Pace/Draw Angles:
The pace is expected to be strong, which typically suits hold-up types or those ridden just off the pace. However, Catterick’s 6f trip has historically favoured prominent racers from low draws. Wichahpi and Dream Deal may be well placed in that regard, with the former usually on the front end. High draws are at a disadvantage.


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Strongest Contenders

WICHAHPI – Timeform adjusted 85. CD winner who shaped as though the run was needed after 7 months off at Haydock. Back at Catterick with a low draw, prominent racing style, and race fitness now likely improved. Bryan Smart’s runner fits a classic “course specialist returning to form” pattern.

GLORY HYDE – Adjusted 83. Has been running well in similar races this spring and could be suited by the strong pace here. Regularly in the mix without winning, but consistent.

STARSONG – Adjusted 82. Three consecutive turf placings, now with a 5lb claimer on board. Her late closing style will benefit from a solid pace if she gets the gaps. Profile flags suggest she’s in the right zone now, but hold-up tactics at Catterick always carry luck-in-running risks.



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Main Dangers

DREAM DEAL – Adjusted 84. Runner-up here two starts ago. Underwhelming favourite last time but has the ability to bounce back. Formerly with Danny Brooke, now in Easterby’s care, wears tongue-tie and looks ideally drawn to stalk the leaders.

MERSEA – Adjusted 81. Solid AW form earlier in the year and has run well fresh in the past. Stays the trip well and races prominently. Trainer Grant Tuer is cold at present, which tempers confidence, but this mare is capable on her day.

PATONTHEBACK – Adjusted 81. Out of form but has won at this track and is a dual turf scorer. Down the field recently, but connections land occasional gambles and trainer has a profitable one-runner meeting stat. Has had breathing ops – best watched for market strength.



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Interesting Outsiders

A GIRL NAMED IVY – Adjusted 78. Michael Dods’s sole runner on the card (positive stat). Profile suggests a return to good ground should suit, though recent runs have lacked spark. Low draw and front-running ability a plus.

QUERCUS – Adjusted 78. Has led before and gone close at Catterick. Older horse but can still go forward and is drawn widest, which may force an early move.

CROCODILE POWER – Not rated due to poor current form. Three-time Catterick winner in 2024 but completely out of sorts so far this season. Will likely be sent forward but needs to refind spark.



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Runners Rated Out of 10

WICHAHPI – 8/10

GLORY HYDE – 7.5/10

DREAM DEAL – 7.5/10

STARSONG – 7/10 (hold-up, needs luck)

MERSEA – 6.5/10 (trainer form a concern)

PATONTHEBACK – 6/10 (watch market)

A GIRL NAMED IVY – 6/10 (possible revival, drawn to attack)

QUERCUS – 5/10 (pace angle only)

CROCODILE POWER – 3/10 (poor recent efforts)


> Keep an eye on any significant market moves for Wichahpi and Patontheback, especially as both return from layoffs. Conversely, drift on CROCODILE POWER might confirm lack of intent.




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Each-Way Angles (9 runners)

If betting each-way, Wichahpi and Dream Deal stand out on course form and pace suitability, while Starsong’s consistency also makes her a viable option at a price if the gaps open.


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Private Tissue (No BOG factored in)

WICHAHPI – 7/2

DREAM DEAL – 9/2

GLORY HYDE – 5/1

STARSONG – 11/2

MERSEA – 7/1

PATONTHEBACK – 10/1

A GIRL NAMED IVY – 11/1

QUERCUS – 14/1

CROCODILE POWER – 25/1



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Summary

This is a competitive low-grade sprint where pace and draw will play a decisive role. Wichahpi, a previous CD scorer, looks well treated to bounce back second up and is nicely drawn for a prominent ride. Dream Deal also appeals back at this track with a strong pace to aim at. Glory Hyde and Starsong are respected consistent types, with the latter reliant on luck in running. Market support for Patontheback could be telling given his trainer’s stats and track record.