My pick of today’s cards in race-time order.

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Top rated for today’s picks 🏇⤵️

Read analysis for possible alternatives 🏇⤵️

Sat 12th Aug 2023
2.10 Ascot (10 runners)
Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers (Handicap)
2m

For the 2.10 Ascot race, based on the provided rankings and horse comments, here are the top 3 contenders:

  1. The Very Man (IRE)
    • Ranking Score: 466.7
    • Comment: A 9-year-old who’s been highly competitive in Ireland both over hurdles and on the Flat. He made up a significant amount of ground late on to secure a close second position at Galway (2m) just 12 days ago. While there are questions regarding his handicap, his recent starts indicate that he’s one of the most reliable with proven stamina.
  2. Prydwen (IRE)
    • Ranking Score: 450.2
    • Comment: While he hasn’t secured a turf win this season, his recent performances in placed efforts at Haydock, Ayr, and Newmarket suggest he’s in top form. He’s currently running at a career-high mark, and while he’s facing another step up in trip, it’s possible he’ll maintain the stamina.
  3. The Grand Visir
    • Ranking Score: 401.6
    • Comment: Boasts an impressive track record at Ascot, which generates hope for a return to the form he demonstrated twice at this year’s Royal meeting. If he’s able to replicate that performance, he’s a major contender. His recent performance at Goodwood was also commendable. The introduction of blinkers for the first time is an interesting change to monitor.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
2.30 Newmarket (July) (10 runners)
Aspall Blush Cyder Nursery
7f

Based on the provided ratings and comments, here are the top three contenders:

  1. Phoenix Duchess (IRE)
  • Rating: Highest total rating of 456.4.
  • Comment: Benefited from stepping up to 7f recently. Was third behind a Sweet Solera contender in a maiden. Kept on without really being positioned to challenge, which indicates latent potential. Now making her nursery debut, she seems interesting and should be in contention.
  1. Lady Wulfrun
  • Rating: Not the highest in total, but the improvement pattern is evident.
  • Comment: She has been showing continuous improvement with each of her runs. Recently, she was beaten by a horse who has since shined in an Ascot nursery. The remarks hint at her being on a fair mark and the stiffer stamina test, which this race offers, should be in her favor. The lineage of Saxon Warrior suggests she should cope well with this distance.
  1. Sleven (IRE)
  • Rating: 422.7, which is the third highest.
  • Comment: Described as mildly progressive, he met an impressive newcomer in his last race. The comments suggest that Sleven is the kind of horse that would do well in nurseries. The decision to step him up to 7f appears smart given his dam’s staying prowess.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
2.38 Redcar (9 runners)
Woodsmith Construction Group Handicap (Div 1)
1m

Based on the provided rankings and accompanying comments, here’s a breakdown of the top three contenders:

  1. Young Fire (FR)
  • Total Rating: 488.5
  • Recent Performance: Prevailed by a nose on soft ground at Leicester (1m) just ten days ago.
  • Comments: While he might not be at his peak, Young Fire has already claimed four wins this year. However, he might find some of the younger competitors better handicapped in this race.
  1. Star Player
  • Total Rating: 427.8
  • Recent Performance: Performed credibly as a second at Pontefract (1m, good to firm) in June and possibly wasn’t suited by the softer ground in a subsequent race last month.
  • Comments: A dual winner as a two-year-old, Star Player has shown good form this season, especially after a satisfactory debut. The horse remains an interesting prospect in this lineup.
  1. Painters Palette (IRE)
  • Total Rating: 407.9
  • Recent Performance: Showed promise with two AW wins earlier this year and even achieved what might be a career-best when finishing third in the Carlisle Bell race in June.
  • Comments: Although he was disappointing at Ascot last month, there’s still potential for further improvement from Painters Palette.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
3.00 Haydock (7 runners)
Betfred Rose Of Lancaster Stakes (Group 3)
1m2½f

Using the provided rankings, odds, and comments, the top 3 contenders for the 3.00 Haydock race appear to be:

  1. Al Aasy (IRE):
  • Rating: 689.7
  • Odds: 15/8
  • Comments: Al Aasy is described as having been high-class in the past and had an impressive victory over Phantom Flight and others in a 1m2f Listed race at Newbury just three weeks prior. Given this recent form and his past achievements, he’s an obvious contender for this race.
  1. King Of Conquest:
  • Rating: 661.3
  • Odds: 11/4
  • Comments: King Of Conquest’s recent form includes two notable victories in May, and he wasn’t discredited at Royal Ascot in his latest outing. The addition of cheekpieces may influence his performance, but if there’s no adverse effect, he’s definitely one to watch.
  1. Midnight Mile (IRE):
  • Rating: 593.8
  • Odds: 7/1
  • Comments: Midnight Mile had a significant win in a ten-runner Listed fillies’ race at York 15 days ago. The description suggests that she’s an improving filly heading in the right direction. Given her recent form and potential, she could be among the top contenders.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
3.05 Newmarket (July) (10 runners)
Aspall Suffolk Draught Cyder Handicap
1m4f

Based on the provided ratings and comments, here are the top 3 contenders for the 3.05 Newmarket race:

  1. Edge Of Darkness (IRE)
  • Rating: 524.6
  • Comments: The 3-year-old is improving over the 1m4f distance. After securing a win at Thirsk in good conditions, he followed up with a front-running victory in soft conditions. With only a 4lb increase in his weight, he’s expected to give another strong performance.
  1. Dashing Panther
  • Rating: 372.8
  • Comments: Since being switched to the 1m4f handicap, Dashing Panther has been more competitive. His second-place finish behind a Haggas horse, which has since recorded another win, stands out. Despite not settling well in his last race at Ascot, he managed to secure second place, marking him as a strong contender for this race.
  1. D Day Arvalenreeva (IRE)
  • Rating: 453.1
  • Comments: After a successful handicap debut at Leicester, she ran a solid race at Newmarket. Her lackluster performance on her last start can be attributed to the soft ground, which she likely didn’t favor. Given the right conditions, she remains of interest and is one to watch in this race.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
3.25 Curragh (11 runners)
Rathasker Stud Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Group 3)
6f 

Given the provided ratings and comments on each horse, here’s an assessment of the top 3 contenders for the race:

  1. Commanche Falls
  • Ratings: It’s the top-rated horse with a total rating of 725.1, which is significantly higher than the next contender.
  • Comments: “Better than ever this year, notably fine third in Group 2 Duke Of York Stakes and wins last month in C&D Listed and Group 3 Hackwood Stakes at Newbury, getting up late after not clear run; major player again although wouldn’t want too much rain.” This suggests that the horse is in great form, having had recent wins. The only concern is if it rains heavily which might affect its performance.
  1. Go Athletico (FR)
  • Ratings: The horse has the second-highest rating of 579.9.
  • Comments: “Bought for 165,000Euros in April shortly after winning Deauville Listed, his sixth success for Andreas Schutz; good recruit on evidence of his two runs for the yard, beating Ano Syra in Cork Listed and chasing home a clear-cut winner in Sapphire Stakes here over 5f last month on soft; has his chance.” Go Athletico has had a consistent form and seems to be a strong contender especially with a recent win on a soft track.
  1. Shartash (IRE)
  • Ratings: It’s in the mid-range with a rating of 468.1.
  • Comments: “Smart 2yo last season, winning Group 2 over C&D and good third in Group 1 National Stakes here; hasn’t really progressed as hoped this term although not far off last season’s form when never-nearer close fourth behind Commanche Falls in Group 3 Hackwood Stakes at Newbury last month; stiffer 6f here to suit and 2lb better off with that rival here so should go well.” Shartash had a commendable form last season and seems to be close to its previous form. The stiffer 6f is also expected to suit this horse.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
3.55 Ascot (10 runners)
Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Classic (Handicap)
1m4f

From the rankings and comments provided, here’s a breakdown of the top 3 contenders for the 3.55 Ascot race:

  1. Regal Empire (IRE)
  • Total Ranking: Highest at 505.0
  • Recent Performance: Both wins have been on Southwell’s Tapeta, but achieved better RPRs on turf recently. Solid third-place effort in a Racing League handicap at Yarmouth (1m2f, good to soft) 16 days ago.
  • Comments: He is stepping back up in trip now. Considering the high ranking and consistent performance on turf, Regal Empire has strong potential.
  1. Like A Tiger
  • Total Ranking: Second highest at 476.2
  • Recent Performance: Defeated Regal Empire when winning a 1m2f Newmarket handicap (good to soft) on his reappearance in April. He still performed well 16 days ago in a Racing League handicap at Yarmouth.
  • Comments: The longer trip today might unlock some improvement, suggesting that Like A Tiger has more to offer in this race.
  1. Golden Move
  • Total Ranking: Middle of the pack at 375.9
  • Recent Performance: Showed promise early on and improved when moving up to 1m4f for his handicap debut at Doncaster (soft) three weeks ago. The front two finished 7l clear in that race.
  • Comments: He’s been handed a 5lb rise but it seems manageable given his progression. The association of Richard Fahey with Olivier Peslier in 2014 for this race adds to his credentials.

Honourable Mention: Rajasthan due to his light race history and being from a top yard, as well as Rogue Sea and Like A Tiger who have shown promise in recent races and have potential for further improvement.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
4.00 Curragh (19 runners)
Revamp Conservation & Restoration Handicap
1m

Based on the provided ratings and comments, here are my top 3 contenders for the 4.00 Curragh race:

  1. Carracci (USA)
  • Rating: 533.8 is the highest among the provided horses.
  • .
  • Comments: Carracci hasn’t added another win since his 2yo success but showed improvement in recent Leopardstown races. He’s just 3lb higher here, but if he continues his trajectory, he should be a significant contender.
  1. Kings Time (IRE)
  • Rating: 414.6, making him third highest based on ratings.
  • Comments: Kings Time recently won on handicap debut at Leopardstown, indicating form. The note that he could keep improving and that this stouter test should suit him makes him a strong contender.
  1. Something Nice (IRE)
  • Rating: 371.8, placing him among the top-rated horses.
  • Comments: The horse was progressive earlier in the season, especially in testing conditions. His win in Cork and second-place finish in a valuable Naas handicap over this trip suggests capability. The comment that he could still have more to offer, especially on softer ground, pushes him into the top three for me.

Other notable mentions would be Verhoyen, who has had two wins at Curragh this year, and Free Solo, who had three decent runs recently. However, given the information provided, Carracci, Kings Time, and Something Nice would be my top 3 contenders.

Sat 12th Aug 2023
4.30 Ascot (10 runners)
Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Sprint (Handicap)
6f

Based on the given ratings and comments, here are the top 3 contenders for the 4.30 Ascot race:

  1. Quinault (GER)
  • Comments: This horse has had a remarkable season, going from winning a lowly 6f handicap to succeeding in five consecutive runs, especially in high-profile handicaps at York and Newmarket. Although the ground conditions might be a slight concern, the form is very strong and hard to ignore.
  1. Dark Trooper (IRE)
  • Comments: Coming off two impressive wins, one in softer conditions, and only carrying a 3lb penalty, this horse appears to be in peak form. The performance at Haydock, especially under heavy conditions, indicates the horse’s adaptability, and the step up in competition shouldn’t deter its chances.
  1. He’s A Monster (IRE)
  • Comments: A strong track record with four wins out of seven starts, and while the recent performance on soft ground at Chester wasn’t ideal, the drop to 6f could play into the horse’s favor given its natural speed. There’s potential for more from this horse. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    4.55 Kilbeggan (14 runners)
    Racing Again Summer Evening August
    25th Maiden Hurdle

    2m
  • Given the rankings provided, along with the comments on each horse’s form and pedigree, here’s a breakdown of the top 3 contenders for the race:
  • Aime Desjy (FR)
  • Rating: 434.8
  • Comments: Aime Desjy had a strong performance in a Listed hurdle at Auteuil on debut and has shown progress since joining the current yard. The horse was victorious in a bumper on its yard debut and has shown even better form in subsequent maiden hurdles. The horse’s latest race might have been a bit too demanding, but it sets a good standard for the current event. The 203-day absence is not a concern for this yard, suggesting that the horse is in a solid form.
  • Estepona Sun
  • Rating: 273.4
  • Comments: Estepona Sun has had success on the Flat, securing two wins. Moreover, he has shown consistency in hurdle races. However, a concern is his current record of 0-17 in hurdle races. This suggests he might find it challenging to clinch the top spot unless he improves his performance.
  • On The Tide (IRE)
  • Rating: 251.4
  • Comments: On The Tide has shown promise in previous races. The horse was the runner-up in a bumper and has displayed potential in maiden hurdles. However, there’s concern regarding the horse’s 254-day absence, which might imply that it would need this race for conditioning. There’s also an indication that the horse might perform better at a longer distance. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    5.02 Redcar (13 runners)
    Market Cross Jewellers Handicap
    1m 
  • Based on the provided ratings and the accompanying comments, here’s an analysis of the top contenders:
  • Fortuitous Star (IRE)
  • Rating: The highest-rated horse with a score of 355.8.
  • Comments: Ten-race maiden but has consistent form figures in handicaps. Didn’t have the best of luck in her last race but managed a strong finish. Even though she’s stepping up in trip, she’s bred to handle the distance. She’s a key player and her previous performances hint at potential success here.
  • Ribkana (IRE)
  • Rating: Among the top-rated horses with a score of 268.3.
  • Comments: Though she’s still a maiden after 11 starts, she’s finished as a runner-up multiple times, suggesting competitive performance levels. She performed strongly off her current mark in her last race and seems to be in good form. The drop back in distance is expected to favor her.
  • Ubettabequick (IRE) / Barossa (IRE)
  • Rating: Both are closely rated with scores of 268.6 and 268.8 respectively.
  • Comments for Ubettabequick: Had a promising start in handicaps but hasn’t been at her best in the latest races. However, she’s shown potential before and could be a contender if returning to form.
  • Comments for Barossa: Ended last season promisingly, but has been struggling in recent handicaps. Even though her mark continues to drop, her recent form is concerning.
  • Given the comments and ratings, the top three contenders seem to be Fortuitous Star, Ribkana, and potentially Ubettabequick, with Barossa as an alternative option based on ratings. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    5.10 Curragh (22 runners)
    QuinnBet Handicap
    6f
  • Based on the provided ratings and comments for the horses in the 5.10 Curragh race, here’s a brief analysis:
  • Top-rated horses:
  • Heavenly Power (IRE) – Highest total rating. Has won twice at this venue and had trouble in the last race, which potentially hampered his performance. Prefers a bit of ease in the ground, so any rain would be beneficial.
  • Collective Power (IRE) – Close to the top in ratings. Has won on all-weather and turf. Recently ran well on soft ground. Slightly higher in weights but still has potential.
  • Midnight Fire (IRE) – Three-time C&D winner. Coming back to an optimum distance and seems to be in a good mark.
  • Potential contenders to watch out for:
  • Desert Haven – Might have found 7f on soft too far last time. Dropping back in trip which could suit.
  • The Snapper (IRE) – Has won in similar conditions and may benefit from this trip, especially if the ground is a bit softer.
  • Heavenly Power (IRE) – As mentioned above, has a preference for this venue and rain would be an added advantage.
  • Ice Cold In Alex (IRE) – Has had success at this venue, but recent performance needs improvement.
  • Secret Magician (IRE) – Though recent performances haven’t been up to par, a declining mark could make this one competitive.
  • Long shots or those with less apparent potential:
  • Mercurial (IRE) – Tried multiple trips without much success.
  • Mogwli (IRE) – Recent form is lacking.
  • Tooprofitable (IRE) – Hasn’t shown enough recently to be a strong contender.
  • Un Bacio Ancora (IRE) – Has had many attempts without a win and might need this run after a break.
  • Recommendation:
  • For win bets, horses like Heavenly Power, Collective Power, and Midnight Fire seem to stand out based on their ratings and recent form. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    5.15 Lingfield (9 runners)
    Racing League On Sky Sports Racing Handicap
    7f 
  • Based on the provided ratings and comments, here’s a breakdown of the top 3 contenders:
  • Zabbie:
  • Rating: 447.6
  • Comments: A recent C&D winner with favorable conditions ahead. The fact that Zabbie has shown adaptability in tactics and has the rail draw after being upped 5lb makes him a strong contender. He also has the highest rating of all the horses.
  • Flying Spirit:
  • Rating: 431.8
  • Comments: While there are concerns regarding the drop in trip and drying ground, Flying Spirit has been consistent in previous runs, albeit over a mile. However, the handicapper seems to have a good measure of the horse’s abilities, indicating a certain level of performance stability.
  • Thapa VC (IRE):
  • Rating: 401.4
  • Comments: Thapa VC has proven he can handle a straight 7f on turf with a win at Yarmouth off this mark. Although he has a tendency to fluff the start, he’s had valid reasons for his past defeats and remains a noteworthy consideration.
  • Honorable mentions to Amathus (IRE) and Dakota Power:
  • Amathus has a close rating to Thapa VC and, based on the given data, could also be in contention.
  • Dakota Power, though not having the highest of ratings, has had positive remarks suggesting a potential for success if the 7f suits him based on his pedigree. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    5.40 Curragh (12 runners)
    Sheehy Motors Skoda Handicap
    5f
  • Based on the provided ratings and the comments for each horse, here are the top 3 contenders:
  • Gabriella’s Spirit (IRE)
  • Rating: 486.3
  • Comment: Gabriella’s Spirit has a favorable rating, and the comment provides positive insight. She recently won against six of today’s rivals in a Cork premier handicap. This suggests that she is in form and is familiar with some of the competition in this race. With only a 5lb higher rating, she should remain competitive.
  • Jon Riggens (IRE)
  • Rating: 463.5
  • Comment: Jon Riggens is another strong contender based on the provided data. The comment indicates that he bounced back with a strong finish to Gabriella’s Spirit at Cork, despite not having the clearest of runs. Furthermore, a return to a stiffer track is predicted to suit him, making him a major player in this race.
  • Little Queenie (IRE)
  • Rating: 423.7
  • Comment: Little Queenie is also close to her career-high mark. She recently had a narrow loss to Gabriella’s Spirit in a Cork premier handicap. As a front-runner, she has another chance in this race. However, there’s a note of caution that she might be vulnerable. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    7.07 Ayr (9 runners)
    EBF Restricted Maiden Stakes (GBB Race)
    6f
  • Based on the rankings and the accompanying comments, here are the top 3 contenders for the 7.07 Ayr race:
  • Showhound: This horse has the highest rating and his recent form supports this, having finished third at Catterick where he stayed on well. The comment indicates he has a solid foundation to build on which suggests that further improvement is possible.
  • Rich Harry (USA): Though he finished third at Newcastle, the race did not seem exceptionally strong. However, the comments emphasize that this particular race might not be filled with tough competitors either, which could give Rich Harry a chance. His half-brother status to six winners also offers some pedigree promise.
  • War Memorial: He is close in the ratings to Rich Harry. The comment emphasizes that he finished well at Thirsk and that the stable’s 2yos tend to improve with experience. This suggests he might show progression in this race.
  • Also worth noting are Curious Rover, who had a decent showing at Musselburgh and Vintage Love, who finished close to the winner in her recent outing at Newcastle. Both could be potential threats in the race. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    7.15 Lingfield (6 runners)
    Sky Sports Racing HD Virgin 519 Handicap
    1m5f
  • Based on the provided rankings and accompanying comments, here are the top 3 contenders for the 7.15 Lingfield race:
  • Robusto (IRE): Boasting the highest rating, Robusto has had victories over 1m4f at Salisbury and Lingfield. Despite facing difficulties in his latest outing at Carlisle, the comment suggests that a longer trip could benefit him, making him a prime contender for this race.
  • Denis Anthony (IRE): Denis Anthony’s recent performance seems consistent, having secured a win at Ffos Las in June and finishing a close third at Epsom in his recent race. The comment indicates that he’s versatile in terms of distance, suggesting the trip at Lingfield should be manageable.
  • Greased Lightning: This horse has displayed varied performances but has shown he can win, having clinched a victory at Windsor recently. The addition of cheekpieces in the last three starts might have contributed to his success, and even though he’s up 4lb, he seems to be in contention.
  • However, it’s important to keep in mind that horse racing can be unpredictable. Other contenders like Bodygroove, who had a positive change when upped in distance and won at Wolverhampton, and Lionella, who needs to find her previous form, could potentially surprise in the race. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    7.25 Kilbeggan (12 runners)
    Kieran Kelly Memorial Handicap Chase (0-109)
    3m½f
  • Based on the provided ratings, recent form, and comments, the top three contenders for the 7.25 Kilbeggan race are:
  • Walking The Walk (IRE)
  • Rankings and Ratings: Tops the rankings with a total score of 373.5.
  • Comments: The horse has been in fine form both over hurdles and fences lately. Recently, he capitalized on a low hurdles mark to win with ease at Limerick after achieving victory over fences at Perth. The horse consistently runs his races well, making him a top contender for this event.
  • Hardwired (IRE)
  • Rankings and Ratings: Second on the rankings list with a total score of 348.5.
  • Comments: The horse recently won a 2m4f maiden hurdle at Kilbeggan. While his form over fences has been a bit inconsistent, he’s racing off an appealing chase mark for this handicap debut. If Hardwired is on form, he stands a good chance.
  • Goodnightngodbless (IRE)
  • Rankings and Ratings: Third in rankings with a score of 322.9.
  • Comments: Has displayed commendable performance over fences with a win at Wexford and some good runs even in defeat. Moreover, she recently had a good run over hurdles at Sligo. Given her consistent performance, she is a horse that can be expected to run well if she maintains her form. Sat 12th Aug 2023
    7.45 Lingfield (9 runners)
    Download The At The Races App Handicap
    1m1f 
  • Based on the provided rankings and comments, here are the top 3 contenders for the 7.45 Lingfield race:
  • Goose Rock (IRE):
  • Ranking: 1st in the provided rankings with a total of 375.8.
  • Comments: Goose Rock raced for George Scott in sprints but showed no problem with stamina on soft ground over the C&D 12 days ago, displaying a commendable attitude as he won alongside the favorite. Furthermore, the ground conditions and the 7lb claimer, given his 4lb higher mark, shouldn’t pose any problem. He is regarded as having a big chance.
  • Beach Kitty (IRE):
  • Ranking: 7th in the provided rankings with a total of 232.9.
  • Comments: Beach Kitty is related to the yard’s Group 2 winner Sir Busker, who improved with age, and to their Fellowship, who secured a winning handicap debut off a relatively low mark last summer. Despite her lackluster performance in three 1m starts, she’s anticipated to exhibit enhanced capabilities.
  • Native Melody (IRE):
  • Ranking: 5th in the provided rankings with a total of 246.3.
  • Comments: Native Melody previously didn’t seem to sustain the 1m2f, and it’s hoped that this in-between distance, coupled with a return to cheekpieces, might be more suitable. However, she appears to be increasingly exposed after eight starts.

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