Race Preview: 4:55 Yarmouth Handicap

This is a very competitive Class 5 handicap over a mile and a quarter, with a large field of 14 runners set to face the starter. The going is Good to Soft, which will place an emphasis on stamina. With a mix of unexposed three-year-olds and more seasoned older horses, finding the winner will require a close look at the form.

(Please note: Ghost Story is a non-runner)

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Analysis of the Main Contenders

• Shipshape (4/1): Hailing from the powerful Ralph Beckett stable, this three-year-old looks to have a standout chance. After a long break and a gelding operation, he made a very promising handicap debut at Redcar 17 days ago, finishing fourth but beaten less than two lengths on similar ground. He is entitled to improve significantly for that run and races off a 1lb lower mark today. He looks primed to strike.
• Twilight Moon (17/2): A wonderfully consistent and tough filly. She has been in excellent form all season, winning twice over further and running a cracker to finish second in a big field at Bath last time out. She has proven form on soft ground and, although this trip might be the sharpest she wants, the testing ground will play to her stamina. She is a rock-solid contender.
• Hinchinbrooke (9/2): This colt is still a maiden but has some strong form to his name, having placed in good maidens earlier in the season. He bounced back from a couple of lesser efforts with a solid fourth at Kempton last time in a race that is already working out well. If he can transfer that encouraging all-weather form back to turf, he is a major player.
• Saliko (22/1): It could be a mistake to dismiss this filly based on her last run on the all-weather. Prior to that, her turf form was excellent, winning back-to-back handicaps at Nottingham over this 1m 2f trip on good and good to soft ground. She returns to grass today off a mark just 3lb higher than her last win and could easily outrun her big odds.

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Verdict

This is a trappy contest, but the potential for significant improvement makes SHIPSHAPE the most appealing proposition. His comeback run was full of promise, he represents a top yard, and he looks to have been laid out for a race like this.

The ultra-consistent Twilight Moon is feared most; she’s tough and will relish the stamina test this race will present. For those looking for some each-way value, Hinchinbrooke showed a return to form last time and could get involved.

1. Shipshape
2. Twilight Moon
3. Hinchinbrooke