Home / August 21 / 13:50 York

13:50 York

Good To Firm

Symphony Group Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

  • Prize money: £61848
  • 0m 5f 89y
  • Class 2
  • 22 runners
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York

Runners: 22 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

10/1 (Won)

  • Win: £15.20
  • Place: £3.55

Form: D147045

Last run: 22 days

W: 8st 10lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict

He has been in better form than his figures suggest since returning from a stint in Bahrain, including his run here at the Dante meeting when he raced closest to the stands' rail; ran a cracker from a poor draw in this race 12 months ago and returns off a 4lb lower mark; last four visits to York have all produced good efforts and a big run can be expected.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

2

(7)

5th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

16:45 Ascot

Jm Jungle

9st 7lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Fairly quiet start to the campaign but he's come good with a vengeance of late, winning over 5.5f at the York Ebor meeting and a close third in the Portland at Doncaster; a repeat of either effort would see him bang there once again; seems to handle most ground; first run at Ascot.

3/1

3rd

12

(11)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Jm Jungle

8st 13lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Some good efforts this year and he kept on well to win in a big field at York's Ebor meeting (5.4f, good to firm) last month; he has a solid record at York and this is his first run here, but a 4lb rise for last time isn't harsh and there can be hope he'll be fine with the extra yardage; respected.

11/1

1st

16

(6)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Jm Jungle

8st 10lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

He has been in better form than his figures suggest since returning from a stint in Bahrain, including his run here at the Dante meeting when he raced closest to the stands' rail; ran a cracker from a poor draw in this race 12 months ago and returns off a 4lb lower mark; last four visits to York have all produced good efforts and a big run can be expected.

10/1

20/1

  • Place: £6.25

Form: 211117

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict

Began the season looking an exposed handicapper but he's made remarkable progress, winning seven times and climbing 29lb in the weights; early speed has been the feature of his wins and this track is likely to suit better than Ascot last time; Paul Mulrennan is back on board today and he shouldn't be passed over lightly.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

8

(17)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ayr

Jordan Electrics

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: Jim Goldie

He was well backed when winning a small-field C&D handicap in May but even his most fervent supporters would have struggled to envisage the progress that has followed this summer, adding six more sprint handicaps and soaring up the weights; better than ever when second at York's Ebor meeting (5.5f, good to firm) last month, form that has been well advertised since; races off the same mark today and he is one of two good chances for Jim Goldie.

12/1

2nd

2

(7)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Jordan Electrics

9st 9lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

Began the season looking an exposed handicapper but he's made remarkable progress, winning seven times and climbing 29lb in the weights; early speed has been the feature of his wins and this track is likely to suit better than Ascot last time; Paul Mulrennan is back on board today and he shouldn't be passed over lightly.

20/1

7th

3

(7)

10th Aug 2024

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

13:35 Ascot

Jordan Electrics

10st 0lb

J: Rachel King

T: Jim Goldie

Having a remarkable season, notching win number seven for the campaign at Hamilton last Saturday; with a 6lb rise he's up a total of 31lb since his first success in the spring, but he may not have reached his ceiling just yet; equally effective at 5f/6f, and good ground or firmer is ideal.

4/1

16/1

  • Place: £2.30

Form: 237734 CBF

Last run: 6 days

W: 8st 5lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 83

Form & Verdict

Should be winning races soon but he could manage only fourth at Windsor last week and this is a more demanding race.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

11

(7)

7th Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Haydock

Looking For Lynda

8st 10lb

J: Harrison Shaw

T: K R Burke

Prominent-racer who is 0-10 this year but has often run well in defeat (on various ground), most recently a close third of 22 at York's Ebor meeting; every chance he'll produce another bold show.

6/1

3rd

20

(2)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Looking For Lynda

8st 5lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: K R Burke

Should be winning races soon but he could manage only fourth at Windsor last week and this is a more demanding race.

16/1

4th

1

(9)

15th Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 21y

Class 4

17:00 Windsor

Looking For Lynda

9st 12lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

prominent

7/1

OUR TIP

11/1

  • Place: £3.45

Form: 912263

Last run: 39 days

W: 9st 12lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 104

Form & Verdict

Speedy front-runner; his only poor run in Britain for this yard came when going off too hard into a strong headwind at Haydock in June; good third in Listed event here (5f, good to soft) last month; has the ability to run a big race but both a bare 5f and ground slower than good to firm would make him of greater interest.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

1

(5)

5th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 1

13:50 Ascot

Democracy Dilemma

9st 6lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Robert Cowell

blindfold off late, soon led, headed over 1f out

11/2

4th

4

(9)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 34y

Class 1

13:30 Newbury

Democracy Dilemma

9st 3lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Robert Cowell

started quickly, led, headed inside final 110yds, weakened and lost two places towards finish

8/1

1st

4

(3)

31st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:05 Beverley

Democracy Dilemma

9st 4lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Robert Cowell

Speedy front-runner; another in the line-up arriving on the back of a creditable run at York last week (close fourth of 22 in 5.4f handicap); handles any ground and should give another bold show from the front.

4/1

Form: -23541

Last run: 20 days

W: 9st 4lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict

Highly tried by Clive Cox as a 2yo after his novice win at Windsor last July; on the up for new connections, relishing the strong pace when winning at Goodwood three weeks ago (5f, good to firm); up 5lb but there's a strong suspicion he's got better to come and next month's Group 1 entry is notable; conditions should suit and he's high on the list.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

6

(17)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Shagraan

9st 6lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Michael Appleby

Progressive 3yo who has won two of his last three starts (5f, good to firm/good) with a keeping-on fifth of 22 at York (5.4f) in between; yard won this last year and a 3lb rise for Haydock last Saturday may not stop him.

6/1

1st

1

(4)

7th Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Haydock

Shagraan

9st 9lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Michael Appleby

Running well this year prior to winning big-field 3yo handicap at Glorious Goodwood (5f, good to firm) and close fifth of 22 at York (5.4f, good to firm) since; today's race is less competitive and he could play a leading role if conditions suit (unproven on slow ground); trainer won this last year.

7/2

5th

8

(8)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Shagraan

9st 4lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Michael Appleby

mounted in chute, taken down early

7/1

6th
13 (19)
Bergerac

16/1

Form: 569815 CD

Last run: 25 days

W: 8st 13lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict

Won this race two years ago off a 2lb higher mark; big eyecatcher over 5f here at the Dante meeting; came good with a comfortable success in the Gosforth Park Cup in June (5f, AW) and ran okay over 6f here last month (hung markedly right); handicapped to go well if his high draw proves no hindrance.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

(2)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Ayr

Bergerac

9st 12lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Well held in the Silver Cup in two of the last three runnings (out of sorts 12 months ago) but he was beaten only 2l in the Gold Cup (good) in 2022 and is in good form this time round, having done well from an unfavourable draw at York and another useful effort in the Portland at Doncaster last week; not far away.

16/1

6th

18

(14)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Bergerac

8st 11lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

His form can be up and down but he did very well to finish sixth of 22 from stall 19 at York (5.4f, good to firm) last month, given the rest of the first seven home were drawn 8 or lower; ran well earlier in career on both visits here (good to soft/good) and he's on the shortlist.

12/1

6th

13

(19)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Bergerac

8st 13lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Won this race two years ago off a 2lb higher mark; big eyecatcher over 5f here at the Dante meeting; came good with a comfortable success in the Gosforth Park Cup in June (5f, AW) and ran okay over 6f here last month (hung markedly right); handicapped to go well if his high draw proves no hindrance.

16/1

16/1

Form: 5-4092

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict

Gelded prior to chasing home Holkham Bay at Ascot 11 days ago, a run that was right up there with his best 2yo form; a 10lb turnaround in the weights with that rival should draw them closer together.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

(11)

7th Sep 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

17:05 Ascot

Kylian

9st 6lb

J: James Doyle

T: Archie Watson

pressed leader

6/1

7th

11

(5)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Kylian

9st 0lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Archie Watson

Gelded prior to chasing home Holkham Bay at Ascot 11 days ago, a run that was right up there with his best 2yo form; a 10lb turnaround in the weights with that rival should draw them closer together.

16/1

2nd

8

(1)

10th Aug 2024

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

13:35 Ascot

Kylian

9st 3lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Archie Watson

Third to Big Evs in last year's Molecomb at Goodwood but rather a damp squib since, outclassed in the King Charles III over C&D before last of nine in handicap at Doncaster (wore cheekpieces); hard to fancy on recent evidence but could be revived by recent gelding operation and Billy Loughnane rides.

9/1

20/1

Form: 773708 C

Last run: 39 days

W: 9st 0lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 92

Form & Verdict

He's dropped to a handy mark now and his latest Ascot run can be upgraded, racing more towards the centre of the track than ideal in a strong race (5f, good); effective on good to firm ground but he would be more appealing on a slower surface; close sixth in this race 12 months ago.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

(1)

5th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

16:45 Ascot

Vintage Clarets

9st 5lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Richard Fahey

He'd been bubbling away prior to capitalising on a good opportunity at Chester two weeks ago (5f, good to soft), produced down the outside to win with much more authority than the neck margin suggests (idled a bit when hitting the front); a 3lb rise still leaves him well handicapped on even his 2024 best; has run to form on each of his three visits to Ascot and he's a strong contender in a race that should be run to suit.

5/1

1st

2

(9)

21st Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 15y

Class 3

16:15 Chester

Vintage Clarets

9st 10lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Richard Fahey

in rear, switched right when good headway over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, always doing enough

7/2

11th

19

(20)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Vintage Clarets

8st 11lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Richard Fahey

He's 2lb lower than when fifth in this last year (soft) and has been running better than his recent form-figures suggest, with his last-time-out eighth of 22 at York (5f, good to firm) coming from a tough draw; however, he seems best at a bare 5f and may be vulnerable to stronger finishers.

12/1

Form: 14-650 CBF

Last run: 27 days

W: 8st 9lb

3 yo Filly

OR: 89

Form & Verdict

Two wins as a 2yo, including at this track (6f, good); caught the eye here on her reappearance in June (6f, good to soft) when tanking through the race before a lack of peak fitness told late on; another solid run at Newmarket in July but her form dipped at Yarmouth four weeks ago (5f, good to firm); perhaps she was unsuited by the ground there but she's on a dangerous mark if it was just a blip; this intermediate trip could be ideal.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

9

(9)

28th Sep 2024

Heavy

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:20 Ripon

Tropical Island

8st 11lb

J: Connor Murtagh

T: Richard Fahey

Two good course runs as a 2yo; shaped with abundant promise on her seasonal return at York in June (6f, good to soft) and although she hasn't built on it, there have been excuses along the way; not seen to best effect in a slowly run 7f event last time and this should see her in a better light.

6/1

4th

2

(2)

7th Sep 2024

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

16:25 Thirsk

Tropical Island

9st 9lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard Fahey

in touch with leaders on inner, switched to centre 3f out

10/1

9th

17

(1)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Tropical Island

8st 9lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Richard Fahey

Two wins as a 2yo, including at this track (6f, good); caught the eye here on her reappearance in June (6f, good to soft) when tanking through the race before a lack of peak fitness told late on; another solid run at Newmarket in July but her form dipped at Yarmouth four weeks ago (5f, good to firm); perhaps she was unsuited by the ground there but she's on a dangerous mark if it was just a blip; this intermediate trip could be ideal.

20/1

10/1

Form: 1150

Last run: 61 days

W: 9st 2lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict

Fine sprinting pedigree and he made a perfect start to his career with a pair of AW successes in January/March (both 6f); didn't look out of place at Listed level on his turf debut in May and he travelled powerfully in a first-time visor in the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot before weakening from 2f out; a wind op since could prove beneficial, as may dropping to this extended 5f; still has potential.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

10

(21)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Pocklington

9st 2lb

J: Harry Russell

T: Geoff Oldroyd

Fine sprinting pedigree and he made a perfect start to his career with a pair of AW successes in January/March (both 6f); didn't look out of place at Listed level on his turf debut in May and he travelled powerfully in a first-time visor in the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot before weakening from 2f out; a wind op since could prove beneficial, as may dropping to this extended 5f; still has potential.

10/1

10th

12

(10)

21st Jun 2024

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

15:05 Ascot

Pocklington

9st 2lb

J: Harry Russell

T: Geoff Oldroyd

Lost his unbeaten record when fifth to Elite Status in Listed event at Newbury (6f, good; 18-1; no extra final 1f) last month, but emerged with his reputation intact and this well-bred colt may yet have untapped potential; previous wins had come on the AW at Newcastle; visored for the first time.

18/1

11th
19 (13)
Wen Moon

20/1

Form: 605233 C

Last run: 33 days

W: 8st 6lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 84

Form & Verdict

Runs this track well and has been placed on his last three starts; has the ability to feature but he's usually kept away from good to firm ground.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

12

(5)

11th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 3

15:45 York

Wen Moon

8st 11lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Ben Haslam

prominent on far side of group, challenging over 1f out, no extra inside final furlong, lost second towards finish

12/1

9th

11

(4)

31st Aug 2024

Good

0m 6f 17y

Class 3

17:00 Chester

Wen Moon

9st 1lb

J: Franny Norton

T: Ben Haslam

Beaten only 3l at York (5.4f, good to firm) ten days ago despite racing on the unfavoured part of the track and ducking right leaving the stalls; probably just as effective over 6f and he has shaped well on his two previous visits to Chester; his jockey rides this course well; might be the answer.

5/1

11th

19

(13)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Wen Moon

8st 6lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Ben Haslam

Runs this track well and has been placed on his last three starts; has the ability to feature but he's usually kept away from good to firm ground.

20/1

16/1

Form: -01086

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict

Consistency not his forte but there's a big engine there when the mood takes him, as when seeing off his 14 rivals in a 6f handicap at Newmarket's Guineas meeting; raced freely in a first-time visor at Ascot 11 days ago, left behind by Holkham Bay late on but having helped force a strong pace; not a solid option but a better effort wouldn't be a huge shock.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

14

(8)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Desert Cop

8st 13lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Andrew Balding

Has dropped to a mark 2lb lower than when winning a 15-runner handicap at Newmarket (6f, good) in May; capable if at the top of his game but that hasn't been the case on his five starts since that latest victory.

33/1

11th

2

(10)

7th Sep 2024

Standard To Slow

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:20 Kempton (AW)

Desert Cop

9st 11lb

J: Liam Keniry

T: Andrew Balding

C&D winner; on the same mark as when beating 14 rivals in a valuable Newmarket handicap at the Guineas meeting; mixed bag since but he wasn't beaten far from a moderate draw at York last time and he has the ability to feature, for all there are risks involved.

12/1

12th

6

(12)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Desert Cop

9st 4lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Andrew Balding

Consistency not his forte but there's a big engine there when the mood takes him, as when seeing off his 14 rivals in a 6f handicap at Newmarket's Guineas meeting; raced freely in a first-time visor at Ascot 11 days ago, left behind by Holkham Bay late on but having helped force a strong pace; not a solid option but a better effort wouldn't be a huge shock.

16/1

11/1

Form: 257628

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 7lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 99

Form & Verdict

Yet to win this year but his second to Jordan Electrics at Hamilton last month was a solid effort; didn't see things out over 6f here last time and others may have his measure today.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

2

(10)

28th Sep 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Haydock

Silky Wilkie

9st 11lb

J: Sam Feilden

T: K R Burke

Yet to win this year but there have been some good efforts, including last week's Ayr Gold Cup second (visored for the first time); returning to 5f won't hurt and he's fully effective on slow ground; should run his race but others perhaps look stronger.

7/1

2nd

10

(19)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ayr

Silky Wilkie

9st 4lb

J: Sam Feilden

T: K R Burke

Losing run stands at 20 and he's not been at his best in his last three starts; even this year's best needs bettering and he looks vulnerable; visor tried for the first time (well held in one run in cheekpieces).

33/1

8th

9

(1)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Silky Wilkie

9st 4lb

J: Sam Feilden

T: K R Burke

Well handicapped on last season's form and he was a close second off this mark at Hamilton in July; however, he's failed to threaten more often than not this year, including on his last two starts; others appeal more.

33/1

20/1

Form: 203104 CD

Last run: 40 days

W: 8st 3lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 81

Form & Verdict

2021 winner of this race (one of seven wins here) and he was beaten only 1l into fifth 12 months ago; latest fourth of 11 in a 5f handicap here last month needs bettering and there is other pace to deal with.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

18

(4)

11th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 3

15:45 York

Copper Knight

8st 6lb

J: Amie Waugh

T: Tim Easterby

pressed leader on far side of group, kept on inside final furlong

12/1

6th

8

(1)

21st Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 15y

Class 3

16:15 Chester

Copper Knight

8st 13lb

J: Sean Kirrane

T: Tim Easterby

in touch with leaders, bit short of room when headway against rail over 1f out, no extra towards finish

7/1

8th

4

(4)

6th Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 4

14:00 Haydock

Copper Knight

9st 11lb

J: Duran Fentiman

T: Tim Easterby

10yo prominent-racer who has been inconsistent this year but has shown plenty of spark on occasions and is edging back down the weights; tends to ply his trade in a higher grade than this and he's not ruled out.

11/1

Form: 1-0311 C

Last run: 61 days

W: 9st 6lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict

Yet to run a bad race in four visits to this track, winning over 6f last October; bolted up at Musselburgh in June and made light of an 11lb rise when comfortably seeing off his 27 rivals at Royal Ascot (5f, good to firm); hit with another 8lb rise today but not fully exposed; the intermediate trip shouldn't be a problem but perhaps a lower draw would be beneficial.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

13

(25)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ayr

Pilgrim

9st 3lb

J: Joe Fanning

T: David & Nicola Barron

Drawn on the wrong side when unplaced at York last month but he'd won his two previous starts in good style, notably the big 5f handicap at Royal Ascot; stays 6f and couldn't rule out further progress after just ten runs.

16/1

15th

4

(20)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Pilgrim

9st 6lb

J: Joe Fanning

T: David & Nicola Barron

Yet to run a bad race in four visits to this track, winning over 6f last October; bolted up at Musselburgh in June and made light of an 11lb rise when comfortably seeing off his 27 rivals at Royal Ascot (5f, good to firm); hit with another 8lb rise today but not fully exposed; the intermediate trip shouldn't be a problem but perhaps a lower draw would be beneficial.

7/1

1st

14

(12)

21st Jun 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

18:15 Ascot

Pilgrim

9st 1lb

J: Joe Fanning

T: David & Nicola Barron

Couldn't live with Jubilee Walk late on at York last month but his third there still represented improvement; has since given that form real ballast by routing his rivals at Musselburgh three weeks ago (5f, good to soft); finds himself 4lb worse off with Jubliee Walk as a consequence and fast ground is not sure to suit so well.

16/1

Form: 019541

Last run: 11 days

W: 8st 6lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 84

Form & Verdict

Came from off the pace to win a 5f handicap at the Curragh 11 days ago (5f, good to firm); 3lb rise for that looks fair enough but this is a much stiffer assignment.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

20

(21)

15th Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

13:50 Curragh

Bold Optimist

8st 7lb

J: Wayne Hassett

T: Daniel McLoughlin

raced near side, midfield

20/1

16th

18

(4)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Bold Optimist

8st 6lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Daniel McLoughlin

Came from off the pace to win a 5f handicap at the Curragh 11 days ago (5f, good to firm); 3lb rise for that looks fair enough but this is a much stiffer assignment.

20/1

1st

8

(11)

10th Aug 2024

Good

0m 5f 0y

16:00 Curragh

Bold Optimist

8st 13lb

J: Ben Coen

T: Daniel McLoughlin

midfield, towards rear halfway, headway towards near side but still plenty to do 1f out, ridden and ran on well to lead towards finish

20/1

17th
21 (11)
Never Dark

50/1

Form: 318926

Last run: 18 days

W: 8st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 82

Form & Verdict

Nottingham winner last month (5f, good) and his second on AW three weeks ago (6f) represented better form; last of six behind Jordan Electrics at Hamilton two days later; up against it.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

(4)

30th Sep 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 7y

Class 3

16:10 Hamilton

Never Dark

9st 0lb

J: Alex Jary

T: Iain Jardine

Scored at Nottingham (5f) in July and not disgraced when seventh in 5f Haydock handicap two days ago; possibilities.

8/1

7th

10

(6)

28th Sep 2024

Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Haydock

Never Dark

8st 3lb

J: Alex Jary

T: Iain Jardine

Made all in this race 12 months ago off a 4lb higher mark; mixed bag this time around but he retains plenty of dash and getting back on slow ground is in his favour; not dismissed off a featherweright.

25/1

11th

19

(18)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Ayr

Never Dark

9st 3lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Iain Jardine

Often leads; multiple 5f wins but he's never really hacked it at 6f, even allowing for a close fourth in the 2021 Bronze Cup; needs much more than in this race last year, when making the running before fading.

40/1

25/1

Form: 278226 CD

Last run: 17 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict

Two agonising defeats in midsummer at Windsor and Doncaster; ran respectably at Haydock last time without suggesting he is the answer to a competitive race such as this.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18th

9

(18)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Squealer

9st 2lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Nigel Tinkler

Two agonising defeats in midsummer at Windsor and Doncaster; ran respectably at Haydock last time without suggesting he is the answer to a competitive race such as this.

25/1

6th

1

(9)

4th Aug 2024

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

18:15 Haydock

Squealer

9st 12lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Nigel Tinkler

Has gone very close at Windsor (5f, good to firm) and Doncaster (5f, good) the last twice; the handicapper has reacted only lightly and he can be bang there if conditions are suitable (unproven on slow ground).

7/1

2nd

1

(6)

5th Jul 2024

Good

0m 5f 3y

Class 2

15:50 Doncaster

Squealer

9st 10lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Nigel Tinkler

in touch with leaders, went third halfway, led narrowly inside final furlong, faced challenges final 110yds, headed post

4/1

20/1

Form: 858019

Last run: 17 days

W: 9st 4lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict

Has bundles of early pace, making all in 5f handicaps at Newmarket and Sandown this year; not at his best in a Listed event in France 17 days ago; not much room for error off current mark.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(2)

24th Sep 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

15:20 Beverley

Tees Spirit

9st 13lb

J: Mia Nicholls

T: Adrian Nicholls

Something to find on these terms and Mia Nicholls can't claim usual 5lb; however, this front-runner has won two handicaps this year (5f, good) and was a good third at Doncaster last time; won in 2022 on sole run here; could make a bold bid if conditions suit (may not want slow ground nowadays).

4/1

3rd

1

(10)

15th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 3y

Class 3

14:05 Doncaster

Tees Spirit

9st 12lb

J: Mia Nicholls

T: Adrian Nicholls

Fast front-runner who has won 5f handicaps at Newmarket and Sandown this season; last two runs not the ones to judge him on, tackling a Listed race on his penultimate start and then drawn on the wrong side at the Ebor meeting; should run his race but might find a few finishing stronger.

10/1

19th

7

(16)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Tees Spirit

9st 4lb

J: Mia Nicholls

T: Adrian Nicholls

Has bundles of early pace, making all in 5f handicaps at Newmarket and Sandown this year; not at his best in a Listed event in France 17 days ago; not much room for error off current mark.

20/1

Form: -82211 C

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict

Threatened better on occasions last season and he's really clicked this time around, running well in big-field handicaps at Ascot and here in May before winning here (6f, good to soft) in June and bolting up in a Shergar Cup race 11 days ago (5f, good); up 10lb since that latest win but this trip could be ideal; stall 22 and fast ground are the two potential stumbling blocks.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

3

(4)

4th Oct 2024

Heavy

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:30 Ascot

Holkham Bay

9st 2lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: William Knight

Won at York (6f, good to soft) in June and followed up in dominant fashion here (5f, good); returned to form with close seventh of 22 in the Portland at Doncaster (5.6f, good) three weeks ago and, while he needs to raise his game, he's now back at the scene of his career-best performance; chance.

7/1

7th

10

(12)

14th Sep 2024

Good

0m 5f 143y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Holkham Bay

9st 3lb

J: Brandon Wilkie

T: William Knight

Having shot up the weights he was well beaten at York last time but had an unfavourable draw and the fast ground may not have suited; highly progressive previously this summer with wins at York (6f, good to soft) and Ascot (5f, good) and he could bounce back and play a leading role.

11/1

20th

5

(22)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Holkham Bay

9st 5lb

J: Brandon Wilkie

T: William Knight

Threatened better on occasions last season and he's really clicked this time around, running well in big-field handicaps at Ascot and here in May before winning here (6f, good to soft) in June and bolting up in a Shergar Cup race 11 days ago (5f, good); up 10lb since that latest win but this trip could be ideal; stall 22 and fast ground are the two potential stumbling blocks.

7/1

Form: 118098

Last run: 22 days

W: 8st 10lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 88

Form & Verdict

Handles fast turf but better known for his AW exploits these days; neither run on grass this year suggests he's the solution to this puzzle.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

(9)

14th Sep 2024

Standard

0m 5f 6y

Class 3

14:35 Lingfield (AW)

One Night Stand

9st 7lb

J: Joey Haynes

T: Scott Dixon

raced wide and prominent

14/1

21th

15

(10)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

One Night Stand

8st 10lb

J: Kieran O’Neill

T: Scott Dixon

Handles fast turf but better known for his AW exploits these days; neither run on grass this year suggests he's the solution to this puzzle.

66/1

8th

6

(7)

30th Jul 2024

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

16:10 Goodwood

One Night Stand

8st 9lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Scott Dixon

Close fifth to Navello in the Dash at Epsom in 2023; three 5f wins on AW in midwinter (two from the front) but he's flagged on latest two starts, most recently in April, and is up against it on overall form; Oisin Murphy is a rare booking for yard, 0-2 in last five years (both second).

14/1

22th
14 (15)
We Never Stop

25/1

Form: 7-5917

Last run: 20 days

W: 8st 11lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 91

Form & Verdict

It may have been only a Class 4 handicap he won at Redcar in June (5f, good to firm; cheekpieces on for the first time) but it has worked out extremely well; didn't look in love with the track when seventh behind Shagraan at Goodwood three weeks ago; still has time to do better and the yard knows what is required in this race.

Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

22th

14

(15)

21st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

We Never Stop

8st 11lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

It may have been only a Class 4 handicap he won at Redcar in June (5f, good to firm; cheekpieces on for the first time) but it has worked out extremely well; didn't look in love with the track when seventh behind Shagraan at Goodwood three weeks ago; still has time to do better and the yard knows what is required in this race.

25/1

7th

5

(10)

1st Aug 2024

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 3

16:45 Goodwood

We Never Stop

9st 6lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Usually leads; off the mark over 6f last summer but the drop to 5f in first-time cheekpieces proved the making of him when down in grade at Redcar (good to firm) in June; up 10lb and in class but unexposed over the trip and his yard has won two of the last ten runnings.

8/1

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Payout
Exacta £4053.00
Straight Forecast £2023.40
Tricast £17118.20
Trifecta £38796.00

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Shagraan

The Guardian:

Jm Jungle

D Express:

Pocklington

The Sun:

Kylian

Daily Record:

Pilgrim

Daily Mail:

Holkham Bay

TOPSPEED:

Silky Wilkie

Telegraph:

Bergerac

RP RATINGS:

Shagraan

The Times:

Shagraan

Daily Mirror:

Jm Jungle