A competitive renewal of this Class 2 handicap over just shy of 7 furlongs, where pace, draw position and fitness are all set to play crucial roles. With an even pace forecast and a slight bias towards low draws, it promises a fair test for this smart dozen of older handicappers.

Strongest Contender: MYAL

MYAL (TFR 123) is very much the standout on recent form and profiles as the one to beat. He ended 2024 on a real high, rattling off four wins, including two here at Haydock, making him unbeaten over this course and distance. He returned from a break with an excellent third in the Spring Mile at Doncaster, shaping as though he would strip fitter for it.

The expected even tempo should suit his forward-going style, and notably, he’s drawn well in stall 6. His trainer Steph Hollinshead doesn’t have a prior win in this specific race, but the horse’s Timeform “horse in focus” flag and profile strength are enough to suggest he can take another step forward here.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

“Usually races prominently. Picked up where he left off when shaping very well at Doncaster. The return to this C&D, where he is unbeaten, will suit.”

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Main Dangers

Skukuza (TFR 122)

Another 4yo who still has better days ahead. Lightly raced and progressive last term, including a good second in the Britannia Stakes at Royal Ascot. However, he may need a strong gallop to be seen to best effect, and the even pace forecast might blunt his finish slightly. Trainer Ed Dunlop is in form but has yet to win this race previously.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

“The type to rate higher this year.”

Thunder Roar (TFR 118)

First past the post ahead of Myal at Doncaster last time (later demoted). A proper Haydock horse, he stays the trip well and looks dangerous if things fall right tactically. He’s drawn lower than most of his rivals, which could be a real asset.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

“Horse for course. Better than ever at Doncaster and deserves respect.”

Cerulean Bay (TFR 118)

A dual Haydock winner last year, but off for 224 days. Trainer David O’Meara has a strong record with handicappers here but has not won this race in recent years. Important to watch for significant market support — a big drift would be concerning.

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Other Notables

• English Oak (TFR 116) – Smart type on his day, but can start slowly and is returning after a gelding operation. Trainer Ed Walker’s runners have a good Haydock record (21% strike rate since 2021).
• Yorkshire (TFR 116) – Fit and well after a win at Kempton but has a tricky outside draw to overcome.
• Gorak (TFR 118) – Sturdy sort, often races up with the pace, but another coming off a layoff (185 days). Trainer Charlie Fellowes shows a positive profit (£57.41 to £1 level stake) with horses returning from a break.

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Key Trends to Note

• Draw Bias: Low stalls historically perform better over this distance at Haydock on good to good-to-soft ground.
• Fitness Edge: Horses with a recent run generally fare better — particularly those within the past 30 days.
• Course Form: Haydock form is a bonus — Myal, Thunder Roar, Cerulean Bay and Gorak all boast previous wins here.
• Trainer Watch: No trainer in this field has a particularly strong winning record in this specific race over recent seasons.

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Summary

MYAL sets a solid standard with his course record, current form, and ideal racing style for today’s conditions. He should take plenty of beating if building on his seasonal return.

Main threats come from Skukuza, who has scope for better still despite slight tactical worries, and Thunder Roar, whose affinity for Haydock could see him run a big race.

For those looking for something at a bigger price, Cerulean Bay could outrun his odds if strong in the betting pre-race — but caution is advised if the market turns cold.