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

5th

1

(3)

15th Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:25 Ripon

Aramram

9st 12lb

J: Joe Leavy

T: Richard Hannon

Progressive handicapper last year; took form to a new level with a Listed win at Doncaster on his seasonal return and performed to a similar level when second in the Group 3 Abernant at Newmarket in April; Group 1 company was too much to handle at Royal Ascot and a mighty performance will be needed to defy his big weight back in a handicap (12lb higher than for his narrow Ascot win last October).

9/1

15th

2

(3)

20th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

15:40 Ascot

Aramram

9st 5lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Last season concluded with C&D handicap win (soft); better than ever this year with a Listed win (6f, good to soft) and Group 3 second (6f, good) and another solid run when fifth of 13 in Group 2 at York (6f, good) last time; however, his form needs to go to another new level today.

40/1

5th

4

(7)

13th May 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

15:30 York

Aramram

9st 10lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Steadily progressive over 6f, mostly in handicaps prior to showing bigger things this season by bagging Listed honours at Doncaster (good to soft) and finishing a good second in Group 3 at Newmarket (good); at the top of his form and may rate higher still; in the mix.

9/1

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

2nd

5

(11)

27th Aug 2026

Standard

0m 6f 16y

Class 5

20:30 Southwell (AW)

Jenever

9st 11lb

J: George Wood

T: Jessica Macey

Yet to score this season but largely running well, posting a solid fourth of eight in 6f Carlisle handicap 16 days ago; this C&D winner can't be ruled out.

10/1

4th

1

(2)

11th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 182y

Class 5

16:15 Carlisle

Jenever

10st 0lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Jessica Macey

Yet to win this season but has dropped to a good mark and was close third in refitted visor at Nottingham (6f, good to firm) three weeks ago; blinkers are the headgear of choice today; might be the answer.

11/2

3rd

4

(1)

21st Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 18y

Class 5

17:15 Nottingham

Jenever

9st 11lb

J: Lewis Edmunds

T: Jessica Macey

Like many from the yard he has had a quiet year but he has dropped down the weights and is now 6lb lower than for his C&D win last October; quite possible the winners will start flowing for Jessica Macey now and he's of some interest.

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

5th

3

(5)

1st Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 6

16:55 Thirsk

Kings Merchant

9st 12lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Philip Kirby

2-6 over C&D; ended a 17-race losing run at Chester (7f, good) last month and only beaten just over 2l into fourth of eight at Catterick (7f, good to firm) ten days ago; shouldn't have an issue with the return to this trip and shortlisted.

7/2

4th

3

(7)

22nd Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 6y

Class 6

15:10 Catterick

Kings Merchant

9st 13lb

J: Dale Swift

T: Philip Kirby

Won his first race since September 2024 when scoring at Chester last time (7f, good; third run in cheekpieces, runner-up third there the next day); up 3lb; goes well on fast ground; a possible.

11/4

1st

5

(7)

10th Jul 2026

Good

0m 7f 1y

Class 5

20:50 Chester

Kings Merchant

9st 9lb

J: Dale Swift

T: Philip Kirby

Gained all four wins over sprint trips, the latest in September 2024; ran quite well over 7f at Catterick (good) in May, though, and nearly exploited this career-low mark at Doncaster (6f, good to firm; second run in cheekpieces) a week ago; due to go back up 3lb; must be considered.

11/4

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

5th

2

(10)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 213y

Class 2

16:30 Ascot

Two Tribes

9st 13lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Richard Spencer

Won a valuable 7f handicap here last summer before bolting up in the Stewards' Cup one week later; another fine course run here last month when second of 16 and he was heavily supported for a Stewards' Cup repeat, only to stumble leaving the stalls; that run is easily excused but he is back up 2lb today and his stamina for 1m has to be taken on trust.

15/2

27th

8

(13)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Goodwood

Two Tribes

9st 6lb

J: David Egan

T: Richard Spencer

Surged to the front 1f out when dominant in this race (good to soft) 12 months ago; 7lb higher this time around but he was better than ever when second in a hot handicap at Ascot last week (7f, good to firm) when coming from further back than ideal; 2lb ahead of the handicapper and he has a fine chance of becoming the fifth horse to win back-to-back Stewards' Cups (Commanche Falls in 2021 and 2022 was the latest).

8/1

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

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

13th

22

(14)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:00 York

Rock Opera

8st 2lb

J: Ethan Tindall

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Run of in-frame efforts came to an end here two weeks ago but he still ran with more promise than his finishing position suggests; still likely vulnerable at this level.

25/1

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

3rd

9

(13)

27th Aug 2026

Good

0m 5f 0y

Class 6

16:00 Carlisle

Never Dark

9st 4lb

J: Alex Jary

T: Iain Jardine

Can lead; recorded the latest of his nine wins when taking Hamilton handicap (5f, soft) in September 2024; now 23lb lower but was only sixth of ten back at that track last Friday; career-low mark and any rain would be welcome.

12/1

6th

9

(12)

21st Aug 2026

Good

0m 5f 7y

Class 6

20:15 Hamilton

Never Dark

9st 5lb

J: Alex Jary

T: Iain Jardine

Has won nine races, two over C&D (good to soft/soft); 3.5l second to Tanjen over C&D last time but meets her on the same terms, so may struggle to turn that form around.

8/1

2nd

5

(3)

11th Aug 2026

Good To Soft

0m 5f 7y

Class 6

17:30 Hamilton

Never Dark

9st 5lb

J: Jude Fernandes

T: Iain Jardine

Without a success since September 2024 but that did come over this C&D off a 22lb higher mark; faded into seventh of 11 here ten days ago but it would be no surprise to see him go well.

8/1

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

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

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

4th

5

(5)

31st Jul 2026

Good

0m 5f 1y

Class 4

19:25 Musselburgh

Curious Rover

9st 4lb

J: Kevin Stott

T: Katie Scott

Won the corresponding race 12 months ago off 6lb higher; back to winning ways when seeing off ten rivals at Ayr (5f, good to firm; made all) 18 days ago; this is a higher grade but the horse he beat last time ran well at Goodwood on Tuesday; not ruled out.

7/2

1st

2

(4)

13th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 5

14:30 Ayr

Curious Rover

9st 13lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Katie Scott

Won off an 11lb mark at Musselburgh last August (5f, good); hasn't run as well since and below-par over same C&D last time (good); dropped another 3lb so no surprise if he were to go well.

7/1

7th

4

(5)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 1y

Class 4

16:15 Musselburgh

Curious Rover

9st 3lb

J: Ryan Sexton

T: Katie Scott

Gained last season's win over C&D (good); slightly disappointing in first-time blinkers (retained) on AW a week ago but now 2lb lower than when fourth of 17 behind Right And Exact at Thirsk (5f, good) two starts ago.

8/1

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

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

4th

7

(5)

3rd Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 3

15:54 Ripon

Grant Wood

8st 11lb

J: Jason Hart

T: Paul Midgley

C&D winner who won two in a row at Newcastle (AW) at the start of the year and was a close third over C&D (good) in May; he's dropped back down to a handy mark but has finished down the field on his last three outings.

12/1

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

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

10th

5

(13)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 4

13:30 York

Roberto Caro

11st 10lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

4lb lower than for his last two 6f wins but recent efforts have been underwhelming and he's unproven over the minimum trip.

22/1

11th

4

(9)

20th Jun 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

17:23 Ayr

Roberto Caro

10st 2lb

J: Mikey Sheehy

T: Adrian Paul Keatley

Drawn wide when down the field at Beverley (7.4f, good to firm) last time; his earlier 6f form brings him right into the reckoning and rain would be a positive; solid chance.

10/1

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

9th

2

(11)

17th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 5

16:15 Catterick

Emperors Son

10st 0lb

J: Joanna Mason

T: Samantha & Jacqueline Coward

Three wins for his former stable, the latest at Hamilton (6f, good) in June; sold for 11,000gns last month; widest stall to overcome on his stable debut; a hood now returns.

14/1

10th

9

(3)

4th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

15:50 Newmarket (July)

Emperors Son

8st 13lb

J: Warren Fentiman

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Won at Hamilton (6f, good) last month on second start back from a break and the neck runner-up went one better there next time; he's used to plying to his trade in a lower grade but is not discounted up just 2lb.

15/2

1st

4

(4)

17th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 6y

Class 5

16:02 Hamilton

Emperors Son

9st 7lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Carlisle winner on debut in June 2023 (5f, good to firm); gained another win at Wolverhampton in January (5f) and fair run back on turf when fourth at Pontefract last time (6f); a possible, but perhaps better at shorter.

15/2

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

1st

10

(6)

15th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 34y

Class 3

13:55 Newbury

Rhythm N Hooves

9st 2lb

J: Marco Ghiani

T: Robert Cowell

Won this 12 months ago off 9lb higher; 0-15 since and a change of headgear (retained) failed to stop the slide at Ascot three weeks ago.

6/1

8th

13

(12)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 5f 0y

Class 2

17:20 Ascot

Rhythm N Hooves

8st 6lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Robert Cowell

Won at Royal Ascot in 2023 and second in this race in 2025; the handicapper has been in command for much of 2026 but he went close at Windsor last month; not in the same form at Newmarket two weeks ago but the switch from cheekpieces to a visor could help; contender.

10/1

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

4th

1

(6)

12th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 1f 201y

Class 4

17:00 Salisbury

Londoner

9st 10lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Triple AW winner who is 0-24 on turf but he ran well to finish second behind an unexposed improver at Lingfield (1m2f, good to firm) 11 days ago; on same mark here and he's a big player if he can repeat that form.

100/30

2nd

1

(1)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 0y

Class 4

17:05 Lingfield

Londoner

10st 3lb

J: Ebrahim Nader

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Won off today's mark on Polytrack here (1m2f) in April; not quite at same level on turf since but was persistently denied clear run when fourth of six at Sandown (1m2f, good to firm; behind Percival) nine days ago and has possibilities if his luck improves.

7/2

4th

1

(2)

23rd Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 1f 209y

Class 4

15:30 Sandown

Londoner

9st 11lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Won at Lingfield (1m2f, AW) in April and he produced one of his better turf runs when close fifth of eight at Windsor (1m2f, good to firm) last time; however, a record of 0-22 on grass doesn't inspire confidence.

13/2

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

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

3rd

7

(10)

6th Feb 2026

Standard

0m 6f 0y

Class 4

20:30 Newcastle (AW)

Sergeant Pep

9st 5lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Clive Cox

He has finished second on his last two attempts at this trip, chasing home Hundred Caps at Southwell 17 days ago; 4lb better off with his old rival today; each-way claims.

8/1

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