September 23 / 15.35 Ayr

15.35

Good To Soft

Virgin Bet Ayr Gold Cup Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

  • Prize money: £92772
  • 0m 6f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 24 runners
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Virgin Bet Ayr Gold Cup Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

Runners: 24 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

9/1 (Won)

  • Win: £9.00
  • Place: £1.90

Form: -41262 D

Last run: 7 days

W: 9st 2lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Strong handicap form as a 3yo, including a Royal Ascot success; tumbled down the weights after a barren 2022 and coaxed back to his best by Julie Camacho, winning at Haydock in July and running well in the Stewards' Cup (sixth) and again when missing out narrowly in last week's Portland; 2lb well in but others may have his measure here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

(2)

14th Dec 2024

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 2

17:45 Southwell (AW)

Significantly

9st 4lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Julie Camacho

took keen hold, in touch with leaders, pressed leader over 4f out, weakened inside final furlong

4/1

4th

3

(2)

14th Dec 2024

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 2

17:45 Southwell (AW)

Significantly

9st 4lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Julie Camacho

took keen hold, in touch with leaders, pressed leader over 4f out, weakened inside final furlong

4/1

7th

2

(7)

22nd Nov 2024

Standard

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

17:15 Newcastle (AW)

Significantly

9st 10lb

J: Ryan Sexton

T: Julie Camacho

Had a fine year in 2023, his first with this stable, when an Ayr Gold Cup win was the highlight; has only run well in one of his four starts this year and hopes rest on a wind operation having a positive effect; second and first in two runs at Newcastle.

5/1

2nd
13 (12)
Ramazan

14/1

  • Place: £4.10

Form: -39191 D

Last run: 44 days

W: 9st 7lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Sprint promise as a 2yo but it has been over 7f that he's really kicked on this summer, winning Class 2 handicaps at Haydock and Chepstow either side of a good run in a valuable Ascot event; still has some upside but dropping in trip isn't sure to be of benefit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

23th

21

(5)

19th Jun 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Ramazan

9st 3lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Richard Fahey

Has left an imprint on some of the best-known handicaps, such as when only just losing out in the Victoria Cup over C&D (good) in May 2024; has not aspired to those heights in 2025 but he's 9lb lower than for the aforementioned run and promising Warren Fentiman claims 5lb; one to keep an eye on.

12/1

11th

5

(10)

14th May 2025

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:42 York

Ramazan

9st 6lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Richard Fahey

Numerous fine efforts in top handicaps, runner-up in the 2023 Ayr Gold Cup and filling the same berth in last year's Victoria Cup and Great St Wilfrid; not sparkled in two 7f handicaps this season but he's dropped a handy 5lb and his rider claims a valuable 3lb too; better expected this time.

10/1

11th

5

(10)

14th May 2025

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:42 York

Ramazan

9st 6lb

J: Oisin McSweeney

T: Richard Fahey

Numerous fine efforts in top handicaps, runner-up in the 2023 Ayr Gold Cup and filling the same berth in last year's Victoria Cup and Great St Wilfrid; not sparkled in two 7f handicaps this season but he's dropped a handy 5lb and his rider claims a valuable 3lb too; better expected this time.

10/1

33/1

  • Place: £3.70

Form: 631197 C

Last run: 8 days

W: 9st 8lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Prominent racer who has been a flag bearer for his trainer, adding another three 7f handicaps to his record this year; has his first run at 6f today and nothing to suggest there's any juice left in his handicap mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

2

(2)

6th Jul 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

16:30 Ayr

Gweedore

10st 2lb

J: Cian Horgan

T: Katie Scott

Ended last season with a 7f win on soft ground but made a slow start to this campaign; not the percentage call.

50/1

16th

10

(16)

13th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

14:25 York

Gweedore

9st 8lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Katie Scott

9yo who has won 13 times, the latest off today's mark at Musselburgh last November; however, he's failed to shine on his three outings this season.

33/1

11/1

  • Place: £4.50

Form: 707818 D BF

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 8lb

5 yo Horse

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Missed 2022; first signs of retaining ability with his eyecatching finish in the Wokingham; excuses on next two starts before producing a strong finish to dead-heat with Summerghand at the Ebor meeting last month (6f, good to firm); finished behind his old rival in Ireland 13 days ago when running creditably without threatening; 3lb wrong under his penalty but this test could suit him well; shortlisted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

5

(10)

16th May 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:20 Newbury

Albasheer

9st 3lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Archie Watson

Has moved in the right direction on AW since returning from lengthy layoff but the form suggests he doesn't retain peak ability; the 8yo is the oldest contender back on turf.

14/1

2nd

2

(7)

13th Apr 2026

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 3

19:00 Newcastle (AW)

Albasheer

9st 9lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Archie Watson

Second run back from a long break (C&D) was better than the first; on a good mark if able to take another step forward.

7/1

4th

2

(3)

19th Mar 2026

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

18:30 Newcastle (AW)

Albasheer

9st 6lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Archie Watson

Smart sprint handicapper but off for 13 months after finishing third over C&D on New Year's Day 2025 and always behind on his Chelmsford comeback 26 days ago; needs to have come on a lot.

10/1

18/1

Form: 041008 D

Last run: 56 days

W: 9st 9lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Unraced at 6f since a narrow debut success three years ago; ready winner of a small-field handicap at Newmarket in May (7f, good) off 3lb lower; unplaced three times since but all in top handicaps and he ran well at Ascot eight weeks ago, doing second best of those to race on the far side (those just behind him on that side have done well since); his stamina will be an asset and the ground is unlikely to be an excuse; chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

8

(4)

23rd May 2026

Good To Yielding

0m 6f 0y

15:05 Curragh

Montassib

9st 5lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: William Haggas

Late-maturing type won the Group 1 Sprint Cup at Haydock (good) in 2024; did not appear last year until September and failed to recapture his best form in three runs, only fifth behind Spycatcher when favourite at Doncaster on last of them; reversed that form (and had James's Delight behind) when fourth in a 6f Listed race at the same venue eight weeks ago.

4/1

4th

9

(1)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 2y

Class 1

13:50 Doncaster

Montassib

9st 10lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

Arrives late on the scene and had a stellar 2024, his three wins including this race (soft) and the Group 1 Sprint Cup at Haydock (good); wasn't seen last year until September and didn't fully fire in three runs, only fifth behind Spycatcher when favourite over C&D on last of them; dangerous if rebounding but has to prove he retains all his ability.

4/1

9

(3)

18th Oct 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

14:05 Ascot

Montassib

9st 4lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Haggas

Made the leap from top handicaps to Listed/Group races last season, winning the Group 1 Sprint Cup at Haydock (6f, good) by a head from Kind Of Blue, before finishing fifth to that rival in this event; 11 months off when an encouraging third of 11 in Group 3 at Newbury last month, getting going too late on his first attempt at 5f; that run suggests he retains all his ability and he's a serious candidate four weeks on.

11/2

12/1

Form: 254202 D BF

Last run: 48 days

W: 9st 11lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Capable 2yo (ran well at this meeting); form took off on bad ground last autumn, winning two good 5f handicaps before an easy win in a 6f Listed event at Doncaster in November (heavy); 0-6 this year but ran as well as she ever has when second in a 6f Listed event at Chester seven weeks ago; rider's claim useful but she could really use the heavens opening if she's to come out on top.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

(6)

14th Oct 2023

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

17:00 Newmarket

Fast Response

9st 3lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: K R Burke

Ended 2022 on a high and she's continued the good work, albeit without winning, this season; runner-up three times in Listed events and also ran well in the Ayr Gold Cup when racing nearest the far rail; handles all ground but the recent rain is an obvious positive.

5/2

7th
2 (25)
Rohaan

11/1

Form: 070760 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 12lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Made giant strides from humble beginnings, winning two Wokinghams as well as a Group 2 and two Group 3s; has only run to form twice this year, albeit often in the face of stiff tasks, but this mark (dropped a further 4lb since the entry stage) is within range and this is his first shot at a 6f handicap in 2023; not the biggest surprise were he to spring back to life.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

19

(10)

6th Sep 2025

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Ascot

Rohaan

8st 12lb

J: Ben Robinson

T: David Evans

Has five C&D wins on his resume, including two Wokinghams and two Group 3s; getting on for two years since his last win though and this might be too competitive these days.

14/1

3

(11)

28th Aug 2025

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 4

18:45 Southwell (AW)

Rohaan

10st 0lb

J: Callum Shepherd

T: David Evans

Hold-up sprinter who has been a source of frustration since his last win in October 2023; on a lowly mark and his four C&D runs this year have all been competitive; shouldn't be far away.

9/1

8th

7

(5)

8th Jul 2025

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Pontefract

Rohaan

8st 11lb

J: P J McDonald

T: David Evans

Landed the Wokingham in 2021 and 2022; on a long losing sequence but ran encouragingly in big field at Newbury most recently; fighting chance off current mark.

11/2

8th
18 (21)
Mr Wagyu

12/1

Form: 977493 CD

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Still seeking his first win of the year but he's been a fixture in the top sprints and has performed with credit in many of them; third to Bielsa here in 2021 and close up in fifth last year (off 9lb higher); no obvious reason why he wouldn't go well once again.
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

16/1

Form: 035574 D

Last run: 8 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Yet to win in 2023 but he's run some good races, notably a second to Bielsa at York in May and a fair effort on soft at Doncaster last week; 3lb badly in today but the York run was off this mark and any improvement for the addition of a visor would see him go well.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(8)

7th Sep 2025

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

16:30 York

Lethal Levi

9st 7lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

Went very close in a Group 2 at the Curragh (6f, good) in May and comfortably made all in Listed race at Newmarket last month (6f, good to firm; Elmonjed second); carries a 3lb penalty today but has leading claims nevertheless at a track where he has plenty of strong form.

6/1

1st

6

(7)

22nd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

13:20 Newmarket (July)

Lethal Levi

9st 3lb

J: Sam James

T: K R Burke

Had a fine 2024 campaign once blinkers were added, winning two Newbury handicaps then blitzing his rivals in the Ayr Gold Cup; 0-4 this year but he has been running with great credit in good company; drops into Listed company and his record of 211 over C&D features a notable 3yo handicap win; looks sure to go well.

3/1

3

(5)

28th Jun 2025

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

14:25 York

Lethal Levi

9st 8lb

J: Clifford Lee

T: K R Burke

Last season's Ayr Gold Cup winner who has returned in good nick, going down by only a short head in a 6f Group 2 at the Curragh (good) five weeks ago; also had some good 7f form last year.

11/1

10th
14 (1)
Bielsa

14/1

Form: 0-2103 CD

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 99

Form & Verdict
Won this race under an enterprising ride in 2021 (raced alone up the stands' rail from stall 25); as good as ever this year, winning a competitive 6f handicap at the Dante meeting and running well in both the Wokingham and Stewards' Cup (third of 27); drawn on the opposite flank to his 2021 success; each-way shout.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

2

(6)

16th Dec 2023

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:09 Newcastle (AW)

Bielsa

9st 2lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

raced in second, hung right over 1f out, lost second 1f out, weakened inside final furlong, eased towards finish

11/4

2nd

2

(10)

11th Nov 2023

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Bielsa

9st 5lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Kevin Ryan

Smart handicapper who made a flying start to the season, second at Redcar before seeing off 20 rivals at York's Dante meeting; ran to form in the Wokingham, Stewards' Cup and Ayr Gold Cup before a more subdued effort at York four weeks ago (raced on the favoured far side); third, albeit well beaten, over C&D in Group 3 company in one AW start; shouldn't be far away.

11/2

7th

8

(9)

14th Oct 2023

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:25 York

Bielsa

9st 6lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

re-shod, raced far side, towards rear

14/1

11th
7 (23)
Orazio

7/1

Form: /61160 D BF

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 9lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Looked set for the top when winning useful 6f handicaps on slow ground in the spring; came unstuck on faster ground in the Wokingham (7-2f) and then got bogged down in the Stewards' Cup (100-30f) seven weeks ago; there should be no excuses with the ground today and if he returns to his spring best then he'll be in the thick of it.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

(14)

6th Sep 2025

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Ascot

Orazio

9st 11lb

J: Jim Crowley

T: Charles Hills

Looked the proverbial Group horse in a handicap when sauntering to success over C&D in May 2023 on soft ground; more bad days than good since then but flashes last season that he was still a top-notch sprinter on his day, as when third in the Wokingham off a 6lb higher mark than today's; no better than midfield in two feature handicaps this summer but he didn't run too badly at Goodwood and he has too much ability to discount under these conditions.

16/1

14

(3)

2nd Aug 2025

Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:05 Goodwood

Orazio

9st 2lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Charles Hills

Has let his supporters down in a host of top handicaps since looking to have the sprinting scene at his mercy in early 2023; has run to form only sporadically in the last two years but his good days are still very good, as when third in last season's Wokingham off a 3lb higher mark; never threatened in this year's Wokingham but it was after an absence and better can be expected this afternoon; stable won this in 2015 and 2019.

25/1

17th

15

(26)

21st Jun 2025

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Orazio

9st 2lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Charles Hills

Made a very bright start to his handicap career when winning twice in the spring of 2023 before a never-nearer sixth of 27 in this race; maddeningly in and out since but he was nevertheless an excellent close third in this (good to firm) under Saffie Osborne 12 months ago and the lack of a recent run isn't necessarily a drawback; no surprise to see his grey head loom up late.

14/1

12th
19 (5)
Aleezdancer

9/1

Form: 160975 D

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Fine record on slower than good; ground was good when he finished down the field here 12 months ago but he's long appealed as the type to win a feature sprint when underfoot conditions are in his favour; the Stewards' Cup looked one that might have got away, finishing comfortably on top of the group who raced far side but only fifth overall (cheekpieces first time, retained); chance will be enhanced by any further rain; interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

(9)

27th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:25 Ripon

Aleezdancer

9st 6lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

C&D winner; responded well to a change of tactics when making all at Pontefract in July (6f, good); not so good in either start since but not handicapped out of things if bouncing back.

12/1

11

(12)

14th Sep 2025

Good

0m 6f 111y

Class 2

15:00 Doncaster

Aleezdancer

8st 12lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Inconsistent 6yo who hasn't gone beyond a bare 6f for a long time and finished down the field at York in July when last seen; however, he won at Pontefract (6f, good) earlier that month and has shown some strong form here in the past (including a soft-ground win); could go well.

20/1

12

(2)

26th Jul 2025

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:00 York

Aleezdancer

9st 0lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Kevin Ryan

C&D winner; exploited his drop down the weights when making all at Pontefract 18 days ago (6f, good); still has handicapping scope despite a 4lb rise; one to consider.

12/1

Form: 162986 D

Last run: 8 days

W: 8st 13lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
A fine money-spinner for this yard but the handicapper looks to have his claws in deep for now.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(2)

20th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 96y

Class 4

19:30 Beverley

It Just Takes Time

9st 5lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Mark Walford

Back in form with three placed efforts this summer; the latest one took his C&D record to 1113; this front-running 8yo remains just 1lb above last winning mark; solid chance.

5/2

3rd

1

(3)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 96y

Class 4

17:10 Beverley

It Just Takes Time

9st 9lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Mark Walford

A three-time C&D scorer; right back to his best of late when runner-up in 7f handicaps at Wetherby and Thirsk, caught only late on latter occasion; up 2lb but another bold showing is on the cards.

3/1

2nd

2

(4)

16th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 4

16:02 Thirsk

It Just Takes Time

10st 0lb

J: Jack Garritty

T: Mark Walford

C&D winner who bounced back to his best with second of 14 in 7f Wetherby handicap 12 days ago; up 2lb but he remains 1lb below his last winning mark so merits serious consideration.

4/1

20/1

Form: 851100 CD

Last run: 7 days

W: 9st 8lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Won a big-field nursery at this meeting as a 2yo; made a flying start for David O'Meara, backing up his York win in July (6f, good) with a dominant display in the Stewards' Cup where he travelled supremely well in the testing ground; two heavy defeats have followed and it was disconcerting to see him check out so quickly in last week's Portland when conditions should have suited.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

(6)

15th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 212y

Class 4

15:40 Catterick

Aberama Gold

10st 0lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Not the force of old but won over C&D (good) off 2lb higher in April and last week's second at Epsom (6f, good to firm) confirms he's back in form; bold show likely.

11/4

2nd

1

(4)

9th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 3y

Class 4

19:50 Epsom

Aberama Gold

10st 2lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: David O’Meara

Not the force of old but won off 2lb higher at Catterick (6f, good) in April and beat his group when fifth overall in 14-runner Ayr handicap (6f, soft) last month; also suited by fast ground; can make his presence felt.

7/2

5th

7

(10)

20th Jun 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

17:23 Ayr

Aberama Gold

10st 0lb

J: Mark Winn

T: David O’Meara

Three-time C&D winner; successful at Catterick (6f, good) in April but held in more competitive races since; not handicapped out of things but might prove vulnerable for win purposes.

10/1

66/1

Form: 552126 D

Last run: 16 days

W: 8st 13lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Better than ever this summer but beaten fair and square off this mark in a lesser event at Wolverhampton 16 days ago.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

(1)

20th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 12y

Class 4

19:20 Windsor

Lequinto

9st 11lb

J: Marco Ghiani

T: Tony Carroll

Eight of his 14 wins have come at Windsor and latest was a comfortable success over C&D (good to firm) three weeks ago; up 5lb but he still looks on a workable mark and has been in good form since April; big player.

11/4

1st

3

(3)

29th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 12y

Class 5

21:00 Windsor

Lequinto

9st 13lb

J: Marco Ghiani

T: Tony Carroll

Seven of his 13 wins have come at Windsor and latest was over 5f (good) last month; finished well to snatch third at Bath (5.7f) and Sandown (5f) in his last two runs and he's strongly respected back up in trip.

9/2

3rd

8

(2)

12th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

0m 5f 10y

Class 4

14:13 Sandown

Lequinto

9st 1lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Tony Carroll

Loves Windsor where he beat Kiss And Run before finishing third at Bath; has won here but usually runs in Class 5s.

8/1

16th
10 (17)
Escobar

40/1

Form: 008040

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Eighth, beaten 4l, behind stablemate Summerghand in this race 12 months ago; went on to win a big-field handicap at Ascot two weeks later and he's 7lb lower today; he's struggled to recapture his best this season and he looks vulnerable off a mark 6lb higher than his current one.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

9

(6)

20th Dec 2023

Standard To Slow

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

19:00 Kempton (AW)

Escobar

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

steadied start, towards rear

10/1

9th

8

(8)

9th Dec 2023

Standard To Slow

0m 7f 14y

Class 2

18:15 Newcastle (AW)

Escobar

9st 4lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

sweating, dwelt start, midfield on near side of group

14/1

8th

7

(11)

27th Oct 2023

Standard

0m 7f 36y

Class 2

18:45 Wolverhampton (AW)

Escobar

9st 3lb

J: Neil Callan

T: David O’Meara

Veteran who's become hard to win with and been on the downgrade this year, coming 22lb down the weights; late in the day to be making his Tapeta debut in a new form of headgear and will need some luck if dropped in as usual from stall 11.

12/1

18/1

Form: 121500 D

Last run: 70 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Hit the ground running for this yard, chasing home Orazio at Newmarket either side of 6f handicap wins in the spring; held in three hot handicaps since but he's still feasibly handicapped judged on his defeat of 20 rivals on Guineas weekend; slow ground no problem and rider's claim is useful; lively outsider.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

8

(9)

18th Oct 2025

Standard

0m 6f 20y

Class 3

16:29 Wolverhampton (AW)

Probe

9st 5lb

J: George Wood

T: Jennie Candlish

C&D winner; flashed home to win a 7f handicap at Chester in May but it has been a mixed bag since, including dropped into a seller at Chester four weeks ago; dangerous mark if the addition of a tongue tie has a positive effect.

10/1

4

(4)

20th Sep 2025

Soft

0m 7f 127y

Class 4

15:05 Chester

Probe

9st 10lb

J: Kieran O’Neill

T: Jennie Candlish

Last-gasp winner of a Class 3 handicap here (7f, good) in May but he hasn't matched that form since and was well held over C&D (good to soft) last time; hood now returns but this is highly competitive for a seller and others are preferred.

8/1

1

(9)

13th Sep 2025

Good

0m 7f 127y

Class 4

16:35 Chester

Probe

10st 1lb

J: Kieran O’Neill

T: Jennie Candlish

Produced a strong finish for a last-gasp success off this mark here (7f, good) in May; hasn't hit the same level since but he had some serious traffic issues when a creditable third here last month; looks interesting on this step back up in trip and could be a big factor if he gets the breaks.

14/1

Form: 133145 C BF

Last run: 30 days

W: 9st 11lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
He has taken his form to new levels this year, winning handicaps at Thirsk (1m, soft) and York (7f, good) as well as several fine efforts in top 7f/1m events; further success beckons but he drops to 6f for the first time in a demanding event and it did take him a while to pick up at York last time, for all he had to briefly wait for a gap.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

(13)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

14:10 York

Northern Express

9st 9lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Michael Dods

High-class handicapper at 7f/1m; winless since landing a valuable 7f handicap at Ascot in July 2024 but he is now 7lb lower and he retains plenty of ability; should be sharper with last month's reappearance behind him; bold bid expected as he attempts to win this race for a second time.

10/1

5th

1

(10)

25th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

12:45 Newmarket (July)

Northern Express

9st 10lb

J: Sean Kirrane

T: Michael Dods

High-class handicapper at 7f/1m; winless since landing a valuable 7f handicap at Ascot in July 2024 but he is now 6lb lower and three runs in Bahrain this winter suggested he retained a chunk of ability; back from four months off and this is perhaps not the day to catch him.

10/1

3rd

5

(11)

10th Oct 2025

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

13:30 York

Northern Express

9st 1lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Michael Dods

7yo who hasn't been able to reproduce his very best form this season but he's dropped down the weights accordingly and there have been promising signs on his last few starts, finishing fifth of 17 over C&D (good to firm) in August and fourth of 14 at Ayr (1m, soft) last time; in the mix.

5/1

66/1

Form: 140709 C

Last run: 28 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Blew mark when a close fourth at Haydock (Group 3; 7f, good to firm) in June; subsequent handicap efforts suggest another struggle is on the cards.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(6)

23rd Aug 2025

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:05 Goodwood

Gorak

9st 0lb

J: Paddy Bradley

T: Charlie Fellowes

Best form this season when placed twice at Haydock, including latest start; still on a workable mark but continues on a long losing sequence, which makes him a similar type to Billyjoh.

16/1

3

(2)

9th Aug 2025

Good

0m 7f 37y

Class 3

16:10 Haydock

Gorak

9st 13lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Charlie Fellowes

Record over C&D includes a success in May 2023 and solid second on reappearance this term; disappointing favourite here on penultimate start and losing run is mounting up; best form certainly gives him a good chance off current mark back down in grade.

7/1

11

(1)

12th Jul 2025

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:50 Newmarket (July)

Gorak

9st 4lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Charlie Fellowes

Disappointing favourite at Haydock last Saturday, extending his long losing sequence; beaten twice in this contest (seventh in 2023, well held in 2024) and can be opposed.

33/1

50/1

Form: 540007 D

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 2lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Not won this year but there have been occasional flickers of him retaining ability, including last time at Haydock when he stayed on for a never-dangerous seventh (5f, good); 6lb wrong today though and he'll need to rediscover his old magic to win.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

(4)

21st Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 8y

Class 5

17:50 Nottingham

Mondammej

10st 0lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Antony Brittain

Winless on turf since 2021 but showed more on his second run back from a break last time, is now 2lb lower and this is easier than the handicaps he's used to contesting; tends to be held up and a speed-favouring 5f in a small field may not be optimal but he's capable.

6/1

6th

5

(5)

3rd Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 3y

Class 3

15:10 Doncaster

Mondammej

9st 3lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Antony Brittain

Well handicapped on the pick of last year's AW form and he may have needed his comeback run at Thirsk in May; however, this 9yo was well beaten and is without a win on turf since September 2021; others are more compelling.

40/1

14th

13

(1)

31st May 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 4

16:45 Thirsk

Mondammej

9st 3lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Antony Brittain

Veteran with a mind of his own and refused to leave the parade ring on last intended start in November; however, perfectly capable of a big run off this mark and he's gone well fresh in the past.

33/1

21th
17 (18)
Magical Spirit

18/1

Form: 041376 CD

Last run: 56 days

W: 9st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Two runs at Ayr have seen him run away with the 2020 Silver Cup and finish a good fourth in that race in 2021; in good form in the spring, chasing home Bielsa and Lethal Levi at York's Dante meeting, but his effort petered out quickly when last seen in July (travelled well); stable may have stronger claims elsewhere.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

7

(5)

25th Oct 2024

Soft

0m 6f 2y

Class 2

15:18 Doncaster

Magical Spirit

8st 10lb

J: Shane Gray

T: Kevin Ryan

8yo who has finished down the field on his last four runs and needs a major turnaround; however, he's just 1lb higher than when winning in a big field over C&D (soft) in April on his last run here, and his good record at Doncaster also includes a win in this race in 2021; dangerous to dismiss.

12/1

9th

3

(8)

28th Sep 2024

Heavy

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:20 Ripon

Magical Spirit

9st 4lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Three heavy defeats have followed his impressive Doncaster win in April (6f, soft); not the easiest to predict but conditions won't be an issue and he's dangerous to write off.

14/1

15th

3

(9)

17th Aug 2024

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:20 Ripon

Magical Spirit

9st 2lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

raced near side

33/1

40/1

Form: 172607 D

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 10lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Bred to sprint and he looked set for a bright season when winning a 6f conditions event at Newcastle on Good Friday; chased home Shaquille at Newbury in May and beaten under 5l when sixth in the Group 1 King's Stand at Royal Ascot; suspicion there's a bigger effort lurking but he did finish his race off weakly at York 13 days ago.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(8)

1st Jul 2026

Good

0m 6f 3y

Class 4

18:22 Epsom

Desert Cop

10st 8lb

J: Benoit De La Sayette

T: George Baker

Snapped a losing sequence when down in class to score at Windsor (6f, good to firm) on Saturday; 5lb penalty leaves him with a fair burden to carry but he's in the same grade and should make his presence felt.

5/1

1st

2

(8)

27th Jun 2026

Good

0m 6f 12y

Class 4

18:15 Windsor

Desert Cop

10st 2lb

J: Benoit De La Sayette

T: George Baker

On a long losing sequence and tried in cheekpieces when beating just two in 5f handicap here five days ago; others are preferred.

5/1

7th

3

(7)

22nd Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 21y

Class 3

19:17 Windsor

Desert Cop

9st 12lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: George Baker

Infrequent winner who's tried in a third form of headgear after a few recent runs over 6f (two here); handicapper has given him a chance, dropping him another 3lb, but the cheekpieces will need to make a difference.

12/1

Form: 711158 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 2lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Instant benefits from a wind operation in May, winning 7f handicaps at Chester and Haydock before producing a career-best RPR when powering home in the Scottish Stewards' Cup; two defeats have followed but faced stiff task in a Listed race formerly and then had a duff draw last time; good Irish apprentice booked; prominent racer who should give it another good go.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

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

5th

2

(5)

25th Jun 2026

Good

0m 6f 18y

Class 5

12:30 Nottingham

Paws For Thought

9st 11lb

J: James Sullivan

T: Donald McCain

His nine wins have been on good ground or slower, with six of them coming at Chester; caught wide there on his reappearance and was well held in seventh there over 7f 13 days ago; drops back in trip with cheekpieces back on.

10/1

OUR TIP

Form: 064214 CD

Last run: 13 days

W: 10st 1lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Marvellous sprinter who is part of the furniture in the top sprint handicaps, winning the 2020 Stewards' Cup and landing this race 12 months ago off a 5lb lower mark; no sign his powers are on the wane this year, dead-heating with Albasheer in a 17-runner handicap at the Ebor meeting (6f, good to firm) before a solid fourth at the Curragh latest (did best of those to race towards the far side); it will probably require a return to his absolute peak to defy this mark as a 9yo but he's unlikely to be far away.
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

Non-runners

Juan Les Pins

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £191.80
Straight Forecast £137.09
Trifecta £3179.30

Selections

RP RATINGS:

Orazio

Daily Mail:

Summerghand

The Times:

Ramazan

NEWMARKET:

Gorak

SPOTLIGHT:

Aleezdancer

TOPSPEED:

Rohaan

D Express:

Montassib

The Star:

Significantly

Daily Record:

Juan Les Pins

POSTDATA:

Aberama Gold

LAMBOURN:

Orazio

Telegraph:

Orazio

The Guardian:

Orazio

Daily Mirror:

Summerghand

The Sun:

Summerghand