Tomorrow / 15.35 York

15.35

Good To Soft

Sky Bet Ebor Handicap (Heritage Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

  • Prize money: £300000
  • 1m 5f 188y
  • Class 2
  • 24 runners
ITV
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Sky Bet Ebor Handicap (Heritage Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

Runners: 24 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

OUR TIP

Form: 9-3112 BF

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 12lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 110

Form & Verdict
2m Group 1 entry; lightly raced 4yo, unraced on softer than good except on debut; has flourished this term, winning in some style at Carlisle (1m3f) in May and Royal Ascot (1m4f; 10lb higher today) in June; backed up the latter form when second in a steadily run Group 3 at Goodwood and looks well worth a crack at 1m6f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

(1)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 218y

Class 1

14:25 Goodwood

Opportunity

9st 3lb

J: James Doyle

T: William Haggas

Lightly raced 4yo who won at Carlisle (1m3f, good to firm) in May on his second start since being gelded and followed up in the Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap at Royal Ascot (1m4f, good to firm); he's by Frankel out of a Group 1 winner and could take this rise in grade in his stride; key player.

5/2

1st

11

(1)

19th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

Opportunity

9st 7lb

J: James McDonald

T: William Haggas

Off 11 months after tailing off in a Group 2 at this meeting last year; shaped promisingly on handicap debut over C&D on return and firmly in charge through the final 2f at Carlisle (1m3f, again good to firm) three weeks later; trying to avoid trouble in running from stall 1 looks a headache today but zero shock if the 8lb rise underestimates him.

5/1

Form: 553465 D

Last run: 42 days

W: 9st 11lb

7 yo Colt

OR: 109

Form & Verdict
Not proven on worse than good to soft; fourth in this race in 2024; 7yo who is 0-13 since winning at Meydan in January 2025; has run really well in plenty of Group races in the interim, including the last two runnings of the Yorkshire Cup over C&D, but he ran a stinker in C&D Listed event in June and also disappointed here on latest start; big questions to answer after that.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

3

(5)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

16:55 York

Epic Poet

9st 0lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

7yo who is 0-12 since winning at Meydan in January 2025; has run really well in plenty of Group races in the interim, including the last two runnings of the Yorkshire Cup over C&D, but he ran a stinker in C&D Listed event four weeks ago; bang there if he bounces straight back.

6/1

6th

2

(1)

13th Jun 2026

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

15:00 York

Epic Poet

9st 2lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: David O’Meara

0-11 since winning at Meydan last January but he has run really well in Group races in the interim, including the last two runnings of the Yorkshire Cup over C&D; drops into a Listed race today and could be bang there.

7/2

Form: 313553

Last run: 50 days

W: 9st 9lb

7 yo Colt

OR: 107

Form & Verdict
Probably acts on good to soft, much more to prove on soft; reliable 7yo who's never been better than this season (1m2f-2m); also seems to have found his limits but perhaps a handicap such as this will suit him better than the much smaller-field Group/Listed race's he's contested on last three starts.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

(4)

3rd Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Paradias

9st 2lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Six-time winner on the Flat over shorter trips than this (1m1f-1m4f), including at this track in 2023; beaten about 5l when fifth of seven in a Group 3 over this C&D in May (behind Lazy Griff and ahead of Furthur and Duke Of Oxford) but that was steadily run and he didn't fully prove his stamina; stable won this with Trueshan in 2024 but this 7yo has a bit to find to reverse placings with Lazy Griff.

5/1

5th

6

(1)

28th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

18:12 Sandown

Paradias

9st 4lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

7yo who has a good record here and has been better than ever in AW handicaps this year, and he wasn't beaten far when fifth of six in Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket (1m4f, good to firm) four weeks ago; however, his form needs to go to a new level and he's unraced beyond 1m4f on the Flat.

33/1

Form: 0-4604

Last run: 50 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 106

Form & Verdict
Seemed to be going places when he won a Group 3 at Newbury (1m5f, good to firm) last August, followed by a respectable sixth on soft ground in the St Leger, but he's been disappointing this term; headgear goes on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

2

(3)

3rd Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Furthur

9st 2lb

J: James Doyle

T: Andrew Balding

Both wins have been at Newbury, in a maiden over 1m3f last April and a Group 3 over 1m5f (good to firm) last August; respectable sixth in the St Leger in September but he's been below that level in all four starts since, including when beating only Duke Of Oxford home over this C&D in May; drops back to 2m having contested the Gold Cup two weeks ago.

5/1

10th

8

(6)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 1

16:15 Ascot

Furthur

9st 3lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Andrew Balding

Second to Carmers in bunched finish to 1m6f Queen's Vase here last year and impressive in Group 3 at Newbury (1m5f, again good to firm) last August; he's been put firmly in his place on all four outings since, however, beaten just over 4l behind Scandinavia and Rahiebb in the St Leger at Doncaster on first occasion, which was creditable, but singularly underwhelming this season in Yorkshire Cup and 2m Sandown Group 3; needs a huge turnaround.

66/1

Form: 21-201

Last run: 16 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Won at Leicester (1m4f, good to soft) last October and reappeared with a good second at Goodwood (1m6f, good) in May, both from the front; soft ground was likely to blame at Epsom on Derby Day but recent return to action was pretty spectacular when a change in tactics saw him come from last to first in a well-contested 13-runner race at Southwell (1m3f, AW); has a 4lb penalty after that narrow win but this lightly raced 4yo now promises better still and a good 5lb claimer is enlisted; player if the ground isn't too soft.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(3)

6th Aug 2026

Standard

1m 3f 23y

Class 2

20:26 Southwell (AW)

Spinning Wheel

9st 10lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Looked a progressive sort last year (3-5) and ran well to finish runner-up on his Goodwood reappearance (1m6f, good) in May; soft ground the likely reason for his dismal effort at Epsom (1m4f) on Derby Day and better expected if taking to the AW.

6/1

12th

2

(1)

6th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 4f 6y

Class 2

17:20 Epsom

Spinning Wheel

9st 8lb

J: James Doyle

T: Simon & Ed Crisford

Unraced as a juvenile but now boasts 3-6 record, winning his first two and back on the scoresheet when making all at Leicester (1m4f, good to soft) in October; bumped into a quite well-regarded sort when second at Goodwood (1m6f, good) a fortnight ago and this unexposed 4yo looks a big contender to build on that encouraging return.

11/2

Form: 7-3854 CD

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 105

Form & Verdict
Won the Melrose on this card last year before a creditable last of seven in the soft-ground St Leger (sole run on softer than good); returned to a handicap off this mark at Glorious Goodwood (again 1m6f on good to firm) three weeks ago for a good fourth of 13 to Hopewell Rock, challenging smoothly over 2f out; that was after 11 weeks off and much more encouraging again.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(12)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Tarriance

9st 12lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Andrew Balding

The future looked bright when he won the Melrose at York (1m6f, good to firm) last August but he's not built on that significantly; well held back in Britain for two Group races this May when last seen; off 12lb higher than in the Melrose, this return to a handicap may also be tough.

12/1

5th

7

(7)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

16:05 York

Tarriance

9st 3lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Andrew Balding

Won the C&D Melrose Handicap (good to firm) last August, before the St Leger proved too tough; gelded soon after and creditable third in Saudi Arabia (1m7f) in February, but he needs to bounce back with a big career best after his heavy defeat in 2m Ascot Group 3 (9-1) two weeks ago.

25/1

Form: 2541-3

Last run: 63 days

W: 9st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 105

Form & Verdict
2m Group 1 entry with no ground worries; 1m2f Listed and Group 3 winner in Germany and last year he scored over 1m4f in France; sole Flat run for new connections was a good one when third in the 2m5f Queen Alexandra at Royal Ascot, travelling well turning for home; followed that by knuckling down well for a maiden hurdle win at the Galway festival and his trainer has won two of the last three Ebors, but a 7lb rise since Royal Ascot isn't ideal.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 353-11 D

Last run: 67 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 105

Form & Verdict
2m Group 1 entry for Ascot in October, along with several others in this; unraced on good to soft and below form in a soft-ground run last term; unbeaten in 2026, having led in the closing stages on good to firm at the Newmarket Guineas meeting (1m4f) and Royal Ascot (1m6f; by a head); raised another 5lb but progressive and plenty to like if the ground proves suitable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(12)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Daiquiri Bay

9st 12lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

After just the solitary run as 2yo he made steady progress last season and delivered a clear personal best when reeling in the front-running Gamrai in a 1m4f Newmarket handicap at the Guineas meeting (good to firm; first run since gelded) on reappearance; up just 4lb and this return to a longer trip won't bother him; hard to knock.

6/1

1st

6

(8)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 4f 0y

Class 2

16:45 Newmarket

Daiquiri Bay

9st 3lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Sole win in eight runs was a Chester maiden; best efforts, however, when third in both the 1m6f Melrose at York (good to firm; led over 2f out) and another valuable handicap over C&D (good; finishing strongly) in October; gelded soon afterwards; interesting prospect as 4yo.

5/1

Form: 29-361 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Won on heavy as 2yo, unraced on soft; regular progress/promise (including on good to soft) in his first six handicaps, without winning; raced freely early on in the last of those when running out of steam at Royal Ascot (1m4f) but he then got his act together at Glorious Goodwood (upped to 1m6f, good to firm) three weeks ago when travelling smoothly in mid-division and going on over 1f out, before holding a hampered runner-up (who won well here on Wednesday); well treated under 4lb penalty.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(9)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Hopewell Rock

9st 8lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: George Boughey

0-6 in handicaps, with regular progress/promise but not when favourite last time at Royal Ascot where he raced freely early on and ran out of steam after challenging over 2f out (finished 8l sixth of 17); it's much too early to forget his reappearance promise (also 1m4f on good to firm) but that latest run also casts some doubt on the suitability of this new trip.

7/1

6th

10

(8)

19th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

Hopewell Rock

9st 8lb

J: James Doyle

T: George Boughey

Lightly raced 4yo who's without a handicap win but has mostly progressed in defeat, with the exception on heavy going; came from last to third in eight-runner race at Newmarket (1m4f, good to firm) seven weeks ago for a promising reappearance and the two ahead of him filled the same positions over 1m6f here on Tuesday; changed hands since and has a major chance.

9/2

Form: -43544

Last run: 64 days

W: 9st 6lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Close second in 1m7f French Group 2 (on very soft) last October remains his best form; has a competitive handicap mark, though, as he showed when running on well from off the pace to be fourth of 17 to Opportunity at Royal Ascot (1m4f) last time; Ryan Moore stays on board; Irish St Leger entry with strong claims back up in trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

5

(13)

19th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

Emit

9st 11lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

His 1m2f Group 3 run here (40-1) was the only blip from him last season; close second in 1m7f French Group 2 last October looks his best form but his handicap mark has fallen and plenty of ability remains; the biggest question may be whether this trip is now on the short side.

13/2

4th

1

(3)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Emit

10st 0lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Consistent last season, going close in 1m2f Group 3 Gallinule Stakes here and later in year twice runner-up in Longchamp Group contests over 1m7f; first two runs this term at 1m6f were creditable, drop back 1m4f didn't suit latest; drops to handicap company and back to ideal trip.

13/2

Form: 15-632

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 6lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Markedly improved last year and even better this term, all on good or good to firm, although he had lots of soft-ground form in previous seasons; wore cheekpieces when staying-on third of 16 to Daiquiri Bay at Royal Ascot (1m6f) and close second at Newmarket (1m4f) 18 days later; raised another 3lb but each-way player if the ground is okay for him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

3

(6)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Newmarket (July)

Paddy The Squire

9st 10lb

J: Andrew Mullen

T: Iain Jardine

Much improved last year, including after his second to Plage De Havre in this race at Haydock; York sixth to Klassleader on reappearance but back to his best when staying-on third of 16 at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm) 18 days ago; needs respect.

7/1

3rd

3

(4)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Paddy The Squire

9st 12lb

J: Andrew Mullen

T: Iain Jardine

Had a ball last year after being gelded, winning three of his six starts and as good as ever when a close fifth stepped up to 1m6f at Haydock in September; however, he is a 6yo and perhaps high in the weights now, a suspicion seemingly confirmed by his York run one month ago; there's no obvious significance in the return of cheekpieces.

22/1

Form: 06-317 D

Last run: 57 days

W: 9st 4lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Registered his highest rating in 1m6f Listed race on soft ground last April (his only time front-running); always prominent when strong finish took him to a handicap win at the Curragh (1m6f, yielding) this term and, although he wasn't discredited over 2m later in June, this trip on softer than good may well be the best fit; wears headgear for the first time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

(10)

26th Jun 2026

Good

2m 0f 76y

19:55 Curragh

Poetic Sound

10st 2lb

J: Colin Keane

T: G M Lyons

Stayed on well to gain third career success off 8lb lower here on latest (1m6f, yielding); both previous runs at around this trip have not been his best so could be vulnerable upped in distance on quicker ground off career high mark.

100/30

1st

6

(1)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Poetic Sound

9st 2lb

J: Colin Keane

T: G M Lyons

Won twice over 1m4f in 2024 and began last season in form of his life over 1m6f at Navan, touched off in handicap and fine third in Listed contest; last month's 1m4f Leopardstown comeback run was encouraging, could well improve enough from that to play a major role here back at 1m6f.

8/1

Form: -12617 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Not often seen on softer than good but he won on good to soft in June 2024; failed to shine at this meeting in 2024 or 2025, during a long losing run; he's broken that with two 2m wins on the AW this year, most notably in the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle in June, and also second at Newmarket (1m6f, good to firm) in May, but only mid-division behind Hopewell Rock at Goodwood three weeks ago; others seem more likely.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

(10)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Align The Stars

9st 8lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: Charlie Johnston

Won this race in 2024 before embarking on a long losing run; he's broken that with two 2m wins on the AW this year, most notably in the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle last time; second in valuable race at Newmarket (1m6f, good to firm) in May was followed by a blip here; back up another 4lb since Newcastle but not entirely ruled out.

12/1

1st

4

(14)

27th Jun 2026

Standard To Slow

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Align The Stars

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: Charlie Johnston

Broke his losing run in clearcut style when he reappeared at Kempton (2m, AW) in March with restored cheekpieces, which have been kept since; good second in valuable race at Newmarket (1m6f) but he needs to bounce back from a disappointing show at Goodwood five weeks ago.

16/1

Form: 937060

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 3lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
2023 Royal Ascot winner who has also tasted the high life in top hurdle races; one of the market leaders in this in 2024 but came 12th; his attentions have been focused on the Flat this year but he hasn't been in peak form, 11th off this reduced mark behind Hopewell Rock last time; there's a chance that return to softer ground today will help; something needs to.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

3

(7)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Burdett Road

9st 8lb

J: Mason Paetel

T: James Owen

2023 Royal Ascot winner who has also tasted the high life in top hurdle races; his attentions have been turned back to the Flat this year and he hasn't been in peak form; falling in the weights but still needs a revival; good 5lb claimer is enlisted.

33/1

6th

1

(2)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Newmarket (July)

Burdett Road

9st 12lb

J: Luke Morris

T: James Owen

2023 Royal Ascot winner who has also tasted the high life in top hurdle races; his attentions were turned back to the Flat for four races (UAE and Saudi Arabia) this January-March and he wasn't in peak form, before 12l tenth at Royal Ascot (1m4f; restless in the stalls) continued that trend; falling in the weights but needs a revival.

40/1

Form: 236084 C

Last run: 43 days

W: 9st 3lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Acts on good to soft but soft would be a worry; tricky to settle and is held up in rear; won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f; 10lb higher today) last October and he's looked just as good on most starts since, without winning but late traffic woes seemingly prevented him from going close last time; without his usual jockey Billy Loughnane today but he was a close second last term under Clifford Lee; probably involved if he can get the breaks.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11

(1)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 7f 209y

Class 2

14:10 Ascot

Beylerbeyi

10st 3lb

T: Ian Williams

100/30

4th

2

(7)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Beylerbeyi

9st 9lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Ian Williams

Tricky to settle and is held up in rear; won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm; 9lb higher today) last October and had some very solid AW form over 1m2f-2m this year; back to near his best when eighth of 20 at Royal Ascot (2m4f) but he needs to hit a new high if he's to win this.

16/1

Form: 5-2708

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 1lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 99

Form & Verdict
Probably no ground worries; not a prolific winner, with his waiting tactics, but he was fourth in the Ebor last year off a 2lb higher mark; ran creditably on reappearance, before none of his three starts since panned out favourably; can be given a place chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

5

(3)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:50 Goodwood

Stressfree

9st 6lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: David O’Meara

Not a prolific winner, with his waiting tactics, but he was fourth in the Ebor at York (1m6f, good to firm) last August off a 2lb higher mark; ran creditably on reappearance, before neither start since panned out favourably; only ninth in this last year on his only run at Goodwood.

25/1

11th

2

(13)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Stressfree

9st 12lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Not a prolific winner, with his waiting tactics, and never involved when 7-1 for last year's 1m4f Duke of Edinburgh at this meeting; however, it would be unwise not to recall his fourth in the Ebor at York last August (1m6f, good to firm) off a 1lb higher mark and he was unsuited by the steady pace at York last time out (1m4f); could get competitive should this pan out favourably; stable won this in 2022.

16/1

Form: 212-17 C BF

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 0lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Just six races; came from the back when second on handicap debut at Haydock (1m6f, good to soft) last September and again when eventually well on top at York (1m4f, good; 8lb higher today) this May; the latter promised much, which was singularly unfulfilled when hot favourite at Newmarket (1m4f, good to firm) seven weeks ago; virtually first off the bridle that day but a return to 1m6f on softer ground today ensures that he remains of major interest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

5

(8)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Newmarket (July)

Klassleader

9st 7lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

Made debut in June 2025 and has had just five races (beaten a neck on good to firm on second start); came from the back when second on handicap debut at Haydock (1m6f, good to soft) in September and again when eventually well on top at York (1m4f, good; Plage De Havre third) on reappearance this May; up 8lb but retains significant potential.

6/4

1st

10

(5)

13th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 188y

Class 2

14:20 York

Klassleader

8st 13lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

Made his debut only last June and has had just four races; long odds-on for 1m4f novice win in August and best form when second of six to Sing Us A Song on handicap debut at Haydock (1m6f, again good to soft; came from the back) in September; probably still a work in progress at that stage and he starts 2026 (for in-form yard) with significant potential.

9/4

Form: 26-706

Last run: 16 days

W: 9st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Unraced on the soft on Flat for nearly two years; progressive last season, most notably on good to firm with his win at Royal Ascot (2m4f) and second in this race; failed to shine at Ascot on first two starts this season (every chance over 1f out at the Royal meeting) before never dangerous when 40-1 in a recent Leopardstown Group 3; off the same mark as 12 months ago, however, this Irish St Leger entry could be dangerous to dismiss.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

1

(6)

6th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 0y

18:35 Leopardstown

Ascending

9st 9lb

J: W J Lee

T: Henry De Bromhead

Progressive last season, completing a hat-trick in the 2m4f Ascot Stakes; continued on the upgrade when second to Ethical Diamond in the Ebor at York (1m6f); has failed to recapture his best form in two trips to Ascot this season; was getting 6lb from the Mullins horse in the Ebor, now rated 20lb inferior.

20/1

10th

1

(6)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Ascending

9st 12lb

J: W J Lee

T: Henry De Bromhead

Won the Cork Derby over 1m4f before following up in the 2m4f handicap on this card 12 months ago (good to firm) and that golden spell continued when second in the Ebor at York (1m6f); only 2lb higher than at York so he's not handicapped out of this, and last month's run in a Group 3 after 215 days away should have brought him on fitness-wise; respected.

10/1

Form: 31-211

Last run: 63 days

W: 8st 13lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
4yo with just five races under his belt but he has 2m Group 1 entry for Ascot in October; won handicap debut at Hamilton (1m5f, good) in May and firmly in charge from over 1f out in 12-runner race at Ayr (1m5f, soft; always prominent) in June; up another 6lb today, inexperienced and drawn almost widest of all, but he strides out as if 1m6f will suit him well and has significantly more to give.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(4)

20th Jun 2026

Good

1m 5f 26y

Class 2

14:53 Ayr

Square Necker

9st 7lb

J: Sam James

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

Won 1m4f AW maiden in December on second start then finished second to Constitution Hill at Southwell (1m4f, AW), before winning on handicap debut at Hamilton (1m5f, good) last month; showed promise on good to soft on debut; this unexposed 4yo could have more left in the tank; major player.

7/2

1st

4

(5)

3rd May 2026

Good

1m 5f 16y

Class 3

14:40 Hamilton

Square Necker

9st 2lb

J: Sam James

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

160,000euros yearling; his debut third in a 1m2f Doncaster maiden last March (good to soft) worked out exceptionally well and he then won easily at Dundalk in December (1m4f; odds-on; had been gelded), at the expense of a Listed-placed rival; could be on a useful mark for handicap debut and when second to Constitution Hill at Southwell (1m4f novice) he was giving the winner 5lb.

13/8

Form: 407707 D

Last run: 43 days

W: 8st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Rarely seen on softer than good but it used to be okay (2023); made the frame only once (Saudi Arabia in February) from seven starts this year; admittedly hampered at Newmarket six weeks ago on latest outing, a race in which he ran well last term before finishing fifth in this; 7lb lower than 12 months ago and has a place squeak but there's been no win for over three years.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

3

(5)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Real Dream

9st 6lb

J: Ryan Kavanagh

T: Ian Williams

Third in this race last year off 3lb higher; competitive only once (Saudi Arabia in February) from six starts this year and there's been no win for very nearly three years, so he's far from being the percentage call.

50/1

13th

6

(1)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Real Dream

9st 11lb

J: Mickael Barzalona

T: Ian Williams

Close up in a Saudi Arabian 1m7f handicap in February (latest run in a tongue-tie that now returns) but that form is none too persuasive in a race of this nature and he's hardly hit the ground running back in Britain; only eighth in this last year off 2lb higher; one for the optimists.

22/1

Form: 46-500

Last run: 56 days

W: 8st 12lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Ran creditably twice over 1m6f last autumn, including on good to soft; this campaign is not that hard to forgive - over 1m2f/1m on first two occasions and with 2m for the Northumberland Plate (just 8-1) perhaps a stretch last time - although he has raced a bit freely; well treated judged on peak form and could be about to come good again.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

3

(2)

27th Jun 2026

Standard To Slow

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Circus Of Rome

9st 7lb

J: Finley Marsh

T: Richard Hughes

Third win last term was clearcut over 1m4f here in August and he ran creditably over 1m6f on turf next time; it's not that hard to forgive this season, given the 1m2f/1m, although he has raced a bit freely; looked the type to make progress this year and this is an eye-catching rethink on trip.

7/2

11th

2

(5)

13th Jun 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:17 Sandown

Circus Of Rome

10st 0lb

J: Finley Marsh

T: Richard Hughes

Campaigned over further since the start of last term and gained his handicap double at about 1m4f (stays 1m6f); never dangerous over 1m2f on reappearance; drop back to 1m looks a big negative.

20/1

Form: 114-

Last run: 299 days

W: 8st 12lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Half-brother to 1m1f-1m2f winner Lord Charming (including Group 3; RPR 113); unraced until last September but won over 1m1f in Germany on first two starts and beaten 2l in a 1m2f Listed race at Chantilly (very soft) in October; 180,000euros buy last November and unraced since; it looked last time as if going beyond 1m2f would suit him well and this choice of engagement is highly respected for trainer who's won two of the last three Ebors.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

7

28th Jul 2026

Good

2m 2f 54y

17:10 Galway

Love Me Tender

11st 12lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: W P Mullins

One of three for yard; bumper winner; 2-6 over hurdles and rated 135; has come up short in graded hurdles on last four starts; dam a useful chaser so could take to this discipline; tongue tie goes on; not discounted.

6/1

5th

11

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 7f 190y

16:15 Punchestown

Love Me Tender

11st 10lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: W P Mullins

Won a bumper, maiden hurdle (2m3f) and 2m Grade 3 novice without being extended, all on good-to-yielding; acquitted himself creditably in Grade 1 Leopardstown novices', including third to stablemate Doctor Steinberg (2m6f, heavy); most recently not at same level back in trip in Grade 2 at Fairyhouse; place claims at best.

14/1

4th

1

5th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 4f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Love Me Tender

11st 6lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: W P Mullins

Won a bumper, maiden hurdle (2m3f) and 2m Grade 3 novice without being extended, all on good-to-yielding; has acquitted creditably in Grade 1 Leopardstown novices' since, none too fluent when third at Christmas (heavy) and keen enough when third over 2m6f behind a stablemate at the DRF; drop back to 2m4f probably in his favour and open to improvement on better ground.

11/2

23 (19)
Enemy

Form: 109903 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 8st 11lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Reserve; won 1m4f/2m handicaps on the AW early this year but his strike-rate on turf is only 3-39 (last win in January 2023); close third at Ascot (second-time cheekpieces) two weeks ago was his best turf result for ages but he's been 14th, 16th and 20th when outsider in his three previous Ebors.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

5

(5)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

14:45 Ascot

Enemy

9st 12lb

J: Mme Frida Valle Skar

T: Ian Williams

Won 1m4f/2m handicaps on the AW early this year; only 3-38 on turf but quite encouraging runs in hot 1m3f/1m6f handicaps before finishing tailed off at Newmarket after starting slowly (1m4f); it wouldn't be a bolt from the blue should he run well but others are safer.

25/1

12th

6

(9)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Newmarket (July)

Enemy

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: Ian Williams

Won 1m4f/2m handicaps on the AW early this year; beaten just over 7l in hot handicaps at Carlisle (1m3f) and Royal Ascot (1m6f) on last two outings, shaping much better than ninth of 16 suggests in the latter (big move to dispute lead early in straight) but his turf strike-rate is 3-37.

33/1

Form: 0-9051 C

Last run: 14 days

W: 8st 11lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Reserve; acts on good to soft, much more to prove on soft; came back to the boil to win a Shergar Cup race at Ascot (2m) two weeks ago and peak efforts last term, including a 2m fourth at this meeting, were a bit better; with 4lb penalty, though, a career best may nevertheless be required.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(3)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 7f 209y

Class 2

14:10 Ascot

Dancing In Paris

9st 6lb

J: L J Ferraris

T: Ian Williams

Third in a 1m4f handicap at this meeting two years ago and his run over the same trip here 15 days ago was a step back in the right direction; has some appealing form to his name at 2m, so very much in the mix.

12/1

5th

5

(3)

24th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

16:05 Ascot

Dancing In Paris

9st 7lb

J: David Egan

T: Ian Williams

Course winner over 1m6f (also has two wins at 1m4f) but he hasn't scored since August 2024; posted a couple of mighty seconds in big handicaps on AW and turf last term but he's yet to get going in two starts this year; dangerous mark if he can stage a revival and the market might be revealing.

16/1

Betting Forcast

12/1 Opportunity, 50/1 Epic Poet, 33/1 Paradias, 33/1 Furthur, 25/1 Spinning Wheel, 7/1 Tarriance, 11/1 Mr Hollywood, 9/1 Daiquiri Bay, 12/1 Hopewell Rock, 15/2 Emit, 20/1 Paddy The Squire, 20/1 Poetic Sound, 33/1 Align The Stars, 66/1 Burdett Road, 10/1 Beylerbeyi, 33/1 Stressfree, 7/1 Klassleader, 22/1 Ascending, 12/1 Square Necker, 40/1 Real Dream, 40/1 Circus Of Rome, 15/2 Love Me Tender, 50/1 Enemy, 40/1 Dancing In Paris

Verdict

Last October's Group 2 Prix Chaudenay over 1m7f on soft ground at Longchamp makes very sweet viewing for supporters of EMIT and this season's strong finish over 1m4f off this mark at Royal Ascot suggests he is heading back to that level. They were for minor honours but he can now return to winning ways. Second on the list is the lightly raced and substantially upgraded Square Necker, who has stacks of potential, while the hugely unexposed Willie Mullins runner Love Me Tender has to be feared and Klassleader is another lightly raced sort to note. Opportunity and Hopewell Rock are among those who have set out their claims in a more high-profile manner, while 2025 Melrose winner Tarriance could be about to peak again.[Richard Austen]

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Emit

RP RATINGS:

Hopewell Rock

TOPSPEED:

Paddy The Squire

POSTDATA:

Ascending