TimeWise Chronicles

Preview of Sandown’s afternoon card on Thursday.

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Sandown Park Race Card Preview: Thursday 24 July 2025

Course Details:

  • Location: Sandown Park
  • Going: Good (Good to Soft in places on sprint course)
  • Surface: Turf

14:10 Sandown – TEXAS AT SANDOWN PARK 7 AUGUST HANDICAP (Class 4, 5f 10y, 3yo+, 0-80)

  • Pace Forecast: Weak
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Specific Pace Hint: Hold-up horses are generally not favoured at this trip here, and the expected steady pace ought to mean TOURIST will be better placed than JENEVER. The weak pace likely means leaders are at an advantage, and hold-up runners are disadvantaged in weakly run 5f contests at Sandown.

Runner Comments:

  • HONOUR YOUR DREAMS (FR)
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper, won at Windsor and Lingfield in May. Returned to form winning a 7-runner event at Lingfield on 8th July by ½ length. His sectionals from that race suggest he can quicken off an even gallop, and he previously held CLOUD KING.
    • Pace: Usually races prominently and wears headgear. Pace map suggests prominent position.
    • Draw: Stall 1, well drawn to be prominent from the outset.
    • Fitness: Raced 16 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • JENEVER
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. A previous C&D winner at Sandown in June by 1¼ lengths, followed by a creditable 1¾ lengths fourth of 10 at Newmarket.
    • Pace: Despite the specific pace hint, he is generally expected to be better placed given the steady pace, and is well drawn to be handy in a race lacking pace. Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up.
    • Draw: Stall 2, well drawn.
    • Fitness: Raced 13 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Proven C&D winner with solid Timefigure.
    • Flags: “Horse for course”. Has worn cheekpieces, including last 2 starts. Has won when sweating.
  • GOOD EARTH (IRE)
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Fifth at Sandown in June (1¾ lengths behind JENEVER). His last run at York saw him finish 14th of 18, with his performance best excused due to a poor draw.
    • Pace: Pace map suggests mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Raced 12 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Capable of placing if bouncing back.
    • Flags: “Horse for course” and “Hot trainer” (Michael Herrington). Tried in blinkers.
  • TOURIST
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper, won at Bath in April but has been below form in his last 3 starts.
    • Pace: Sometimes slowly away, usually races close up, often races freely. Expected steady pace should suit. Pace map suggests prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 26 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Regressive.
    • Flags: “Cold trainer” (Robert Cowell).
  • DAPPER VALLEY (IRE)
    • Form: Showed fairly useful form when winning in 2024, but has been below form this season.
    • Pace: Sometimes slowly away, usually races freely. Pace map suggests prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 5.
    • Fitness: Raced 19 days ago.
    • Class: Handicapper. Recent figures unconvincing.
    • Flags: Has had breathing operation. Often wears headgear, wears tongue tie.
  • SANDSCREENDELIVERD
    • Form: Fair maiden handicapper, second at Lingfield in May. Was badly outpaced and always behind at Epsom last time.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 47 days ago.
    • Class: Fair maiden handicapper. No recent spark, unlikely to get involved.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • SILVER WRAITH
    • Form: Fair maiden. Finished second on handicap debut at Goodwood in June, and a creditable 3½ lengths fourth last time in a similar event at Windsor.
    • Pace: Often starts slowly. Her hold-up style is unsuited to today’s weak pace projection. Pace map suggests prominent to early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 7.
    • Fitness: Raced 24 days ago.
    • Class: Fair maiden. She is a lightly raced 3yo filly with a touch of upside.
    • Flags: Trainer Emma Lavelle has a profit to a £1 level stake when having one runner at a flat meeting.
  • BLIND BEGGAR (IRE)
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Ran well when fourth at Ascot in April. Not seen to best effect when third last time, being slowly away and short of room.
    • Pace: Usually front runner/races prominently. Pace map indicates early pace to prominent.
    • Draw: Stall 8, considered a poor draw.
    • Fitness: Raced 29 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Consistent but exposed.
    • Flags: Wears headgear.
  • CLOUD KING
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Shaped well on his last run at Lingfield, finishing fourth by ¾ length, but was caught further back and wider than ideal.
    • Pace: Mainly races at 5f. Pace map indicates early pace to prominent.
    • Draw: Stall 9.
    • Fitness: Raced 16 days ago. This was his return after a 10-week break.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Promising from a handicapping perspective.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus” and “Cold trainer” (Robert Cowell).

Private Tissue Odds:

  • JENEVER: 7/2
  • CLOUD KING: 9/2
  • HONOUR YOUR DREAMS: 11/2
  • SILVER WRAITH: 7/1
  • BLIND BEGGAR: 7/1
  • GOOD EARTH: 10/1
  • TOURIST: 12/1
  • DAPPER VALLEY: 20/1
  • SANDSCREENDELIVERD: 25/1

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: JENEVER, CLOUD KING, HONOUR YOUR DREAMS
  • Win: JENEVER – He has tactical pace, proven C&D form, and an ideal setup for this race. As a previous C&D winner with solid Timefigure, he’s a reliable yardstick and well-drawn to be handy in a weakly run race.
  • Each-Way Saver: CLOUD KING – He is expected to improve significantly after a promising seasonal return. His back-form includes good efforts in higher-grade sprints, and the “Horse in Focus” flag suggests he’s due for sharp progression.

14:45 Sandown – MARTIN DENSHAM & PETER DEAL MEMORIAL BRITISH EBF MAIDEN STAKES (Class 4, 7f, 2yo)

  • Pace Forecast: Even
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Specific Pace Hint: So long as the leaders don’t go crazy PUBLISH promises to be better placed than THE JOKER (FR) given how races at this trip here usually pan out.

Runner Comments:

  • PUBLISH
    • Form: Shaped with plenty of encouragement on debut at Sandown, finishing ½-length second despite being denied a clear run twice from 2f out. He finished with running left.
    • Pace: Promises to be better placed due to usual race patterns at this trip. Pace map suggests hold-up to mid-pack. Should be tactically advantaged by the even pace.
    • Draw: Stall 1.
    • Fitness: Raced 20 days ago.
    • Class: Modest maiden form but open to significant improvement. Ran with substantial promise.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus” and “Hot trainer” (John & Thady Gosden).
  • BOSOM PALS
    • Form: Shaped better than on debut when 5 lengths second of 11 at Southwell, taking second 1f out.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace to prominent. Sectionals and finishing effort suggest he’ll appreciate an even gallop.
    • Draw: Stall 2. Has an inside draw.
    • Fitness: Raced 11 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden. Holds a progressive profile.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • THE JOKER (FR)
    • Form: This is his first career run. He is the first foal of a dam who was runner-up at 13f.
    • Pace: Expected to be disadvantaged tactically by the race shape. Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Debutant.
    • Class: Newcomer.
    • Flags: Trainer Jane Chapple-Hyam has a profit to a £1 level stake with debutants.
  • CATULLUS (IRE)
    • Form: Showed plenty of promise on debut, finishing 3½ lengths third of 12 at Newmarket, running on strongly after being short of room.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 13 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden, but open to significant improvement. Eye-catching debut, bred to relish this trip.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus” and “Hot trainer” (Charlie Appleby). Charlie Appleby has saddled the last two winners of this race.
  • ROBERT ANSTRUTHER
    • Form: Very green on debut, finishing 9½ lengths fourth of 6 at Windsor.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace to prominent.
    • Draw: Stall 5.
    • Fitness: Raced 26 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden. Needs big steps forward.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • CHAPTER (IRE)
    • Form: Finished 8¾ lengths seventh of 9 at Newbury, reportedly better for the experience.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates hold-up to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 42 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden. Needs big steps forward.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • WESTENDER
    • Form: This is his first career run. He is the fourth foal of an unraced dam.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 7.
    • Fitness: Debutant.
    • Class: Newcomer.
    • Flags: Trainer David Menuisier has a profit to a £1 level stake with debutants.
  • FANS FAVOURITE
    • Form: This is his first career run. He is closely related to a smart winner up to 11.4f.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 8.
    • Fitness: Debutant.
    • Class: Newcomer. Bred to stay at least this far.
    • Flags: Trainer Hugo Palmer’s juveniles often step up from debut.
  • FLETCHER
    • Form: Finished 19½ lengths last of 5 at Epsom, described as very green.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 9.
    • Fitness: Raced 22 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden. Needs big steps forward.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • DOMINATION (IRE)
    • Form: Well held in a maiden at Newbury, described as noisy beforehand.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates hold-up to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 10.
    • Fitness: Raced 69 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden. Needs big steps forward.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • FAHIDI (IRE)
    • Form: This is his first career run. He is the first foal of a dam who was a 2-y-o 7f winner.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace. Likely wants further.
    • Draw: Stall 11.
    • Fitness: Debutant.
    • Class: Newcomer. Shaped nicely in a maiden at Sandown (likely a reference to a previous observation by ChatGPT rather than a listed race in the Timeform source, as no form is shown).
    • Flags: Oisin Murphy booking is a positive.

Private Tissue Odds:

  • PUBLISH: 7/4
  • CATULLUS: 5/2
  • FAHIDI: 6/1
  • BOSOM PALS: 10/1
  • FANS FAVOURITE: 12/1
  • THE JOKER: 14/1
  • Others (including CHAPTER, DOMINATION, ROBERT ANSTRUTHER, FLETCHER, WESTENDER): 20/1+

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: PUBLISH, CATULLUS
  • Win: PUBLISH – He was highly impressive in defeat over this C&D three weeks ago, doing remarkably well despite an interrupted ride. From a top stable that excels with second-time starters, he rates the clear one to beat.
  • Each-Way Saver: BOSOM PALS – He looks overpriced given his upward profile. He improved on his second run and should be suited by the 7f trip, possessing the tactical tools to get involved under a positive ride.

15:20 Sandown – EUROPEAN BLOODSTOCK NEWS EBF STAR STAKES (Listed, Class 1, 7f, 2yo fillies)

  • Pace Forecast: Strong
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Specific Pace Hint: Prominent racers are usually favoured at this trip here, but for all the pace is forecast to be strong that still might not handicap ORION’S BELT (IRE) while assisting ELECTORAL COLLEGE (USA). A strong early gallop is likely to favour stalkers or late closers with tactical speed.

Runner Comments:

  • HOPE QUEEN (IRE)
    • Form: Won a 5-runner minor event at Beverley by 2¾ lengths on debut. She raced in touch and was produced to lead in the final furlong.
    • Pace: On debut, she was prominent. Pace map suggests mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 1.
    • Fitness: Raced 30 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden winner, sure to progress. Has strong family links. Faces a stamina and class test now.
    • Flags: “Hot trainer” (K. R. Burke).
  • ORION’S BELT (IRE)
    • Form: Showed significant improvement from her debut to win an 8-runner maiden at Newmarket by 3¾ lengths, making the running and in command 1f out.
    • Pace: Made the running on her winning debut. Pace map suggests prominent to mid-pack. While the strong pace might test her if she races freely, she is a natural traveller and should cope.
    • Draw: Stall 2, considered well drawn.
    • Fitness: Raced 12 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden winner, likely to progress further. Her pedigree and profile suggest pattern-class potential, and her Newmarket form is already stacking up. Holds the edge on form.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • TAVANA
    • Form: Won a 6-runner minor event at Haydock by 1½ lengths, making headway on the inner 2f out.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Raced 20 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden winner, entitled to progress. She ran to a useful figure at Haydock and is improving, but this is a significant leap in class. Needs another 10lbs on bare form.
    • Flags: Trainer Edward Smyth-Osbourne has a profit to a £1 level stake when having one runner at a flat meeting.
  • JENNIFER JANE (IRE)
    • Form: Showed much improved form from her debut to win an 8-runner maiden at Wetherby easily by 4¼ lengths.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 35 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden winner, open to further progress. Impressed at Wetherby with a huge leap in form and visually looked a strong stayer. Ready for this level. Untested in deep water.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • HAYYNAH
    • Form: Has shown fairly useful form, finishing a short-head second of 11 in her last race, pulling clear of the rest.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack. She has less tactical pressure than ORION’S BELT.
    • Draw: Stall 5, considered a good tactical position.
    • Fitness: Raced 10 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful maiden. Will stay 7f and is open to further improvement. Improving.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus”. Trainer Ollie Sangster has captured this race the past two times.
  • NANDITA (IRE)
    • Form: Showed fairly useful form by winning a maiden at Kempton. Finished 5½ lengths seventh of 17 in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot last time.
    • Pace: Raced only at 6f previously. Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 34 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful. Her Albany run was respectable, but her top-end form marginally lags behind others.
    • Flags: “Hot trainer” (John & Thady Gosden). John & Thady Gosden have a 20% strike rate at Sandown Park since 2021.
  • MYSTIC MOMENT
    • Form: Showed fair form, winning a 7-runner maiden at Epsom readily by 4¼ lengths, making all.
    • Pace: Made all on her winning debut. Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 7.
    • Fitness: Raced 14 days ago.
    • Class: Fair maiden winner. Her Epsom win form was ordinary and needs to show more for this class.
    • Flags: “Hot trainer” (Eve Johnson Houghton).
  • ELECTORAL COLLEGE (USA)
    • Form: Won a 6-runner minor event at Doncaster by ¾ length, quickening to lead in the final furlong.
    • Pace: Quickened to lead in the final furlong on debut. Pace map indicates early pace. The strong pace scenario should suit her ideally, given her turn of foot and energy conservation.
    • Draw: Stall 8.
    • Fitness: Raced 47 days ago.
    • Class: Maiden winner, sure to progress. Unexposed, her debut pace and sectionals were better than they looked.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.

Private Tissue Odds:

  • ORION’S BELT: 5/2
  • HAYYNAH: 4/1
  • JENNIFER JANE: 9/2
  • ELECTORAL COLLEGE: 13/2
  • NANDITA: 7/1
  • MYSTIC MOMENT: 12/1
  • TAVANA: 14/1
  • HOPE QUEEN: 16/1

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: ORION’S BELT, HAYYNAH, JENNIFER JANE, ELECTORAL COLLEGE
  • Win: ORION’S BELT – Her dominant Newmarket romp marks her as the one to beat. She has high-class potential and a class edge, though she must settle off the stronger pace.
  • Each-Way Saver: ELECTORAL COLLEGE – She is a strong closer who looks underestimated in this setup given the expected pace shape. She’s well-bred, was a sharp debut winner, and is open to major progress.

15:55 Sandown – GEORGE LINDON-TRAVERS MEMORIAL HANDICAP (Class 3, 1m 6f, 3yo, 0-95)

  • Pace Forecast: Weak
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Specific Pace Hint: The probable steady pace should boost the prospects of PENDRAGON (IRE) rather than TREMORGIO. A weak gallop is expected, favouring those with tactical pace and/or who can control it up front.

Runner Comments:

  • TOO SOON
    • Form: Useful performer, won a minor event in 2024. Finished 6¼ lengths ninth of 13 in the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot last time.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace. His pace and stamina are uncertain for this type of race.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Raced 36 days ago.
    • Class: Useful performer. This is more realistic than his last G2 race, but he might be outstayed.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • PENDRAGON (IRE)
    • Form: Useful performer. Completed a hat-trick of handicap wins, most recently dominating a 5-runner handicap at Sandown by 4¼ lengths.
    • Pace: Sometimes slowly away, but has demonstrated the ability to dominate races. The probable steady pace should boost his prospects, and he is well-suited by the weak pace forecast. Pace map suggests prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 1.
    • Fitness: Raced 20 days ago.
    • Class: Useful performer, expected to go on improving. He is a typical Sir Mark Prescott improver, likely to defy the handicapper and a rise in class.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus” and “Hot trainer” (Sir Mark Prescott Bt). Sir Mark Prescott Bt has a 26% strike rate with horses running over 10f+.
  • BOATSWAIN
    • Form: Useful form. Ran well when 6½ lengths seventh of 19 in the King George V Stakes (Handicap) at Royal Ascot last time.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent. He has strong 10f+ figures and is a rock-solid performer. Might be best suited by a stronger gallop, but still in contention if the race becomes tactical.
    • Draw: Stall 2.
    • Fitness: Raced 35 days ago.
    • Class: Useful performer. Brings the best proven form in large fields.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • GRAVITAS (IRE)
    • Form: Fairly useful form. Won a minor event at Doncaster by a neck from TARRIANCE in June. Finished 8¼ lengths third at York on handicap debut last time, described as still green.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 26 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful, remains open to improvement. Game and genuine but likely fully exposed, with a reverse to TARRIANCE probable at level weights.
    • Flags: “BF” (Betting Favourite).
  • TREMORGIO
    • Form: Fairly useful performer. Creditable keeping-on 3 lengths fourth of 9 at Ascot last time. Won a minor event in February.
    • Pace: Sometimes slowly away. The probable steady pace should hinder his prospects. Pace map indicates early pace. Ideally needs cover and a fast-run race, but is improving.
    • Draw: Stall 5.
    • Fitness: Raced 12 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful performer. Has shown improvement, and the step up to 1¾m has suited.
    • Flags: Wears cheekpieces. Trainer Charlie Appleby is a “hot trainer”. William Buick has a 22% strike rate at Sandown Park.
  • TARRIANCE
    • Form: Fairly useful form. Won a maiden at Beverley, and then finished a neck second to GRAVITAS at Doncaster.
    • Pace: Usually races close up. The probable steady pace should boost his prospects. Pace map suggests prominent to hold-up.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 39 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful form, open to further improvement. He has a fine pedigree and shapes as though he’ll be suited by the step up in trip.
    • Flags: “Jockey uplift” (Oisin Murphy). Andrew Balding has 3 winners in the past 10 runnings of this race. His Betfair SP comment indicates he has a record of getting beaten after trading much lower than his starting price.

Private Tissue Odds:

  • PENDRAGON: 6/4
  • TARRIANCE: 3/1
  • BOATSWAIN: 5/1
  • TREMORGIO: 13/2
  • GRAVITAS: 10/1
  • TOO SOON: 16/1

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: PENDRAGON, TARRIANCE
  • Win: PENDRAGON – This race looks tailor-made for him to complete a four-timer. He has demonstrated dominance over this C&D, possesses tactical adaptability, and his trainer is known for extracting consistent progression.
  • Each-Way Saver: TARRIANCE – While each-way angles were not explicitly advised in the source due to fewer runners, TARRIANCE remains an interesting contender. He is on an upward trajectory and the step up in trip could be key to unlocking further improvement.

16:30 Sandown – ASPEN INSURANCE HANDICAP (Qualifier) (Class 4, 1m 1f 209y, 4yo+, 0-82)

  • Pace Forecast: Weak
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Specific Pace Hint: It seems pretty clear the pace is likely to be steady, so despite this trip and track combination usually favouring hold-up horses, things probably won’t help FORCA TIMAO (IRE) but should help BALTIC VOYAGE. No obvious front runner; steady fractions will favour tactically positive types.

Runner Comments:

  • ALCARAZ (FR)
    • Form: Useful performer at best. Won a claimer in France in June. Finished 10¼ lengths last of 7 in a handicap at Windsor on his UK return.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack.
    • Draw: Stall 7.
    • Fitness: Raced 24 days ago.
    • Class: Useful performer. Flopped on UK return and his profile is patchy.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • SWEET REWARD (IRE)
    • Non-Runner (NR)
  • BALTIC VOYAGE
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper, won at Ripon in 2023. Had a respectable fourth in his final start that season. No better than mid-division in completed hurdle starts.
    • Pace: Usually front runner/races prominently. The steady pace forecast should help him, and he could dictate or track easily off a workable mark. Pace map indicates prominent to hold-up.
    • Draw: Stall 2.
    • Fitness: Absent for 331 days.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Now back in the right grade.
    • Flags: “NT” (new trainer Marcus Tregoning) and has had a breathing operation.
  • CROESO CYMRAEG
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Won at Lingfield in June. Finished below form on his last outing at Carlisle.
    • Pace: Usually races off pace. Pace map indicates early pace. Needs softer ground and a truer run race to be at his best.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Raced 29 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Is a C&D winner.
    • Flags: “Horse for course”.
  • MAN OF DESERT
    • Form: Fairly useful maiden. Finished third in a maiden in May and a respectable fourth in a handicap last time.
    • Pace: Often starts slowly. Pace map indicates prominent to mid-pack. Favoured by the weak pace.
    • Draw: Stall 1.
    • Fitness: Raced 43 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful maiden. Still lightly raced and his pedigree (half-brother to Desert Crown) suggests further improvement at this trip.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • SILVER NIGHTFALL
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Won at Chelmsford and Kempton in 2024. Not seen to best form in her last 2 starts.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent to early pace. May find the quickening ground and race shape against her.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 14 days ago, after being off for 6 weeks.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Seems better on the All-Weather (AW).
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • FORCA TIMAO (IRE)
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Won at Southwell in April but was below form last time.
    • Pace: His hold-up style is poorly suited to this steady pace setup. Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 9.
    • Fitness: Raced 29 days ago.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Opposable on recent figures.
    • Flags: Hooded and tongue-tied in all starts this year.
  • ARKENDALE
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper at best. Was well held at Newbury on his last outing.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 5.
    • Fitness: Raced 14 days ago, after being off for 5 months.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper at best. Regressive.
    • Flags: Has had breathing operation. Has worn headgear.
  • BEACH POINT (IRE)
    • Form: Fairly useful handicapper. Finished second at Leicester in June. Was possibly amiss last time at Kempton, but reportedly scoped fine after that low-key display. Had been knocking on the door prior to that run.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace. Favoured by the weak pace. Can race prominently.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 15 days ago. Turned out quickly, which is a positive sign.
    • Class: Fairly useful handicapper. Consistent prior to Kempton.
    • Flags: “BF” (Betting Favourite). Oisin Murphy (jockey) has a 34% strike rate on favourites. Wears headgear.

Private Tissue Odds:

  • BEACH POINT: 2/1
  • MAN OF DESERT: 4/1
  • BALTIC VOYAGE: 6/1
  • SILVER NIGHTFALL: 9/1
  • CROESO CYMRAEG: 10/1
  • ALCARAZ: 12/1
  • FORCA TIMAO: 20/1
  • ARKENDALE: 33/1

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: BEACH POINT, MAN OF DESERT, BALTIC VOYAGE
  • Win: BEACH POINT – He is well-treated and his sharp turnaround from Kempton is a positive sign. He was consistent prior to his last outing, and the major booking of Oisin Murphy, along with the ground, trip, and tactical setup, are all in his favour if he races prominently.
  • Each-Way: BALTIC VOYAGE – He is a valid each-way play at double figures if fit. He has a good record at this trip, is well-handicapped, and his breathing operation and trainer switch suggest intent.

17:00 Sandown – RACING WELFARE FILLIES’ HANDICAP (Class 5, 1m 1f 209y, 0-70, 3yo+)

  • Pace Forecast: Strong
  • Draw Bias: N/A
  • Race Shape and Tactical Angle: A strong gallop is anticipated, which should favour hold-up runners capable of settling and staying the trip well. This pace dynamic particularly suits NUNC EST BIBENDUM, while it could expose keener front-runners like GLORYOUS. Horses with energy-efficient styles and strong finishes will have an edge.

Runner Comments:

  • ZARIELA
    • Form: Fair handicapper. Won at Yarmouth in April. Finished well below form in her last outing.
    • Pace: Races off pace. Pace map indicates early pace to prominent. Hit an in-running low under half her starting Betfair SP when beaten last time.
    • Draw: Stall 3.
    • Fitness: Raced 27 days ago.
    • Class: Fair handicapper. Consistently poor figures, hard to support.
    • Flags: “Jockey uplift” (Oisin Murphy). Wears headgear.
  • NUNC EST BIBENDUM (IRE)
    • Form: Fair maiden. Improved to finish ¾-length second of 11 at Naas last time, closing all the way to the line.
    • Pace: Slowly away in her last 2 outings. The strong gallop is anticipated to be a real boost for her, suiting her strong-finishing style. Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 2.
    • Fitness: Off 284 days.
    • Class: Fair maiden. Interesting improver; profile suits if fitness is ready.
    • Flags: “NT” (new trainer Gary & Josh Moore).
  • TAP DANCER
    • Form: Fair performer. Won a minor event at Bath in 2024. Creditable ¾-length fifth on nursery debut there last time, unable to sustain her effort.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent.
    • Draw: Stall 8.
    • Fitness: Off 266 days.
    • Class: Fair performer. Has had a breathing operation and may strip fitter now, but lacks upside.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • ETERNAL BLESSING (FR)
    • Form: Modest form. Finished 4 lengths third of 13 in a minor event at Kempton last time.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up. Exposed and needs to settle better.
    • Draw: Stall 7.
    • Fitness: Raced 21 days ago, after being off for 6 weeks.
    • Class: Modest. Has staying potential but is raw and still learning.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • WONDROUS LIGHT
    • Form: Fair performer. Won a handicap at Lingfield in June. Finished 9¾ lengths sixth last time, racing closer to the pace than ideal.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates prominent. Was flattered by her Lingfield win, and a trip drop is not sure to help.
    • Draw: Stall 5.
    • Fitness: Raced 25 days ago.
    • Class: Fair performer. May find others with more upside here.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • TEMPTED
    • Form: Fair performer. Won a minor event at Wolverhampton in May. Finished a creditable 4¼ lengths seventh last time.
    • Pace: Often starts slowly and usually races freely. Pace map indicates early pace. Often too free and needs everything to fall right.
    • Draw: Stall 6.
    • Fitness: Raced 44 days ago.
    • Class: Fair performer.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • LITTLE MISS INDIA (IRE)
    • Form: Fair maiden. Finished second in a handicap at Sandown in 2024. Was still green when fourth last time at Yarmouth.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates early pace.
    • Draw: Stall 11.
    • Fitness: Off 282 days.
    • Class: Fair maiden. Has track form (second here last year) and her pedigree suggests she can find more as a 4-year-old.
    • Flags: “NT” (new trainer James Owen) and “trainer uplift”. James Owen has a profit to a £1 level stake when having one runner at a flat meeting.
  • PERGOLA (IRE)
    • Form: Fair form. Showed progression to win an 8-runner handicap at Epsom last time by a short head, rallying to lead at the post.
    • Pace: Rallying to lead at the post last time. Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up. Tactically versatile and should be effective even in a strong gallop.
    • Draw: Stall 1.
    • Fitness: Raced 14 days ago.
    • Class: Fair form, expected to go on improving. Progressive filly who toughed it out well and is open to further improvement.
    • Flags: “Horse in focus” and “Hot trainer” (William Haggas). William Buick has a 22% strike rate at Sandown Park and a 40% strike rate on favourites.
  • GLORYOUS (IRE)
    • Form: Fair maiden. Finished a neck second last time, clear of the rest after racing freely.
    • Pace: Raced freely last time. The strong gallop is not expected to be a boost for her, and her run style may be compromised. Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up.
    • Draw: Stall 9.
    • Fitness: Raced 10 days ago.
    • Class: Fair maiden. In good form.
    • Flags: “Hot trainer” (Jamie Osborne).
  • SHIRAZI (IRE)
    • Form: Fair form. Showed improvement to finish 2¼ lengths second last time, being well positioned.
    • Pace: Pace map indicates mid-pack. Does not shape like she is ahead of her mark.
    • Draw: Stall 4.
    • Fitness: Raced 31 days ago.
    • Class: Fair form.
    • Flags: None mentioned in Timeform sources.
  • MAUNDY THURSDAY (IRE)
    • Form: Modest maiden. Ran well again to finish 4 lengths fourth last time, having had the run of the race.
    • Pace: Had the run of the race last time. Pace map indicates mid-pack to hold-up. Lacks a gear shift.
    • Draw: Stall 10.
    • Fitness: Raced 43 days ago.
    • Class: Modest maiden. Usually thereabouts but lacks finishing speed.
    • Flags: Tried in cheekpieces.

Private Tissue Odds:

  • PERGOLA: 3/1
  • LITTLE MISS INDIA: 5/1
  • NUNC EST BIBENDUM: 6/1
  • GLORYOUS: 7/1
  • TAP DANCER: 10/1
  • WONDROUS LIGHT: 12/1
  • ETERNAL BLESSING: 14/1
  • TEMPTED: 16/1
  • MAUNDY THURSDAY: 20/1
  • SHIRAZI: 25/1
  • ZARIELA: 33/1

ChatGPT Smart Plays:

  • Shortlist: PERGOLA, NUNC EST BIBENDUM
  • Win: PERGOLA – She is a filly going in the right direction, with strong form, scope for further improvement, and a solid yard/jockey combination. She should be very tough to beat if holding form.
  • Each-Way: NUNC EST BIBENDUM – She makes a strong appeal as a pace-boosted each-way value runner, especially if there’s market positivity. Her profile, including Irish back-form, proven stamina, and strong-finishing style, is ideal for today’s race conditions.

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