Race Preview: 4:53 Worcester

This is the second division of the 2m4f Class 5 handicap hurdle. It’s a tricky puzzle for punters, featuring a recent impressive winner taking on a host of unexposed horses who could be completely transformed by the switch to handicap company and a step up in trip.

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The One to Beat

• Pertemps Diamond: It’s very hard to look past the claims of this 6-year-old, who is the deserved favourite. After a long break, he showed the benefit of his first run for the in-form Olly Murphy stable by storming to victory on his handicap debut at Fontwell in August. He won with a bit in hand that day, and an 8lb rise from the handicapper might not be enough to stop his progress. With champion jockey Sean Bowen taking the ride, he sets a very clear standard and is the most likely winner.

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The ‘Could Be Anything’ Brigade

This race features two fascinating handicap debutants from top stables who could be completely different propositions now faced with a suitable test.

• Harry Junior: Perhaps the most intriguing runner in the field. He has shown very little in three runs over shorter trips, but he now makes his handicap debut for the powerful David Pipe yard off a very low mark of 81. Crucially, he is a half-brother to a useful 3-mile hurdler, so this step up to 2m4f is almost certain to bring about significant improvement. With a first-time tongue-tie also applied, he could be a totally different horse. Keep a very close eye on the market.
• Dearkeithandkaty: Much like Harry Junior, this 4-year-old from the Jonjo O’Neill stable has shown little so far but has a pedigree that suggests this longer trip is exactly what he needs. He is another who could take a massive step forward.

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Solid Each-Way Choices

• My Cullen: He proved he could be very competitive off this sort of rating when running a cracker to be second on his handicap debut at Fontwell in April. He’s lightly raced and gives the impression this step up in trip will suit him well. He looks a solid contender to be in the frame.
• Icaque de L’Isle: He won when last seen in February and has a good record when running after a break. While this trip might be a little shorter than his ideal, he has run well fresh for the last two seasons and can’t be dismissed.

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Verdict

This is a competitive handicap for the grade. The most solid option is PERTEMPS DIAMOND, who was impressive when winning on his handicap debut and remains unexposed for a top stable/jockey combination.

However, the potential for massive improvement from HARRY JUNIOR is hard to ignore. The step up in trip and switch to handicaps on a low mark is a recipe for success, and he rates as the biggest danger. My Cullen has the proven form to be there or thereabouts.

1. Pertemps Diamond
2. Harry Junior
3. My Cullen