20:10 Newmarket (July), Friday 18 July 2025 – JCB Handicap (Class 5, 0-68), 7f, Good to Firm

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Pace Angles + Draw Angles:
This contest is forecast to unfold at a weak early pace, which typically lends itself to horses capable of controlling the race or finishing strongly from a prominent position. Low draws are favoured on the July course under these conditions. This enhances the chances of Renesmee (drawn 1) and Enpassant (drawn 3), especially in a tactical heat where track position may prove decisive.


Strongest Contenders, Dangers & Interesting Outsiders:

Strongest Contenders:

  • RENESMEE (Proven): Won last time from a handy spot and well drawn again in stall 1. Her Timeform-adjusted 83 rating stands out at this level, and she’s capable of sitting close enough in a steadily-run race. In-form and tactically versatile.
  • ENPASSANT (Progressive): Now with a hot yard (Michael Herrington), this compact gelding has run two solid races over 7f in recent weeks, including a close third at Yarmouth in a stronger race. Returns to 7f with solid credentials and has a nice blend of pace and stamina.

Main Dangers:

  • WAISTCOAT (Promising): “Horse in focus” flag from Timeform and has run two big races at 7f recently. Drawn widest in 9, which is a negative, but he shapes like one that could improve again with race tempo and is proven effective at this trip.
  • OUTRUN THE STORM (Proven): Runner-up in a deeper amateurs race at Chester last time, and previously won this contest in 2023. He’s reliant on pace help and might find today’s gallop insufficient to bring out his best.

Interesting Outsiders:

  • SPLIT ELEVENS (Proven): Long absence (91 days) is a query, but course form and previous consistency over C&D merit respect. Market will guide regarding readiness.
  • AMERICAN TREASURE (Promising): Still unexposed and returns to a more suitable trip. If settling better, she could go well at a price.

Runner Scores and Suitability Analysis:

  • Renesmee: 8/10 – Strong fit for pace, trip, and draw. Suited to firm ground.
  • Enpassant: 8/10 – Well drawn and hitting form; likes firm ground and 7f suits.
  • Waistcoat: 7/10 – In form but drawn wide; pace setup not ideal.
  • Outrun the Storm: 7/10 – Course experience and recent form positive; may lack pace support.
  • Split Elevens: 6/10 – Track form good; fitness query off break.
  • Born A Rebel: 5/10 – Typically needs a stronger gallop.
  • American Treasure: 5/10 – Trip now helps; pace may not.
  • Saved Lizzie: 4/10 – Modest; draw okay but lacks tactical speed.
  • Ernie’s Valentine: 4/10 – Flashes of old form; unlikely to be helped by pace setup.

Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.
Watch out for in-form sprinters returning quickly; they can be hot.


Each-Way Angles:

With 9 runners, there are each-way opportunities:

  • Enpassant (drawn well, trainer in form) is a solid each-way proposition if available around 5/1+.
  • American Treasure may appeal to speculative players if drifting to 20/1+.

Private Tissue Estimate:

  • Renesmee – 7/2
  • Enpassant – 4/1
  • Waistcoat – 9/2
  • Outrun the Storm – 6/1
  • Split Elevens – 8/1
  • American Treasure – 14/1
  • Born A Rebel – 16/1
  • Ernie’s Valentine – 18/1
  • Saved Lizzie – 20/1

Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.


Summary + Professional Punter View (Smart Play):

A low-tempo 7f handicap where track position will be pivotal. The balance of recent form, draw, and tactical aptitude favours those drawn low and with the ability to race handy.

Smart Play:

  • Win Bet: Renesmee – well positioned tactically, well drawn, thriving.
  • Each-Way Saver: Enpassant – in-form yard, excellent draw, solid recent efforts.

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