March 28 / 14.25 Doncaster

14.25

Good To Soft

William Hill Epic Boosts Spring Mile Handicap

  • Prize money: £38655
  • 1m 0f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 22 runners
ITV
View Course
William Hill Epic Boosts Spring Mile Handicap

Runners: 22 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Sunny

1st
12 (3)
Mezcala

9/2 (Won)

  • Win: £6.90
  • Place: £2.10

Form: 52127- D BF

Last run: 183 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Outstayed over 1m1f when last seen; progressive at 1m otherwise and still has very low mileage; bred to take well to this scenario, being related to 2022 Lincoln winner Johan for same connections; remains of interest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

10

(16)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ascot

Mezcala

9st 4lb

J: George Bass

T: Jack Channon

Finished behind several of today's rivals in last two starts but may be able to tap back into his earlier progress, which culminated in a Royal Ascot handicap success (good to firm) in the first of only two attempts over 7f; shortlisted back down in distance.

8/1

6th

7

(14)

12th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:15 Doncaster

Mezcala

9st 7lb

J: George Bass

T: Jack Channon

Lightly raced 4yo who reappeared with a win in the Spring Mile over C&D (good to soft) and won the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm) in June; below best in the International at Ascot (7f, good to firm) in July last time but still of interest judged on previous exploits.

11/2

12/1

  • Place: £2.10

Form: 811-64 D

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 12lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Career-best form (all over 1m) since November features two wins on Dundalk AW and fourth-place finish in the Irish Lincolnshire at the Curragh returned to turf; has frame possibilities off unaltered mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

8

(2)

28th Jul 2026

Good To Yielding

1m 0f 123y

18:45 Galway

Far From Dandy

9st 3lb

J: Ben Coen

T: Stephen Thorne

No win on turf since September 2024; has run well in defeat in good handicaps this season, including fourth to Ribee in Irish Lincoln; also second to stablemate Jagged Edge at Naas; below-par last time in a Curragh race dominated by Pierre Royal and Booyea; drawn low.

10/1

10th

3

(7)

28th Jun 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

14:45 Curragh

Far From Dandy

9st 8lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

No win on turf since September 2024 but running well in defeat in good handicaps this season and rider's 3lb claim a plus; had Booyea behind when runner-up at Naas last time (1m, good); in the mix again.

5/1

9/1

  • Place: £4.00

Form: 03511- C

Last run: 140 days

W: 9st 4lb

7 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Ended his 2025 campaign with a heavy-ground 7f double that took his overall record at Doncaster to 3-3; acts on any going and has been very competitive (223) in 1m races on turf; respected kept to this track.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

7

(4)

16th Oct 2026

Heavy

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

14:52 Haydock

Lir Speciale

9st 6lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Brian Ellison

Won two in a row on heavy ground last autumn and he's well handicapped on the pick of his efforts in the first half of this summer; however, he hasn't shone more recently and needs to raise his game this afternoon.

12/1

5th

8

(8)

28th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 0f 68y

Class 3

15:29 Hamilton

Lir Speciale

9st 7lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Brian Ellison

Reasonably consistent this season until losing his form in last few outings; registered only wins for current stable when completing a Doncaster 7f double last autumn and may be more interesting when back there.

10/1

10th

3

(14)

6th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

0m 7f 192y

Class 4

17:00 York

Lir Speciale

10st 1lb

J: Shay Farmer

T: Brian Ellison

Merely midfield at the Galway festival on last two starts but he's run some really good races in defeat here this year; close third in this race last year and versatile ground-wise; very capable of being in the mix.

9/1

40/1

  • Place: £16.00

Form: 44070-

Last run: 168 days

W: 9st 9lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 87

Form & Verdict
Ran well in the Cammidge on this card 12 months ago but this new trip presents a question mark and she has become a slow-starter, markedly so when last seen; 0-12 since debut win.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

4

(10)

17th Sep 2026

Good

1m 0f 6y

Class 4

16:08 Pontefract

Perfect Part

10st 0lb

J: Sean D Bowen

T: Brian Ellison

0-20 since winning the Hilary Needler on debut two seasons ago; hasn't been running at all badly this campaign and today's race represents a welcome ease in grade; another with each-way claims.

12/1

4th

3

(3)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

15:15 Thirsk

Perfect Part

9st 7lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Brian Ellison

Overall record of 1-20 but she's been generally consistent this season, including two good efforts at Thirsk (7f/1m, good) in May and a fifth of 19 at York (7f, good to soft) last month; ties in with Oolong Poobong on that latest form and she's in the mix off a sliding mark.

5/1

16/1

Form: 85642- D

Last run: 154 days

W: 9st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 78

Form & Verdict
Suited by ground softer than good; record of 11-52 on turf features a win off 2lb higher in the 2025 Carlisle Bell; respectable second to Prosperitas at Doncaster on last appearance; competitively weighted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

9

(4)

16th Oct 2026

Heavy

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

14:17 Haydock

On The River

9st 3lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Harriet Bethell

Down the field at Southwell last time but that was a rare AW start; prior to that he was an unlucky runner-up at Beverley (8.4f, heavy) and he won this race on heavy ground in 2024; finished fourth last year; key player.

10/1

7th

6

(3)

22nd Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 13y

Class 4

17:30 Southwell (AW)

On The River

9st 8lb

J: Sean D Bowen

T: Harriet Bethell

Losing run is up to 13 but he went close at Newcastle (1m, Tapeta) in July and backed that up with a good second at Beverley (8.4f, heavy) last month; only 1lb higher back on AW and he should be in the thick of things again.

8/1

2nd

7

(7)

30th Aug 2026

Soft

1m 0f 100y

Class 4

15:20 Beverley

On The River

9st 2lb

J: Tom Kiely-Marshall

T: Harriet Bethell

0-12 since winning off 2lb higher at Carlisle (7.7f, soft) in June last year, but has gone close a couple of times in that period as when beaten a head and a neck into third of 14 at Newcastle (1m, AW) last month (winner has gone in again twice since); goes very well on soft ground and has won twice here (7f/8.5f); a player.

9/2

66/1

Form: 177P0- D

Last run: 140 days

W: 8st 13lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 77

Form & Verdict
Won maiden at Musselburgh (1m) on debut for current yard; holds very weak claims on subsequent handicap form and made a respiratory noise in last two races; comes with risk.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

6

(2)

29th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 2f 0y

Class 4

15:08 Ayr

Zowal

9st 8lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Raced wide when down the field at Pontefract (1m, good) recently and ran well when fourth of eight at Beverley (7.3f, soft) previously; however, he's had an inconsistent year and is untested at today's distance.

12/1

9th

8

(7)

17th Sep 2026

Good

1m 0f 6y

Class 4

16:08 Pontefract

Zowal

9st 10lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: John & Sean Quinn

C&D winner on good to soft in April when only 1lb lower; can be inconsistent but only just missed out on the places last time at Beverley (soft); couldn't rule out.

12/1

4th

8

(8)

29th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 75y

Class 4

16:10 Beverley

Zowal

9st 10lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Narrow win in a 1m handicap at Pontefract (good to soft); only 1lb higher today but two subsequent runs have been well short of his best; rain won't hurt his chance.

20/1

Form: 14603- D

Last run: 183 days

W: 9st 7lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Yet to encounter ground softer than good; consistent record in 1m/1m1f races on turf features wins at Redcar/York last April/June and creditable third at Newmarket on last appearance; in the mix.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

(7)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 7f 219y

Class 2

16:35 Redcar

Classic Encounter

9st 11lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Boughey

Goes well here and won over C&D (good to firm) in May; now returns from a break after a rare below-par effort; has run well fresh in the past and he ought to make his presence felt.

7/2

3rd

1

(1)

15th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 135y

Class 3

19:20 Lingfield

Classic Encounter

9st 11lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: George Boughey

Gained a third win when beating Desert Shadow at Redcar (1m, good to firm) in May and he went down narrowly over that C&D (good; third has won since) four weeks ago; leading claims from an unchanged mark.

Evs

2nd

3

(6)

19th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 219y

Class 3

15:25 Redcar

Classic Encounter

10st 0lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Boughey

Respectable effort when fourth of 12 at Newbury (1m, good to firm) this month and the return here makes him especially interesting given he is 2-2 over C&D; drying ground a positive.

11/2

8th
20 (7)
Pressures On

14/1

Form: 300-22

Last run: 8 days

W: 9st 1lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 79

Form & Verdict
Best form over 7f, including second-place finishes on Wolverhampton AW this year; faded into midfield, having raced freely, when joint-favourite for this contest 12 months ago; not crying out for return to 1m.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

8

(3)

11th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

16:05 Newbury

Pressures On

9st 2lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Ed Dunlop

Usually seen over further but he goes well on slow ground and is only 1lb higher than for his big-field win at York last summer (7f, good to soft); big run wouldn't be a bolt from the blue.

12/1

5th

2

(8)

1st May 2026

Standard

0m 7f 14y

Class 4

19:33 Newcastle (AW)

Pressures On

9st 8lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Ed Dunlop

Didn't appear to be crying out for the return to 1m at Doncaster and weakened late on; this is his trip, over which he was twice runner-up at Wolverhampton in March; not handicapped out of it, either.

4/1

Form: 06141- CD

Last run: 154 days

W: 9st 8lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 86

Form & Verdict
An ideal type for this prize having ended last term with a C&D win, showing career-best form; that was on heavy but he seems versatile as regards ground; further progress is not out of the question; shortlisted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

(6)

16th Oct 2026

Heavy

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

14:17 Haydock

Desperate Dan

9st 9lb

J: Marco Ghiani

T: Peter Chapple-Hyam

Two-time heavy-ground winner who returned to form when fourth of nine over C&D (heavy) three weeks ago on his first start since June; he drops back down in grade this afternoon and could play a leading role.

7/2

4th

10

(7)

26th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 7f 212y

Class 2

13:35 Haydock

Desperate Dan

8st 9lb

J: George Wood

T: Peter Chapple-Hyam

Had an excellent spell last autumn, winning two of his final three starts at 1m (good and heavy); failed to find the same form in two outings earlier in the year but no surprise were he to stage a revival back from a break.

14/1

6th

1

(7)

12th Jun 2026

Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 4

20:24 Goodwood

Desperate Dan

11st 3lb

J: Miss Brodie Hampson

T: Peter Chapple-Hyam

Had an excellent spell last autumn, winning two of his final three starts at 1m (good and heavy); needed further progress to win the Spring Mile at Doncaster in March and that didn't happen but he ran well for a long way; can be more of a factor under Brodie Hampson who won this last year.

5/2

OUR TIP

16/1

Form: 6240-6 C

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Record of 8-41 on turf, the most recent win at Doncaster last July; doesn't look the best treated runner in this big field but could go well with AW reappearance under his belt and Toby Moore taking off 7lb.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

10

(13)

19th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

15:55 Newbury

Sterling Knight

9st 7lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: Ed Dunlop

Landed the 12th win of his career (including one over C&D) at Newmarket (1m, good) in May but hasn't hit the same level in five subsequent runs; has dipped to 1lb above the mark he defied on the Rowley Mile but others arrive with more pressing claims.

25/1

6th

5

(4)

14th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

19:37 Newmarket (July)

Sterling Knight

9st 11lb

J: Toby Moore

T: Ed Dunlop

C&D winner who scored on the other course here (1m, good) in May; hasn't hit the same level in four subsequent runs but he was not beaten far at Thirsk last time and he ties in with Tuscan Hills on that form; usually comes from off the pace and has possibilities if he gets the breaks.

12/1

12/1

Form: 05345- D

Last run: 147 days

W: 9st 10lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Not disgraced (fifth of 14) in sole Doncaster attempt and current mark is workable; however, may be more interesting when back at Goodwood with this reappearance under his belt, having gained both wins there.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20th

18

(20)

26th Sep 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

Principality

8st 11lb

J: Kaiya Fraser

T: Harry Eustace

Made it two wins for the year when scoring on the other Newmarket course (1m, good to firm) last month and denied a clear run when close second off this mark at Salisbury (1m, good to soft) latest; up in grade this afternoon but this progressive 4yo is 2lb well in and is not ruled out each-way.

16/1

2nd

3

(4)

3rd Sep 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

17:24 Salisbury

Principality

10st 1lb

J: Kaiya Fraser

T: Harry Eustace

He's added two wins at about 1m (good and good to firm) this year and wasn't seen to best advantage at Goodwood on Sunday, unable to get a clear run until the birds ahead had flown; capable of better on this quick return.

7/1

4th

3

(3)

30th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

14:00 Goodwood

Principality

9st 12lb

J: Kaiya Fraser

T: Harry Eustace

Raised only 2lb for his wins at Nottingham in May and Newmarket last time, so looks likely to remain competitive, especially as he's a dual Goodwood scorer.

11/2

12th
18 (18)
Prosperitas

20/1

Form: /5001- C

Last run: 154 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Record of 2-2 on heavy ground includes a Doncaster success (7f) in first-time cheekpieces when last seen; ideally needs same conditions, being 0-7 on other surfaces; steps up to 1m with the headgear retained.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

(13)

23rd Sep 2026

Standard To Slow

0m 7f 0y

Class 4

19:30 Kempton (AW)

Prosperitas

9st 9lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: T J Kent

Both wins have been on heavy turf (6f/7f); didn't see out 1m on his comeback run at Doncaster in March but ran respectably on his AW debut over this C&D in May; can't be dismissed on his first start since but stall 13 isn't ideal.

9/1

4th

1

(7)

6th May 2026

Standard To Slow

0m 7f 0y

Class 4

20:00 Kempton (AW)

Prosperitas

9st 11lb

J: George Wood

T: T J Kent

Two wins came on heavy ground in the autumn; pulled hard and didn't see it out on his first crack at 1m on comeback but has to prove this career-high mark within range on his AW debut.

10/1

12th

18

(18)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

Prosperitas

9st 4lb

J: Marco Ghiani

T: T J Kent

Record of 2-2 on heavy ground includes a Doncaster success (7f) in first-time cheekpieces when last seen; ideally needs same conditions, being 0-7 on other surfaces; steps up to 1m with the headgear retained.

20/1

13th
5 (6)
Cadarn

33/1

Form: /1104- D

Last run: 221 days

W: 9st 10lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Two wins at Redcar last spring represent his peak form for George Boughey; 0-6 elsewhere and has something to prove off current mark in this scenario on debut for Kevin Ryan; still with same owner.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

(9)

20th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 0f 68y

Class 4

16:00 Hamilton

Cadarn

10st 0lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Did too much up front over 1m1f at Hamilton last time; successful at York and close third at Ripon in last two 1m attempts; ground softer than good would present a question mark.

16/1

8th

7

(2)

11th Aug 2026

Good To Soft

1m 1f 35y

Class 3

19:00 Hamilton

Cadarn

9st 12lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Returned to form to make all at York (1m, good) in June and backed that up with another good effort at Ripon (1m, good) 24 days ago, finishing a close-up third of seven; runs off the same mark today and could go well over this slightly longer trip.

9/1

3rd

1

(6)

18th Jul 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 4

16:25 Ripon

Cadarn

9st 9lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

Returned to form to make all at 28-1 at York (1m, good) three weeks ago in a reapplied tongue-tie (retained); strong claims up 3lb if he can back up that latest performance.

11/4

14th
7 (10)
Carron

7/1

Form: 17-361 D

Last run: 22 days

W: 9st 9lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Only 1-8 on turf but appears to hold a fighting chance with Jack Callan's useful 5lb claim offsetting a penalty for a game success at Newcastle (1m) that took his AW record to 3-4; may do better still for current yard.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

2

(2)

22nd Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 13y

Class 4

16:55 Southwell (AW)

Carron

10st 1lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: Ruth Carr

Went close at Yarmouth (1m, soft) on his final start for George Boughey and can have a line put through his stable debut here over 7f having lost his position when hampered; 3-5 on the AW and can't be dismissed.

20/1

11th

2

(7)

27th Aug 2026

Standard

0m 7f 14y

Class 4

19:00 Southwell (AW)

Carron

9st 13lb

J: James Sullivan

T: Ruth Carr

3-4 on the AW and was only beaten a neck at Yarmouth (1m, soft) last time; makes his stable debut after 78 days off having changed hands for 20,000gns last month, but a stiffer test than this may suit him better now.

8/1

16/1

Form: 59794-

Last run: 154 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Ties in with Desperate Dan on the C&D form shown on final start for Ed Bethell but it remains to be seen whether that 50-1 effort is backed up; gelded since; still in same ownership; gained sole win in 2yo maiden.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

8

(8)

16th Oct 2026

Standard

1m 0f 5y

Class 4

18:15 Newcastle (AW)

Intrusively

9st 7lb

J: Andrew Mullen

T: Michael Appleby

Back to form with a bang to collar one with a good AW record over 7f here on Monday; there was over 3l back to the third in that 13-runner contest so he could be fairly treated under a 5lb penalty if coping with the quick turnaround; just as effective at 1m.

7/2

5th

7

(8)

25th Sep 2026

Standard

0m 7f 14y

Class 5

19:45 Newcastle (AW)

Intrusively

9st 9lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Michael Appleby

Just one win to his name after 20 attempts; well treated on this season's best but he has gone quiet more recently; cheekpieces now given a go; others bring more compelling claims.

16/1

7th

8

(7)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 4

17:00 Thirsk

Intrusively

9st 1lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Michael Appleby

Yet to win a handicap and no better than fourth in seven runs for his new yard this year; drops in trip with a tongue tie added; others hold stronger claims.

16/1

Form: 21295- D

Last run: 123 days

W: 9st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
Has attempted this contest twice, finishing third in 2022 but only ninth in 2025; the 8yo is unlikely to make it third time lucky, as most of his form since September is in selling races.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

10

(3)

16th Oct 2026

Heavy

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

14:17 Haydock

Empirestateofmind

9st 0lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Two wins at Ayr (1m, soft/heavy) last month with a near-miss at Hamilton (1m1f, heavy) in between, and he was a close second when unpenalised at Ayr (7f, heavy) last Thursday; 4lb higher this afternoon but this 8yo remains well treated on his old form and has to be respected.

13/2

1st

2

(2)

29th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 5

14:08 Ayr

Empirestateofmind

9st 12lb

J: Jack Callan

T: John & Sean Quinn

Returned to form and capitalised on a reduced mark over C&D (soft) this month before near-miss at Hamilton (1m1f, heavy) two days later; 3lb higher than last time but this in-form 8yo is a leading contender.

11/4

2nd

4

(5)

20th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 1f 35y

Class 5

16:30 Hamilton

Empirestateofmind

9st 13lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Proved resurgent dropped back to Class 5 at Ayr (1m, soft) on Friday, beating Motawaared by 1l, pair clear; likely player under 4lb penalty kept to this level, provided he remains in form.

100/30

20/1

Form: 116554 D

Last run: 8 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
AW form this year features two wins in January and creditable fifth in the Lincoln Trial; only 1-14 on turf and looks unfavourably handicapped, being 4lb higher than last appearance in this sphere.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

19

(15)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Doncaster

High On Hope

9st 4lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Michael Appleby

AW form this year features two wins in January and creditable fifth in the Lincoln Trial; only 1-14 on turf and looks unfavourably handicapped, being 4lb higher than last appearance in this sphere.

20/1

4th

8

(3)

20th Mar 2026

Standard

1m 1f 104y

Class 4

19:30 Wolverhampton (AW)

High On Hope

9st 5lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Michael Appleby

1m Polytrack wins at Chelmsford and Kempton in January; respectable fifth in Class 2 events on last two starts, including over 8.6f here 13 days ago but it remains to be seen whether this step up in trip will suit him.

7/1

5th

12

(9)

7th Mar 2026

Standard

1m 0f 142y

Class 2

14:42 Wolverhampton (AW)

High On Hope

8st 4lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Michael Appleby

Won Class 4 handicaps at Chelmsford and Kempton in January; respectable efforts in stronger company twice since but he needs a career best to take this.

25/1

Form: 51531- D

Last run: 121 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 83

Form & Verdict
Record of 51531 since handicapping includes a couple of respectable efforts at Doncaster (7f, heavy); held on by only a whisker at Newcastle (AW) upped to 1m but may have further improvement in him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

13

(5)

19th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

13:20 Ayr

Rainbow Nebula

8st 11lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Won a 1m handicap at Redcar in May off this mark; third of seven at Goodwood (1m, soft) three weeks ago was a return to form but he has more on his plate in this company.

16/1

3rd

7

(2)

30th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

14:00 Goodwood

Rainbow Nebula

9st 4lb

J: Billy Garritty

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Scored off current mark at Redcar in the spring but is by no means certain to repeat the form, having broadly regressed since.

33/1

17th

21

(8)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Soft

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

17:20 York

Rainbow Nebula

8st 8lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Progressive last autumn and rediscovered that thread to win at Redcar (1m, good) in May; hasn't been running badly over about 1m2f subsequently but needs something extra if he's to take this.

66/1

Form: 276-67 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 11lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 89

Form & Verdict
Has been unable to sustain his early progress, most recently out of the money when a 20-1 shot in the Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton; needs to raise his game.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

3

(1)

16th Oct 2026

Standard

1m 0f 5y

Class 4

17:45 Newcastle (AW)

First Ambition

9st 12lb

J: Luke Morris

T: Michael Keady

Lightly raced 5yo; last of 27 in the Cambridgeshre at Newmarket latest but this is significantly easier and he's the one to beat if recapturing the level of his penultimate third of 12 in handicap company at Wolverhampton.

5/4

27th

26

(27)

26th Sep 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

First Ambition

8st 3lb

J: Nicola Currie

T: Michael Keady

Lightly raced 5yo who hasn't been with this trainer long and has posted encouraging performances on his last two starts; however, he's in a hotter race today and others have more compelling claims.

66/1

3rd

4

(3)

7th Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 142y

Class 4

20:00 Wolverhampton (AW)

First Ambition

9st 7lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: Michael Keady

Started his career with two wins on Tapeta (7f/1m) last year; 0-8 in handicaps, but he's on a reduced mark and made some good late headway when sixth at Glorious Goodwood (1m1f, good) last month; was only beaten around 2l in that race and he looks interesting on this drop back in grade.

8/1

20/1

Form: 119- D BF

Last run: 190 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 86

Form & Verdict
Flopped in 1m2f handicap at Newbury when bidding to take record to 3-3; however, gained his novice wins at 1m and may be capable of progress returned to this distance; by no means written off.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

3

(10)

3rd Oct 2026

Standard

1m 0f 13y

Class 4

17:55 Southwell (AW)

Vincent Rocks

9st 11lb

J: Darragh Keenan

T: Ruth Carr

Started career with two wins at about 1m last summer, the latest over this C&D from the front; promising start for new yard on Newcastle AW in July but he faded badly after making the running back here 11 days ago; has a query for now.

25/1

9th

4

(2)

22nd Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 13y

Class 4

17:30 Southwell (AW)

Vincent Rocks

9st 10lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Ruth Carr

Lightly raced 4yo who won two novice events last summer including over C&D; signed off for Hugo Palmer with a close second at Kempton (first-time visor) in July but he's taken two backward steps for his new yard since; has bit to prove and he needs to get back near best.

16/1

11th

14

(12)

5th Sep 2026

Standard To Slow

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Kempton (AW)

Vincent Rocks

8st 11lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Ruth Carr

Hasn't had much racing; signed off for Hugo Palmer with good second to The Liffey over C&D; far from disgraced when never-nearer fifth to Victory Ace at Newcastle next time; may have more to offer for new yard.

25/1

25/1

Form: 4021- D

Last run: 187 days

W: 9st 6lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
Raced in four maidens for Paddy Twomey, winning by a neck at Listowel (1m, heavy) the final time; sold for 20,000gns since; goes into rather deep waters on stable/handicap debut but is still unexposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

4

(4)

16th Aug 2026

Standard

1m 4f 14y

Class 4

13:30 Southwell (AW)

Naples

9st 12lb

J: Dougie Costello

T: Steph Hollinshead

Dam 1m3f winner; 1m, heavy-ground maiden winner last September for Paddy Twomey; after his four 1m/1m2f handicaps for current yard this term, trying cheekpieces last time, others bring much more persuasive claims.

25/1

20/1

Form: 31261- D

Last run: 151 days

W: 9st 4lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Good strike-rate in the second half of last season featured wins in lower grades at Carlisle (1m1f; twice) and Leicester (1m, soft); faces a stiffer assignment off career-high mark at this level, however.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

8

(8)

16th Oct 2026

Heavy

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

14:52 Haydock

Milteye

9st 5lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Harriet Bethell

Two-time soft-ground winner who won off 3lb higher at Ripon (1m, good to soft) in April; however, his subsequent form has been mixed and he was beaten a long way at Hamilton (1m, soft) recently.

16/1

11th

9

(12)

28th Sep 2026

Soft

1m 0f 68y

Class 3

15:29 Hamilton

Milteye

9st 6lb

J: Ethan Tindall

T: Harriet Bethell

Won narrowly off 1lb higher at Ripon in April to end a spell that improved his strike-rate markedly; has lacked consistency since, however, and failed to show his form in lower grade most recently.

20/1

6th

1

(4)

17th Sep 2026

Good

1m 0f 6y

Class 4

16:08 Pontefract

Milteye

10st 2lb

J: Tom Kiely-Marshall

T: Harriet Bethell

Likes give underfoot but has won on good ground; on last winning mark (April) and he was closing on the principals in a Class 2 at Ripon late last month; respected in his bid to go one better than 12 months ago.

8/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £42.40
Straight Forecast £30.37
Tricast £494.28
Trifecta £510.00

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Mezcala

The Times:

Rainbow Nebula

Daily Mirror:

On The River

The Guardian:

Principality

Telegraph:

Carron

Daily Mail:

Far From Dandy

NEWMARKET:

Desperate Dan

POSTDATA:

High On Hope

RP RATINGS:

Classic Encounter

The Sun:

Lir Speciale

TOPSPEED:

Empirestateofmind

LAMBOURN:

Mezcala

D Express:

Mezcala

Daily Record:

Rainbow Nebula

The Star:

On The River