September 21 / 14.25 Ayr

14.25

Good

Virgin Bet Ayr Silver Cup Handicap

  • Prize money: £33501
  • 0m 6f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 22 runners
ITV
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Virgin Bet Ayr Silver Cup Handicap

Runners: 22 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

OUR TIP

5/1 (Won)

  • Win: £5.60
  • Place: £1.80

Form: 411111 CD

Last run: 30 days

W: 9st 12lb

3 yo Filly

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Unbeaten in 6f and 7f handicaps (good to firm, good to soft and good), leaving it late over C&D in July and again delivered at just the right moment to follow up in a warm York handicap in August (two of those in the frame close up in Group races since); the likely strong pace will be ideal back at 6f and in the thick of it under penalty (raised same amount in future).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

(2)

11th Oct 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

16:50 Newmarket

Alfa Kellenic

9st 3lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Ivan Furtado

Could do no wrong in handicaps as a 3yo, winning all five at 6f and 7f (good to firm and good to soft); had some excuses when only fifth in this last year (soft; favourite) and was entitled to need the run on her belated Ayr comeback last month for a new yard, albeit under the pump from some way out; could well be a lot sharper back on good ground.

9/2

6

(24)

20th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ayr

Alfa Kellenic

9st 7lb

J: Silvestre De Sousa

T: Ivan Furtado

Another success story in 2024, her smooth win in the Silver Cup completing a six-timer; subsequent Listed defeat at Newmarket (6f, soft; poor track position) is easy enough to excuse; highly likely this mark is still in range but it can't have been plain sailing for her to be reappearing so late in the campaign; remains a filly of interest but perhaps one for another day; first run for Ivan Furtado.

16/1

2nd
15 (16)
Aramram

10/1

  • Place: £2.70

Form: 544031 D

Last run: 6 days

W: 9st 3lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
Made all in 6f novice in May; took time to get to grips with handicaps but his Doncaster win (6f, soft) last week was his best form yet; goes unpenalised and although soft ground might have played a part last week he now looks open to improvement.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

(10)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 1

13:50 Ascot

Aramram

9st 3lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Escapes a penalty for his Listed win at Doncaster (6f, good to soft) in March; his last two runs haven't been his best but there have been mitigating factors; has a course win on his record and he should go well.

16/1

18th

3

(18)

19th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Ayr

Aramram

9st 10lb

J: Joe Leavy

T: Richard Hannon

Only seventh in this race 12 months ago when 10lb lower; his improved form this spring has warranted this lofty mark and he ran well in the Great St Wilfrid at Ripon last month (off 1lb higher), doing best of the far-side group; still looks up against it here.

40/1

6th

3

(9)

5th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

15:40 Haydock

Aramram

9st 5lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Listed winner at Doncaster (6f, good to soft) in March before close second in Group 3 Abernant at Newmarket (6f, good); returned to form when first of four in the far-side group in the Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon (6f, good) three weeks ago; has something to find in today's company but he's 2-3 on soft ground and is not ruled out each-way.

20/1

3rd
1 (2)
Bergerac

16/1

  • Place: £2.80

Form: 981566 D

Last run: 7 days

W: 9st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Well held in the Silver Cup in two of the last three runnings (out of sorts 12 months ago) but he was beaten only 2l in the Gold Cup (good) in 2022 and is in good form this time round, having done well from an unfavourable draw at York and another useful effort in the Portland at Doncaster last week; not far away.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

(9)

27th Aug 2026

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 5

20:30 Southwell (AW)

Bergerac

9st 13lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

A fair 5f winner in 2025 but yet to fire this season, tenth of 12 in 6f Hamilton handicap 16 days ago; needs to take a big step forward.

16/1

10th

11

(8)

11th Aug 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 6y

Class 4

20:00 Hamilton

Bergerac

9st 1lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Kevin Ryan

Course winner last June off a 10lb higher mark than today's, but he's been struggling in recent starts and hasn't won over 6f since August 2022; best watched at present.

33/1

10th

9

(7)

1st Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 3

16:10 Thirsk

Bergerac

9st 8lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Fine servant down the years but he hasn't won over 6f since August 2022; on a good mark and can pop up soon but would like to see more from him before getting involved.

20/1

22/1

  • Place: £5.80

Form: 435152 D

Last run: 58 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
First win came in a humble AW classified in early 2023 but he's a different horse now, having won four times since, the latest at Sandown (5f, good) in June; however, he rarely runs over 6f now and stamina will be tested in this company.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

9

(9)

3rd Oct 2026

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 5

19:30 Southwell (AW)

Jenever

9st 8lb

J: Jack Doughty

T: Jessica Macey

Hard to win with these days but holds claims on his C&D second to a well-handicapped winner a little over a month ago; worth a look back in cheekpieces from a visor.

7/1

9th

14

(16)

13th Sep 2026

Good

0m 6f 2y

Class 4

17:20 Doncaster

Jenever

9st 3lb

J: Liam Wright

T: Jessica Macey

0-9 this year but has run well on two of his last three starts, posting a very close third at Nottingham (6f, good to firm) and finishing second at Southwell (6f, AW) most recently; her last win came on good to soft; chance.

8/1

Form: 513121 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 6lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Has cut it fine when winning three 6f handicaps on good to firm this year and perhaps unsuited by making the running for his one defeat, at Ripon in August; was impressive in the way he made up the deficit at Thirsk recently and although 2lb badly in under a penalty he's far from exposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

10

(8)

17th Oct 2026

Good

0m 7f 6y

Class 4

15:25 Catterick

Kings Merchant

8st 13lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Philip Kirby

Mostly running well since cheekpieces were fitted in June, winning over 7f (good) in July and 6f (good to soft) in September; will probably need extra for another win, though.

10/1

3rd

1

(6)

26th Sep 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 6

16:40 Ripon

Kings Merchant

10st 0lb

J: Conor Whiteley

T: Philip Kirby

Has found a bit extra in cheekpieces this summer and ended a losing run at Chester (7f, good) in July; went in again at Catterick (6f, good to soft) 18 days ago, narrowly once more, and goes on the shortlist.

3/1

1st

1

(2)

8th Sep 2026

Good

0m 5f 212y

Class 6

15:36 Catterick

Kings Merchant

9st 13lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Philip Kirby

Cheekpieces have helped this summer and he ended a losing run off 2lb lower at Chester in July; yard going well but maybe another furlong is optimal these days, especially round an easy, turning course.

5/1

10/1

Form: 204547

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Sole win over 5f as 2yo but he's had a say in good handicaps at both sprint trips this summer, not getting the best of runs at York before soft ground wasn't ideal at Ascot recently; not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

3

(5)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Ascot

Two Tribes

9st 10lb

J: Toby Moore

T: Richard Spencer

Still rather weighted to the hilt but his C&D record reads 1523, the fifth-place finish in this contest 12 months ago; on the same (near-peak) mark but Toby Moore takes off a handy 7lb this time; could go well.

14/1

12th

6

(1)

19th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Ayr

Two Tribes

9st 5lb

J: David Egan

T: Richard Spencer

Won two feature handicaps last summer (6f/7f) but only midfield in this contest (third of 12 in the stands' side group); ran a fine race when second at Ascot (7f, good to firm) in July but he flopped in the Stewards' Cup (sent off favourite) and neither of his runs since suggest he is the answer this time; trainer won both this race and the Silver Cup last year.

20/1

3rd

1

(7)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:40 Ascot

Two Tribes

9st 12lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Richard Spencer

Won a valuable C&D handicap last summer before bolting up in the Stewards' Cup one week later; another fine course run when second of 16 in July and he was heavily supported for a Stewards' Cup repeat one week later, only to stumble leaving the stalls; wasn't far off his best over 1m here four weeks ago but this drop back to 7f still looks the right move; player.

5/1

Form: 300466 CD

Last run: 6 days

W: 9st 10lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 89

Form & Verdict
Top-of-the-trees in the best sprint handicaps down the years, winning the Stewards' Cup in 2020 and the Gold Cup in 2022; failed to beat a rival here 12 months ago but the weight has fallen off his back since and his run at the Curragh last week was encouraging; could well have a decent crack at this; refitted cheekpieces replace regular visor.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

1

(4)

25th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 6f 2y

Class 4

16:25 Doncaster

Summerghand

10st 0lb

J: David Nolan

T: David O’Meara

10yo who isn't the same force as last year and may not want soft ground, but he's performed respectably in hot handicaps on his last few starts and is on a dangerous mark now dropping back down in grade; possible player.

11/2

7th

4

(12)

21st Sep 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Ayr

Summerghand

9st 10lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Top-of-the-trees in the best sprint handicaps down the years, winning the Stewards' Cup in 2020 and the Gold Cup in 2022; failed to beat a rival here 12 months ago but the weight has fallen off his back since and his run at the Curragh last week was encouraging; could well have a decent crack at this; refitted cheekpieces replace regular visor.

7/1

12/1

Form: -20971 D

Last run: 33 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 80

Form & Verdict
Can lead; his close fourth in the Gold Cup two years ago is very relevant form; out of sorts in 2023 but he ran well on his comeback and the return to front-running with a switch in headgear saw a revival at Windsor (6f, good to firm) on latest start; 2lb badly in under penalty but he can't be ignored given his past form here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

1

(2)

17th Mar 2026

Standard

0m 7f 36y

Class 6

18:00 Wolverhampton (AW)

Lucky Man

9st 9lb

J: Darragh Keenan

T: Jennie Candlish

This easier off his last winning mark for a yard among the winners of late; has only been beyond sprint trips twice during a long career, though, and has stamina to prove.

16/1

9th

5

(2)

3rd Mar 2026

Standard

0m 6f 20y

Class 5

18:30 Wolverhampton (AW)

Lucky Man

9st 5lb

J: Lewis Edmunds

T: Jennie Candlish

Potentially well handicapped but was sluggish after a break over C&D in January.

14/1

8th

4

(7)

19th Jan 2026

Standard

0m 6f 20y

Class 5

19:00 Wolverhampton (AW)

Lucky Man

9st 7lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jennie Candlish

Capitalised on the drop into Class 6 company when winning over C&D last October; came up short in Class 5 company twice afterwards and although he should be well treated on historical evidence, he may prove up against it back from 11 weeks off.

10/1

22/1

Form: 232800 CD

Last run: 35 days

W: 9st 9lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Another old faithful of the sprint division; has yet to run poorly here and hasn't been far away in each of the last three runnings of the Gold Cup (third in 2021); on a losing run of more than two years though and unfortunately has run enough good races in 2024 to keep him high in the weights.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

(13)

15th Jun 2025

Good

0m 6f 6y

Class 4

18:15 Hamilton

Mr Wagyu

9st 6lb

J: Harry Russell

T: John & Sean Quinn

Useful on his day; however, on a three-year losing spell and current mark reflects a decline in his form since last July; the betting may offer further guidance with Ripon reappearance under his belt.

16/1

8th

11

(10)

17th Apr 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

15:42 Ripon

Mr Wagyu

9st 3lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

raced near side, prominent, weakened over 1f out, 8th of 8 in group

7/1

8th

11

(10)

17th Apr 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

15:42 Ripon

Mr Wagyu

9st 3lb

J: Jason Hart

T: John & Sean Quinn

Formerly smart handicapper; 15 wins from 94 starts including two victories over C&D; hasn't won anywhere since 2022 and lost his way last year, but did go close here on 2024 reappearance; could bounce back; goes on any ground.

7/1

18/1

Form: 219340 D

Last run: 35 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 81

Form & Verdict
Has had some excuses since his 6f win at Doncaster (good to firm) in June but he's still 4lb higher and he needs something new to be involved on his course debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

14

(12)

2nd Oct 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 4

13:50 Ascot

Rock Opera

10st 12lb

J: Mr Eireann Cagney

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Has struggled since finishing first and second over 6f at Pontefract (both good) at the start of the summer but is well handicapped again; has yet to prove himself at 7f, though.

16/1

10th

10

(7)

3rd Sep 2026

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 4

20:10 Southwell (AW)

Rock Opera

9st 2lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Won off reduced mark at Pontefract (6f, good) in June and also has a C&D success on his CV but needs to up his game after three down-the-field turf runs this summer (6f-7f).

16/1

11th

1

(5)

15th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 6y

Class 5

15:37 Doncaster

Rock Opera

9st 9lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Resumed winning ways at Pontefract (6f) in June but below par in big-field 6f handicaps at York on his last two runs; this course scorer needs to bounce back on a rare run over 7f.

9/1

40/1

Form: 892600

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Often leads; multiple 5f wins but he's never really hacked it at 6f, even allowing for a close fourth in the 2021 Bronze Cup; needs much more than in this race last year, when making the running before fading.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

8

(4)

28th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 5f 7y

Class 5

16:38 Hamilton

Never Dark

8st 7lb

J: Alex Jary

T: Iain Jardine

Placed just a couple of times this term; remains on a long losing sequence, unlike fellow 9yo Impressor, but can't be dismissed off current mark; won a better race on this card two years ago.

10/1

17th

19

(19)

17th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 5

14:00 Ayr

Never Dark

8st 10lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Iain Jardine

Placed twice in Class 6 last month but failed to live up to market expectations at Carlisle last week, extending his long losing run; this 9yo needs to raise his game, back up in grade.

14/1

7th

9

(4)

9th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

0m 5f 0y

Class 6

15:47 Carlisle

Never Dark

9st 4lb

J: Jack Nicholls

T: Iain Jardine

Can lead; the latest of his nine wins came in Hamilton handicap (5f, soft) in September 2024 and that was off a mark 24lb higher than today's; solid third behind Royal Duke over this C&D two weeks ago and the recent rain will be in his favour; cheekpieces return for the first time since 2022 and he's respected.

7/1

Form: 861241 D

Last run: 8 days

W: 9st 11lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Six of his last seven starts have been at Chester, winning over 5f (good) in July and nailing it from the front on heavy (7f) last week; better handicapped now than when beating only one home in the Gold Cup last September but this is a tough call.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

15

(4)

19th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 17y

Class 4

15:46 Chester

Paws For Thought

8st 9lb

J: Mason Paetel

T: Donald McCain

Multiple course scorer (also goes well on soft) but yet to fire this season and underwent breathing surgery before coming in only ninth of 12 over 7f here eight days ago; first-time tongue-tie replaces cheekpieces now.

33/1

9th

12

(7)

11th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 7f 1y

Class 4

15:53 Chester

Paws For Thought

8st 12lb

J: Pierre-Louis Jamin

T: Donald McCain

Prolific course winner, including this race in 2024, and he has dropped a long way in the weights; that is a result of some low-key runs this year and a wind operation since the latest is not enough to tempt.

33/1

9th

8

(7)

11th Jul 2026

Good

0m 7f 127y

Class 4

14:45 Chester

Paws For Thought

9st 3lb

J: David Allan

T: Donald McCain

Six-time course winner who is versatile trip-wise but all of his wins have been on good or slower and last two have been in the mud; on a dangerous mark but he didn't fire in his three runs this season; has often worn cheekpieces but is now blinkered first time; non-runner here (7.35) on Friday.

25/1

25/1

Form: 332266

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 2lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 83

Form & Verdict
Involved in two tight finishes in less competitive races at about 5f in 2024 but he hasn't run over 6f since finishing second in a C&D maiden last autumn so others clearly have less to prove on the stamina front.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

11

(8)

16th Oct 2026

Standard

0m 5f 0y

Class 4

18:45 Newcastle (AW)

Curious Rover

9st 2lb

J: William Pyle

T: Katie Scott

Hard to predict and he's finished down the field the last two starts, but it is only four runs since he made all at Ayr (5f); 36 of his 40 starts have been on turf but he has finished runner-up over C&D; comes with risks but a player on a going day.

16/1

10th

11

(13)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 4

17:40 Redcar

Curious Rover

8st 13lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Katie Scott

Hard to predict and finished last of 21 at York four weeks ago, but it's only three runs since he made all at Ayr (5f, good), and he also led from start to finish in this race in 2024; comes with risks but dangerous if on a going day.

8/1

21th

10

(5)

6th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

0m 5f 89y

Class 4

14:05 York

Curious Rover

9st 8lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Katie Scott

Made all to win a 5f handicap at Ayr in July; only fourth of five at Musselburgh later that month; has run well over C&D in the past and won't mind what the weather does; one to consider.

14/1

16/1

Form: 013714 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 8lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 87

Form & Verdict
Four wins this year and he was well on top when winning the Great St Wilfrid consolation race at Ripon (6f, good) last month; not so effective at Thirsk since, even allowing for the 7lb rise, but it may be too soon to think this mark is beyond him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

8

(12)

15th Sep 2026

Good

0m 5f 217y

Class 4

15:23 Redcar

Grant Wood

9st 9lb

J: David Nolan

T: Paul Midgley

Two-time 6f winner at Newcastle early in 2026; not at his best in the mud at Haydock (6f) 11 days ago but had twice shaped with some promise at Ripon prior to that, so he's very much one to consider now 1lb below his last winning mark.

8/1

13th

10

(8)

4th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

15:15 Haydock

Grant Wood

9st 4lb

J: David Nolan

T: Paul Midgley

Landed a pair of 6f Newcastle handicaps early in 2026; back in good form of late, and first home in his group when sixth of 20 in 6f Ripon handicap 20 days ago; this C&D winner is very much one to consider.

7/1

6th

6

(7)

15th Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

14:55 Ripon

Grant Wood

9st 9lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Paul Midgley

Impressive in this race in 2024 when rated 3lb higher; mixed bag this summer but his two best turf runs have come over C&D and this represents an ease in grade; can't rule out.

7/1

Form: 124151 D

Last run: 23 days

W: 9st 6lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
All three runs for this yard at 6f, winning two of them and looking well suited by the stiff test at Carlisle (soft) 23 days ago; 1lb badly in under penalty in a much more competitive race on quicker ground but he does have some potential for better and his yard won this last year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

4

(8)

29th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

16:40 Ayr

Roberto Caro

9st 10lb

J: Mikey Sheehy

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

He's dropped to a favourable mark and there is every chance that he will exploit it at some point, but he was a soundly beaten fourth of eight behind Belsito at Hamilton (6f, soft) eight days ago and has work to do here.

12/1

4th

4

(4)

21st Sep 2026

Soft

0m 6f 6y

Class 4

16:30 Hamilton

Roberto Caro

9st 10lb

J: Mikey Sheehy

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Encouraging return to turf when never-nearer close fourth at Ripon (6f, good to soft; has won on soft) in April and he wasn't far away in a big field back there in August; on a favourable mark now; not far away.

8/1

7th

8

(18)

15th Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

14:55 Ripon

Roberto Caro

9st 8lb

J: Mikey Sheehy

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Well handicapped on this year's best, including a close fourth over C&D in April; has had the odd excuse since and he ran perfectly well over an inadequate 5f at York three weeks ago (not well drawn); a big run could be on the cards.

12/1

25/1

Form: 025860 D

Last run: 28 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
Modest win record but he's very capable in these big-field handicaps, having been beaten just over 2l in the Gold Cup (good) in 2022 and close up in this race last autumn; place chance at a price.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

(6)

9th Jun 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 5

20:20 Pontefract

Admiral D

10st 0lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard Fahey

Has a poor strike-rate since 2022 and isn't particularly solid on 2025 efforts; however, drops in grade off a reduced mark and can't be dismissed; very similar type to Illusionist.

11/1

9

(3)

26th May 2025

Good

0m 5f 217y

Class 4

17:10 Redcar

Admiral D

8st 13lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard Fahey

He's dropped to a dangerous mark and showed the odd hint of spark on occasions towards the end of last year; can go well fresh but he's been regressive and has a poor strike-rate over the last few years.

14/1

9

(3)

26th May 2025

Good

0m 5f 217y

Class 4

17:10 Redcar

Admiral D

8st 13lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard Fahey

He's dropped to a dangerous mark and showed the odd hint of spark on occasions towards the end of last year; can go well fresh but he's been regressive and has a poor strike-rate over the last few years.

14/1

28/1

Form: 100-

Last run: 393 days

W: 9st 4lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Successful 5f debut at Carlisle but Group 2 races over 6f at Royal Ascot and York proved beyond him last summer; has plenty to prove on return from an absence and easier handicaps await later.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

3

(9)

16th Oct 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 5

15:37 Redcar

Emperors Son

9st 8lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Samantha & Jacqueline Coward

Hard to predict and was down the field at Pontefract last time but he finished runner-up over C&D (good) on his penultimate run; has claims if he can bounce back again and his last win was off a similar mark at Hamilton in June.

10/1

8th

8

(12)

5th Oct 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 5

14:40 Pontefract

Emperors Son

9st 6lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Samantha & Jacqueline Coward

Of interest on his best form for the Faheys and he has shaped with promise in 5f handicaps for his new stable on his last two starts; one to consider off this mark.

8/1

2nd

2

(2)

23rd Sep 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 5

16:41 Redcar

Emperors Son

9st 10lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Samantha & Jacqueline Coward

Scored off just 1lb lower at Hamilton (6f, good) in June on his penultimate start for the Faheys and he stepped forward on his second start for this yard when beaten 3l at Ayr (5f, good to soft) on Thursday; may do better again.

12/1

18th
24 (21)
Be Proud

22/1

Form: 013456 CD

Last run: 29 days

W: 9st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 79

Form & Verdict
Finished a close second in the Bronze Cup in 2021 but he was a long way back in this race last year and his two C&D wins came in less competitive races than this.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

8

(9)

25th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 6f 2y

Class 4

16:55 Doncaster

Be Proud

9st 2lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

towards rear, headway over 1f out, went modest third inside final furlong, no match for first two

16/1

9th

8

(10)

10th Oct 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

15:25 Ayr

Be Proud

9st 4lb

J: Amie Waugh

T: Jim Goldie

Beat The Caltonian over C&D off this mark in June; in and out since but he won this race 12 months ago off a higher mark and he's one of the likelier types.

10/1

9th

2

(6)

1st Oct 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

16:35 Ayr

Be Proud

9st 10lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Jim Goldie

Up against it on the wrong side in the Silver Cup ten days ago but he'll be happier back in a Class 4 and now on the same mark as the latest of his three course wins (6f, good to firm) in June; one to be interested in.

13/2

Form: 300602 D

Last run: 18 days

W: 9st 7lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 86

Form & Verdict
Ex-Archie Watson; would have finished closer in a good Windsor handicap (6f, good to firm) in August but for being hampered but he hasn't looked ahead of his mark since winning off 1lb higher at Doncaster in May; needs extra for the change of scenery.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

13

(10)

3rd Oct 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

16:10 Ascot

Rhythm N Hooves

8st 12lb

J: Barry McHugh

T: Robert Cowell

Fully exposed but conditions will suit and he is on a manageable mark; should make a bold bid.

10/1

8th

10

(1)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

17:10 Ascot

Rhythm N Hooves

8st 9lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Robert Cowell

Capitalised on a good mark at Newbury (5f, good to firm) three weeks ago; up 4lb but still feasibly weighted and this Royal Ascot winner should make another bold bid.

7/1

20th
18 (25)
Londoner

25/1

Form: 070748

Last run: 23 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Has dropped a long way in the weights since making his debut for the yard in April but he's yet to get within about 4l of the winner and is 0-12 on turf; has worn a hood; first-time cheekpieces today.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

(2)

14th Oct 2026

Standard To Slow

1m 2f 219y

Class 4

20:00 Kempton (AW)

Londoner

9st 11lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Won a 1m2f handicap at Lingfield on Good Friday off 1lb lower; ran well over 8.6f at Wolverhampton on his penultimate start but not in the same form at Southwell three weeks ago; moves back up in trip with Billy Loughnane booked; contender.

7/1

4th

1

(8)

22nd Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 13y

Class 4

16:55 Southwell (AW)

Londoner

10st 2lb

J: David Probert

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

All three wins have been on the AW, the most recent coming over 1m2f at Lingfield in April off a mark 1lb lower than today's; has been running well in recent starts and was beaten only a neck at Wolverhampton (8.5f, AW) two weeks ago; solid claims.

3/1

2nd

2

(5)

7th Sep 2026

Standard

1m 0f 142y

Class 4

20:00 Wolverhampton (AW)

Londoner

9st 9lb

J: Ebrahim Nader

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Triple AW winner who is 0-25 on turf but he's been running well in that sphere this summer; remains feasibly treated off 1lb lower than for his Lingfield win (1m2f) in April and he's respected back on AW.

8/1

28/1

Form: 556839 D

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 1lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 80

Form & Verdict
Three 6f wins in 2023 but he's had a fairly slow time of it this year and he was disappointingly off-kilter at Ripon, a track where he excels, last time out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

7

(5)

23rd Apr 2025

Good To Firm

0m 5f 212y

Class 5

17:10 Catterick

Twelfth Knight

9st 0lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Paul Midgley

Tumbled down the weights last year before undergoing wind surgery; was inclined to pull hard and didn't see it out on his Tapeta comeback, and the suspicion is he'll be back at some point.

12/1

9th

7

(5)

23rd Apr 2025

Good To Firm

0m 5f 212y

Class 5

17:10 Catterick

Twelfth Knight

9st 0lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Paul Midgley

in rear throughout

12/1

5th

1

(10)

29th Mar 2025

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 5

20:00 Newcastle (AW)

Twelfth Knight

9st 9lb

J: David Nolan

T: Paul Midgley

took keen hold, in touch with leaders, weakened inside final furlong

10/1

22th
17 (17)
Sergeant Pep

28/1

Form: 743019 D

Last run: 48 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Did well to win at Haydock (6f, good) in July and he wasn't well drawn there last month; time still on his side and although he might have been happier with rain about he still has potential off current mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

6

(7)

11th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

16:51 Salisbury

Sergeant Pep

9st 7lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Clive Cox

Last scored in October 2024 but he's been placed on five of his last six starts; had Supreme King, Rare Change and Under The Twilight behind when third of nine on his comeback at Windsor (6f, soft) a fortnight ago; possibilities from the same mark.

9/2

3rd

3

(2)

29th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 12y

Class 4

17:00 Windsor

Sergeant Pep

9st 11lb

J: Georgia Dobie

T: Clive Cox

Five-time winner after 32 starts so he's exposed, but he was in a good vein of form when last seen in the spring, and he won't mind what the weather does.

5/1

2nd

3

(7)

27th Mar 2026

Standard

0m 7f 1y

Class 4

15:12 Lingfield (AW)

Sergeant Pep

9st 3lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Clive Cox

Twice a runner-up over 6f this winter, including here, but he raced too freely in one 7f run and he still has to prove he needs this far.

7/2

Non-runners

Abduction, Brooklyn Nine Nine, The Coffee Pod

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £60.40
Straight Forecast £41.74
Tricast £362.00
Trifecta £584.00

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Brooklyn Nine Nine

POSTDATA:

Kings Merchant

Telegraph:

Alfa Kellenic

Daily Mail:

Aramram

Daily Mirror:

Rock Opera

NEWMARKET:

Lucky Man

The Times:

Bergerac

The Star:

Summerghand

The Sun:

Alfa Kellenic

D Express:

Kings Merchant

Daily Record:

Kings Merchant

RP RATINGS:

Brooklyn Nine Nine

TOPSPEED:

Brooklyn Nine Nine

The Guardian:

Brooklyn Nine Nine