If you’re looking for Group 1 glamour, you’ve come to the wrong place. But if you want a proper Class 6 scrap on the Southwell Tapeta, the 6.30 Midnite Handicap (Div 2) is where the value hides. Eleven runners, 1m4f, and a surface that separates the specialists from the pretenders.
Here is the no-nonsense verdict on where your quid should go.
🏛️ The Reliable Yardstick: Duchess (No. 4)
John Berry’s mare is the “sensible” play. Her recent form is a model of consistency (1-2), and she arrived with a wet sail to win here in January before a narrow second at Kempton.
The Logic: She’s reliable, handles the surface, and Gina Mangan knows exactly when to press the button. She tops the power ratings for a reason.
🌪️ The Course King: Smokey Malone (No. 2)
Some horses just “get” Southwell, and Smokey Malone is one of them. With five course wins under his belt, he treats this track like his own back garden.
The Logic: He won readily over this distance just 16 days ago. While he’s up 3lb in the weights, he’s still well below his old peak marks. If they go a decent clip early, expect him to be the one finishing strongest of all.
🎯 The “Unlucky” Dark Horse: Karismatique (No. 11)
Keep a very close eye on the 4-year-old at the bottom of the weights. Two starts ago at Southwell, he was screaming for a gap that never came, eventually staying on for a massive eye-catching 3rd at 80/1.
The Logic: He’s 3lb better off with Duchess today and gets a handy weight allowance as a 4yo. If he gets a clear run this time, he’s a massive each-way threat.
🏁 The Verdict
In a race like this, I’m siding with the course specialist. Smokey Malone has a better strike rate at Southwell than some people have at the local pub. He’s fit, in form, and loves a battle.
Primary Pick: Smokey Malone (2)
The Danger: Duchess (4)
Each-Way Shrewdie: Karismatique (11)