1.15 Haydock – Best Odds On The Betfair Exchange Superior Mile Stakes (Group 3), 1m 37y, Good
Pace/Draw: Likely solid/true pace. Balmacara (9) and Suite Francaise (7) can go forward; Ice Max (6) can sit handy; most of the principals (Prague 1, Make Me King 8, Fearnot 4, Checkandchallenge 10) are best ridden patiently. Low/mid draws fine at Haydock mile; Prague in 1 well-berthed if they don’t crawl. Balmacara (9) risks being posted if forcing it early.
Strongest Contenders
- Prague (Proven, p) – Peak G2 win on soft (RPR 127); has run solidly on good/gf this summer (115–119). Well drawn (1), strong mile finish, and a true pace helps. Key player if settling better.
- Make Me King (Proven) – Versatile, rock-solid Listed/G3 profile, handles good well; shape of race (even pace, sit-and-pounce) suits. Very consistent 119–125 zone; Group 3 is bang his level.
- Suite Francaise (Progressive, p/P) – C&D winner and Listed winner here (9 Aug); uncomplicated prominent style, thriving yard. Needs a small step forward (~5–7lb) to win a G3 but profile screams more to come.
- Fearnot (Promising, P) – Rapidly progressive Britannia third → Ascot win → strong run at York; strong mile turn of foot. Big class rise but WFA helps; if pace honest, he’ll finish hard.
Main Dangers
- Ice Max (Proven at level) – G3 Epsom 2nd; better with cut (soft ideal). On good he’s a touch vulnerable late.
- Checkandchallenge (Exposed) – Capable of running to 118–121 but rarely finds winning scenario; needs everything to drop right.
Interesting Outsiders
- Balmacara (p) – Well-treated handicapper stepping up; wants more ease and may face pressure for the lead. Place squeak if he controls fractions (unlikely).
- Excellent Believe (P) – 3yo improver, but this is a big jump from 7f h’cap—raw ability there, depth question today.
- Snow Master (P) & Zeus Olympios (P) – Likeable, huge class hikes; experience/figures shy of what’s needed.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability vs today)
- Prague – 8.5/10: Track/trip fine, likes stronger pace; best on soft but good is okay. Draw 1 a plus.
- Make Me King – 8/10: Versatile, reliable, strong Listed/G3 cadence on good; sits perfect trip.
- Suite Francaise – 7.5/10: C&D and thriving; small improvement turns her very dangerous.
- Fearnot – 7.5/10: Big engine, fast improver; class question but setup suits.
- Ice Max – 7/10: Class edge on bad ground; good ground slightly blunts him.
- Checkandchallenge – 6.5/10: Ability there; win chance depends on perfect splits.
- Balmacara – 5.5/10: Up in class; may be hassled; prefers more give.
- Excellent Believe – 5/10: Unexposed; numbers shy for G3 today.
- Zeus Olympios – 4.5/10: Nice type but very raw for this grade.
- Snow Master – 4/10: Talented but lacks grounding for Group 3 test.
Notes:
“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 (10 runners)
- Suite Francaise – Profile, C&D, likely handy from 7; appeals if 6/1+ with 3 places.
- Fearnot – Momentum horse; if they go a proper gallop he can mug places late.
- Prague – If underestimated on good ground, any 9/2+ is fair win/place.
Private Tissue (100% book approx.)
- Prague 3.75/1 (21%)
- Make Me King 4.5/1 (18%)
- Suite Francaise 5.5/1 (15%)
- Fearnot 6/1 (14%)
- Ice Max 7/1 (12%)
- Checkandchallenge 14/1 (7%)
- Balmacara 25/1 (4%)
- Excellent Believe 33/1 (3%)
- Zeus Olympios 40/1 (3%)
- Snow Master 50/1 (3%)
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
A true pace looks likely with Balmacara/Suite Francaise handy, setting it up for the best mile finishers. Prague brings the highest ceiling and the draw; Make Me King is the reliable G3 yardstick; Suite Francaise is the improver with course wires; Fearnot is the fast riser who’ll relish a solid tempo.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
Top win bet: Prague – strongest mile figure base, ideal draw, and today’s shape suits.
Each-way saver: Suite Francaise – C&D progressive filly likely to get first run; solid place base with win upside if she finds ~5lb.
1.35 Kempton – Unibet September Stakes (G3), 1m3f219y (AW, Std/Slw)
Pace: Likely even-to-muddling. Candleford (5) and Meydaan (4) are the most plausible to go forward; Kalpana (6) can stalk; Giavellotto (3) and Tasmania (1) expected to be ridden colder; Satavia (2) unknown.
Draw: At Kempton 12f a handy/mid draw helps into the lone bend. Small field reduces bias, but a soft lead from stalls 4–6 can be a plus.
Strongest Contenders, Dangers & Angles
- Kalpana (Proven, P) – Last year’s winner of this race; career-best RPR 132 (Ascot G1, 26 Jul). No penalty this season, gets the sex allowance (9-4), proven on track/surface, tactical speed ideal if this dawdles. Stable flying.
- Giavellotto (Proven) – Genuine G1/G2 stayer who has won at 12f (HK Vase); peak form top of this field (RPRs 126–130). Main niggle is a tactical/pace risk dropping back to a sharp AW 12f; wants a proper test.
- Candleford (Proven, p) – C&D G3 2nd to Bay Bridge (2023) and arrives with solid 2025 G3 placings (Newbury/Goodwood RPR 116). Has the gears to sit handy; if he controls fractions he’s a real danger.
- Tasmania (Promising, P) – Two 2025 runs both eyecatchers (RPR 116–117). Likely better with cut on turf and untested on AW, but unexposed for yard and drawn 1 to smuggle around for a late dart.
- Meydaan (Exposed at this level) – Bits of form (RPR 118 at 12f G3) but inconsistent; profile hints turf with cut suits best; AW unknown and tactical speed only fair.
- Satavia (Promising on paper, P) – Huge class hike from C4; raw and well off on the clock. Receives all the allowances (8-10) but this should come too soon.
Hold-up risk: Giavellotto & Tasmania if this turns into a sprint from 3f out.
Trainer/Jockey/trends notes (from profile only):
- Haggas (Candleford) & Balding (Kalpana) in form this summer; Oisin Murphy booked for Giavellotto a positive. Kalpana’s team explicitly eyed this race last year and she has no penalty this time.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability snapshot)
- Kalpana – 8.5/10 (Proven, P): Ideal set-up; last year’s winner; no penalty; stalk-and-pounce style perfect here.
- Candleford – 7.5/10 (Proven, p): C&D-adept, pace/track fit; Group ceiling just below top—but race shape could bridge that.
- Giavellotto – 7.5/10 (Proven): Class standout on peak; AW/tactical risk the only knocks.
- Tasmania – 6.5/10 (Promising, P): Lively outsider if she handles AW; finish has looked strong; sneaky place chance.
- Meydaan – 5.5/10: Bits of G3 form but lacking a clear AW/pace edge; more questions than answers.
- Satavia – 2/10 (Promising, P): Futuristic potential but not for this level today.
“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.” (generic angle; none obvious here)
Private Tissue (Raceform Data view)
- Kalpana 7/4
- Giavellotto 5/2
- Candleford 3/1
- Tasmania 12/1
- Meydaan 16/1
- Satavia 100/1
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Small field, likely even/muddling pace. Kalpana gets a dream set-up: no penalty, proven C&D, tactical speed, and peak RPRs superior to the Group 3 requirement. Candleford is the pace/track danger if allowed to dictate, while Giavellotto’s class keeps him firmly in the mix but he’ll want this to turn into more of a test than it’s likely to be.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top win bet: Kalpana – class edge, racecraft, and ideal conditions.
- Saver (win): Candleford – C&D-primed and could control the tempo.
1:50 Haydock – Betting.Betfair Ascendant Stakes (Listed, 2yo) 1m37y, Good
Pace: Likely honest/solid. He’s Waliim (draw 1) and Shayem (4) can go forward; Tailgunner Joe (7) has pace; Bourbon Blues (6)/Publish (8) stalk; Midnight Tango (5) usually ridden cold.
Draw: Slight low–middle comfort at Haydock mile; high/wide can be a nuisance if they don’t slot in early. Publish (8) has a small map/trackcraft downside; He’s Waliim (1) well berthed to control.
Strongest Contenders
Publish (Kingman) – Proven/Progressive (p)
RPR 106 tops the field; excellent Sandown debut (should’ve won), then tidy C&D maiden. Scopey type from Gosden yard; Buicks rides. Trip/ground perfect. Only niggle: stall 8/track position.
Bourbon Blues (Space Blues) – Proven/Progressive (p)
Solid G2/G3 efforts (RPR 104 twice) after a taking Brighton maiden. Breeding screams further, and a strongly-run 1m looks ideal. Rock-solid Listed credentials; tactically versatile.
Midnight Tango (Night Of Thunder, filly) – Proven/Promising (P)
7f G3 form (RPR 110/109) is strong; settled better last time and shaped like 1m will suit. Gets 5lb sex allowance. Main query is relaxation/energy at 1m, but profile says she stays and classy enough.
Main Dangers / Interesting Outsiders
He’s Waliim (Too Darn Hot) – Promising (P)
Impressive Beverley debut (RPR 102) making all; ground/track fine. Sandown G3 flop on soft forgivable. From stall 1 he can boss the rail; first crack at 1m, pedigree says yes. Player if getting a soft lead.
Bow Echo (Night Of Thunder) – Promising (P)
Newbury maiden win was taking (RPR 96) and strong on the clock visually; step up in grade/trip today but has the engine. Still raw at the gate; needs to start cleaner.
Glacius (Too Darn Hot) – Promising (P)
Won 1m Newmarket novice (RPR 95) and screams improvement with racing; Palmer camp noted he won’t be overraced. Unexposed stamina type; today is informative but not out of it.
Shayem (King Of Change) – Promising (P)
Narrow 7f Haydock debut win (RPR 90), showed greenness but stuck at it. This is a big class jump; can race handy. Development type for later, but could hang on for a slice if they dawdle.
Tailgunner Joe (Knicks Go) – Exposed vs these
C&D? (7f wins) Handles ease; fair Chesham effort then a soft-ground maiden win (RPR 90). Likely place/pace nuisance against these better colts.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability today)
- Publish: 8.5/10 (p) – Trip/ground ideal; top RPR; only map from 8 is niggle.
- Bourbon Blues: 8/10 (p) – Group-level solidity; 1m looks a plus; reliable Listed standard-setter.
- Midnight Tango (filly, 5lb wfa): 7.5/10 (P) – Classy 7f G3 filly; mile should help if she settles.
- He’s Waliim: 7/10 (P) – Draw 1/pace positive; bounce back on good possible; up to 1m fine.
- Bow Echo: 6.5/10 (P) – Big maiden; now finds out in Listed at 1m; start crucial.
- Glacius: 6/10 (P) – Likeable winner at 1m; depth question today but improving.
- Shayem: 5.5/10 (P) – Raw but game; sizeable class climb.
- Tailgunner Joe: 4.5/10 – Honest but a notch below on ratings; place at best.
Hold-up risk: Midnight Tango (needs pace/threading the field). Publish could be shuffled from 8 if they steady mid-race.
Trainer/Jockey angles (context only): Gosden/Buick a plus for Publish. Strong riders on key chances: Soumillon (Bourbon Blues), Shoemark/Walker (Midnight Tango), Doyle (He’s Waliim).
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.
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Each-Way Angles (8+ runners)
- He’s Waliim – If 7/1+ with the rail and likely pace advantage, solid EW/place play.
- Bourbon Blues – If the market under-rates him vs the sexy improvers (≥6/1), very fair EW with Group form.
Private Tissue (fair odds)
- Publish 9/4
- Bourbon Blues 3/1
- Midnight Tango 9/2
- He’s Waliim 7/1
- Bow Echo 8/1
- Glacius 10/1
- Shayem 16/1
- Tailgunner Joe 25/1
Summary
This should be run at a proper tempo with He’s Waliim/Shayem pressing on and the principals stalking. Publish brings the highest peak RPR and has done little wrong; Bourbon Blues is the strong Listed-lvl yardstick with Group form; Midnight Tango is the filly getting 5lb and has the raw class if she relaxes at 1m. Map/draw could tilt things: the rail helps He’s Waliim; stall 8 is the only small negative for Publish.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
Top win bet: Publish – classiest profile, right trip/ground, plenty more to come despite a slightly awkward draw.
Each-way saver: He’s Waliim – rail draw to control the pace; forgive Sandown on soft; pedigree says 1m will suit.
2.05 Kempton – Unibet London Mile Series Final H’cap (C2) 1m (AW: Polytrack, STD–SLW)
Pace/Draw set-up: Kempton’s mile starts near a bend – low/mid draws and handier styles are favoured. Likely pace from Silent Age (can lead), Whitcombe Rockstar (prominent) and possibly Sir Paul Ramsey. Even-to-strong tempo expected; wide stalls (12–14) risk covering ground unless breaking sharply or dropping in.
Strongest Contenders
- Whitcombe Rockstar (Proven, p) – C&D specialist; 5 C&D wins last year including the Series Final. Turf runs since can be ignored; back to ideal set-up, draw 4 a big plus.
- Local Hero (Proven, p) – 3-3 at Kempton and 115 RPR over 7f C&D; shaped well here in March; draw 1 perfect to stalk the pace.
- Sky Safari (Promising, P) – 3-3 on AW (last two Kempton wins), posted RPR 110 here; lightly raced filly still ahead of her mark; draw 6 ideal.
- Superposition (Progressive, p) – AW is his thing; strong Kmp win in May and RPR 108 at Newcastle; draw 13 the negative but he’ll finish off strongly if they go hard.
Main Dangers / Value
- Silent Age (p) – thriving at 1m; tactical speed to grab a good slot from stall 5; AW okay (Wolv win), just a touch less potent here than on turf.
- Final Voyage (Proven) – 7-time AW winner, solid spring AW figures (RPR 103–106), shaped okay in the Newcastle Series qualifier; stall 7 handy.
- Kingdom Come (Proven) – classy AW miler (peak RPR 115), but recent turf/newcastle runs mixed and stall 10 not ideal; needs a pace collapse.
Interesting Outsiders
- Sir Paul Ramsey (Promising, P) – 3yo WFA (–5lb) and progressive at 7–8f; unknown on AW but pedigree fine; stall 9, can sit handy.
- Dragon Icon – ability there (RPRs to 115) but unreliable and often a beaten fav; hold-up from 8 needs gaps.
Runner Scores (suitability for today) /10
- Whitcombe Rockstar – 8.5/10: Ideal C&D, great draw, pace/map positive.
- Local Hero – 8/10: Kemp specialist, perfect draw, strong figures; slight 7f vs 1m efficiency note.
- Sky Safari – 8/10 (P): Unbeaten AW, improving; up in class but set-up suits.
- Superposition – 7.5/10 (p): Peak AW numbers; wide 13 is the issue. Hold-up risk.
- Silent Age – 7/10 (p): In form, tactical speed; AW okay, slightly less “wow” than turf.
- Final Voyage – 7/10: Reliable AW pro; fair draw; place player.
- Kingdom Come – 6.5/10: Classy but mixed 2025; stall 10 and track position tricky. Hold-up risk.
- Sir Paul Ramsey – 6.5/10 (P): Progressive 3yo, unknown AW; fair draw/pace fit.
- Mr Baloo – 6/10 (p): Hot AW spell earlier; stall 14 a big negative up in class.
- Dragon Icon – 6/10: Figures there; reliability/tempo/trip queries. Hold-up risk.
- Racingbreaks Ryder – 5.5/10: Better at 7f/soft; AW okay but not optimal trip.
- Cogitate – 5.5/10: Some AW promise; stall 12 and class rise temper enthusiasm.
- Helm Rock – 5/10: Exposed; wide 11 and class ask.
- Al Ameen – 5/10: Flying at 6–7f round here; 1m stamina vs class a doubt (though stall 2 helps).
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.
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Each-Way Angles (8+ runners)
- Final Voyage – rock-solid AW placer with a neat draw; profile screams “runs his race”.
- Superposition – wide but strong closer if they overcook it; live EW if double-figures.
Private Tissue (Raceform Data tissue)
- Whitcombe Rockstar 7/2
- Sky Safari 9/2
- Local Hero 5/1
- Superposition 6/1
- Silent Age 8/1
- Final Voyage 10/1
- Kingdom Come 12/1
- Sir Paul Ramsey 12/1
- Mr Baloo 14/1
- Dragon Icon 16/1
- Cogitate 20/1 · Racingbreaks Ryder 22/1 · Helm Rock 25/1 · Al Ameen 25/1
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Race complexion: Inside draws + handy rides are gold. Pace looks honest; expect a proper mile. C&D specialists hold a big edge at Kempton’s mile.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top win bet: Whitcombe Rockstar – back to his beloved C&D, perfect draw, and the entire season has pointed to this target again.
- Each-way saver: Sky Safari – unbeaten on AW, tactical draw, still improving; handles a stronger run.
- Alternative EW/value: Final Voyage – dependable AW operator with a tidy map; very fair to make the frame.
2.25 Haydock – Betfair Plays In A Different League Handicap (C2, 3yo, £100k)
Trip: 1m6f (14f) | Going: GOOD | Weights: 9-9 top (3yo h’cap)
Pace & Draw set-up: Strong pace likely. Winston Junior, Love Talk, Mafting and possibly Fantasy World all like to be forward; Way Of Stars can be handy too. That should set things up for strong stayers ridden colder. At 14f here, the draw is mostly neutral; low/mid is a small plus if you want to sit handy (boxes 1–4 ideal). C&D stamina is a big edge.
Strongest Contenders / Dangers / Outsiders
- Pole Star (Proven, p) – C&D winner (5 Jul), tough, keeps finding; drawn 1; yard flying. Strong pace helps even if he races handy.
- Circus Of Rome (Progressive, p) – big RPR at 12.4f on AW, then strong turf win at 12f; shapes like a stayer, still on the up.
- Gran Descans (Promising, P) – Frankel colt; 2/4 lifetime and ran a big one behind Circus at Newcastle; Buick booked, unexposed at staying trips.
- Fantasy World (Progressive, p) – improving, stayed 13.9f at York (Melrose) well enough; Balding in form; benefits from pace.
- Valiancy (Progressive, p) – lightly raced Haggas improver; cheekpieces on; kept finding over 14f and looks to have more in the locker.
Main dangers / pace nuance:
- Way Of Stars (p) – Solid at 14f (Goodwood maiden romp; close 4th to Pole Star C&D). Just needs to conserve a beat longer.
- Ride The Thunder (Promising, P) – Varian improver; stepping up from 10–12f; pedigree hints 12–13f, 14f a question but mark/weight are tempting.
Oppose / place-only types:
- Winston Junior – reliable, will press/lead; stamina ok to 12–13f, 14f not guaranteed; pace heat could undo him late.
- Tiernan – Listed-placed at 11f; strong late work earlier suggests he’ll stay, but big class rise in a deep 14f heat off 101 (5lb claim helps).
- Love Talk – speedier pedigree, can over-race; 14f stamina the worry.
- Mafting – looks a 10–12f type; didn’t get home when pace lifted over further; 14f a negative.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability & set-up)
- Pole Star (p) – 8.5/10 – Proven C&D stayer, tough, draw 1 ideal.
- Circus Of Rome (p) – 8/10 – Strong finisher, profile screams 14f; handles good.
- Gran Descans (P) – 7.5/10 – Unexposed stayer with Buick; draw 3 handy; minor ground/craft questions only.
- Fantasy World (p) – 7.5/10 – Going the right way, pace to suit; just needs to fully see 14f on quicker side.
- Valiancy (p) – 7/10 – Progressive and learning; cheekpieces help focus; still a touch raw.
- Way Of Stars (p) – 7/10 – Solid C&D effort behind Pole Star; hold-up timing key.
- Ride The Thunder (P) – 6.5/10 – Classy type; 14f new question but yard hot and weight light.
- Winston Junior – 6/10 – Honest and in form; may set it up for others.
- Tiernan – 6/10 – Potential stayer, but class/weight ask at this stage.
- Love Talk – 4.5/10 – Stamina and keenness doubts at 14f.
- Mafting – 3/10 – Trip looks wrong; likely pace casualty.
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 (11 runners)
- Gran Descans (P) – Unexposed, Buick, strong Melrose-style profile; should be finishing.
- Valiancy (p) – Upward curve, headgear, will relish the pace collapse if it happens.
Private Tissue (Raceform Data tissue)
- Pole Star 10/3
- Circus Of Rome 9/2
- Gran Descans 6/1
- Fantasy World 8/1
- Valiancy 9/1
- Way Of Stars 12/1
- Ride The Thunder 16/1
- Winston Junior 20/1
- Tiernan 25/1
- Love Talk 33/1
- Mafting 50/1
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
A truly-run 14f looks nailed on. That suits proven/solid stayers drawn low/mid with late kicks. Pole Star brings C&D proof, attitude and draw; he’s the most bomb-proof. Circus Of Rome and Gran Descans are the upwardly mobile threats if stamina and rhythm click; Fantasy World is another closer who’ll love a burn-up.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top Win Bet: Pole Star – C&D winner in a race likely to mirror his July success; well drawn, still progressing (p), stable flying.
- Each-Way Saver: Gran Descans – Unexposed stayer with Buick; strong sectionals profile and ideal set-up if they go hard up front.
2.40 Ascot – Schweppes Handicap (Class 2, £80,000, 7f, Soft)
Race Shape & Conditions:
Strong pace likely – several habitual front-runners (Nostrum, Great Acclaim, Darkness, Sword) mixed with prominent racers (Akkadian Thunder, Native Warrior). That setup should suit strong finishers drawn middle-to-high. On soft ground Ascot’s straight course often favours those ridden cold and delivered late.
Draw: Historically a slight bias middle-to-high on soft. Lows can be marooned if pace isn’t there.
Strongest Contenders
- Akkadian Thunder (97, Draw 7) – Progressive 5yo, excellent 2nd in Buckingham Palace, strong form ties at Ascot. Forgive last two runs where things didn’t pan out; well-handicapped if repeating Royal Ascot run.
- Native Warrior (95, Draw 4) P – 4yo on the up in visors, shaped unlucky at Goodwood. Third in Britannia last year, suited by big fields and cut. Still looks well treated and could have more in hand.
- Darkness (94, Draw 16) – Hit form again, won latest at Goodwood, loves soft and can sit off a hot pace. Draw looks perfect if they come middle-to-stands’ side.
- Telemark (95, Draw 5) p – Soft-ground record solid, 3yo still lightly raced. Easy Doncaster win last autumn marked him down as useful. If switching off early, can travel into it.
Main Dangers
- Great Acclaim (97, Draw 9) p – Revived with blinkers, placed last twice, 2 wins before that. Form franked and thriving. Might get caught in pace war but has claims.
- Bobby Bennu (96, Draw 3) P – Lightly raced for age, shaped well at Haydock, Varian yard 94% rtf. Strong candidate to improve further at this level.
- Sterling Knight (91, Draw 11) – Super consistent, handles soft, 11-time winner. Needs things to fall right but rarely runs a bad race.
Interesting Outsiders
- Thunder Roar (94, Draw 1) – Ascot placed in big fields, acts on testing ground, ignored in market often but hits frame.
- Eldrickjones (91, Draw 17) – Admirable type, solid York/Thirsk form this season, well drawn if track plays middle-high. Could sneak into the places.
- Sword (86, Draw 10) – Quirky but talented, big run at Ascot two back. Needs cover and luck but not without ability.
Runner Scores (suitability /10)
- Nostrum – 5/10 (class drop but regressive, awkward, risky in handicap battle)
- Rhoscolyn – 7/10 (Goodwood warrior, Ascot less reliable, soft helps though)
- Array – 6/10 (Group-class 2yo, but regressive, hasn’t fired since)
- Akkadian Thunder – 9/10 (proven at Ascot, progressive profile)
- Great Acclaim – 8/10 (thriving in blinkers, danger if settling)
- Tarkhan – 6/10 (German import, soft okay, inconsistent, stamina edge)
- Bobby Bennu – 8/10 (lightly raced improver, could step forward)
- Native Warrior – 9/10 P (progressive, still scope, big-field suited)
- Telemark – 8/10 p (soft key, can bounce back, interesting)
- Darkness – 8/10 (revived, good win last time, strong pace angle)
- Thunder Roar – 7/10 (acts in the mud, place chance from low)
- Eldrickjones – 7/10 (reliable, strong-field form, drawn well)
- Leadman – 6/10 (consistent but little in hand, wide draw tough)
- Mirabeau – 5/10 (3yo, better over further, soft helps, maybe outpaced)
- Sterling Knight – 7/10 (admirable, stays further, place chance)
- Strong Warrior – 6/10 (3yo sprinter on the up, but soft 7f a stretch)
- Afentiko – 7/10 (3yo with scope, effective soft, unexposed)
- King’s Lynn – 6/10 (revived veteran, but wins rare, better at Haydock/Donny)
- Sword – 7/10 (quirky, but ability, Ascot run encouraging)
- Mister Bluebird – 7/10 (tough, loves soft, running well, could sneak a place)
Private Tissue (my odds)
- Akkadian Thunder 5/1
- Native Warrior 6/1
- Darkness 8/1
- Bobby Bennu 8/1
- Great Acclaim 10/1
- Telemark 10/1
- Sterling Knight 12/1
- Rhoscolyn 14/1
- Eldrickjones 16/1
- Mister Bluebird 16/1
- Thunder Roar 18/1
- Afentiko 20/1
- Sword 25/1
- King’s Lynn 25/1
- Others 33/1+
Summary & Smart Play generated by ChatGPT
Wide-open £80k handicap, strong pace guaranteed. Classy but fragile Nostrum looks a risk, whereas the race sets up beautifully for proven soft-ground closers. Akkadian Thunder has already proven himself at Ascot and still has more in the locker. Native Warrior is a progressive 4yo with untapped upside in big handicaps, while Darkness is resurgent and well drawn. Bobby Bennu and Telemark are the interesting lightly raced types.
Top win bet: Akkadian Thunder – strong Ascot form, peak RPR 109, still well in off 97.
Each-way saver: Native Warrior – improving with visor, big-field C&D profile, scope for higher rating.
Market watch advised – especially for Bobby Bennu (lightly raced, Varian runner).
3.00 HAYDOCK – BETFAIR EXCHANGE OLD BOROUGH CUP HANDICAP (CLASS 2, 1m6f, GOOD, £100,000)
Pace/Dynamics:
Plenty of solid stayers but not many confirmed trailblazers. Likely a steady-to-even gallop with Torcello the most natural pace angle (though vulnerable at this level/age). Could turn tactical before a long-stretch battle. Inside/mid draws usually fine over this trip at Haydock, with hold-up horses needing luck if it doesn’t collapse late.
STRONGEST CONTENDERS
- Caballo De Mar (P) – Massively progressive through the spring, winning 6 of last 8 and proven at 1m6f+ on both AW and turf. Went close in Chester Cup and Ascot Copper Horse; still unexposed and handles different paces. Big player if not handicapped out of it.
- Stressfree (p) – Consistent this season, career-best when 4th in the Ebor trial at York. Stays this trip and acts on good ground. Has been competitive at Haydock and O’Meara yard won this last year.
- Paddy The Squire (P) – Thriving this summer, three wins since May, latest a dominant 1m4f Hamilton success. Up in grade but unexposed over this trip, profile suggests more to come.
- Master Builder (P) – Lightly raced stayer for Menuisier, already has a Haydock entry noted by the stable. Solid York/Ascot handicap form, still on the upgrade. Buick booked adds strength.
- The Reverend (P) – Lightly raced Haggas 4yo, impressive Ripon winner over 12f on soft. Pedigree gives stamina doubts at 1m6f, but unexposed and trainer/jockey combo must be respected.
MAIN DANGERS
- Dancing In Paris (p) – Consistent this season, stays 2m, 4th in the Ebor trial. Needs things to fall right but genuine stayer with a turn of foot.
- Oneforthegutter – Back to winning ways at Newmarket in July; 2nd in this last year. Strike-rate a concern but has solid form at this level.
- Contacto (P) – Lightly raced Balding stayer, form steadily improving, best efforts on soft ground. Strong staying pedigree, could take another step forward now at 1m6f.
OUTSIDER/NOTEBOOK INTEREST
- Adjuvant – Well handicapped on old form, capable but inconsistent. If returning to peak, could easily outrun odds.
- In The Breeze – Often competitive in Class 3s, career-best figures at Haydock, but this level stretches him.
RUNNER SCORES (suitability today, /10)
- Caballo De Mar: 9/10 – progressive, trip ideal, strong claims.
- Stressfree: 8/10 – reliable, suited by setup, place player.
- Paddy The Squire: 8/10 – thriving, unexposed, still improving.
- Master Builder: 8/10 – progressive type, Buick up, good fit.
- The Reverend: 7/10 – class act in making, but stamina to prove.
- Dancing In Paris: 7/10 – solid, stays, but reliant on pace collapse.
- Oneforthegutter: 7/10 – proven at level, but win record thin.
- Contacto: 7/10 – lightly raced improver, but inexperienced vs hardened stayers.
- Adjuvant: 6/10 – well handicapped if bouncing back.
- Tashkhan: 6/10 – class stayer, but wants softer.
- Loughville: 6/10 – in-form mare, but career-high mark.
- Align The Stars: 5/10 – inconsistent, trip questions.
- Dramatic Star: 5/10 – potential improver, but raw at this level.
- Imperial Sovereign: 5/10 – talented but quirky, better at shorter.
- In The Breeze: 4/10 – admirable, but lacks class edge.
- Torcello: 3/10 – front-running veteran, outclassed now.
PRIVATE TISSUE (fair odds estimate)
- Caballo De Mar 7/2
- Paddy The Squire 6/1
- Master Builder 7/1
- Stressfree 8/1
- Dancing In Paris 10/1
- The Reverend 10/1
- Oneforthegutter 12/1
- Contacto 12/1
- Adjuvant 16/1
- Tashkhan 20/1
- Others 25/1+
SUMMARY
A progressive handicap stayer’s race. Established older handicappers like Stressfree and Oneforthegutter bring solid form, but the progressive types Caballo De Mar, Paddy The Squire, and Master Builder look set to dominate. The Reverend is classy but stamina is a real question at 1m6f. Pace should be honest enough but not overly strong, suiting those with tactical speed.
Smart Play generated by ChatGPT
- Top Win Bet: Caballo De Mar – rock-solid progressive stayer, versatile, and still improving.
- Each-way Saver: Paddy The Squire – thriving this season, unexposed at trip, likely to run big.
3.15 Ascot – Silent Pool Gin Heritage Handicap (Class 2, 3yo) 1m3f211y – Going: SOFT
Pace: Even-to-solid (handful of pressers); Draw: Low numbers 1–3 a slight plus if they can hold a position on soft.
Pace & Draw Angles
- Likely pace/press: Topteam (2), Daiquiri Bay (3), Rogue Millions (4)
- Stalkers/mid: Push The Limit (5)p, Tenability (7)p
- Held up: Nightwalker (1)P, Too Soon (6)
Inside draws look handy on soft if you can sit handy; wide-mid (7) may have to work early if they want position.
Strongest Contenders, Dangers & Outsiders
(Progress tags: p = progressive, P = promising/unexposed)
Strongest
- Push The Limit (OR 98, Dr 5) – p (RPR peak 114)
Proper 12f handicap credentials and already proven with cut; moved forward again on h’cap debut to a 114. Le Havre line a positive for soft/stamina. Handy-run style fits an even pace. - Tenability (OR 92, Dr 7) – p (RPR peak 114)
Rapid improver and well-in at the weights. Won over 12f off a strong figure even after over-racing. Soft is an unknown but Frankel/Pivotal cross often copes. Perfect profile if he settles and gets across.
Main dangers
- Daiquiri Bay (OR 95, Dr 3) – p (RPR peak 113)
Big-field 12–14f figures stack up (York 113). Stamina a strong suit (dam stayed 2m) and soft should be within range. Low draw/right trip—solid danger. - Nightwalker (OR 103, Dr 1) – P (RPR peak 109)
Class dropper from Group company with a 3lb claim (9-6). Inside draw ideal if breaking clean. Top weight on soft is the test; galloping track preferred per notes, but talent is obvious.
Interesting outsiders
- Topteam (OR 89, Dr 2) – p (RPR peak 113)
Tough, improving handicapper who likes a fight; can control/track from low. Soft is a question (Oasis Dream) but attitude/stamina hints he’ll cope. Can nick a place if it turns tactical. - Rogue Millions (OR 96, Dr 4) – P (RPR peak 113)
Handles ease and has been brought along steadily. Listed level found him out; this looks more suitable. Trip/stamina still to be fully proven—place claims if he stays. - Too Soon (OR 95, Dr 6) – (RPR peak 113)
Ability not in doubt but tendency to pull is costly; blinkers + soft + 12f is a stamina/tempo risk. Needs the perfect tow and to relax.
Runner Scores /10 (suitability today)
- Push The Limit – 8.5/10 (p): Proven 12f/soft-ish profile; strong numbers; handy run likely.
- Tenability – 8/10 (p): Hot, well weighted; soft/draw minor negatives but upside big.
- Daiquiri Bay – 7.5/10 (p): Stayer with low draw; recent figures strong; soft fine.
- Nightwalker – 7/10 (P): Class angle; weight/ground the questions; rail draw helps.
- Topteam – 7/10 (p): Pace-positive with light weight; soft the unknown.
- Rogue Millions – 6.5/10 (P): Ground OK; stamina to prove at end of 12f on soft.
- Too Soon – 5.5/10: Talented but big settling/stamina risks.
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.
Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.
Private Tissue (100% book)
- Push The Limit 11/4 (26%)
- Tenability 3/1 (25%)
- Daiquiri Bay 11/2 (16%)
- Nightwalker 6/1 (14%)
- Topteam 8/1 (10%)
- Rogue Millions 14/1 (6%)
- Too Soon 25/1 (3%)
Red/Blue Team View
Can win today: Push The Limit, Tenability, Daiquiri Bay, Nightwalker
Place/pace nuisances: Topteam, Rogue Millions
Needs plenty to drop right: Too Soon
Summary & Smart Play (Pro Punter View)
Soft-ground 12f where stamina and position trump flash. Push The Limit brings the most straightforward 12f-handicap-on-ease profile with a peak 114 already; Tenability is the dangerous improver on a light weight if he handles soft from a slightly awkward draw. Daiquiri Bay is the grinder who keeps finding and is ideally berthed; Nightwalker is the classy dropper but must defy weight in the mud.
Smart Play generated by Chatgpt
- Top win bet: Push The Limit (hard 12f handicap evidence + soft suitability + peak figure)
- Saver: Tenability (well treated, thriving; soft is the only real query)
Shortlist order: Push The Limit > Tenability > Daiquiri Bay > Nightwalker.
3.35 Haydock – Betfair Sprint Cup (Group 1, 6f, Good)
A typically deep renewal with a mix of proven Group 1 campaigners and emerging 3yo talent. Draw spread across, pace looks likely to be strong with Diligent Harry, Lazzat, Big Mojo and possibly James’s Delight going forward. That should set it up for one who can stalk or finish late. Low-to-middle draws usually favoured here, but with good pace angles high, the bias may even out.
Strongest Contenders
- Lazzat (Proven, p) – Top-rated (134), Ascot Jubilee winner, versatile ground-wise, blistering cruising speed. Might face pressure on the lead but class act.
- Inisherin (Progressive, P) – Commonwealth Cup hero, top 6f domestic 3yo. Slightly in-and-out but Haydock win earlier this season (Sandy Lane) suggests track no issue. Big player if bouncing back.
- Kind Of Blue (Promising, P) – Wathnan recruit, Champions Sprint winner, shaped as if coming to the boil at Curragh. Fanshawe knows how to peak one here. Still untapped ceiling.
- Big Mojo (Progressive, P) – July Cup runner-up and close 2nd in July Cup, improving 3yo who has mixed 5/6f. Genuine and still on the rise. Buick a notable booking.
- Flora Of Bermuda (Progressive, p) – Strong form against colts, unlucky at times. Goes well at Haydock and has a potent late kick. Danger if gaps appear.
- Sayidah Dariyan (Promising, P) – Beat Nighteyes in York G3, excellent Commonwealth Cup run. Still lightly raced and improving. Needs another step but not out of it.
Main Dangers
- Diligent Harry (Proven) – Admirable 7yo, AW star, turf still his weaker sphere but comes here fit, consistent, and can make life hard for others by dictating.
- Beauvatier (Promising, P) – Classy French sprinter, G3 winner this summer, often runs big races without winning. Wouldn’t shock if he grabbed a place.
- No Half Measures (Progressive, p) – Shock July Cup winner but progressive filly, loves 6f, thriving. Can be competitive again if pace collapses.
- Run To Freedom (Proven) – Old-timer who loves Haydock, twice placed in this. Needs everything to fall right but cannot be dismissed for a minor medal.
Interesting Outsiders
- My Mate Alfie (p) – Consistent Irish sprinter, best on easier ground, keeps running big figures. Could sneak into frame if race falls apart late.
- Ain’t Nobody (P) – Massive York Nunthorpe 2nd at 100/1 in cheekpieces. Back up to 6f is the question, but if progressing again, not impossible.
- Sky Majesty (P) – Haggas filly on the up, Group 2/3 level form, but still unproven against elite older sprinters.
Runner Scores
- Lazzat – 9.5/10: Peak form, dual G1 winner, hard to oppose.
- Inisherin – 9/10: If back to Commonwealth Cup level, huge chance.
- Kind Of Blue – 8.5/10: Still improving, right yard, right race.
- Big Mojo – 8.5/10: Progressive 3yo, Buick boost, live danger.
- Flora Of Bermuda – 8/10: Unlucky type, dangerous if race collapses.
- Sayidah Dariyan – 7.5/10: On the up, still unexposed.
- No Half Measures – 7.5/10: July Cup winner, needs repeat.
- Diligent Harry – 7/10: Reliable, but AW better than turf.
- Run To Freedom – 6.5/10: Place chance, old warrior.
- James’s Delight – 6.5/10: Smart soft-ground horse, today’s conditions not ideal.
- My Mate Alfie – 6/10: Consistent, more likely place than win.
- Ain’t Nobody – 6/10: Big York run, stamina for 6f still a doubt.
- Beauvatier – 6/10: Classy, but not winning often enough.
- Nighteyes – 5.5/10: Progressive but a notch below.
- Rage Of Bamby – 5/10: Good mare, but form up and down.
- Celandine – 5/10: Useful filly, but this a big step.
- Annaf – 4.5/10: Admirable, but unlikely back to G1 level.
- Sky Majesty – 4.5/10: Useful filly, not ready for this yet.
Private Tissue (approximate odds)
- Lazzat 5/2
- Inisherin 7/2
- Kind Of Blue 6/1
- Big Mojo 7/1
- Flora Of Bermuda 8/1
- Sayidah Dariyan 12/1
- No Half Measures 12/1
- Diligent Harry 14/1
- Run To Freedom 20/1
- Others 25/1+
Summary
A deep Sprint Cup with a strong pace almost guaranteed. The safest class edge lies with Lazzat, but he may be vulnerable late if pressured. Inisherin has the strongest 3yo claims, while Kind Of Blue and Big Mojo look dangerous improvers. Fillies Flora Of Bermuda and Sayidah Dariyan add intrigue with scope for big runs.
Smart Play generated by ChatGPT
- Win bet: Inisherin – proven G1 6f form, Haydock winner, set up to bounce back.
- Each-way saver: Kind Of Blue – still improving, right trainer, strong finishing style if pace collapses.
Market watch essential for lightly raced improvers (Sayidah Dariyan, Big Mojo) and older warriors (Run To Freedom, Diligent Harry) who could still play a role.
TimeWise Chronicles 
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