November 09 / 15.45 Doncaster

15.45

Soft

Virgin Bet November Handicap

  • Prize money: £36078
  • 1m 3f 197y
  • Class 2
  • 23 runners
ITV
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Virgin Bet November Handicap

Runners: 23 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Cloudy

12/1 (Won)

  • Win: £15.80
  • Place: £3.70

Form: 551413 D BF

Last run: 32 days

W: 8st 13lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 90

Form & Verdict
Won for the Crisfords in April (1m2f, heavy) and for new yard this summer in 1m4f amateurs' races at York and Epsom; has never raced over this far in the mud but latest start showed again that he is effective over 1m2f on heavy; needs extra but he's going well and 5lb claimer is recruited.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

(17)

6th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 4f 6y

Class 2

17:20 Epsom

Lord Melbourne

9st 3lb

J: Jack Dace

T: Ralph Beckett

Won 23-runner November Handicap (1m4f, soft) in 2024 and he's 2-3 here (1m2f and 1m4f) including a win on good to soft last September; those are the clear positives but he's been poor in three starts at 1m2f (snow/AW/good) this year; has a tempting mark if he can stage a revival, so needs a market check.

20/1

9th

1

(9)

2nd May 2026

Good

1m 1f 197y

Class 2

16:00 Goodwood

Lord Melbourne

9st 9lb

J: Joe Leavy

T: Ralph Beckett

A very useful 1m2f/1m4f winner at his best but lightly raced in recent seasons and came in last of 11 in 1m2f AW Lingfield handicap in February; needs to take a big step forward after a break.

25/1

11th

2

(7)

27th Feb 2026

Standard

1m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:20 Lingfield (AW)

Lord Melbourne

9st 11lb

J: Jack Dace

T: Ralph Beckett

2024 November Handicap winner who reappeared with an easy win over 1m2f at Epsom last September; respectable sixth of 22 when bidding to defend his November Handicap crown on sole subsequent start last year; well-beaten fifth on the snow at St Moritz on return last weekend; entitled to come on for that outing but this test might be sharp enough for him.

10/1

12/1

  • Place: £3.10

Form: -21225 D BF

Last run: 49 days

W: 8st 8lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Second over C&D (soft) in April on seasonal/handicap debut; continued on the upgrade on her next three starts, with a close call in valuable race at Haydock (1m6f, good) on third occasion, before below-form favourite over 1m5f on heavy ground seven weeks ago; could bounce back with less extreme conditions today, for in-form yard and with the champion apprentice booked.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

19

(15)

9th Nov 2024

Soft

1m 3f 197y

Class 2

15:45 Doncaster

Waxing Gibbous

8st 8lb

J: Sean D Bowen

T: David Menuisier

Second over C&D (soft) in April on seasonal/handicap debut; continued on the upgrade on her next three starts, with a close call in valuable race at Haydock (1m6f, good) on third occasion, before below-form favourite over 1m5f on heavy ground seven weeks ago; could bounce back with less extreme conditions today, for in-form yard and with the champion apprentice booked.

12/1

2nd

19

(15)

9th Nov 2024

Soft

1m 3f 197y

Class 2

15:45 Doncaster

Waxing Gibbous

8st 8lb

J: Sean D Bowen

T: David Menuisier

Second over C&D (soft) in April on seasonal/handicap debut; continued on the upgrade on her next three starts, with a close call in valuable race at Haydock (1m6f, good) on third occasion, before below-form favourite over 1m5f on heavy ground seven weeks ago; could bounce back with less extreme conditions today, for in-form yard and with the champion apprentice booked.

12/1

5th

12

(8)

21st Sep 2024

Good To Soft

1m 5f 61y

Class 2

14:05 Newbury

Waxing Gibbous

8st 9lb

J: Harry Davies

T: David Menuisier

4yo whose four handicaps brought a Newbury win (1m4f, good) in May and three seconds; the latest was a close call in valuable race at Haydock (1m6f, good) two weeks ago, clear of the third; unraced on firmer than good (withdrawn once in July due to that ground); progressive and, although up another 5lb, should put up another bold show if the ground is okay.

7/2

20/1

  • Place: £5.90

Form: 523736 D

Last run: 63 days

W: 9st 0lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Last five races were 1m6f and he ran well to be placed in three, third of 20 in the Ebor at York on last occasion after he made a big move from mid-division to challenge 2f out (1lb higher today); has a patchy and less extensive record on ground softer than good but that includes a short-head defeat last season on his sole start here (14.5f, soft); not dismissed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

9

(2)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Oneforthegutter

8st 11lb

J: Edward Greatrex

T: Ian Williams

Second in this race in 2024 and won it last year (good to firm); now he has a 4lb lower mark than last year; that's having failed to finish in the first six in any of his seven races since, but at least his latest start was better than reappearance and it's not unheard of for runners from this stable to surge back to form.

14/1

8th

4

(2)

20th Jun 2026

Good

1m 5f 26y

Class 2

14:53 Ayr

Oneforthegutter

9st 6lb

J: Paul Mulrennan

T: Ian Williams

His form went the wrong way last season and he was soundly beaten on last month's return at Newmarket; however, he may have needed that run and is 2lb lower than when winning at Newmarket (1m6f, good to firm) last July; versatile ground-wise; not ruled out.

25/1

12/1

  • Place: £6.40

Form: 2574-1

Last run: 19 days

W: 9st 2lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Two wins in a busy 2023 for David O'Meara; his three hurdle races this summer were poor but he returned to the Flat for another new stable 19 days ago and won at Bath (1m2f, soft) by nearly 9l, drawing steadily clear in the final 2f; that was a major new high but he's up 10lb today and last season's two attempts suggested he races too freely for 1m4f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

10

(17)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

15:45 York

Auld Toon Loon

9st 4lb

J: Pierre-Louis Jamin

T: Tom Dascombe

Back to form with close third of six at Windsor (1m2f, good to firm) in May; however, only seventh of 16 at Epsom (1m2f, good to soft) last time on ground he should have handled; can be slowly away; others preferred.

33/1

7th

11

(5)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 2f 17y

Class 2

15:15 Epsom

Auld Toon Loon

8st 13lb

J: Kieran Shoemark

T: Tom Dascombe

Failed to figure from the widest draw behind Respond at Chester (went well there previously) on reappearance but a close third of six when favourite at Windsor (1m2f, good to firm) 11 days ago; with a good soft-ground record too, he could be a major player.

12/1

3rd

1

(1)

25th May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 0y

Class 3

16:25 Windsor

Auld Toon Loon

9st 11lb

J: Pierre-Louis Jamin

T: Tom Dascombe

Ended his 2025 campaign with a half-length success in Class 2 event over C&D (good to firm) and is only 2lb higher back here; possibilities with Chester reappearance under his belt.

5/1

5/1

Form: 1-233

Last run: 28 days

W: 9st 1lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Wide-margin winner of a 1m Nottingham maiden (heavy) on sole start last term; useful form in two of his three races this season, latterly when always-prominent third of 13 on handicap debut at York (10.2f, soft) four weeks ago; needs to build on that and see it out better but he's easily the most lightly raced horse in the field and his dam won at 1m4f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

10

(16)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:32 Doncaster

Valvano

9st 4lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Ralph Beckett

Lightly raced 5yo who has run well in defeat more often than not in handicaps, finishing third of 14 over C&D (heavy) in October when last seen; however, he may need testing ground to be a serious force at this trip, having run well at up to 1m4f here in the past; wears first-time tongue-tie/blinkers.

10/1

3rd

1

(4)

25th Oct 2025

Heavy

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

15:50 Doncaster

Valvano

10st 1lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Ralph Beckett

Lightly raced 4yo who goes well in the mud; given a break after a poor run over 1m4f at Epsom on Derby day and coped well with the drop back to 1m1f when third at Yarmouth (soft) on return last month, keeping on after not clear run; travelled on that occasion as if this even shorter trip may help if anything; considered.

9/2

2

(3)

17th Sep 2025

Soft

1m 1f 21y

Class 3

16:35 Yarmouth

Valvano

10st 1lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Ralph Beckett

Lightly raced 4yo who goes well in the mud; ran to a good level in his first three handicaps but then suffered a heavy 90l defeat when prominent in the market for the Northern Dancer handicap at Epsom (1m4f, good) on Derby day; absent since, while the experiment with cheekpieces is swiftly abandoned; could bounce back.

6/1

Form: 424111 D

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 6lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Form dipped when he tried front-running four starts back but he's been transformed since, winning twice over Epsom's 1m4f (soft/heavy) and completing his hat-trick when Flash Bardot gave him most to do at Newbury (1m4f, heavy); the pair drew 8l clear and he asserted in taking style late on, so it's easy to think that today's 7lb higher mark won't stop him either.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

3

(9)

24th Oct 2025

Soft

1m 4f 0y

Class 3

14:51 Newbury

Miller Spirit

10st 1lb

J: Toby Moore

T: Gary & Josh Moore

Five Flat wins in 2024, culminating in this race (1lb lower today); well suited by ploughing through the mud and best result this term came on soft, when runner-up at Yarmouth (1m6f) in July; ran respectably here on good to soft last time and a bold show seems likely if he's in the mud today.

7/1

11

(10)

20th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

1m 5f 61y

Class 2

14:05 Newbury

Miller Spirit

8st 12lb

J: Rhys Clutterbuck

T: Gary & Josh Moore

Five wins in a tremendously progressive 2024; well suited by ploughing through the mud and his best result this term came on soft ground, when runner-up at Yarmouth (1m6f) in July; respectable fourth in a Racing League event over 2m on Southwell's AW latest; feasibly handicapped and would enter the reckoning if the ground remains on the soft side.

16/1

4th

2

(8)

28th Aug 2025

Standard

2m 0f 102y

Class 3

19:15 Southwell (AW)

Miller Spirit

9st 7lb

J: Tom Queally

T: Gary & Josh Moore

Five wins in a tremendously progressive 2024 on Flat; well suited by ploughing through the mud and his best result this term came on soft ground, when runner-up on penultimate start; beaten 20l when last on his sole AW start in 2023 and others have more compelling claims.

6/1

Form: 331223

Last run: 14 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Held up; in fine form on soft/heavy ground this autumn and strong-finishing third of 17 at this track two weeks ago showed he is capable of better still, as he met plenty of trouble in running; entire handicap career (14 races) has been spent at about 1m2f and he's not at all sure to get 1m4f on pedigree, but he's shaping as if the new trip is well worth a shot.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

2

(13)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Stressfree

9st 12lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

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

16/1

7th

3

(1)

13th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 188y

Class 2

14:20 York

Stressfree

9st 10lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Beaten a head in this race last year and fourth of 22 here in the Ebor in August; began 2026 with another solid effort, when second at Ripon; not a prolific winner with his waiting tactics but big each-way chance.

6/1

2nd

1

(4)

25th Apr 2026

Good

1m 4f 10y

Class 2

15:35 Ripon

Stressfree

9st 10lb

J: Mark Winn

T: David O’Meara

Smart handicapper who won at Haydock (1m4f, good) off 4lb lower last May and recorded several good efforts in defeat later in 2025; has gone well fresh before.

9/2

33/1

Form: 114056 C

Last run: 45 days

W: 9st 11lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Completed hat-trick in Newmarket handicap (1m4f, good) in May, the first two legs having come on heavy ground; well beaten in a Royal Ascot handicap, a Group 2 and a Listed race on his last three outings and he needs a career best to win this.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

10

(8)

20th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 5f 143y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Maxi King

9st 4lb

J: Rowan Scott

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

Likeable 6yo who handles any ground and can usually be relied upon to give his running, as was the case when a close second to A Piece Of Heaven in the Chester Cup (2m2f, good); Toby Moore's claim meant the winner was giving him 8lb that day, so he looks to have his work cut out to reverse those placings; can run well but probably not well enough.

20/1

2nd

3

(8)

8th May 2026

Good

2m 2f 140y

Class 2

15:05 Chester

Maxi King

9st 5lb

J: Toby Moore

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

Reliable sort with a good first-time-out record, and he looks well worth this first foray beyond 14.5f, but there is something to prove if the ground if firmer than good; promising 7lb claimer has his first ride at Chester.

14/1

1

(3)

21st Oct 2025

Standard

1m 4f 98y

Class 2

16:50 Newcastle (AW)

Maxi King

10st 2lb

J: David Egan

T: Kevin Philippart De Foy

Lightly raced for a 5yo; has twice made the frame since returning from another seven months off in June, finishing fourth of 13 in the Mallard at Doncaster (14.5f, good to soft) last month (runner-up has since won the Cesarewitch); placed in both starts on AW as a 2yo including one here; not dismissed.

11/4

33/1

Form: 200-74 D

Last run: 168 days

W: 9st 1lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
2023 campaign petered out but he's had only two races this season (May) and ran respectably on second occasion; best efforts over further but the ground is no problem and he's well handicapped judged on form last May-August.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

(5)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 3f 218y

Class 4

20:12 Goodwood

Adjuvant

9st 12lb

J: Tyrese Cameron

T: Michael Bell

Ages since he last won but has run well now and again during his losing streak and might be happier getting back on the grass; cheekpieces belatedly tried for the first time.

12/1

6th

3

(8)

27th Apr 2026

Standard

1m 4f 0y

Class 4

17:20 Lingfield (AW)

Adjuvant

9st 8lb

J: Joe Bradnam

T: Michael Bell

Winless since May 2023 but he reappeared from five months off the track with a good third of five in 2m Southwell handicap 18 days ago; not out of things on his Polytrack debut eased 1lb.

5/1

3rd

2

(6)

9th Apr 2026

Standard

2m 0f 102y

Class 4

16:25 Southwell (AW)

Adjuvant

9st 12lb

J: Luke Morris

T: Michael Bell

Winless since 2023 and he signed off for last term with a below-par 14th in November Handicap at Doncaster in November; yard is going well though so no forlorn hope off a reduced mark.

8/1

11/1

Form: 859932 CD

Last run: 15 days

W: 8st 11lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Impressed twice over 1m4f in the mud last autumn and won on soft over C&D this April; not so good since until her excellent second at Newbury (1m4f, heavy) 15 days ago, in which she travelled just as well as Miller Spirit for a long way but could not match him as the pair drew 8l clear; back up 3lb (Miller Spirit is up 7lb) but a strong each-way player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

14th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 162y

Class 4

17:34 Fontwell

Flash Bardot

11st 4lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Henrietta C Knight

Useful over middle distances on the Flat (five wins) and made promising stable/hurdle debut when third at Haydock (1m7f, good) last month; that run came after a layoff and she'll be dangerous if it brought her on.

5/1

3rd

6

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 144y

Class 4

13:37 Haydock

Flash Bardot

11st 4lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Henrietta C Knight

Useful on the Flat for Jack Channon up to autumn 2024; however, her form went the wrong way last year and she was sold for 10,000gns in December; needs to turn things around on this hurdle/stable debut

12/1

Form: 212311

Last run: 29 days

W: 8st 6lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
Progressive 3yo who won convincingly when upped to 1m6f at Haydock (heavy) and York (soft) on his last two starts; lacked sufficient gears over 1m4f on good to soft three starts back, but today's ground could be more testing and, either way, he very much looks the type to find further improvement.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

6

(10)

31st May 2026

Good

2m 0f 13y

Class 3

18:15 Thirsk

Minstrel Knight

9st 7lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Edward Bethell

Ran creditably for minor honours in two (1m5f/2m2f) of his four starts in last year's Flat campaign and won novice hurdles in December and January when last seen; however, although he won on good ground two years ago, his record since has been dominated by achievements on softer.

10/1

1st

3

23rd Jan 2026

Good To Soft

2m 0f 128y

Class 3

13:45 Doncaster

Minstrel Knight

11st 8lb

J: Brian Hughes

T: Edward Bethell

Useful Flat performer who got off the mark over hurdles at the third attempt at Wetherby (2m, soft) four weeks ago; he's open to further improvement in this code and could have a big part to play under a penalty.

7/1

28

(33)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Minstrel Knight

8st 11lb

J: Andrew Slattery

T: Edward Bethell

English raider has won three of his 10 starts on turf; best recent form has come on testing ground; beaten 2.25 off this mark in a class 4 handicap at Musselburgh latest (2m2f, gd-sft); needs the heavens to open.

22/1

12th
5 (7)
Paradias

22/1

Form: -20105

Last run: 56 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Can race freely, so usually held up; everything panned out well at Glorious Goodwood (1m1f) in August; hampered next time and he ran creditably here (1m2f) on latest, but 1m4f and soft ground both give him more to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

(4)

3rd Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Paradias

9st 2lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

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

5/1

5th

6

(1)

28th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 50y

Class 1

18:12 Sandown

Paradias

9st 4lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

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

33/1

5th

5

(6)

1st May 2026

Good

1m 4f 0y

Class 1

15:30 Newmarket

Paradias

9st 5lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Alan King

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

40/1

Form: 130601 D

Last run: 28 days

W: 9st 1lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Won three times last year and twice this term, all on soft or good to soft; that includes latest start when always prominent over 10.2f at York (25-1) and three of his wins were over 1m4f; back up 5lb to career-high mark and this race demands a career best.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 61y

Class 4

16:05 Carlisle

Two Brothers

12st 5lb

J: Patrick Wadge

T: Michael & David Easterby

Finished strongly to force a dead heat with Ryebridge over C&D (good to soft) on his handicap hurdle debut 13 days ago; wore cheekpieces on that occasion but they are now replaced by the visor he wore regularly during his Flat career; retains handicapping scope on his useful form in that sphere.

4/1

1st

1

22nd Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 61y

Class 4

14:15 Carlisle

Two Brothers

12st 0lb

J: Patrick Wadge

T: Michael & David Easterby

Has made the frame in two races at Wetherby (2m) since switched to this code; opening hurdles mark is very attractive judged on best Flat form; possibilities.

100/30

5th

1

(2)

28th Oct 2025

Soft

1m 4f 13y

Class 4

14:10 Catterick

Two Brothers

10st 2lb

J: Billy Garritty

T: Michael & David Easterby

3lb lower than when winning at York (1m2f, soft) a year ago and very likely to have his optimum conditions, but a leap of faith is required following two poor efforts since returning from 308 days off last month.

6/1

28/1

Form: 111544 D

Last run: 32 days

W: 8st 8lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Had a hurdles campaign before winning at Windsor, Salisbury (1m2f, heavy; by 10l) and Ascot (upped to 1m4f, good) on his three Flat starts this spring; respectable, staying-on efforts on next two starts (latterly over 1m5f on heavy) but he could not get to grips with Stressfree and Lord Melbourne over 1m2f on heavy ground on latest outing; others have more pressing claims.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

8

(1)

5th Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

Class 5

17:00 Bath

Kotari

8st 13lb

J: Rhys Clutterbuck

T: Gary & Josh Moore

Hasn't won since recording a three-timer in 2024; last of six on return to action at Salisbury (1m4f, good) last month when favourite; has dropped to a career-low mark and first-time visor goes on; may be worth another chance.

13/2

6th

4

(5)

14th May 2026

Good

1m 4f 5y

Class 5

17:03 Salisbury

Kotari

9st 6lb

J: David Egan

T: Gary & Josh Moore

His three wins were all on the Flat in 2024, including here on heavy ground over 1m2f; failed to build on his comeback run when well beaten over hurdles at Kempton 52 days ago and the hood returns on this switch back to the Flat; makes some appeal from a good mark.

3/1

Form: -73302 D

Last run: 49 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Can race freely and has been hooded except on last two outings; reliable sort over 1m4f-1m6f and ideally suited by softer than good, as he showed again when second at Newbury (1m5f, heavy) last time; each-way candidate.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

3

(6)

13th Jun 2026

Good

1m 3f 188y

Class 3

13:50 York

Chillingham

10st 6lb

J: Miss Becky Smith

T: Micky Hammond

Awarded this race last year when also ridden by Becky Smith, and 6lb lower this time around; can't be totally written off but he's gone the wrong way over the last 12 months and was well beaten at 100-1 here last month.

5/1

15th

8

(12)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:55 York

Chillingham

9st 2lb

J: Aiden Brookes

T: Micky Hammond

Promoted to first in 1m4f handicap here (good to firm) last June and he races off 2lb lower today; however, he wasn't at his best last year on his final few runs for Edward Bethell, and failed to threaten over hurdles in the winter on his first two starts for this yard; may be best watched.

50/1

33/1

Form: 609244 D

Last run: 44 days

W: 9st 7lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Ex-Irish 6yo, absent in 2023; best effort this term when beaten a head off this mark at the Shergar Cup meeting at Ascot (2m, good; acts on soft) three starts back and he's unraced over shorter than 1m6f this season; while a case can be made on best efforts, he does not look the percentage call.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

1

(9)

11th Dec 2024

Standard To Slow

1m 7f 218y

Class 2

19:40 Kempton (AW)

Beamish

9st 12lb

J: Luke Morris

T: Archie Watson

0-8 for current yard; has a good chance on best turf form but failed to reproduce it in C&D contest (behind a few of these rivals) three weeks ago on AW debut; something to prove.

14/1

8th

1

(9)

11th Dec 2024

Standard To Slow

1m 7f 218y

Class 2

19:40 Kempton (AW)

Beamish

9st 12lb

J: Luke Morris

T: Archie Watson

0-8 for current yard; has a good chance on best turf form but failed to reproduce it in C&D contest (behind a few of these rivals) three weeks ago on AW debut; something to prove.

14/1

5th

2

(4)

20th Nov 2024

Standard To Slow

1m 7f 218y

Class 2

19:30 Kempton (AW)

Beamish

10st 1lb

J: Luke Morris

T: Archie Watson

Quite highly tried after winning first three starts in Ireland; uncompetitive in Britain bar running well in Shergar Cup contest in August; probably found 1m4f to be an inadequate test 11 days ago mind; rather watch AW debut.

10/1

OUR TIP

40/1

Form: 873062 D

Last run: 19 days

W: 9st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Underpowered most of 2024 but third in a 1m6f Group 3 at York (good to soft) in July was up with his best ever and in a manner suggesting this rare go these days over 1m4f could be manageable; second of four over 2m2f last time was his other noteworthy run this term, one of his few outings on soft ground; a place might be possible but he should be too exposed for the win.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

24th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 51y

Class 2

15:03 Kelso

Wise Eagle

11st 1lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Adam Nicol

Looked better than ever when third in the Morebattle Hurdle here in February and posted a good third on the Flat at Musselburgh last month; must enter calculations in refitted cheekpieces.

3/1

3rd

1

(11)

4th Apr 2026

Good

1m 5f 216y

Class 3

15:05 Musselburgh

Wise Eagle

9st 9lb

J: Billy Garritty

T: Adam Nicol

Won this prize in 2023 and had a fruitful Flat/hurdles campaign last winter before his close fourth in this; while he did not make an impact in either of his Flat runs this winter, latest hurdles form was his best in that sphere; 8lb lower than the 2025 renewal and a case can certainly be made.

13/2

3rd

10

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 0f 51y

Class 2

14:55 Kelso

Wise Eagle

11st 3lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Adam Nicol

Runner-up here (2m, soft) last February and back on song when third at Musselburgh (1m7f, good to soft) four weeks ago; he's lightly raced over hurdles and is on an attractive mark judged on his very useful Flat form, but he needs to raise his game if he's to take this.

12/1

Form: 215313

Last run: 29 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Won on soft in May and has done well at 1m6f in his three handicaps, winning at Haydock (good) on second occasion; while third of seven at York (soft) latest earned a marginally higher RPR, he was no match for Minstrel Knight late on; progressive 3yo for in-form yard but further improvement is needed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(6)

13th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 188y

Class 4

17:15 York

Master Builder

9st 9lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: David Menuisier

Last seen floundering on heavy going in the November Handicap at Doncaster; the clear highpoint of that campaign was his second at Epsom (1m4f, good; stays 1m6f) in April, which came first time out and points up his chance given that he is now 11lb lower; needs a second look.

6/1

9

(13)

20th Sep 2025

Good To Soft

1m 5f 61y

Class 2

14:05 Newbury

Master Builder

9st 0lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: David Menuisier

Progressive last year so his mixed form this season has been a little disappointing, albeit his latest sixth (Dramatic Star second, Stressfree third) in the Old Borough Cup at Haydock (1m6f, good) was respectable.

10/1

6th

11

(17)

6th Sep 2025

Good

1m 6f 1y

Class 2

15:00 Haydock

Master Builder

8st 13lb

J: William Buick

T: David Menuisier

Mixed form this season and disappointing at Goodwood last month; however, he won over C&D last September (good; also effective on soft) and is on a handy mark for his in-form stable; not discounted now back here.

11/1

19th
23 (23)
Three Dons

33/1

Form: 131121 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 8st 4lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 81

Form & Verdict
Nearly always ridden these days by 7lb claimer Molly Gunn and has been a spectacular success returned to turf, as testified by form figures of 1311131121; last four outings were on heavy and soft going, winning the three of those over 1m4f (runner-up over 1m6f); has risen from a mark of 46 in May to 81 today (up 5lb since latest start); that sequence demands respect but this race is vastly more competitive.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

1

(4)

28th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 2f 43y

Class 5

17:15 Doncaster

Three Dons

10st 0lb

J: Myla Coppins

T: Tony Carroll

Multiple Flat wins at 1m-1m4f, including on heavy; unable to make a significant impact on the Flat last autumn but he's run with credit over hurdles in recent months and is well treated back on the level (6lb below his last winning mark); considered.

10/1

2nd

4

9th Feb 2026

Heavy

1m 7f 156y

Class 4

16:30 Catterick

Three Dons

11st 7lb

J: Craig Nichol

T: Tony Carroll

Multiple Flat wins at 1m-1m4f, including on heavy; switched to hurdling late in the day but he's taken surprisingly well to this game, running two good races at Leicester (extended 1m7f; soft and heavy), and may well improve for this easier stamina test now handicapping; thereabouts.

4/1

3rd

11

20th Jan 2026

Soft

1m 7f 113y

Class 4

14:32 Leicester

Three Dons

11st 8lb

J: Nick Slatter

T: Tony Carroll

8-46 on the Flat; left it rather late in the day to launch his hurdling career but went down fighting over C&D (soft) just after Christmas and has a good chance if in similar form again.

9/2

33/1

Form: 604241 C

Last run: 19 days

W: 8st 7lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
Beaten 17 times before finally making the most of his reduced mark at Pontefract (1m2f, soft) 19 days ago; back up 5lb but the chief stumbling block is that he's never raced beyond 10.2f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

8

(9)

24th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 39y

Class 4

17:05 Carlisle

Austrian Theory

9st 6lb

J: Jake Dickson

T: Tim Easterby

Not the force of old but, after a couple of modest efforts, his latest fifth of 18 at York (10.5f, good; first-time cheekpieces) was a step back in the right direction; shaped as though this stiffer test might suit on that occasion so interesting to see if the headgear works a second time for in-form yard.

16/1

5th

12

(15)

12th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 56y

Class 4

17:18 York

Austrian Theory

9st 3lb

J: David Allan

T: Tim Easterby

Not the best of strike-rates and not been in top form this year; cheekpieces now tried but has a tricky draw to overcome; well handicapped now.

20/1

7th

8

(1)

28th May 2026

Good

1m 1f 170y

Class 3

15:40 Ripon

Austrian Theory

8st 10lb

J: Cam Hardie

T: Tim Easterby

On a losing run and went backwards from C&D reappearance fifth to Spioradalta when well held at Hamilton a fortnight ago; on a career-low mark but need to see more.

14/1

25/1

Form: 019233 D

Last run: 51 days

W: 8st 10lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 87

Form & Verdict
Placed over 1m5f, 1m4f and 1m2f on his last three starts, latterly showing his best form since May 2022; however, he has a mixed record on good to soft and was soundly beaten on his two appearances on soft.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(9)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 56y

Class 4

16:30 York

Dark Moon Rising

9st 12lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

His 19 course starts have yielded five places and a win over 1m4f back in 2023 but he hasn't been at his best on turf here the last twice; back on a good mark but need to see more.

20/1

12th

14

(2)

12th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

16:10 York

Dark Moon Rising

8st 8lb

J: Jack Nicholls

T: Kevin Ryan

18 starts here have yielded five places and a win over 1m4f back in 2023, although he wasn't at his best when beating one home in this race last year; in fair form over this trip on AW in the spring but his return to turf, when beaten 8l over 1m4f here one month ago, will need improving on.

20/1

5th

11

(2)

13th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 188y

Class 2

14:20 York

Dark Moon Rising

8st 9lb

J: Josephine Gordon

T: Kevin Ryan

C&D winner in 2023; no joy anywhere last season (mostly at this track) but the closest he came was a neck defeat here (1m2f; 4lb higher today) on final start; not far away on AW last three starts this year and the same may be possible on today's return to turf.

16/1

22th
7 (11)
Insanity

14/1

Form: 5-1218 D

Last run: 78 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Two wins and a close second from his first three races this term, before disappointing at the York Ebor meeting; all those races were about 1m4f on good ground and he won a novice on soft last September; looked one with potential still with his Ascot win on penultimate start, so needs a second look.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

14

(3)

19th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

1m 3f 211y

Class 2

15:40 Ascot

Insanity

9st 6lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

C&D winner who mostly ran well last season and did so again when second at Pontefract (1m2f) on reappearance this April; each-way chance if he can avoid trouble from an inside stall.

25/1

2nd

2

(9)

21st Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 2f 5y

Class 2

15:27 Pontefract

Insanity

9st 8lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Soundly beaten on final run last term but on heavy ground, and it was a campaign in which he frequently ran really well, going close off this mark at York (1m2f, good) in October; won on his reappearance in 2024; respected.

11/2

4

(5)

11th Oct 2025

Good

1m 2f 56y

Class 2

14:05 York

Insanity

9st 3lb

J: Connor Beasley

T: Alan King

Won at Ayr (1m5f, good) in June and has run really well in defeat over 1m4f (good to firm) on his last two starts, most recently beaten a neck here; this progressive 5yo could give another good account although the drop back in trip may well prove to be a negative.

6/1

Form: 694851

Last run: 41 days

W: 9st 2lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
His underwhelming campaign for new yard was swept aside when he came from last to first in a nine-runner race at Epsom (1m2f, heavy) six weeks ago, scoring in tidy fashion with first-time cheekpieces and never better; 5lb higher today and not proven over this far, but that win built on a good soft-ground record and he has won at 1m3f, so he enters calculations.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

(10)

29th Jul 2025

Good

1m 1f 197y

Class 2

13:20 Goodwood

Simply Sondheim

8st 7lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: George Baker

C&D winner in 2022; an underwhelming 2024 campaign for new yard was swept aside when he came from last to first in a nine-runner race at Epsom (1m2f, heavy) last September, scoring in tidy fashion with first-time cheekpieces (kept since); however, pulled up lame in the November Handicap next time and tailed off at Epsom sole run this year.

50/1

13th

6

(10)

6th Jun 2025

Good To Soft

1m 2f 17y

Class 2

15:15 Epsom

Simply Sondheim

8st 11lb

J: Pat Cosgrave

T: George Baker

An underwhelming campaign for new yard was swept aside when he came from last to first in a nine-runner race over C&D (heavy; his only visit here) last September, scoring in tidy fashion with first-time cheekpieces and never better; pulled up lame off this 5lb higher mark in the November Handicap on sole run since; good soft-ground record before that and won sole run on good to soft; considered if he gets that ground.

22/1

10

(19)

9th Nov 2024

Soft

1m 3f 197y

Class 2

15:45 Doncaster

Simply Sondheim

9st 2lb

J: Neil Callan

T: George Baker

His underwhelming campaign for new yard was swept aside when he came from last to first in a nine-runner race at Epsom (1m2f, heavy) six weeks ago, scoring in tidy fashion with first-time cheekpieces and never better; 5lb higher today and not proven over this far, but that win built on a good soft-ground record and he has won at 1m3f, so he enters calculations.

28/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £174.10
Straight Forecast £118.12
Tricast £3925.27
Trifecta £6825.20

Selections

Telegraph:

Master Builder

SPOTLIGHT:

Minstrel Knight

Daily Mail:

Valvano

Daily Mirror:

Lord Melbourne

TOPSPEED:

Insanity

The Guardian:

Stressfree

RP RATINGS:

Flash Bardot

POSTDATA:

Chillingham

NEWMARKET:

Adjuvant

D Express:

Master Builder

The Sun:

Master Builder

Daily Record:

Master Builder

The Times:

Minstrel Knight

The Star:

Minstrel Knight