13:30 Fri 12 May 2023

CAA STELLAR EARL GROSVENOR HANDICAP (2)

Distance 7f 127y

Prize £20,384 Rated (0-105) Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 12

Going Soft

1. Percys Lad:
   Total HRB Rating: 487.0
   Assessment: Percys Lad has the highest total HRB rating among the runners, indicating strong past performances. With a record of 3-8 for the new yard, including a C&D success, he has shown potential in similar conditions. However, the forecast slow surface and high weight may pose challenges for him.
2. Red Mirage (IRE):
   Total HRB Rating: 409.9
   Assessment: Red Mirage has a solid total HRB rating and a good course form at Chester. He has previously won this race and finished second in another Chester race. His familiarity with the track and positive past performances make him a strong contender in this race.
3. Croupier (IRE):
   Total HRB Rating: 401.2
   Assessment: Despite finishing last in heavy-ground Lincoln, Croupier has shown progressive form in other races. He has two wins over a sharp 1m distance, indicating his ability to handle the distance of this race. Considering his total HRB rating, Croupier should not be overlooked and could bounce back in this race.
4. Gweedore:
   Total HRB Rating: 382.4
   Assessment: Gweedore has a productive record on turf, with 10 wins out of 33 races. He won on seasonal debut at Musselburgh and finished second at Haydock in his recent races. With positive comments about his current form, Gweedore could be a strong contender in this race.

Additional Consideration:

Boardman: Although not included in the provided total HRB ratings, Boardman’s positive comments about handling any ground, previous wins over C&D, and a creditable performance in this race last year make him a strong contender. His track record and recent form should be considered when assessing his chances.

14:05 Fri 12 May 2023

PRECISION FACADES HANDICAP (2)

Distance 1m 2f 70y

Prize £20,384 Rated (0-105) Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 9

Going Soft

Based on the HRB ratings and additional considerations provided, here is the analysis and assessment of the top contenders in the race:

1. Pride Of America (FR):
   HRB Rating: 436.1
   Comments: Made all in grand style in a C&D handicap at this meeting last year. Acts on soft ground and had wind surgery recently. Form dipped in a French Listed race, but the distance may have played a part.
   Assessment: With a strong HRB rating and a previous impressive performance at this track, Pride Of America is a top contender. If back on song and with the ground to suit, he has a big chance of performing well in this race.
2. Savvy Victory (IRE):
   HRB Rating: 406.3
   Comments: Soft ground is likely to be okay for Savvy Victory. Showed good form when finishing third in a Group 3 race at this track. Blocked run in his recent reappearance suggests he could have challenged for a better position.
   Assessment: With a respectable HRB rating and a strong performance at this track in the past, Savvy Victory should be considered as a serious contender. If he can handle the ground conditions, he has a good chance of being competitive.
3. Baryshnikov:
   HRB Rating: 391.0
   Comments: Acts on soft ground. Started the last season with two wins, including a victory in this race. Recent third-place finish at Pontefract suggests he’s on his way back to form.
   Assessment: Baryshnikov’s previous success in this race and his ability to handle soft ground make him a strong contender. With an encouraging recent performance, he has the potential to perform well and contend for a top position.
4. Certain Lad:
   HRB Rating: 382.4
   Comments: Not far off his best form with two minor honours in 2022. Soft ground may have been against him in a French Listed race. Concerns regarding the ground conditions.
   Assessment: Certain Lad’s HRB rating and previous performances indicate that he has the ability to be competitive. However, the concern about the soft ground may affect his performance. While not the top-rated contender, he cannot be completely dismissed.

Based on the comments provided, here is additional positive information about horses not included in the rankings:

1. Fantastic Fox:
   Comments: Scored twice in 2021 and was competitive on occasions last season. Ran respectably on the recent return. Edging down the weights and trip/ground look suitable.
   Assessment: Fantastic Fox’s previous wins and competitive performances make him an interesting contender. The fact that he is edging down the weights and the race conditions suit him further enhances his chances.
2. Maksud:
   Comments: Showed his best form when finishing as a runner-up at Glorious Goodwood in his first handicap. Second to a runaway winner in a Listed race at Windsor. May have more to offer.
   Assessment: Maksud’s strong performances in competitive races make him an intriguing contender. If he can replicate his form from the runner-up finish at Glorious Goodwood and improve further, he has the potential to be competitive in this race.
3. Zealandia:
   Comments: Winner at York on British debut at odds of 33-1. Cheekpieces return, and he is slightly out of the handicap.
   Assessment: Zealandia’s surprise victory at York demonstrates that he has the ability to perform well. The return of cheekpieces could bring out the best in him. While slightly out of the handicap, he cannot be completely overlooked based on his previous success.

14:40 Fri 12 May 2023

IRE-INCENTIVE, IT PAYS TO BUY IRISH HUXLEY STAKES (Group 2) (1)

Distance 1m 2f 70y

Prize £67,224 Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 6

Going Soft

Based on the provided information and positive comments, here’s the ranking and assessment of the horses:

1. Point Lonsdale: The comments mention that Point Lonsdale had a successful 2-year-old campaign, winning four times including a Group 2 race. Despite a disappointing performance in the 2,000 Guineas, Point Lonsdale bounced back with a victory in the Alleged Stakes, showing solid Group 3 form. With limited exposure at this trip and a promising start to the season, Point Lonsdale is considered a leading player in this race.
2. Mujtaba: Although Mujtaba was a disappointing favorite in the Lincoln and the Cambridgeshire in 2022, the comments highlight his impressive top-weight victory in a Newbury handicap on his final run. This performance showcased Mujtaba’s potential and suggests room for improvement. With a record of 5 wins out of 8 races, Mujtaba could continue to progress and make an impact at the Group level.
3. Foxes Tales: Despite a regressive season last year, Foxes Tales has shown a resurgence in form following a gelding operation. Notably, he has won two notable AW races, including a clearcut Listed victory at Kempton. This return to form puts Foxes Tales in contention and should be considered as he moves back in the right direction.
4. Poker Face: With an undefeated record of three wins in his first season, Poker Face showed promise. He continued to impress with a good second-place finish in the Earl Of Sefton at Newmarket on his reappearance. Poker Face is described as progressive with low mileage, making him an interesting contender in this race.

Additional Consideration:
Layfayette: Although not mentioned in the positive comments, Layfayette had a creditable second-place finish in a Group 2 contest at the Curragh, a race he previously won. However, considering the form of Point Lonsdale in their previous encounter, Layfayette would need a career-best performance to compete for the top spot in this race.

15:15 Fri 12 May 2023

TOTE CHESTER CUP (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (2)

Distance 2m 2f 140y

Prize £76,440 Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 17

Going Soft

Based on the provided information and the total ratings, here’s the ranking and assessment of the top contenders for the Chester Cup:

1. Rajinsky: With a total rating of 442.6, Rajinsky is the highest-rated horse in the field. Although he has been soundly beaten in Group races recently, he has a reliable record in good handicaps and even secured Listed honors at Nottingham in April. His close third-place finish in this race last year off a lower weight further demonstrates his competitiveness. Rajinsky should be considered as a strong contender.
2. Tritonic: Tritonic has a total rating of 425.0, placing him in the second position. While he is unraced over the 2m2½f distance on the Flat, his hurdle form is encouraging, particularly his recent effort over 2m4f. The fact that he acts on soft ground further adds to his credentials. Tritonic has the potential to deliver a career-best performance and should be respected.
3. Call My Bluff: Call My Bluff ranks third with a total rating of 419.0. Described as a thorough stayer who performs well on softer ground, he has consistently run well in defeat, including a valuable third-place finish in the 1m4f November Handicap at Doncaster. His previous strong performances at Chester and his ability to handle softer ground make him a contender for a top position.

Additional Considerations:
Emiyn: Although not mentioned in the ratings, Emiyn is highlighted as a front-runner who has performed well in previous visits to Chester. His victory in a valuable C&D event and a good third-place finish in the 1m4f November Handicap demonstrate his ability to contend in competitive races. If Emiyn can replicate those performances, he could be a factor in the race.

Metier: Metier is also worth considering as an additional contender. While he is unraced at Chester, his previous win in the 1m4f November Handicap on heavy ground and an excellent second-place finish at Musselburgh suggest his potential on the Flat. With his hurdling ability and more to offer in this test, Metier could be an interesting horse to watch if the ground conditions are suitable.

15:45 Fri 12 May 2023

BOODLES DARLEY MAIDEN STAKES (2)

Distance 1m 4f 63y

Prize £20,384 Age 3yo Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 6

Going Soft

Based on the provided information and the total ratings, here’s the ranking and assessment of the top contenders for the Boodles Darley Maiden Stakes at Chester:

1. Banderas (IRE): Banderas holds the highest total rating of 388.0. Although his second start at Southwell AW was disappointing, he has shown promise in his other starts. In his most recent outing at Newbury over 1m3f on soft ground, he traveled well and led in the closing stages but was headed near the finish. With potential and among the best form in the race, Banderas is a strong contender.
2. Chronograph: With a total rating of 230.6, Chronograph ranks second among the contenders. He has shown promise with placings in two AW maidens and a gelding operation following his last start. Making his turf debut with cheekpieces, Chronograph is expected to stay the distance, but he needs to find some extra improvement to challenge the top selection.
3. Kingsley Pride: Kingsley Pride holds a total rating of 245.1. Although he has been a runner-up three times at two, including on heavy ground and at 1m3f, he displayed signs of hanging under pressure. The gelding operation has not yet rectified this issue, as seen in his wilted performance in a 1m4f Ripon maiden on soft ground. Kingsley Pride will wear blinkers this time, and his performance will be worth monitoring.

Additional Considerations:
Medieval Gold: Although not mentioned in the ratings, Medieval Gold is described as a Derby entry and hails from a prestigious pedigree. With confidence behind him in the betting, a strong market support could indicate his readiness for a prominent performance. Considering the background and the support, Medieval Gold should be taken into account.

Night At Sea: Night At Sea showed some promise in a maiden at Newbury over 1m2f on soft ground but not enough to suggest a prominent finish. While he looks bred to stay and comes from a good Italian family, he would need significant improvement to contend against the stronger competitors in this race.

16:20 Fri 12 May 2023

WHITE OAK APPRENTICE HANDICAP (4)

Distance 1m 4f 63y

Prize £10,192 Rated (0-80) Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 16

Going Soft

Based on the total ratings provided, here’s the ranking and assessment of the top contenders for the White Oak Apprentice Handicap at Chester, listed in totals order:

1. The Nu Form Way (FR) – Total Rating: 365.7
   The Nu Form Way holds the highest total rating among the contenders. He was value for more than the winning margin in his recent outing at Beverley over 1m2f on good to soft ground. With a reappearance run at Pontefract under his belt and a previous win over the Chester course and distance, The Nu Form Way is shortlisted as a strong contender.
2. Two Brothers – Total Rating: 338.6
   Two Brothers ranks second in the total ratings. He showed consistency as a maiden before securing an emphatic victory at Beverley over 1m4f on good to soft ground last month. With his ability to handle soft ground and the potential for further improvement, Two Brothers deserves respect in this field.
3. By Your Side – Total Rating: 338.0
   By Your Side, although not mentioned in the ratings, has demonstrated promise as a three-time Flat scorer over soft to good to soft ground. Currently in good form over hurdles, finishing as a close second in a large field at Punchestown, By Your Side returns to the Flat off a workable mark. With the talented apprentice Billy Loughnane booked, By Your Side warrants consideration as a strong contender.
4. Claritudo – Total Rating: 316.9
   Claritudo justified favoritism in a similar event at Pontefract over 1m4f on soft ground on his seasonal debut. His career-best form in that race has received positive boosts since then. Still relatively unexposed at this distance and with potential for further improvement, Claritudo is a strong contender in this competitive handicap.

Additional Considerations:
Australian Angel has shown progressive form, winning three times over distances ranging from 1m3f to 1m6f on good to faster ground. With a close third-place finish at Chester over 1m6f on good to soft ground last September, Australian Angel cannot be discounted, especially with a recent reappearance run at Ripon.

Greystoke has been consistent on the All-Weather this year, including a close second at Southwell over 1m4f. Returning to turf, Greystoke holds each-way possibilities.

16:55 Fri 12 May 2023

tote FANTASY, WHOS IN YOUR STABLE CHESTER PLATE HANDICAP (2)

Distance 2m 2f 140y

Prize £25,480 Age 4yo+ Race State Declaration Surface Turf Runners 15

Going Soft

Based on the total ratings provided, here’s the ranking and assessment of the top contenders for the Chester Plate Handicap at Chester, listed in totals order:

1. Novel Legend (IRE) – Total Rating: 507.8
   Novel Legend holds the highest total rating among the contenders. He has been in excellent form, with form figures of 1211 since being stepped up beyond 1m4f. Most recently, he scored a comfortable victory by 6 lengths at Newbury over 2m on soft ground. Novel Legend is well ahead of the handicapper under a small penalty and has the potential for further progress over staying trips. With a previous win at Chester and a strong rating, Novel Legend is strongly respected.
2. Bellatrixsa (IRE) – Total Rating: 381.7
   Bellatrixsa has a strong rating and a positive history at Chester, having won this contest in 2022 off a 4lb lower mark on good ground. Although there is a slight doubt over her current form based on her results over jumps this year, she remains unexposed in the Flat sphere and performs well on soft ground. With her previous success in this race and unexplored potential, Bellatrixsa cannot be ignored.
3. Christopher Wood (IRE) – Total Rating: 348.3
   Christopher Wood has been consistent over fences at distances of 2m and 2m4f this year. Although not seen on the Flat since 2020, where he was a winner over 1m4f, he will need to prove his stamina over this distance in this code. However, his current form suggests he has a chance, and his rating puts him in contention.
4. The Predictor (IRE) – Total Rating: 347.1
   The Predictor has a consistent record since being upped to distances of 1m6f and 2m, including a win at Thirsk over 2m on good ground. He finished a neck second at Ripon on his seasonal debut and is due to go up 1lb in the future. With each-way claims and a solid rating, The Predictor should be considered.

Additional Considerations:

It’s Good To Laugh: Despite finishing behind two of the contenders at Ripon two weeks ago, It’s Good To Laugh has a successful record at Chester and carries star apprentice Billy Loughnane. The addition of a tongue-tie adds interest to his chances.

Land Of Winter: Suited by soft/heavy ground, Land Of Winter has had two attempts over C&D last year, finishing eighth in the Chester Cup and fourth in September. Now on a handier mark and not far behind The Predictor at Ripon, Land Of Winter holds possibilities if taking well to the new headgear.

Malakahna: Although out of sorts over hurdles recently, Malakahna gamely beat Novel Legend at Newmarket over 2m on good to soft ground in her last Flat attempt. Her success in that race cannot be dismissed as she returns to this code.