17:30 Southwell – BETMGM: IT’S SHOWTIME FILLIES’ HANDICAP (Class 5, 6f 16y) – Analysis & Shortlist

Race Overview

Pace Forecast: Weak

Draw Bias: Against High

Pace Angle: Prominent racers favoured; a slow pace could benefit Starsong and be a negative for Biplane.

Going & Surface: Tapeta (AW), standard

Competitive Edge: The race features exposed handicappers, with Biplane the standout on recent form.



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Key Contenders

1️⃣ BIPLANE (2/1)

Trainer: John Wainwright

Jockey: Paul Mulrennan

Last Run: Won at Newcastle (6f, Tapeta) just 2 days ago.

Key Form: Won comfortably by 2¼ lengths at Newcastle (4 Feb) – carries a 4lb penalty but should remain competitive.

Concerns: Quick turnaround; weak pace could be against her running style.


2️⃣ RUNAROUND SIOUX (7/2)

Trainer: Rod Millman

Jockey: Lewis Edmunds

Last Run: 8th at Kempton (6f, AW) – ran too keen.

Key Form: Second at Wolverhampton (Nov) when racing prominently over a similar trip.

Concerns: Best form has been when allowed to settle behind the pace. If she pulls early, finishing effort may suffer.


3️⃣ STARSONG (8/1)

Trainer: Michael Appleby

Jockey: Billy Loughnane

Last Run: 4th at Wolverhampton (6f, AW) – 4¼ lengths behind the winner.

Key Form: Second at Lingfield (Dec), beaten only ½ length when keeping on well.

Pace Angle: Will benefit from a weak pace and should be in the mix.


4️⃣ LADY WINGALONG (11/2)

Trainer: David Evans

Jockey: Jordan Williams (5lb claimer)

Last Run: Poor effort at Lingfield (7f, AW) – 8th, beaten 6½ lengths.

Key Form: Won 4 times in 2024, including over 6f at Wolverhampton.

Concerns: Poor last run and has been inconsistent despite having early speed.


5️⃣ BAZBALL (10/1)

Trainer: Joel Parkinson & Sue Smith

Jockey: Aiden Brookes (3lb claimer)

Last Run: 4th at Newcastle (6f, AW) – 3 lengths behind the winner (25 Jan).

Key Form: Improved when switched to new yard last time, showing more than in previous runs.

Concerns: Yet to win a handicap; still needs to improve.



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Verdict & Betting Suggestions

WIN: BIPLANE (2/1) – Hard to oppose off a penalty if handling the quick turnaround.

EACH-WAY: STARSONG (8/1) – Could take advantage of the weak pace scenario.

Danger: RUNAROUND SIOUX (7/2) – If she settles, she has strong form for this level.



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Final Thoughts

Biplane looks a worthy favourite but may need to overcome the pace bias.

Starsong is an interesting alternative, given the race setup.

Runaround Sioux and Lady Wingalong are capable but need to perform better than in their last runs.