A typically open 0–100 staying handicap chase for older horses at Fontwell rounds off the evening card, with eight declared runners set to face the starter. The ground is currently described as Good (Good to Soft in places), and the pace forecast is weak—an important tactical factor at this sharp, figure-of-eight venue.

Leading Contenders

SIR ROCK (IRE) – Timeform Adjusted Rating: 109
The standout on Timeform ratings, Sir Rock has been in more consistent form than most at this level, placing on his last two starts. He shaped better than the bare result when fourth at Fontwell last time, jumping right under pressure but sticking on well. A winner over similar trips at this track in the past, he benefits from a reduced mark and is expected to be well suited by the likely slow pace. Trainer Toby Lawes has applied a visor again, and with no stamina doubts, he looks primed to go close if continuing on his upward curve.

GETUPEARLY – TFR: 103
Philip Hobbs & Johnson White send out this 8-year-old who bounced back to form when runner-up at Huntingdon last time. Though still a maiden over fences, he tends to race prominently and could benefit from the expected modest tempo. His trainer is in good form and has a solid record with stayers in low-grade company. This looks a good opportunity for him to build on his most recent effort.

Main Dangers

BALLINTARA (IRE) – TFR: 106
Off the track for 34 days, he returned from a short break to slam four rivals at Plumpton by 17 lengths, albeit after being left clear two out. The form of that race is weak, but it’s possible the first-time blinkers brought about improvement. He’s now 13, but lightly raced for his age, and given he’s a previous course winner, he’s not easily dismissed. Market support would be notable given his profile and the break since that last run.

JANESLITTLEVOICE – TFR: 107
This mare is a dual chase winner in 2023/24 and shaped as though returning to form when second at Newton Abbot last time. However, Timeform note she was traded at a quarter or less of her Betfair SP in-running before being beaten, raising slight doubts about her resolution. She’s likely to be up with the pace and has each-way claims in a field of eight, but finishing effort is a potential concern.

Interesting Outsiders

RIVER TYNE – TFR: ?
Hard to assess accurately due to inconsistent form, but she’s a three-time winner at this track and has undergone a breathing operation. Though pulled up on her last start and not seen for 45 days, Nick Gifford’s record with chasers at Fontwell (profit to £1 level stake: +£20.37) suggests she’s worth noting. She’s also his only runner on the card, a stat that often signals intent. If attracting support in the market, she could be the day’s surprise package.

DYSANIA (IRE) – TFR: 103§
A poor strike-rate type but placed on multiple occasions. He’s another who may want a stronger gallop than is forecast here and has not always found off the bridle. The § on his Timeform rating suggests caution: he’s not the easiest to assess with confidence, and while capable on a going day, he’s been hard to catch right.

Trends & Notes

• Trainer Clues: No trainer has a notably dominant record in this specific race in recent years, but Nick Gifford’s Fontwell strike rate and profit figures with chasers (especially when he has just one runner on the card) should not be overlooked, particularly given River Tyne’s course record.
• Timeform Comments: Highlight Sir Rock as the selection, noting that a steady pace is likely to favour him more than Dysania. Janeslittlevoice’s in-running trade collapse is also flagged.
• Market Watch: Runners with more than 60 days off, such as River Tyne (45 days) and Ballintara (34 days), should be watched for signs of stable confidence. A drift or notable support could reveal plenty.

Summary

This low-grade handicap looks to revolve around Sir Rock, who holds the best recent form and top Timeform figure. Getupearly is next best on form and trainer form, while Ballintara and Janeslittlevoice offer each-way interest with question marks. River Tyne is one to watch in the market given her profile and her trainer’s stats at this venue.