July 13 / 15.10 York

15.10

Good To Soft

John Smith’s Cup Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

  • Prize money: £103080
  • 1m 2f 56y
  • Class 2
  • 21 runners
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John Smith’s Cup Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

Runners: 21 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

10/1 (Won)

  • Win: £9.70
  • Place: £2.90

Form: 1006-1 D

Last run: 23 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Readily went clear at Chelmsford (1m2f, AW) last month on his reappearance and first run since being gelded; he was disappointing last year after an impressive comeback at that same course, which is a bit of a worry, but this lightly raced 4yo could be well treated under a 5lb penalty if reproducing that latest promise; won on good to soft ground on debut in 2022.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

5

(7)

22nd May 2026

Soft

1m 1f 197y

Class 1

16:17 Goodwood

Enfjaar

9st 3lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: Roger Varian

Unlucky second at Glorious Goodwood in 2024 when bidding for a notable 1m2f handicap double; best effort in a truncated 2025 campaign when fourth to Haatem in Listed grade at Royal Ascot; should be thereabouts, provided he's in top form after ten-month layoff.

5/1

3rd

4

(6)

19th Jul 2025

Good To Firm

1m 2f 0y

Class 1

13:50 Newbury

Enfjaar

9st 8lb

J: Jim Crowley

T: Roger Varian

Won the valuable John Smith's Cup at York (1m2f, good to soft) last July in his penultimate handicap; close fourth of 16 in Listed race at Royal Ascot (1m2f, good to firm) one month ago showed, not for the first time, that he should be well capable of a prominent finish in today's company.

5/2

4th

8

(2)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 1f 212y

Class 1

17:35 Ascot

Enfjaar

9st 5lb

J: Jim Crowley

T: Roger Varian

Enjoyed a good 2024, including a win in valuable John Smith's Cup at York (1m2f, good to soft); showed he can mix it outside handicaps when second in 1m2f Listed race at Ayr (good to firm) last autumn; went without regular hood (back on now) when behind a couple of today's rivals in the Group 3 Brigadier Gerard on his reappearance at Sandown (1m2f, good) 19 days ago; likely to be sharper now and his yard has won this twice in recent years; a must for the shortlist from a handy draw.

7/2

7/1

  • Place: £2.10

Form: 231-10 CD BF

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 9lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 107

Form & Verdict
Disappointing in Listed Wolferton Stakes at Royal Ascot (1m2f, good to firm) last month but perhaps the ground was too lively (wins on good-soft); prior to that he was very impressive in a handicap over this C&D (good) and on that evidence today's 10lb higher mark may not be beyond him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

3

(5)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Newmarket

Botanical

9st 11lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

He wasn't at his very best last year but took a step back in the right direction when front-running fourth of 21 off this mark in the Lincoln at Doncaster five weeks ago on first run for new yard; no stamina worries but there is a concern about good to firm ground.

13/2

4th

1

(3)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Botanical

9st 12lb

J: Sam James

T: K R Burke

He wasn't at his very best last year for George Boughey, albeit he did finish third in the Listed Doncaster Mile over C&D (good to soft) on this card; now down to a mark 3lb lower than when runner-up in the John Smith's Cup at York (1m2f, good to soft) in July 2024 and his new trainer is a dab hand with topweights in big handicaps; goes well fresh and could have a big say.

14/1

25/1

  • Place: £7.50

Form: 03-110 D

Last run: 22 days

W: 8st 9lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Progressive in May, winning 11-runner Class 3 handicaps at Chester (1m2f, good) and Windsor (1m2f, good); perhaps the fast ground was unsuitable at Royal Ascot three weeks ago and he retains potential, but it's hard to be confident today on the back of that very heavy defeat.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

4

(5)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:55 York

Tony Montana

9st 8lb

J: David Egan

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

Beaten on his last 12 starts going back to May 2024 but he's run some big races in the meantime, including when beaten a head in this last year (good to firm) off the same mark as today; reappeared with solid sixth of 24 on stable debut in the Spring Cup at Newbury (1m, good); can be in the mix.

5/1

6th

14

(8)

18th Apr 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:10 Newbury

Tony Montana

9st 4lb

J: David Egan

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

In and out last season for Michael Bell, the high points coming when second in big fields at York (good to firm) in May and the Curragh (good to yielding) in September; all his best efforts have come over 1m2f so today's shorter distance is a concern but it's possible he'll be freshened up by a change of stable (same owner).

22/1

6

(15)

11th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:05 York

Tony Montana

9st 3lb

J: David Egan

T: Michael Bell

His form has been mixed this season but he went close over C&D (good to firm) in May and filled the same position in a big field at the Curragh (1m2f, good to yielding) last month; in the shake-up if he's again on song.

7/1

16/1

  • Place: £3.50

Form: 21234- D

Last run: 274 days

W: 8st 12lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Made no impact last autumn in first two handicaps (1m2f/1m6f, soft) and absent since; however, his trainer has won this three times since 2011, including with the reappearing Sinjaari in 2020, and this lightly raced 4yo showed considerable promise earlier last year; very interesting contender.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

11

(8)

13th Jul 2024

Good To Soft

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

15:10 York

Kingfisher King

8st 12lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: William Haggas

Made no impact last autumn in first two handicaps (1m2f/1m6f, soft) and absent since; however, his trainer has won this three times since 2011, including with the reappearing Sinjaari in 2020, and this lightly raced 4yo showed considerable promise earlier last year; very interesting contender.

16/1

4th

1

(10)

13th Oct 2023

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

14:40 York

Kingfisher King

9st 9lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

A win and two seconds at novice level, best form when beaten a neck at Hamilton (1m3f, good to soft) in August; rather disappointing when favourite for 1m2f handicap debut at Doncaster (soft) but there's been a rethink about his trip; trainer (runs two) won this race in 2019 and 2022.

7/1

3rd

2

(5)

14th Sep 2023

Good To Soft

1m 2f 43y

Class 2

16:10 Doncaster

Kingfisher King

9st 7lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

Form figures of 212 reflect his solid record at novice level; achieved a very useful RPR at Hamilton (1m3f, good to soft) most recently, pulling clear of the remainder; looks the type to improve further and do well in handicaps; respected.

7/2

Form: 670-62 D

Last run: 22 days

W: 8st 13lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Kept on from the rear for second of 19 in the Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot (1m4f, good to firm) three weeks ago on second stable start; on that evidence today's drop back in trip isn't an obviously plus, but he remains well treated on his 1m2f French form in 2022 (good/good to soft) and the long straight on this course will give him plenty of time to get rolling.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

5

(3)

28th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

18:12 Sandown

Epic Poet

9st 4lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Beaten in Group races on his last ten starts but went close in the Yorkshire Cup at York (1m6f, good to firm) last May and he was a good third in that same Group 2 a fortnight ago (good); he should be fine back up in trip and might not be far away.

7/1

3rd

4

(5)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

16:05 York

Epic Poet

9st 3lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Beaten a head in this last year, despite a highly tactical race; has held his form well (back in Dubai and Saudi Arabia this January-March) and should again be seriously involved, but to win this may require a career best.

5/1

2nd

3

(6)

16th Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 61y

Class 1

13:50 Newbury

Epic Poet

9st 7lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

In fine form this year over 1m6f-2m at Meydan and in Saudi Arabia and continued the good work when staying on for a close second in a slowly run Group 2 Yorkshire Cup (1m6f, good to firm) in May; no show when 25-1 at Royal Ascot (1m4f) on latest outing but shouldn't be far away in this lesser race if there's a decent pace to aim at.

3/1

25/1

Form: -09241 CD

Last run: 21 days

W: 8st 9lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
11yo who capitalised on a reduced mark and snapped a long losing run over 1m5f at Ayr three weeks ago; won this in 2018 and showed as recently as last August, when fourth in the Ebor here, that he could still be a force in top handicaps; versatile ground-wise; not ruled out each-way under penalty.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

9

(10)

26th Oct 2024

Soft

1m 2f 43y

Class 2

15:15 Doncaster

Euchen Glen

9st 8lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

11yo who has won just once since 2021 but that came at Ayr (1m5f, good to firm) this June; has run well several times this year, including when fourth of 13 at York (1m2f, soft) a fortnight ago, and might not be far away.

20/1

4th

5

(6)

12th Oct 2024

Soft

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:05 York

Euchen Glen

9st 0lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

11yo now but he's had a few bright moments this season, including second of eight to Kihavah at Ayr (1m5f, good to firm) three weeks ago; his sixth of 20 in the John Smith's Cup over C&D in July shows he's still effective over shorter trips.

20/1

2nd

3

(5)

21st Sep 2024

Good

1m 5f 26y

Class 3

17:15 Ayr

Euchen Glen

9st 12lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

in touch with leaders against rail, going okay 3f out, keeping on and went second over 1f out, no extra inside final furlong, no match for winner

6/1

14/1

Form: 213-35

Last run: 51 days

W: 8st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Sole 3yo in the field; soundly beaten in Listed race at Sandown (1m, soft) last time but before that he was a creditable third in the Group 3 Classic Trial there (1m2f, good to soft); on a fair mark on best form and his trainer has a good record in this race; not ruled out in first-time tongue-tie.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

18

(2)

13th Jul 2024

Good To Soft

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

15:10 York

Remaadd

8st 9lb

J: Harry Davies

T: William Haggas

Sole 3yo in the field; soundly beaten in Listed race at Sandown (1m, soft) last time but before that he was a creditable third in the Group 3 Classic Trial there (1m2f, good to soft); on a fair mark on best form and his trainer has a good record in this race; not ruled out in first-time tongue-tie.

14/1

5th

5

(5)

23rd May 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

20:12 Sandown

Remaadd

9st 2lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

prominent, left in second over 5f out

9/2

5th

5

(5)

23rd May 2024

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 1

20:12 Sandown

Remaadd

9st 2lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: William Haggas

Solid record, having produced form figures of 2133, most recently third in the Classic Trial here (1m2f, good to soft); likely to cope with return to 1m; another good run looks on the cards.

9/2

8th
14 (21)
Take Heart

25/1

Form: 15-024 D

Last run: 29 days

W: 8st 12lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Beat all bar a progressive winner when runner-up at Cork (1m2f, soft) in April and close fourth there (1m4f, good) last month, when not seeing out the trip; trainer Johnny Murtagh won the Ebor here in 2021 with one wearing reapplied cheekpieces, and this lightly raced 4yo wears such headgear for the first time today; open to improvement and in with a chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

(4)

11th Feb 2026

Standard

1m 2f 150y

17:12 Dundalk (AW)

Take Heart

10st 0lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

2024 Chesterfield Cup winner for Johnny Murtagh; failed to find his best form last season, including a spell in Britain; beaten favourite here behind the useful Genoah in two starts for this stable (handicap and a rated race); has run well enough in defeat both times, and is attractively treated on his old form.

3/1

3rd

2

(3)

30th Jan 2026

Standard

1m 4f 0y

18:15 Dundalk (AW)

Take Heart

9st 13lb

J: Jack Kearney

T: Stephen Thorne

Made late gains after an awkward start when 2l behind Genoah on stable debut over 10.5f here latest; ran well sole try over this trip in the 2024 Cork Derby so could turn that form around; big chance.

100/30

11

(2)

11th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:05 York

Take Heart

8st 8lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: David Menuisier

Won off 5lb higher at Glorious Goodwood (1m2f, good) last July for Johnny Murtagh but failed to hit the same heights subsequently for that yard and he's struggled to get competitive on his two runs for this stable.

33/1

Form: 0-5136 D

Last run: 7 days

W: 8st 13lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Won at Sandown (1m, soft) in May and solid efforts in defeat there the next twice (1m, good to soft/soft); won over 1m2f there (good) last September; Sandown brings out the best in him but this step back up in trip could be a positive move and he's not ruled out on his first visit here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

(9)

3rd May 2025

Good

1m 1f 197y

Class 2

15:55 Goodwood

Dual Identity

9st 8lb

J: Callum Shepherd

T: William Knight

Won at Sandown (1m, soft) last May and close second of 17 at York (1m2f, good to firm) in August; made a satisfactory reappearance when seventh at 40-1 in the Lincoln at Doncaster (1m) five weeks ago and is probably effective at this track, so he's one to consider.

12/1

3rd

2

(9)

3rd May 2025

Good

1m 1f 197y

Class 2

15:55 Goodwood

Dual Identity

9st 8lb

J: Callum Shepherd

T: William Knight

Won at Sandown (1m, soft) last May and close second of 17 at York (1m2f, good to firm) in August; made a satisfactory reappearance when seventh at 40-1 in the Lincoln at Doncaster (1m) five weeks ago and is probably effective at this track, so he's one to consider.

12/1

7

(1)

29th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Doncaster

Dual Identity

9st 7lb

J: Brandon Wilkie

T: William Knight

Below best on first and final starts last season but enjoyed a good campaign, winning at Sandown (1m, soft) in May and close second of 17 at York (1m2f, good to soft) in August; should be suited by a strongly run race at this trip and he's an each-way contender if fully tuned up for his return.

25/1

Form: 2-7429 C

Last run: 25 days

W: 8st 13lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Has never won off a mark this high and the drop back in trip poses a question; however, his form figures in 1m4f handicaps here read 165112 and they were all in fields of 13 or more; good third over hurdles on sole previous run in these cheekpieces; each-way chance in view of fine record here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

24th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 51y

Class 2

15:03 Kelso

Kihavah

11st 11lb

J: Danny McMenamin

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Very useful dual-purpose performer; runner-up in Summer Hurdle at Market Rasen last summer and arrives on the back of a good effort on the Flat at Newmarket three weeks ago; very much one to consider back in this sphere.

11/4

8th

2

(6)

3rd May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Newmarket

Kihavah

9st 7lb

J: Mikey Sheehy

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Saw daylight all too late when strong-finishing fifth in this race last year (much better than his 2024 performance in it); Meydan this January/February did not yield much (stiff tasks) but he's now 4lb lower than this time last year, too well handicapped to be ruled out; rare run in cheekpieces.

10/1

3

19th Oct 2025

Good

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

15:50 Kempton

Kihavah

11st 2lb

J: James Bowen

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Useful on Flat and over hurdles; good second in notable summer handicap at Market Rasen on last attempt in this sphere; filled the same position, albeit comfortably beaten by Rubaud on same terms, in this contest 12 months ago; needs a personal best to go one better.

6/1

11th
3 (23)
Liberty Lane

7/1

Form: 10-017 BF

Last run: 43 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 106

Form & Verdict
Inconsistent across ten-race career but won 15-runner handicap at Doncaster (1m, soft) last September and also looked good when beating 12 rivals to win at Newmarket (1m1f, good) in May; suffered torrid passage when seventh at Epsom (1m2f, good to soft) last time; contender if getting the breaks.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

(3)

16th May 2026

Good

1m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:25 Newbury

Liberty Lane

9st 2lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

Usually races prominently; a mostly solid 2025 included 1m2f Listed wins in May and November; 2026 started in downbeat fashion (similar to last year) in Listed race and his top three ratings have been registered on softer than good; this is also a new trip (unraced beyond an extended 1m2f) but he's bred to get it and has a chance on best form; ground the chief worry.

10/1

1

(4)

1st Nov 2025

Good

1m 2f 0y

Class 1

15:25 Newmarket

Liberty Lane

9st 9lb

J: Shane Gray

T: K R Burke

Won the Cambridgeshire here (1m1f, soft) last autumn; also scored in a Listed race at Goodwood (1m2f, good) this May and respectable 2l fourth of six to Damysus in 1m1f course Group 3 (good to firm) three weeks ago; unlikely to be far away despite his 3lb penalty.

7/2

1

(4)

1st Nov 2025

Good

1m 2f 0y

Class 1

15:25 Newmarket

Liberty Lane

9st 9lb

J: Shane Gray

T: K R Burke

Won the Cambridgeshire here (1m1f, soft) last autumn; also scored in a Listed race at Goodwood (1m2f, good) this May and respectable 2l fourth of six to Damysus in 1m1f course Group 3 (good to firm) three weeks ago; unlikely to be far away despite his 3lb penalty.

7/2

OUR TIP

Form: 6-8249 CD

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 13lb

7 yo Horse

OR: 111

Form & Verdict
Has a very lofty mark and hasn't been at his best the last twice but he excelled in big-field handicaps last year, finishing second in this (good to soft) and posting wins over C&D (good to firm) and in the Cesarewitch (1m1f, good to firm; off 4lb lower); not necessarily handicapped out of things.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

2

(9)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Newmarket

Astro King

9st 11lb

J: Jason Watson

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Excelled in top handicaps at York and Newmarket in 2023, including with a C&D win in the Cambridgeshire (good to firm; 3lb lower today); however, he only once threatened to hit those heights in 2024 and, after wind surgery, missed all of 2025; that leaves him with a 658-day absence to overcome but his handicap mark has been slashed.

40/1

12th

1

(14)

13th Jul 2024

Good To Soft

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

15:10 York

Astro King

9st 13lb

J: Richard Kingscote

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Has a very lofty mark and hasn't been at his best the last twice but he excelled in big-field handicaps last year, finishing second in this (good to soft) and posting wins over C&D (good to firm) and in the Cesarewitch (1m1f, good to firm; off 4lb lower); not necessarily handicapped out of things.

14/1

40/1

Form: 272015 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 8st 9lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Made it two wins for the year when scoring at Chester (1m2f, soft) last month; however, he was only fifth at Newcastle (1m2f, AW) last time and there's a suspicion today's assignment will prove too competitive.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

1

14th May 2026

Good

2m 3f 116y

17:20 Clonmel

Loyal Touch

11st 12lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: Denis Gerard Hogan

Five-time Flat winner is rated 70 in that sphere; beaten 21l on hurdling debut at Down Royal recently; can do better.

14/1

10th

3

4th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 88y

13:35 Down Royal

Loyal Touch

11st 12lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: Denis Gerard Hogan

One of two runners for yard; five Flat wins when trained in UK; regressive for this yard, though running well at times; could go well on hurdles debut if jumping holds up.

20/1

14th
23 (11)
Crack Shot

11/1

Form: 10-140 BF

Last run: 24 days

W: 8st 8lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Improved form when winning big-field 1m handicap on reappearance at Newmarket in May and he remains lightly raced; however, he hasn't threatened since and has to raise his game now back up in trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

2

(7)

20th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 5y

Class 4

16:33 Pontefract

Crack Shot

9st 13lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: James Owen

Third in first-time visor (retained since) at Chester (1m2f, good to soft) last month and runner-up at Newcastle (1m2f, AW) since; solid claims.

7/1

5

(2)

28th Sep 2025

Standard

1m 2f 42y

Class 4

15:55 Newcastle (AW)

Crack Shot

9st 8lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: James Owen

All three wins at 1m and the latest was in May of last year; however, competitive in 1m/1m2f handicaps for current yard and unlucky not to be closer than 2l at Chester last time.

4/1

3rd

8

(11)

13th Sep 2025

Good

1m 2f 70y

Class 3

16:00 Chester

Crack Shot

9st 3lb

J: Rob Hornby

T: James Owen

His last win was 16 months ago but that was off 3lb higher at Newmarket (1m, good); held in fourth of ten on stable debut at Chelmsford (7-2) last month but he had to use up some energy to get a prominent position from a wide draw; looks worth another try at this trip and he's not ruled out on second run for James Owen; visor added.

7/1

40/1

Form: 49-407

Last run: 14 days

W: 8st 9lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Well beaten the last twice but he was upset in the stalls and had a wide trip over C&D two starts ago, and fast ground may not have suited at Newmarket last time; before those he was an eyecatching fourth on his stable debut at Redcar (1m2f, soft), where denied a clear run, and he's well treated on last season's best French form; he's just the type his trainer excels with.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

3

(6)

1st May 2026

Standard

1m 4f 98y

Class 4

17:53 Newcastle (AW)

Machete

9st 6lb

J: Ben Robinson

T: David O’Meara

Not as good now but remains generally consistent and is back on the mark off which he won here (1m2f) in the winter; needs to bounce back from a lesser effort over C&D when last seen six weeks ago.

6/1

6th

2

(4)

21st Mar 2026

Standard

1m 4f 98y

Class 4

17:00 Newcastle (AW)

Machete

9st 10lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Won over 1m2f here in December but he's not made an impact in last three runs and was beaten 5l when third at Chelmsford (1m6f) last time; now only 1lb higher than for last success but he needs to raise his game back in trip.

7/1

16th
15 (7)
Paradias

12/1

Form: 5450-2 D

Last run: 43 days

W: 8st 11lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Following a spell over hurdles and a break he looked as good as ever when runner-up at Epsom (1m2f, good to soft) six weeks ago; ran well here last August and he's an each-way contender once more.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

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

5th

5

(6)

1st May 2026

Good

1m 4f 0y

Class 1

15:30 Newmarket

Paradias

9st 5lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Alan King

In the form of his life this winter with a win at Lingfield (1m4f) in February and close calls in his other three outings; those were on AW, which does seem to suit him particularly well, and also in handicaps, which leaves him with something to find in his first Group venture.

40/1

3rd

2

(4)

3rd Apr 2026

Standard

1m 2f 42y

Class 2

16:10 Newcastle (AW)

Paradias

9st 9lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Fourth in this last year on sole previous visit to Newcastle and he's now 3lb higher; went close on first two starts this winter before winning at Lingfield (1m4f) in February; could run well but may prefer a longer trip.

14/1

13/2

Form: 4-2742 D

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Finished third in two competitive C&D handicaps last summer (including this) and better than ever the last twice, when close fourth in Epsom handicap (1m2f, good to soft; despite early stumble) then second of 15 in the Listed Wolferton at Royal Ascot (1m2f, good to firm); firmly in calculations.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

(6)

9th Aug 2025

Good

1m 2f 100y

Class 1

15:00 Haydock

Haunted Dream

9st 7lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Won a strong conditions event over 1m1f at Goodwood last year on good to firm but missed the same race last week when the rain arrived; career-best RPR when fourth in 1m2f Saudi Group 2 in February and although he came last to Haatem in Royal Ascot Listed race (second in it last year) in June, getting badly hampered accounts for that; major player if the ground is okay.

10/1

16th

10

(4)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 1f 212y

Class 1

17:35 Ascot

Haunted Dream

9st 5lb

J: Mickael Barzalona

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Edged out the same owner's Torito for second in this last year and recorded a career-best RPR when fourth in 1m2f Saudi Group 2 (good to firm) in February when last seen; another who has to enter the reckoning.

12/1

16/1

Form: 3-0222 D

Last run: 28 days

W: 8st 12lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Front-runner who has shown career-best form when second at Chester the last twice (1m2f, good to firm/soft); ran well over this C&D last July but his last four wins have all come at Chester and he may be vulnerable here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

(4)

13th Sep 2025

Good

1m 2f 70y

Class 3

16:00 Chester

Box To Box

9st 9lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Hugo Palmer

Has record of 4-10 at Chester and he won this race in 2023; no joy in Bahrain last winter and has mixed record since returned to Britain but he won at Haydock (1m2f, good) in June and was only just caught at Chelmsford last time; remains feasibly treated on his best form and he's respected back at this track.

4/1

8

(2)

7th Aug 2025

Standard To Slow

1m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:00 Chelmsford (AW)

Box To Box

8st 11lb

J: Joe Leavy

T: Hugo Palmer

Ended a long losing run when scoring off a reduced mark at Haydock (1m2f, good) in June but he dropped right out in his follow-up bid there two weeks later; now drops back in trip but he's not easy to predict and has had only three AW runs in his 42-race career; others preferred.

13/2

12th

9

(16)

5th Jul 2025

Good

1m 3f 175y

Class 2

15:15 Haydock

Box To Box

8st 10lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Hugo Palmer

Snapped a long losing run and capitalised on a reduced mark over 10.4f here (good) a fortnight ago; enjoyed the run of the race in front and it might be the case this longer trip stretches him nowadays, but he did it nicely last time and remains well treated on old form back up 6lb; not discounted.

20/1

Form: 1-1126 D

Last run: 29 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Thrived over 1m2f on AW after joining this yard, winning four of his first six starts; needs to prove he's just as good on turf but he was an encouraging sixth of 17 over C&D (good to soft) four weeks ago and could improve for that first run since March; each-way possibilities.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

5

(11)

31st May 2026

Good

1m 4f 8y

Class 4

17:15 Thirsk

Penzance

9st 6lb

J: David Egan

T: Mark Loughnane

Having dropped down the weights he returned to form when runner-up off today's mark at Lingfield (1m4f, AW) recently on his second start for this yard; however, he's 5-22 on AW as opposed to 0-11 on Flat turf, and needs to back up that latest performance now back on grass.

12/1

2nd

1

(1)

12th May 2026

Standard

1m 4f 0y

Class 4

20:20 Lingfield (AW)

Penzance

9st 11lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Mark Loughnane

Has been a smart performer in his time (rated 18lb higher), but well below form in his last two starts including on stable debut here (1m2f) last month; tongue-tie removed after one use; look elsewhere.

11/1

11th

7

(4)

3rd Apr 2026

Standard

1m 2f 0y

Class 3

15:15 Lingfield (AW)

Penzance

9st 6lb

J: Alistair Rawlinson

T: Mark Loughnane

Formerly a smart AW performer for Mick Appleby, but not quite the force of old; makes his debut for another new yard (same owners) in a new headgear combination after eight starts for Shark Hanlon; well treated if he could rediscover anything like his best form.

33/1

Form: -26700 D

Last run: 29 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Some creditable C&D handicap form last year and he's lower in the weights today but he's finished down the field on his last three starts (C&D most recently) and a major turnaround is needed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

(7)

2nd Aug 2025

Soft

1m 1f 11y

Class 3

16:55 Goodwood

Killybegs Warrior

9st 4lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Baker

Placed twice in a row in Bahrain earlier this year and didn't run badly when fifth of seven at Windsor in June following a three-month break; could build on that latest run and continues to drop down the weights, but he's without a win since July 2023 and others are more compelling.

40/1

1

(3)

30th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

1m 2f 0y

Class 3

19:45 Windsor

Killybegs Warrior

10st 4lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Baker

Well treated on old form but his last win was almost two years ago; two placed efforts in Bahrain (1m1f/1m2f) earlier this year but he returned to Britain with a heavy defeat at Kempton in March; now drops back in grade but he's hard to predict and comes with risks attached after a break.

16/1

11th

12

(12)

29th Mar 2025

Standard To Slow

1m 2f 219y

Class 2

14:40 Kempton (AW)

Killybegs Warrior

9st 2lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Baker

Made most when second in this race last year off 11lb higher, the last of only three ventures on AW; that has to catch the eye and he also has a chance on turf form for Charlie Johnston as recent as September; fit from placed efforts in Bahrain for new yard this year and a case can be made.

16/1

24 (12)
Terwada

33/1

Form: 70-065

Last run: 28 days

W: 8st 6lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Reserve; lightly raced 4yo who runs off last winning mark and returned to form with close fifth of 15 at Sandown (1m, good to soft) last month; today's step up in trip may prompt improvement but others are more compelling.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

3

(12)

26th Oct 2024

Soft

1m 2f 43y

Class 2

15:15 Doncaster

Terwada

9st 12lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Ed Walker

Looked very promising early in career; mixed fortunes since but beaten just a neck at Yarmouth in August last time (1m2f, good to soft; unraced on softer), when clear with unexposed Godolphin winner, and he's not ruled out.

11/1

Non-runners

Marhaba The Champ, Flying Frontier, Scampi

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £40.10
Straight Forecast £41.09
Tricast £955.68
Trifecta £2931.50

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Epic Poet

The Times:

Botanical

Telegraph:

Kingfisher King

NEWMARKET:

Enfjaar

D Express:

Liberty Lane

POSTDATA:

Paradias

TOPSPEED:

Haunted Dream

Daily Mirror:

Astro King

Daily Mail:

Botanical

Daily Record:

Botanical

RP RATINGS:

Epic Poet

The Guardian:

Epic Poet

The Sun:

Epic Poet

The Star:

Epic Poet