A competitive Class 5 sprint over the straight 5f at Newcastle, and the HorseRaceBase speed figures provide a valuable lens through which to evaluate this field. With 11 runners lining up, identifying those most suited to the Tapeta surface and the 5f trip is key — and the numbers reveal a clear pecking order.

Above sets the standard on overall ratings. With an excellent top speed rating of 76.95, he boasts consistently strong recent figures (72–76–74) and a standout profile for both trip and surface. His average distance figure of 71.4 and a Tapeta max of 95.9 underline that this is right in his wheelhouse. He has a proven high ceiling and rates a major player on pure speed merit.

Dark Kestrel looks the most progressive in the field, producing a career-best 81.08 rating last time out, suggesting a horse peaking at the right time. His profile is rock solid at 5f and on Tapeta, with strong track and distance averages and a good overall consistency rating. If repeating his last effort, he’s a serious threat to all.

Ganesha deserves respect for sheer consistency. His recent figures are steadily reliable (71–72–60–61), and he scores well across average track and distance metrics, suggesting he’s well-suited to this test. He may lack the explosive upside of the top two, but his steady profile gives him solid place credentials.

Others like Kings Crown and Filly One have shown flashes of speed (both posting figures in the 76–83 range), but their profiles are more erratic and less convincing from a track/trip consistency perspective.


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Shortlist (Speed Ratings-Based):

1. Above – Rock-solid 5f/Tapeta sprinter, top on averages and max figures. Big player.


2. Dark Kestrel – Strong upward trajectory, last run a standout, improving profile.


3. Ganesha – Reliable pace metrics, good track/trip suitability, solid each-way chance.




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If the race is run at a strong tempo (which often occurs over this straight Newcastle 5f), those with proven finishing efficiency and peak speed figures will be favoured — and Above and Dark Kestrel look the two most likely to capitalise.