Kempton 19:00 – Unibet More Extra Place Races Handicap (Class 5)

ENPASSANT (IRE) looks like the standout contender in this evening’s 7f handicap at Kempton, and there’s every chance the market may have underestimated his chances. A fair handicapper with a progressive profile, ENPASSANT ran a solid race last time over this course and distance, finishing a close third in a stronger field. What stands out is how well he travelled through that race, suggesting there’s more to come off this mark.

The pace dynamics are particularly favourable for him here. Kempton’s 7f tends to disadvantage hold-up runners, and with ENPASSANT’s prominent style, he’s likely to be well-positioned to take advantage of an evenly run race. LUNARSCAPE, for example, will be coming from further back, and though she’s consistent, the setup may not favour her finishing kick.

The booking of Rossa Ryan is another tick in the box. Ryan has been riding the all-weather circuit with confidence, particularly at Wolverhampton, and while this is Kempton, his aggressive riding style suits a horse like ENPASSANT who can maintain a strong pace. The market often overlooks subtle trainer/jockey switches like this, but Stuart Williams knows how to place one to strike, and this looks like a well-laid plan.

At around 11/2, ENPASSANT offers solid value. His consistent form, favourable race dynamics, and an in-form jockey make him a strong play. The market seems more focused on STRAIGHT A as the favourite, but his drop back in trip raises slight questions, and at shorter odds, he doesn’t represent the same value. ASHFORD HILL could be worth a saver for each-way players, given his recent improvement and light weight, but ENPASSANT is the one who ticks all the boxes for me.

Recommendation: Back ENPASSANT (IRE) to win at 11/2.

Rossa Ryan delivered again at Kempton, guiding Enpassant (IRE) to victory in the 19:00 Unibet More Extra Place Races Handicap. He overcame a tricky start, showing sharp tactical awareness to take control over a furlong out and hold off Straight A by a neck.

Key takeaways from the race:

Pace & Running Styles: The early leaders didn’t dominate, with Dion Baker leading but fading late, while Enpassant came from midfield to win.

Track Bias & Going: The standard to slow surface may have favoured those finishing strongly rather than early pacesetters.

Notable Runs:

Straight A (2nd) ran well, finishing strongly but just failing to get past the winner.

Shahbaz (3rd) encountered trouble in running, only getting clear too late but staying on well – possibly one to note for next time.

Lunarscape (4th) travelled well and looked a threat before flattening out late.



Another good ride from Rossa Ryan, further reinforcing his strong form on all-weather tracks.