15:40 NOTTINGHAM – PRICEDUP HANDICAP (QUALIFIER) (CLASS 5, 0–70, 3YO ONLY, 1M 75Y, TURF)Going: Good to Firm (Good in Places)Field: 10 runnersPace Forecast: StrongDraw Bias: No significant bias reported

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Overview

This 0–70 three-year-old handicap features a competitive field of 10, with several coming here in form or on the upgrade. A strong pace is forecast, which may test stamina over the extended mile, but historically, prominent runners tend to be favoured at this trip on this track. A few trainers arrive with hot form or a record in the race, and multiple runners have recent winning form.


Top Contenders

TRIPLE DOUBLE A (IRE) (TFR 77, OR 79) – Hugo Palmer
Progressive sort bidding for a four-timer after wins at Redcar, Yarmouth, and Windsor (latest by 1½ lengths off 77). Stays the trip well and acts on fast ground. The form of his latest win looks solid, and while he’s 2 lb out of the handicap, he’s still officially 2 lb well in based on future mark (81). Slight concern is that this comes just five days later.

SEED INVESTOR (IRE) (TFR 84, OR 68) – Ivan Furtado
Back to form last time when only headed late by Harswell Ruby at Doncaster, recording a career-best on Timeform adjusted ratings. Appears suited by a strong gallop and if building on that effort, remains well treated. Usually races off the pace which could be a concern if they don’t go as hard as predicted.

HARSWELL RUBY (IRE) (TFR 83, OR 69) – Roger Fell
Consistent filly who got off the mark at Doncaster when narrowly denying Seed Investor. Responded well under pressure and has been kept ticking over with just 15 days between runs. Goes on various ground and is tactically versatile. Worth noting she was tried in a hood earlier in career but ran well without it latest.


Main Dangers

THISCOULDBEFUN (IRE) (TFR 81, OR 67) – J.S. Moore
Slightly fortunate winner at Bath last time but still open to improvement. Handles firm ground and tends to race handily, which is a plus here. Up 3 lb for that but still has scope for better at this level, especially given that she has experience in similar-sized fields.

VENTURA DREAM (IRE) (TFR 83, OR 70) – Archie Watson
Consistent sort on the AW, third at Southwell last time at 50/1. Has shown he stays a mile well, but the switch to turf is a question mark — he’s unproven on grass. Trainer in strong form though, and William Cox keeps the ride. Market support would be a positive.


Interesting Outsiders

EPICURIAN LAD (TFR 82, OR 64) – Christine Dunnett
Solid fifth here previously and third behind Triple Double A at Yarmouth. Not beaten far either time and likely to be suited by the strong pace. Trainer is yet to score in this contest but booking of Oisin Orr catches the eye. Place claims at a double-figure price.

HAVANA WHISPER (TFR 69p, OR 67) – Andrew Balding
Lightly raced and shapes as though he’ll improve now handicapping. Wasn’t beaten far last time and connections reach for first-time cheekpieces. Balding has a 17% strike rate with handicap debutants, which is notable. Market vibes will be informative given his profile.


Notable Trends & Trainer Notes

  • Richard Fahey has won this race twice in the last 10 years (saddles Epicurian Lad).
  • Andrew Balding has a solid 17% strike rate with handicap debutants (Havana Whisper).
  • Emma Lavelle is +£32.40 level stakes with sole runners at Flat meetings (saddles Genbu – 38 days off, keep an eye on the market).

Each-Way Angles (10 Runners)

With 10 declared, there is an each-way angle here. Epicurian Lad, Seed Investor, and Harswell Ruby appeal most on value and profile. Havana Whisper is unexposed enough to spring a surprise if improving for the switch to handicaps.

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