Pace & Draw Angles
This 14-runner handicap is likely to be run at an even to strong gallop. There are multiple pace-forcers or pressers: Profit Refused, Photosynthesis, Thunder Blue (blinkers), and Dapper Guest all like to race prominently. Draw looks neutral at this trip on fast ground here; winners can come from any stall, but pace setup may skew the bias based on where the early speed is clustered—middle looks best placed.
Strongest Contenders
Photosynthesis (OR 86) – Proven
Classy gelding with solid form in higher grades; rated 91 twice at Newbury this spring. Back down to Class 4 off a very competitive mark. Consistent 6f performer, versatile in tactics, and no issue with ground. Not seen since early July but stable form strong. One of the best on adjusted figures.
Dorney Lake (OR 85) – Proven/Progressive
Dual winner earlier this year including over C&D. Return to 6f and Class 4 after tough Class 2/3 outings makes him dangerous. Best runs have come when settling midfield. Trainer in good form. 2lb lower than when rating 96 at Doncaster.
Profit Refused (OR 86) – Progressive
2 wins for new yard before excusable run at Chepstow (hung badly). Narrow second here before that. Still lightly raced for her age and tactically versatile. Stall 1 isn’t ideal but Jamie Spencer suits her come-late style.
Thunder Blue (OR 83) – Proven
Unlucky second at Windsor last time (eyecatching sectionals), can front run or track pace. Pulled up the time before but bounced back fast. Blinkers stay on; draw and race shape should suit.
Expert Agent (OR 79) – Promising (in context)
Won two in a row in June/July; the Haydock win was an efficient performance off a strong pace. Drawn 8, ideally placed. A fair run last time when poorly positioned; still handicapped to be involved.
Main Dangers
Cinque Verde (OR 83) – Exposed but effective
Plenty of solid AW/turf runs. 5lb below April’s RPR 96 run. Vulnerable for win purposes, but each-way player. May struggle to dominate in this field.
Rajaking (OR 81) – Promising
Second to Angel Shared last time with a strong closing effort. Lightly raced 3yo with upside; this is a stiff test, but could be on the upgrade now he’s back over 6f.
Interesting Outsiders
Equiano Springs (OR 70) – Proven Course Horse
Has won this race before and is back to a workable mark. Veteran who thrives at Newmarket. Rallied late behind Angel Shared last time. If the pace collapses, he’s capable of mugging them late.
Dapper Guest (OR 74) – Unexposed
3yo with some promise and was slowly away in a better race here two back. Drop back to 6f could suit on pedigree, though this is a stiff ask.
Runner Scores & Suitability
- Photosynthesis: 9/10 – Strong form, suited by trip/ground; main danger if sharp off break.
- Dorney Lake: 8/10 – Track, trip and class drop ideal.
- Profit Refused: 8/10 – Solid profile, ground suits; hold-up risk.
- Thunder Blue: 7.5/10 – Tactical speed, blinkers help focus; live chance.
- Expert Agent: 7.5/10 – Holding form well; draw suits.
- Cinque Verde: 7/10 – Tough and honest but needs things to fall right.
- Rajaking: 6.5/10 – Unexposed; best watched for further progress.
- Equiano Springs: 6.5/10 – Loves it here; may need luck.
- Dapper Guest: 5.5/10 – Inconsistent but not without hope.
- Others score 5 or below and appear outclassed or unsuited tactically.
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 (14 runners)
- Expert Agent – Consistent, improving, well drawn.
- Cinque Verde – Hard-knocking mare, not many miles on the clock, could be thereabouts.
- Equiano Springs – Course-loving veteran, drops into winnable race off good mark.
Private Tissue Estimate
- Photosynthesis – 4/1
- Dorney Lake – 11/2
- Profit Refused – 6/1
- Thunder Blue – 7/1
- Expert Agent – 8/1
- Rajaking – 10/1
- Cinque Verde – 12/1
- Equiano Springs – 14/1
- Dapper Guest – 16/1
- Others – 20/1+
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary + Smart Play
A deep sprint handicap with plenty of recent form and tactical interest. The gallop should be strong, favouring closers drawn mid-to-wide. Several come here with track-winning credentials, but Photosynthesis brings standout numbers, and Dorney Lake is better than his recent finishes suggest now back in calmer waters.
Smart Play
- Win Bet: Photosynthesis – Class dropper with big RPRs and ideal setup.
- Each-Way Saver: Expert Agent – Strong recent form, peaking late season.
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