October 18 / 16.40 Ascot

16.40

Good

Balmoral Handicap (Sponsored By Qipco)

  • Prize money: £103080
  • 1m 0f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 23 runners
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Balmoral Handicap (Sponsored By Qipco)

Runners: 23 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Cloudy

Form: 6-2320 C

Last run: 196 days

W: 9st 12lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 110

Form & Verdict
This is his first run since April and he has a lofty mark, but he won a Group 3 at Haydock (1m, good) last September and has a history of running well off big weights in handicaps; likes it here; not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

(4)

1st May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

15:45 Ascot

Holloway Boy

9st 8lb

J: William Buick

T: K R Burke

His strike-rate is an unimpressive 3-26 but he's seldom far away and last October's excellent second in a top handicap over C&D preceded an AW Listed win; came up short at Doha and Meydan early this year but showed enough to suggest he should be on the premises.

6/1

1

(2)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Holloway Boy

9st 12lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

This is his first run since April and he has a lofty mark, but he won a Group 3 at Haydock (1m, good) last September and has a history of running well off big weights in handicaps; likes it here; not ruled out.

18/1

6th

1

(7)

4th Dec 2024

Standard To Slow

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

19:10 Kempton (AW)

Holloway Boy

9st 11lb

J: Sam James

T: K R Burke

took keen hold, raced wide, in touch with leaders

13/2

Form: 921311 C

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 11lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Has improved for this visor and he's readily won competitive 7f handicaps here on his last two starts (good to soft/soft); back up to 1m on forecast better ground today but his past record provides hope that he'll cope with both and this thriving 4yo may well take a 6lb penalty in his stride.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

4

(9)

17th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

15:56 Naas

Native Warrior

9st 11lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: K R Burke

British raider rediscovered his best when a visor was added last June, winning three handicaps from five starts, the last being the valuable Challenge Cup (7f, soft) at Ascot; ran right up to form on his stakes debut in a Saint-Cloud Group 3 (1m, soft) for seasonal return when a close runner-up; entitled to improve for that and top rated.

7/2

2

(8)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Native Warrior

9st 11lb

J: James Doyle

T: K R Burke

Has improved for this visor and he's readily won competitive 7f handicaps here on his last two starts (good to soft/soft); back up to 1m on forecast better ground today but his past record provides hope that he'll cope with both and this thriving 4yo may well take a 6lb penalty in his stride.

9/2

1st

4

(9)

4th Oct 2025

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ascot

Native Warrior

9st 5lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: K R Burke

Third in a Britannia on first run at Ascot and came through to beat a few of these on last month's return over this trip on good to soft, reversing previous Goodwood placings with Great Acclaim; raised 8lb but now 2-3 since the visor went on and still improving by the looks.

9/2

OUR TIP

Form: 0-1150 D BF

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Hold-up performer who won the Lincoln (1m, good to soft) on his reappearance and followed up at Newcastle (1m, AW); a case can be made on those progressive performances but he appears to have gone off the boil on his last two runs (reportedly coughed last time); best turf form is on good to soft.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

5

(9)

14th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:55 York

Godwinson

9st 5lb

J: George Bass

T: Jack Channon

Won the Lincoln at Doncaster (1m, good to soft) last March and followed up at Newcastle (1m, AW); of interest on those efforts but he went off the boil on his final three starts for William Haggas; needs to get back on track on stable debut (remains in same ownership); slow ground would aid cause.

25/1

3

(19)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Godwinson

9st 5lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

Hold-up performer who won the Lincoln (1m, good to soft) on his reappearance and followed up at Newcastle (1m, AW); a case can be made on those progressive performances but he appears to have gone off the boil on his last two runs (reportedly coughed last time); best turf form is on good to soft.

25/1

2

(11)

30th Aug 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

16:37 Curragh

Godwinson

9st 13lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: William Haggas

Hold-up performer reappeared with last-gasp win in the Lincoln at Doncaster (1m, good to soft) in March and landed handicap at Newcastle (1m, AW) in June; didn't land a blow but took another step forward in well-contested Goodwood conditions event early this month; shortlisted.

9/2

Form: 006761 C

Last run: 20 days

W: 9st 5lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Capitalised on reduced mark to win at Newcastle (7f, AW) last time and, under a 6lb penalty, he remains 6lb lower than when third in this last year (soft); won at the 2023 Royal meeting on fast ground; could be involved.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

4

(14)

16th May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:00 Newbury

Witch Hunter

9st 9lb

J: Tyrese Cameron

T: Richard Hannon

His only turf wins came in a Royal Ascot handicap and Newbury Group 3, but they were in 2023 and he needs the cards to drop right for his late bids; scored on AW in January but subsequent form, including when 40-1 in the Victoria Cup last Saturday, isn't good enough.

40/1

20th

1

(9)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Witch Hunter

9st 12lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Very useful but rather needs the cards to drop right and gained his only turf wins, namely in Royal Ascot handicap and Newbury Group 3, in 2023; peak AW form this year when scoring in January; finished seventh (off 4lb higher) in this contest 12 months ago.

25/1

Form: 752138 CD

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
4yo who was second in the Golden Mile at Goodwood (1m, soft) in August before winning on the round course here (1m, good to firm) and he was then third of 17 to Shout over C&D (soft); didn't see out 1m1f in the Cambridgeshire last time but still ran well; an each-way contender back at 1m.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(8)

16th May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:00 Newbury

Ebts Guard

9st 12lb

J: Lewis Edmunds

T: William Muir & Chris Grassick

Tough and consistent sort who won the C&D Spring Cup on 2025 reappearance but couldn't get a clear run in it this time round; third in this race last year and 9lb higher today but he's an each-way contender.

10/1

18th

3

(11)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Ebts Guard

9st 12lb

J: Lewis Edmunds

T: William Muir & Chris Grassick

Tough and consistent sort who won this race (good ground) on his reappearance 12 months ago and finished second in the Balmoral Handicap at Ascot in the autumn; starts the new season on a career-high mark but he's impossible to rule out.

16/1

2nd

3

(6)

29th Oct 2025

Soft

1m 0f 75y

Class 1

14:47 Nottingham

Ebts Guard

9st 4lb

J: Lewis Edmunds

T: William Muir & Chris Grassick

Acts on soft; has mostly run well in warm 7f/1m handicaps this season, never better than when dead-heating for second in a valuable event at Ascot 11 days ago; this first Listed assignment makes for a different scenario but he has the form to be not far away.

11/2

Form: 702211 D

Last run: 6 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Knocking at the door, including here, prior to winning at Goodwood (1m, good to soft) last month and he followed up there (1m, good) last Sunday; avoided the trouble suffered by some of the others last time but effectively only 1lb higher today; in the form of his life and has to be respected.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

3

(6)

14th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:55 York

Cerulean Bay

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Progressive last term, winning two in a row at Goodwood (1m, good to soft/good) in the autumn, and kept on well for a close fourth on last month's reappearance at Haydock (7f, good to firm); solid claims back up to 1m.

13/2

4th

3

(10)

25th Apr 2026

Good

0m 7f 37y

Class 2

14:35 Haydock

Cerulean Bay

9st 10lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: David O’Meara

Had strong handicap form over 1m in the second half of 2025, finishing second at York's Ebor meeting (good to firm) before recording back-to-back wins at Goodwood (good to soft and good); ran well for third in a Nottingham Listed race when last seen 178 days ago; only seventh in this race 12 months ago and he's 4lb higher today.

9/1

3rd

2

(7)

29th Oct 2025

Soft

1m 0f 75y

Class 1

14:47 Nottingham

Cerulean Bay

9st 4lb

J: David Nolan

T: David O’Meara

Won on soft last year; Goodwood double (1m, good to soft/good) in handicaps this autumn; however, only mid-division in valuable event at Ascot 11 days ago, comfortably held by Ebt's Guard, and needs to resume improvement.

14/1

Form: 046100

Last run: 20 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Fourth of 21 in the International here (7f, good) in July and won at Newcastle (7f, AW) in August; however, not at the top of his game on his last two outings and others arrive with more pressing claims.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

2

(23)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Golden Mind

9st 12lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Good second at Musselburgh (7f) with reappearance under his belt but is by no means certain to go one better off 103 in this deep field; has gained all handicap wins off marks in in the high-90s and still needs to prove he can break the triple-digit barrier.

25/1

2nd

2

(4)

4th Apr 2026

Good

0m 7f 15y

Class 2

13:55 Musselburgh

Golden Mind

9st 8lb

J: Barry McHugh

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Can lead; had some smart form in defeat during 2025 alongside three wins at 6f and 7f (AW and heavy); never showed with a chance on AW comeback but this easy test could see him to advantage; has possibilities.

12/1

Form: 711224 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Better than ever after blinkers went on, winning two in a row (7f, good/good to soft) and making the frame behind Native Warrior here on last two starts (7f, good to soft/soft); each-way claims if good form continues, although the return to 1m and switch to cheekpieces aren't guaranteed to suit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

9

(12)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Great Acclaim

9st 7lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Six-time winner, including in first-time blinkers at Glorious Goodwood; close third at Haydock (7f) with reappearance under his belt, paving the way nicely for a crack at this prize; has made the frame in both C&D attempts; possibilities in new headgear (visor).

12/1

3rd

5

(8)

25th Apr 2026

Good

0m 7f 37y

Class 2

14:35 Haydock

Great Acclaim

9st 5lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Strong handicap form over 7f last summer, winning at Goodwood and Chepstow as well as finishing second in a 20-runner event at Ascot (all when wearing blinkers); still feasibly weighted on that form and he went without headgear when down the field in the Lincoln; the blinkers return today and he's a leading contender.

7/1

16th

4

(14)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Great Acclaim

9st 8lb

J: Callum Hutchinson

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Thrived in 7f handicaps last season when blinkers went on; however, he failed to shine when tackling 1m last term and reappears minus any headgear (tried cheekpieces when last seen; down the field); others preferred.

33/1

Form: 202533 D

Last run: 22 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 99

Form & Verdict
Probably flattered by the bare form of her close Group 2 third at Goodwood (1m, good to firm) in August but she's often run well in defeat this season, including in a C&D handicap and when a Listed third at Newmarket (1m, good to firm) last time; Jamie Spencer excels here and she's in with a chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(3)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:05 Goodwood

Arisaig

9st 7lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Charlie Johnston

Talented mare who ran well in Listed and Group events last season and was runner-up in a Class 2 handicap at Newmarket (1m, good) on her reappearance last month; should go well again but she has a bit to find on these figures and her last win was in July 2024.

6/1

Form: 171510 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 1lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
3yo who won good handicaps this summer at Newmarket (1m, good to firm) and York (1m, good to firm); underwhelming when mid-division in the Cambridgeshire three weeks ago, even allowing for the 1m1f trip, but he's not written off in view of his previous abundant promise.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

(12)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Newmarket

Fifth Column

9st 8lb

J: William Buick

T: John & Thady Gosden

1m winner at Newmarket and York last summer but failed to shine on last two outings, when co-second favourite for the C&D Cambridgeshire on first occasion; only mid-division when 13-2 in the Spring Cup at Newbury two weeks ago but not beaten far and the draw looked a problem; not ruled out.

8/1

11th

7

(4)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Fifth Column

9st 8lb

J: William Buick

T: John & Thady Gosden

Below par on his last two 3yo starts but he'd previously won competitive 1m events at Newmarket and York (both good to firm) in the summer, and he did well to prevail at York after having to wait for a run; only 3lb higher here and he'll be a major player if ready to roll after six months off.

10/1

10

(11)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Fifth Column

9st 1lb

J: William Buick

T: John & Thady Gosden

3yo who won good handicaps this summer at Newmarket (1m, good to firm) and York (1m, good to firm); underwhelming when mid-division in the Cambridgeshire three weeks ago, even allowing for the 1m1f trip, but he's not written off in view of his previous abundant promise.

8/1

28/1

Form: 4467-1 D

Last run: 142 days

W: 9st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
9yo who looked as good as ever when making all with something to spare at Sandown (1m, good) in May on his sole run this season; however, he's never defied a mark this high and may be vulnerable in this hot contest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11

(21)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Hafeet Alain

9st 0lb

J: Ashley Lewis

T: Ed Walker

9yo who looked as good as ever when making all with something to spare at Sandown (1m, good) in May on his sole run this season; however, he's never defied a mark this high and may be vulnerable in this hot contest.

28/1

Form: -23071 CD

Last run: 43 days

W: 8st 13lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Relished return to 1m when comfortably winning in a big field over C&D (soft) last month; up 9lb and it's possible the ground was a factor in that improved performance, but he has shown promise on good/good to firm in the past and this lightly raced 3yo is entitled to respect based on his dominance last time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

6

(4)

14th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:55 York

Shout

9st 2lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Progressive 3yo last season (on various ground), winning a big-field 1m handicap at Ascot in September; reappeared with encouraging run in the Lincoln at Doncaster and he's not written off, but he was somewhat underwhelming in the Spring Cup at Newbury last time when favourite.

11/2

13th

9

(5)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Shout

9st 7lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Raced too freely in the Lincoln and ended up shaping nicely in a never-nearer ninth; had ended 2025 on a high with a smooth success at Ascot (1m, soft) and a fine fourth in the Balmoral Handicap (good) over the same C&D; gets on really well with Oisin Murphy and he's back in the saddle today; still unexposed and now looks ready to strike.

8/1

9th

3

(19)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Shout

9st 9lb

J: Robert Havlin

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Won at Ascot (1m, soft) last September and very creditable fourth of 20 in another big-field handicap there (1m, good) in October; this 4yo course winner is unexposed over 1m and could have more to offer this season; chance.

10/1

Form: -33113 C BF

Last run: 34 days

W: 8st 12lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 99

Form & Verdict
Won when upped in trip on handicap debut at Ayr (1m2f, good) in July then easily followed up in small field here (1m2f, soft); another big run when third of 21 at the Curragh (1m2f, good to yielding) eight days later; he's 14lb higher than two starts ago and drops back down in trip today, but this well-bred 3yo could still have more to offer for his top stable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

(23)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Crown Of Oaks

8st 12lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

Won when upped in trip on handicap debut at Ayr (1m2f, good) in July then easily followed up in small field here (1m2f, soft); another big run when third of 21 at the Curragh (1m2f, good to yielding) eight days later; he's 14lb higher than two starts ago and drops back down in trip today, but this well-bred 3yo could still have more to offer for his top stable.

11/2

3rd

12

(5)

14th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

1m 2f 0y

17:35 Curragh

Crown Of Oaks

9st 2lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

Much improved since being gelded, returning to win over this trip at Ayr in July and followed up off 6lb higher mark when impressively taking Ascot contest on soft ground eight days ago; carries mandatory 7lb penalty here but has been re-assessed by the British handicapper on 100 so theoretically has 7lb in hand here with ground to suit.

15/8

6

(3)

6th Sep 2025

Soft

1m 1f 212y

Class 3

14:10 Ascot

Crown Of Oaks

9st 3lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

Had some fancy entries at the start of the season but those went west after suffering two defeats at odds-on; however, was gelded prior to getting off the mark on handicap debut at Ayr (1m2f, good; 6lb lower) and won that with a nice bit in hand; in the Cambridgeshire and retains significant potential; unraced on soft ground.

10/11

25/1

Form: 3-1339 D

Last run: 76 days

W: 8st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Won the Irish Lincolnshire (1m, soft) in March and close third in the Lincoln (1m, good to soft) 13 days later; returned from break with good third at Galway (8.5f, yielding) in July and his subsequent run there may have come too soon; each-way claims on best form but slow ground may be preferable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

(10)

25th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

1m 0f 50y

16:25 Limerick

Orandi

10st 3lb

J: N G McCullagh

T: A J Martin

Last year's Irish Lincolnshire winner has lost way since a Galway premier handicap third last August; beaten 21l in both starts this season and remains 5lb above last winning mark; revival needed.

18/1

21th

15

(20)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Orandi

9st 2lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: A J Martin

Won the Irish Lincolnshire (1m, soft) last March before finishing third in this (good to soft) and at the Galway festival (8.5f, yielding); a market check is advised but he's now been below par on each of his last four runs, having finished down the field in the Irish Lincolnshire on his reappearance.

25/1

15th

6

(13)

15th Mar 2026

Heavy

1m 0f 0y

16:20 Curragh

Orandi

9st 3lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: A J Martin

Last year's winner, went very close in the William Hill Lincoln at Doncaster only 13 days later; also ran well in the first of two Galway festival starts; mid-division in the Balmoral Handicap before a poor run here at the end of the season; Ryan Moore booked; could repeat 2025 wins; only 6lb higher.

8/1

Form: 220847 D

Last run: 20 days

W: 8st 12lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
0-10 on turf but he went very close behind Godwinson in the Lincoln (1m, good to soft) in March and is also effective on good ground; denied a clear run when keeping on for a close seventh of 12 at Newcastle (7f, AW) three weeks ago and he's one to be interested in now back up in trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

5

(7)

22nd May 2026

Soft

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

16:52 Goodwood

Oliver Show

9st 9lb

J: Jack Callan

T: George Boughey

Useful on his day but losing run is mounting up and two duck eggs this year leave a question mark over his current form; chance partly depends on how well he responds to the removal of usual cheekpieces.

7/1

14th

20

(21)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Oliver Show

8st 13lb

J: James Doyle

T: George Boughey

Showed his effectiveness over a straight 1m when beaten a nose in the 2025 Lincoln at Doncaster (good to soft) and he's now 3lb lower; several respectable efforts afterwards, and 6f on good ground was probably too sharp on his sole outing in Bahrain over the winter; certainly well handicapped on best form and well worth a market check after 106 days off.

20/1

15

(22)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Oliver Show

8st 12lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: George Boughey

0-10 on turf but he went very close behind Godwinson in the Lincoln (1m, good to soft) in March and is also effective on good ground; denied a clear run when keeping on for a close seventh of 12 at Newcastle (7f, AW) three weeks ago and he's one to be interested in now back up in trip.

25/1

Form: 443400 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 8st 12lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Fourth of 30 on stable debut in the Royal Hunt Cup over C&D (good to firm) and also ran well in defeat on next two starts; represents last year's winning yard and he's in the mix on his best form, but hopes are pinned on first-time cheekpieces prompting a revival following two below-par runs.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

(4)

25th May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 0y

Class 3

16:25 Windsor

Greek Order

9st 6lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Michael Bell

Record of 0-8 for current yard but he is nicely treated on best form and latest effort ended a spell of duck eggs, while suggesting this step back up from 1m may prove beneficial, in keeping with 2023 achievements.

7/2

4th

2

(4)

1st May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

17:30 Ascot

Greek Order

9st 12lb

J: Taryn Langley

T: Michael Bell

Made the frame in three successive quality 1m handicaps last summer, including the Royal Hunt Cup here (good to firm); however, that campaign rather petered out and he was only midfield in the Lincoln a month ago (tried a visor); he's still dangerous to dismiss off this mark in a lower grade.

10/1

13th

13

(1)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Greek Order

9st 2lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Michael Bell

Went off the boil on his final three runs last season but made the frame three times in a row in quality 1m handicaps last summer (good to firm/soft) and he's on a handy mark on that form; perhaps a break and/or the first-time visor will prompt a revival and his stable is in excellent form.

14/1

Form: 150725 CD

Last run: 6 days

W: 8st 12lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Won at Ayr (1m, soft) in July and second there (1m, soft) last month; again ran well when fifth to Cerulean Bay at Goodwood (1m, good) last Sunday but needs a bigger performance and could do with slow ground.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

5

(5)

4th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 68y

Class 2

15:51 Hamilton

Theoryofeverything

9st 4lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Ran well when fifth of 18 at York (1m, good) three weeks ago on his second start of the season; his four wins (one here) have come on soft going so slower ground today would aid his cause; could be a contender.

6/1

5th

13

(14)

14th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:55 York

Theoryofeverything

8st 10lb

J: Jason Hart

T: David O’Meara

Second of 14 off 1lb higher behind Thunder Roar at Ayr (1m) last September on his favoured soft ground, and didn't run badly when 4l 11th of 21 in the Lincoln at Doncaster (1m, good to soft) on his reappearance; however, others have more compelling credentials.

25/1

11th

16

(10)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Theoryofeverything

9st 2lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: David O’Meara

Second of 14 off this mark behind Thunder Roar at Ayr (1m) last September on his favoured soft ground; however, he was below that level more often than not last season and is likely to find this too competitive.

33/1

25/1

Form: -38255

Last run: 42 days

W: 8st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Lightly raced 4yo who went close at Haydock (7f, good) in July and kept on for fifth of 20 behind Native Warrior here (7f, good to soft) last month, beaten 5l; with a top trainer and this first crack at 1m is worth a go although others have more compelling credentials.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

(12)

30th May 2026

Good To Soft

0m 7f 1y

Class 2

15:30 Chester

Bobby Bennu

9st 3lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: Roger Varian

Course winner; only eighth in the corresponding race 12 months ago; 4lb lower today but he is drawn wide and this may not be his day.

16/1

Form: 209610 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 8st 10lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Completed a hat-trick last August-October and returned to winning ways at Goodwood (1m, good to firm) this August; however, well beaten in the Cambridgeshire (1m1f, good to firm) and needs to leave that run well behind.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

19

(22)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Tribal Chief

9st 2lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: David Menuisier

Useful handicapper at about 1m, winning five times; did well to finish third in the Lincoln at Doncaster in sole outing this term, having come from a difficult position; each-way possibilities, provided he copes with the drop back to 7f for first time since his early days.

8/1

3rd

18

(21)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Tribal Chief

9st 1lb

J: Sean Levey

T: David Menuisier

Inconsistent last season but he ran a big race first time up when runner-up at Newmarket (1m, good) and he won at Goodwood (1m, good to firm) in August; versatile ground-wise and he might not be far away on his reappearance, for a yard that won this in 2023.

14/1

19

(10)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Tribal Chief

8st 10lb

J: Sean Levey

T: David Menuisier

Completed a hat-trick last August-October and returned to winning ways at Goodwood (1m, good to firm) this August; however, well beaten in the Cambridgeshire (1m1f, good to firm) and needs to leave that run well behind.

25/1

20/1

Form: 002944 D

Last run: 8 days

W: 8st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
9yo who is without a win since August 2023 and needs everything to drop right but he often runs extremely well in defeat, including when third in the Royal Hunt Cup in June and when keeping on for fourth of 17 at York (1m, good) last Friday; solid each-way candidate.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

(9)

14th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:45 Newmarket

Bopedro

9st 0lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

10yo who won this in 2023; frequently runs well in quality handicaps and he's 5lb lower than when a cracking third in the Royal Hunt Cup last June; scratched from the Lincoln when running a temperature on his intended comeback last month and he tends to improve for a run these days; also winless since 2023.

15/2

11th

2

(1)

1st Nov 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

14:17 Newmarket

Bopedro

9st 12lb

J: Mark Winn

T: David O’Meara

9yo who has drawn a blank since winning on the July Course in summer 2023 and needs everything to drop right but he often runs extremely well in defeat, including when third in the Royal Hunt Cup in June; another respectable effort when sixth of 20 in Balmoral at Ascot (1m, good) a fortnight ago; not discounted in this slightly easier race.

6/1

21 (15)
Aalto

100/1

Form: -92070

Last run: 21 days

W: 8st 10lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; won the Bunbury Cup (7f, good) last July and went very close in that same race this year (good to firm); should be fine at 1m but those Newmarket efforts have been his standout performances in the last two seasons and it's probably best to look elsewhere; wears a first-time hood.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

28

(11)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Aalto

8st 12lb

J: Nicola Currie

T: Ian Williams

Good 7f handicapper but has achieved his peak RPRs in the last two runnings of the Bunbury Cup, winning in 2024 and going very close in 2025; may be more interesting when going for a third attempt at Newmarket in July; his Ascot record isn't convincing.

20/1

21

(15)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Aalto

8st 10lb

J: Reserve

T: Ian Williams

Reserve; won the Bunbury Cup (7f, good) last July and went very close in that same race this year (good to firm); should be fine at 1m but those Newmarket efforts have been his standout performances in the last two seasons and it's probably best to look elsewhere; wears a first-time hood.

100/1

33/1

Form: 070534

Last run: 24 days

W: 8st 10lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; some good runs in defeat this year having returned to Britain following a stint in Australia; however, he's in a hotter race today and needs something extra if he's to snap a losing sequence going back to 2022.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12

(18)

14th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:55 York

Galeron

8st 11lb

J: Jack Callan

T: Charles Hills

On a competitive mark on last year's best efforts but he's without a win since September 2022 and finished merely in mid-division on reappearance in the Lincoln at Doncaster in March (unseated rider on the way to post).

25/1

12th

11

(7)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Galeron

9st 3lb

J: Jack Callan

T: Charles Hills

Winless since September 2022 and 0-9 last year after returning from a stint in Australia; however, last season's best efforts came over C&D, including when fifth in this (good to soft) and runner-up in October (heavy); 7lb lower than 12 months ago and Jack Callan removes valuable 5lb; each-way claims.

12/1

33/1

Form: 342128 D BF

Last run: 63 days

W: 8st 10lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; made all at Sandown (1m, good to firm) in July and close second of 21 to subsequent Stewards' Cup winner Two Tribes here (7f, good) next time; soundly beaten at Newbury (7f, good to firm) two months ago and needs to bounce back but he's better than that and is not discounted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

8

(7)

16th May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

17:00 Newbury

Classic

9st 2lb

J: Pat Dobbs

T: Richard Hannon

Third in last year's Spring Cup over C&D and fourth in this race; next three starts were good as well and he was better than ever for reappearance second of 24 in the Spring Cup four weeks ago; up just 1lb, a leading player.

6/1

2nd

15

(9)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Classic

9st 1lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Chased home Ebt's Guard and Urban Lion in this race last year and he's better off at the weights with both; ran a cracker when dropped to 7f for valuable event at Ascot last summer; hasn't been seen for eight months but he'll be dangerous if cherry ripe.

12/1

23

(12)

18th Oct 2025

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:40 Ascot

Classic

8st 10lb

J: Reserve

T: Richard Hannon

Reserve; made all at Sandown (1m, good to firm) in July and close second of 21 to subsequent Stewards' Cup winner Two Tribes here (7f, good) next time; soundly beaten at Newbury (7f, good to firm) two months ago and needs to bounce back but he's better than that and is not discounted.

33/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £50.30
Straight Forecast £38.43
Tricast £416.31
Trifecta £518.20

Selections

TOPSPEED:

Ebt's Guard

POSTDATA:

Crown Of Oaks

SPOTLIGHT:

Oliver Show

RP RATINGS:

Bopedro

NEWMARKET:

Bobby Bennu

Telegraph:

Shout

THE NORTH:

Golden Mind

D Express:

Greek Order

Daily Mail:

Holloway Boy

The Star:

Witch Hunter

Daily Record:

Crown Of Oaks

LAMBOURN:

Ebt's Guard

The Times:

Ebt's Guard

The Sun:

Ebt's Guard

The Guardian:

Oliver Show

Daily Mirror:

Bopedro