the eye a number of times over the recent weeks, without winning, though. The filly ran with plenty of credit on the All-Weather, finishing second or third in her five runs on sand this year, prior to a return to turf last time out.

Her four most recent efforts have all caught my attention in no uncertain way, and they suggest the filly, albeit possibly appearing to find ways of losing and being in the grip of the handicapper, is ripe for a ‘W’.

Earlier this week once again she was somewhat unfortunate. At Beverley, down to 10 furlongs, Flowering clearly proved her suitability for soft ground – crucial today.

The filly has developed some issues at the gate, although this time, not advantaged by the #8 gate, she also stumbled, and as a consequence was bound to travel in rear.

Drawn in #3 today, with not too much pace in the race, I hope she can get toward the front sooner rather than later, as she ran her best races from a prominent position.

At Beverley, she made strong progress, going quite well, but had to delay her run when stuck in traffic and the winner was long gone when she got clear passage. She finished best of all in the deep ground, suggesting, the step up to 1m 6f isn’t out of question.

It’s certainly worth a try, a things happen a little less quick, and that could help her. She seems a relentless galloper, and the track will suit this style, as long as she’s in a prominent racing position.

If that’s the case, a mark of 58 could underestimate her in these conditions, what’s only her 3rd run on turf. The hot favourite beat her on the sand, but soft ground, 1m 6f, at Wetherby is a different story, possibly.

10pts win – Flowering @ 4/1

Betting

Wednesday Selections: 10th April 2024

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4.10 Wolverhampton: Class 6 Handicap, 1m 4f

The market is dominated by unexposed horses who may or may not be well-handicapped. It makes the pace scenario also potentially muddling.

I feel in this context of the unknown, the rather well-known Johnston filly is underestimated here, given she’s likely to run a solid standard and has excuses for a 0/7 record.

Flowering’s last two runs were seriously eye-catching, in fact. She made the list on her penultimate run over this course and distance when locked in a pace battle and doing way too much way too soon, as the finishing speed % also suggested.

I think she did well to finish as close as she did to a well-handicapped winner who also enjoyed the run of the race. The run confirmed the promise Flowering showed in her previous Handicap runs, in my view.

However, perhaps even stronger was the impression the filly gave last time over this CD once again. In a slowly run race she found herself in the worst position over 3 furlongs out and got badly hampered entering the final bend, which didn’t help her positioning.

She still finished the race strongly, coming home faster than the winner, despite not being fully ridden in the final half furlong.

Left on the same mark, she should be a strong chance dropping back to 0-60 here. Joe Fanning is back on board and given this yard often goes forward, I doubt they’ll make the same mistake again as last time out and utilise the #3 draw.

This could turn into a slowly run race too, and then Flowering will be in prime position, I hope. Whether 12 furlongs prove her best trip remains to be seen. But unless someone else moves forward and sets a testing gallop, which seems unlikely, she should find this a perfect test.

10pts win – Flowering @ 7/1

Betting

Monday Selections: 8th April 2024

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5.20 Newcastle: Class 6 Handicap, 7f

Sydney Bay caught the eye on his return from a break and wind op at this track over 6 furlongs last month.

He travelled off the pace on the outside off the pack, not getting the best of cover there. He seemed outpaced in this grade over this trip 3 furlongs out but also didn’t find the clearest passage before strolling home in eyecatching fashion in the final furlong.

That form looks rock solid and if he can improve for the run with his breathing fine, he should be here on Monday a big runner, for various reasons.

The 5-year-old gelding drops significantly in grade, down to 0-55 class, a race also restricted to horses without a win since the 2023 flat turf season. This is a poor contest, the fact a now 48 rated 10-year-old is one of fancied horses, says it all.

Sydney Bay is much more home on this lowly level, obviously. Saying that, down to a mark of 53, with the excellent help of 5lb claimer William Pyle, he’s probably quite well-handicapped here, if he stays the stiff 7 furlongs at Newcastle.

He won off 49 and 51 over 6 furlongs at this venue last October, and did well out of the weights off effectively 56 as a runner-up subsequently and achieved 51 and 52 speed ratings in those winning runs.

Moving up to 7 furlongs should suit, in theory. Ever since this horse came to my attention about two years ago, I thought he’d be much better if he moves to 7f, and possibly further. That hasn’t materialised, in reality, but he stayed on strongly over 6f at this stiff track, has the breeding and tried 6f+ outside maiden company only twice in his career.

Amaysmont and Crocodile Power look solid rivals in this field and both may also enjoy the run of the race toward the stands rail. I hope Sydney Bay will be ridden a bit more forward, though, tracking the pace a couple, as he showed in the past he’s suited to that (31/10/23, career-best performance).

10pts win – Sydney Bay @ 4/1

Eyecatchers

Flat Eyecatchers #2

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Flat Eyecatchers is a list of horses that caught my eye during the recent weeks of racing on turf and sand. Find all previous eyecatchers always here.

Porfin
19/03/24 – 7.30 Wolverhampton:

Quickly forward from the #8 draw to get to the lead upon entering the first turn. Set fast pace and always kept honest over a trip that stretches his stamina.

Has excuses for some of the last runs, either over too far or not quite an ideal run off marks possible close to what his truly is these days.

Will be highly competitive down to 6f in a race with good draw and suitable pace scenario in 0-55 class.

Sydney Bay
22/03/24 – 7.15 Newcastle:

Travelled off the pace and to the most part not well covered up. Appeared one-paced as the tempo picked up from 3f out. Although not quite the clearest of runs, had to switch and was tenderly handled after he found second wind from over 1f out for a brief moment.

Good return run from a wind operation. The run should put him spot on and give the horse confidence in his breathing, given how well he finished.

He’ll be down to a fair mark, especially if he drops back into 0-55. Ran a huge race off 56 in November and achieved solid speed ratings the two times prior when he went back to back wins.

Lilkian
22/03/24 – 3.45 Lingfield:

Stormed forward from wider than ideal draw. Did a lot in the early part and caught wide when locked in a battle for the lead. All the way going head to head in front and did well to stay up there for a long time.

Clearly hitting some form again, and additional help from handicapper can be expected. Loves it at Lingfield and Kempton over 6f.

Astral Beau
23/03/24 Doncaster – 1.20 Doncaster:

Led near side group. Quite keen in the first few furlongs. Did well to stay in front for as long as she did, always in the wind, whereas the winner was always nicely covered up. Ran home for solid second.

Had not often her preferred deep ground last year, but clearly best in proper soft conditions. Stays a mile, but perhaps a stiff 7f on deep ground is ideal.

Yet to run a really impressive speed rating given her Official Rating, but then she didn’t have too many opportunities in the right conditions. Hence one to keep an eye out, she should be capable to do so.

Grey’s Monument
23/03/24 Doncaster – 1.20 Doncaster:

Went left and bumped rival at the start. Quickly established a lead on the far side, made more than any other rival in the first two furlongs and had his head always right in the wind. Came under pressure 3f out and was a long way beaten, though did well to run home for 3rd.

Won Listed race when last seen in 2023. Gelded in the meantime. Two 90+ speed ratings achieved last season suggest he’s a proper horse and may be able to with some natural improvement for age see him develop into Group class.

Intriguing that blinkers were left off. Improvement came with it ever since first applied. If they are refitted, over a mile (also goes well over 7f) with some juice in the ground (best form good to soft), he’s one to back.

Harswell Duke + Lion Tower
23/03/24 – 2.25 Doncaster:

The two pace setter in the Spring Mile faded quite badly from two furlongs out but they were all the way through in the wind, especially Harswell Duke had to take most of it.

He won this race last year and has been in poor form ever since, although his September run at Southwell showed there is still something there. He’s not up to this level, but dropped to 72 now, he can race off a seriously nice mark wherever he goes next over a mile on proper soft ground.

Lion Tower has also fallen a long way in the mark. The handicapper has been a little less lenient, perhaps because he ran so well on his return at Newcastle back in February.

He’s got no chance to get home over a mile on soft ground. He’s not been expected in the betting in a while, too. Hence that February run is noteworthy. If he can find some decent ground, perhaps ideally over 7 furlongs, he’ll be dangerous soon.

One Night Thunder
23/03/24 – 3.35 Doncaster:

Quickly moved forward to lead the near side running right into the wind. Travelled quick well to 3f out when he kicked on and was in the mix until fading slowly from 2f out. Strong run in the circumstances.

Probably not quite good enough for this grade or his current mark, but will get help from handicapper, can move into lower grades and remains an intriguing type with low mileage and only 4 handicaps under his belt. Was an expensive £300k yearling.

Hasn’t fulfilled the promise yet but ran well as 3yo a couple of times suggesting he can win despite not having shown it on the clock yet. He had too few opportunities to properly shine. The dam did well as a 4-year old too. He may not mind a drop to 7f in soft conditions.

Parisiac
24/04/23 – 3.05 Doncaster:

Awkward start, cost early momentum but he quickly got into stride and marched forward to set fast pace locked in a pace battle. Did well to run well enough for long and showed nice attitude deep into the final furlong.

Was outclassed here. 5f with juice in the ground or 6f on practically any ground can work. Probably a flatter track for the 6f, something stiffer will see him to best effect over the minimum trip.

A consistent front-runner in the right grade. Ran 75 and 71 speed ratings last year and worth to wait for drop to class 5. Any help from the handicapper is a bonus.

The other early pace in this race, Blind Beggar is also one to note if he drops in class and mark in the next weeks.

Stressfree
24/04/24 – 3.40 Doncaster:

Travelled off the pace seriously well, going strongly approaching two furlongs out but had too much to do behind a winner who was seriously well handicapped and enjoyed the run of the race. Only over 2f out asked for full effort and the pace wasn’t overly hot.

Warrants an upgrade as he travelled and finished like a well-handicapped horse, and handicapper can’t be too harsh for a 1.5l defeat. Can be ridden further forward too.

Smart Family. Dam’s 5/9 offspring are stakes placed. Probably won’t enjoy fast ground. Best performance in this family with juice in the ground.

Birkenhead
25/04/24 – 7.30 Newcastle:

Set a decent gallop having to come somewhat across from the #2 draw. Kicked on and stayed inf nearly to the end. Only 1/4l beaten in the end. Super run. Clearly back in form.

Remains to be seen what the handicapper does. I’d be most interested see him on turf if he can find a dry day with fast ground, as unlikely that seems for the moment, worth to wait for.

A similar lowly race on the sand where the pace scenario is advantageous isn’t out of question, ideally not Newcastle.

Mums Tipple
27/04/24 – 7.00 Kempton:

Travelled in rear and not advantaged by that due to a slow pace. Eyecatching progress from over 3f out as he finished the final three furlongs fastest as well.

Strong run given the winner was much better positioned. Pulled hard in a slowly run race over 7f prior and was seriously unfortunate when held up from the widest draw and not getting in clear run while hard held.

He’s not done much on speed ratings for a while but I’d be intrigued to see him over 6 or 7f in a Listed event especially. He must be in serious form and should revert to more prominent tactics too.

Super Hit
28/03/24 – 7.30 Southwell:

Quickly forward, keen as he tracked the eventual leader. Was going alright and kicked on in the home straight. Hung badly 2f out but stuck gamely to the task and only beaten with half a furlong out.

Ran strong 69 speed rating but unlikely handicapper can be harsh for this run. Clearly has capabilities to be better than 71, nicely bred and improvement should come for stepping up to a mile, although 7f fine too, for now.

He needs to settle better and hopefully with experience this lightly raced colt can learn.

Berry Clever
28/03/24 – 7.30 Southwell:

Hampered soon after the start and couldn’t move closer to the pace as a result. Travelled well into the straight and made initially strong progress against the dreaded inside rail.

Tired from 1.5f out. Somewhat ‘unlucky’ in a couple of his runs as a juvenile. Should be capable of winning a race off his current mark. Interesting if he moves up to a mile as his breeding suggest more’s to come then. Ideally he could drop slightly in class to 0-65.

Digital
28/03/24 – 8.00 Southwell:

Moved keenly forward from the widest draw. Set a good pace that contributed to some good speed figures achieved in the race. Showed good attitude before getting really tired.

First run after a break and for a new yard. Ran to 71 and 70 speed ratings last season. Best over 5f. Good record on AW but also acts on turf and good record in the summer months.

Should get more help from handicapper and if he can drop into 0-75 with not much pace to compete could be too classy.

Eight Army + Old Chums
29/03/24 – 2.50 Chelmsford:

Widest draw and awkward away. Soon recovered and rushed forward. Lead as part of duo setting a seemingly rapid pace. Wasn’t able to keep it up. Seasonal reappearance.

Probably strong form, quite competitive race for this class. Ran well in hot races as a juvenile last autumn. Those races worked out rather well in the meantime.

Should be able to step up in trip and improve given his pedigree. Handicapper may drop him sufficiently and if he moves up into an easier race he’ll be of real interest.

Fellow pace setter Old Chums also stormed forward and it was impressive that he was able to keep going to finish second behind a well-handicapped winner.

He’s got experience and may reach his peak soon, but I feel there’s another win in him off his current mark in this grade over 6f but also may be able to stretch out to 7f. The dam won a Listed race over a mile and was highly prolific on both turf and the sand.

Magical Vision
30/03/24 – 4.40 Cork:

Travelled keenly in midfield early on, going well but stuck in a pocket behind the leaders and only inside the furlong got out. Looked bit awkward too but finished well.

Probably quite strong form. She was well backed too. Still low mileage. Ran some good ratings last year. A stiff finish brings out the best in her especially on soft ground.

Yosemite Valley
30/03/24 – 3.30 Cork:

Travelled quite well but was a bit in a pocket 1.5f out that meant at the most crucial stage he had to ever so slightly delay his run and get galvanized again for full effort. He finished strongly on his seasonal reappearance.

Career-best on speed ratings. Had some assignments last year but shaped with plenty of promise. Hang the race away on his final outing over 7f but he should be able to get home over that trip. Interesting on better ground too and should be able to win a Listed race.

Cavalier Approach
31/03/24 – 5.35 Southwell:

Part of the early pace before setting in third tracking closely. The pace was red hot and he was inevitably to fade but made strong headway from 3f out.

Excellent reappearance. Strong run when last seen at Newmarket, better than bare result. And excellent Hamilton win before. Maybe doesn’t like it quite heavy if he returns to turf. Loves stiff finishes.

If he could get some additional help from the handicapper he’ll be interesting in 0-70. Yet to fully convince on speed ratings but ran an 80 RPR at Hamilton. Usually quite consistent and up with the pace.

Eyecatchers

Flat Eyecatchers 2024 #1

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Flat Eyecatchers is a list of horses that caught my eye during the recent weeks of racing on turf and sand. Find all previous eyecatchers always here.

Flowering
04/03/24 – 6.00 Wolverhampton:

Tracked pace the setter early on, took him on in an uneconomical battle in the middle of the race. Tried to kick from 4f out but was already tired and eventually faded in the home straight.

Showed promise in two Handicaps prior. The form of all three runs this year appears solid and suggests she could be a bit better than the current mark, perhaps more so over 10 furlongs, given the twelve furlongs possibly stretch her stamina.

She’s lightly enough raced to believe there’s some improvement and races to be won in these lower grades.

Doctor Mozart
04/03/24 – 8.00 Wolverhampton:

In a pace battle throughout and doing too much too soon. First three home all came from further back. Showed good attitude keeping on.

Confirmed impression from 19/02 where he didn’t get the ideal trip. Badly hampered next time out in a hot race when up with strong pace once again. Down 1lb below last winning mark now. Seriously interesting in a race where the pace is a little bit less hot than encountered lately.

Kessaar Power
05/03/25 – 6.30 Southwell:

Reared in stalls, then pushed forward quickly to lead and setting a taxing gallop. Never stood a chance to get home over this trip but kept on well for 3rd. Decent speed rating over an inadequate trip.

Saying that 7f on the sand could suit on a different day, though. Down to good mark but may drop a bit further before competitive. This run a clear sign of wellbeing, though.

Watermelon Sugar
06/03 – 5.30 Kempton:

Held up from widest draw, travelling widest of all giving ground away while setting fastest sectionals from five to three furlongs out. Dropped badly away in the closing stages.

Showed enough enthusiasm to suggest he could get back to form at some point after a long break. Interesting for this yard/owners. No surprise to see a vastly improved horse in a couple of runs. The betting will provide clues.

Ran to 65 and 64 speed ratings in the past. Further help from the handicapper and an easier race on the AW will enhance his chances.

Bora Bora
06/03/24 – 6.00 Kempton:

Bit awkward away from the gate, tracked the pace rather keenly after the first furlong. Travelled well enough into the home straight but lacked the gears. Still finished with good attitude in hot contest.

Ran 68 speed rating, matching a surprise eye-catching 3rd place at big odds and 69 speed rating at Chelmsford before. On a good mark and may soon find an easier race over 6f but possibly is better suited to 7-8f as past form indicates. Clearly in form and well-handicapped.

Maybe one for early turf races too. Had limited opportunities there but yard in these colours when owned by Butler tends to do much better on turf too.

Chico Dulce
06/03/24 – 7.00 Kempton:

Made most of low draw to find a perfect spot on the rails, tracking the pace. Good progress between horses when slightly angled out over 2f out, before not able to match the pace of the first three. Ran good 53 speed rating in a hot race.

Will be able to drop into easier race now. Still low mileage and could be ahead of his mark over this sort of trip if dropped to 0-55. Noteworthy run lto too. Notably the change of tactics here too.

Walking In The Clouds
07/03/24 – 2.45 Lingfield:

Widest draw, moved forward and travelled always keen on the outside of the pack. Attempted to make an effort around the home bend but unsurprisingly tired badly.

Will come down to a good mark now. Ran to competitive speed ratings on the All-Weather last year. Best over 6f at Southwell, so one to keep an eye on for that.

Dream Together
07/03/24 – 8.00 Newcastle:

Grabbed the lead to set a somewhat muddling pace. Nonetheless showed an improved attitude and ability to quicken. Did well to stay in the mix for as long as he did.

This was a significant drop in class but also only 2nd run off a long break. Improved performance and he looks ready soon if back on turf. Although, needs fast ground.

Dandys Derriere
08/03/24 – 5.30 Newcastle:

Tracked pace racing more toward the far side. Off the bridle 2f out but kept going nicely without being completely hammered in the final furlong when it became clear a gallant 3rd was the best possible result.

Big run, matched handicap mark on speed ratings. Looks improved lately since wind op and break with four good runs under his belt.

Overall record wouldn’t suggest there’s more to come but this was a seriously deep race. If he finds a slightly easier race, quality wise or drop to 0-68, he could be good enough with a favoured pace scenario to win. Deserves a chance and could be underestimated.

Secret Road
08/03/24 – 5.30 Newcastle:

Dwelt, squeezed out soon after. Not in the best position 2f out. Switched and finished much the strongest in the final furlong. Achieved strong 63 speed rating, in line with current rating.

Down another pound since then, now on his last winning mark. Won in better class this winter over the CD. Looks ready for a big run and usually much closer ridden to the pace as well.

Novak
08/03/24 – 6.00 Newcastle:

Slowly away, in rear having plenty to do over 2f out before urged to move and responded seriously well in the last two furlongs without an overly hard ride.

Clearly returning back to form and on an intriguing mark. Struggles to win on the sand but the green lush grass isn’t far away and should be then in a position to be seriously competitive over 6-7f.

Hence, it’s best to ignore his subsequent start over 7f at Newcastle off 68 when last of ten after dwelling once again.

Not Forgotten
08/03/24 – 7.15 Dundalk:

Missed the break ever so slightly. Made up ground on the inside rapidly, though, but perhaps this early mishap cost him in a tight finish where he couldn’t quite find the kick needed to win in the final furlong.

He travelled smoothly into entering the home straight and this was a competitive heat. Still low mileage enough to believe he could find some improvement. Handicapper has left him untouched.

Same level of form will see him go close in these races in any case. Won quite taking this winter over course and distance as well.

Eccentric
09/03/24 – 6.40 Wolverhampton:

Soon led and set strong gallop. Clear by a couple of lengths. Was reeled in by stalker but fought gamely all the way to the line. Superb run and achieved a whopping 72 speed rating.

Clearly ahead of his mark as run 57 twice before. A mile seems the limit. Still a maiden but seems to finally get the hang of the game. May be too obvious and a short price next time.

Rock Opera
10/03/24 – 4.50 Southwell:

Widest draw, dropped in trailing in last place. Plenty do over 3f out but made superb progress from 4f out all the way to the final furlong, backed up visually any by sectionals, before stamina ran out.

Highly competitive race, over a trip likely too far. A drop to 6f will see him competitive. Any additional help from the handicapper that allows a slight ease in race class will be of benefit. Ran well all winter, including lto in strong 0-85. Won twice in easier races over 6f.

Not quite convinced on speed ratings yet but suspicion is in right conditions he can deliver.

Gobi Sunset
12/03/24 – 8.30 Southwell:

Widest draw, quickly moved forward and grabbed the lead, although always closely followed. Did a lot in the first half of the race and performance warrants upgrade staying in the mix for so long.

Winner was in superb form, which gives the form credibility. Down to last winning mark. Clearly in strong form.

Can go well on All-Weather right now but would be even more intriguing back on turf soon, on decent ground.

First three horses
13/03/24 – 5.20 Kempton:

Seriously interesting Novice Stakes. Strong speed ratings produced and first three home could turn out to be smart prospects to follow for the season, potentially.

The winner British Camp was green on his debut. Missed the break and was early enough off the bridle entering the home straight.

Three light backhanders, finished off nicely under light enough ride to win it on the line, with seemingly much more left in the tank.

Ran five furlongs of the final mile the fastest sectionals, including the final two furlongs, dipping easily under 12s. Very well bred, related to smart individuals. Should be capable of getting 1m 4f but a fast 10 furlongs should also suit.

Runner-up Imperial Sovereign wasn’t smartly away from the gates either, but soon tracked the pace and travelled much the best, on the bridle until 2f out.

All out to the line, he wasn’t good enough to beat the winner, but showed a likeable attitude putting his head down and answering ever call. Won well on debut last year and is a son of smart Imperial Charm. 10 furlongs may be his ideal trip.

Third placed Tribal Star started well, better than in his two prior career runs. Made all and kicked nicely from 3f out. He was beaten by better horses but could be potentially underestimated wherever he goes next.

Impressed on debut last year with a fine 79 speed rating runner-up performance despite missing the break. Followed up with another solid run before the end of the year and showed a nice attitude in this race.

A mark in the mid-80’s could be underestimate him, especially if he steps up further in trip, judged on pedigree.

Jungle Charm
14/03/23 – 6.15 Southwell:

Widest draw, rapidly moved forward to just grab the lead entering the home turn. The damage was done at that point, but did well to stay in the action for a long time.

Should be solid form. Could unlock improvement for experience. Also not impossible to step up to 7f. A slightly less competitive race should see her really well placed to win another race.

Fine Wine
15/03/24 – 6.20 Newcastle:

Off to a flying start, set a seriously fast pace early on. Noteworthy how long he stayed in front. Highly competitive race as well. Must have regained some good form, second off a break.

Should drop further in the weights, and interesting if he returns at Southwell over the minimum trip, ideally in an easier race. Not won in a while but over that CD always dangerous.

Betting

Saturday Selections: 11th November 2023

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Bit of an unlucky spell right now. Haworth Star beaten in a photo. Probably was ahead right behind the line. Bunch of good runs for my selections lately, half of them placed, but no wins to show. Agonising.

Especially when you leave some unbacked that turn out to win…. the normal ups and downs of betting, I guess. A winner would be nice, though.

……

6.30 Chelmsford: Class 6 Handicap, 1m 2f

A weak contest and a weak favourite. I can’t have Cavalluccio in this race at all. Even though he seems to go better after a wind op, he still has to find something on speed ratings and isn’t exactly unexposed after 21 runs.

In contrast, I love the look of Blue Yonder dropping down to class 6, with the visor added, from a good draw, in a race with little pace to fight off in the early stages.

The gelding ran with plenty of credit this season, and his last two runs confirmed he’s back to his best, in my view.

He finished 9/12 last time at Newcastle but travelled well for most of the race in a competitive affair where, perhaps, things didn’t quite work out with the way the race ultimately developed. It was a better performance than the bare form suggested, though.

Prior at Wolverhampton he was only beaten in a tight finish, where the ride he received versus the rider the winner received made all the difference. With that in mind, off the same mark today, he is well-handicapped in my view.

That’s without taking into consideration a better jockey booking today and a pace scenario that will ensure Blue Yonder can move forward and be in the right spot throughout the race, which will surely be up with the pace.

He won twice earlier this year, up to 10 furlongs on soft turf. So the trip isn’t an issue. He also won on the sand over 9.5 at Wolverhampton, and was subsequently only a neck beaten at Weatherby off 69 where he achieved a 72 speed rating.

Blue Yonder seems equally as effective on sand as on turf, and that’s in line with the observation that a mark of 67 is probably lenient as this point in time.

10pts win – Blue Yonder @ 15/2

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Friday Selections: 10th November 2023

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6.20 Newcastle: Class 6 Handicap, 7f

Competitive affair. Comedian Leader looks possibly overpriced back over this course and distance but the way the pace shapes and the new headgear combination is a worry for me.

Favourite Capuchinero won last time out with a bit in hand. A 5lb penalty makes life much harder, though. She never won off such a high mark and has to improve on speed ratings a handful of pounds too.

Haworth Star is the one most intriguing. Drawn wide, perhaps away from where the race develops in a slowly run race isn’t ideal one would think.

But making a move on that far side from a wide draw seems not too detrimental at Newcastle at all, so possibly negates conventional wisdom.

In any case, the lightly-raced gelding shaped like he’s significantly ahead of his mark when third at Wolverhampton last time out. The handicapper took notice and gave him a 2lb rise for the effort. Probably not enough.

That day he wasn’t quite the sharpest early on from gate 7, pulled quite hard in a tight and compact field as he tried to settle riding against the inside rail off the pace.

Yet, approaching the home straight he was still on the bridle, although he equally had a lot to do from the back of the field. He made strong progress, finding gaps as they appeared, without ever getting a smooth and clear run.

He appeared awkward and possibly intimidated in a tight finish deep inside the final furlong. Though, it was quite tight and the race was over at that stage no matter what, I reckon. Haworth Star also managed to run to a 61 speed rating, despite in less than ideal circumstances here.

Big odds suggested there weren’t high hopes riding on his back that day or eleven days earlier on handicap debut. The improvement from that Leicester run off a small break as well, was noteworthy in its own right.

Today is an easier race. This is only his third run in handicap company. This straight track may suit better than the ever turning Wolverhampton. He finished the strongest last time out, despite meeting trouble. So the stiff 7f could be exactly the test he wants, as long as they don’t crawl, which is a risk, truth told.

10pts win – Haworth Star @ 11/2