Date: Saturday 7th February 2026
Race: 3.30 Lingfield – Daily Profit Boosts Handicap (Class 4)
Distance: 6f (Standard)
The Saturday card at Lingfield throws up a cracking little Class 4 sprint. We have a field of eight going to post over the six furlongs, and on paper, this looks like a tactical battle between the up-and-comers and the battle-hardened veterans.
The “Sharp Turn” at Lingfield is unforgiving, and with the inside stall positioning, early pace and track position will be 90% of the battle here.
The Contenders
1. Silky Wilkie (IRE) (5/2)
Trainer: K R Burke | Jockey: Mr Jack Nicholls (5)
Top weight for a reason. This 7yo gelding is the class act of the field (OR 82). He bounced back to winning ways last time out at Newcastle (Jan 20th), showing he retains plenty of ability.
The Key Stat: The 5lb claim from Jack Nicholls is massive here. It brings his riding weight down to 9-6, effectively putting him below his main market rival Lazzar (9-7). When the highest-rated horse is carrying less actual weight than his inferiors, you have to pay attention. He draws Stall 2, perfect for a stalking trip.
2. Lazzar (IRE) (9/2)
Trainer: Richard Hughes | Jockey: Finley Marsh
The progressive 4yo. He’s won 3 of his last 5 and was only beaten a whisker at Wolverhampton last month.
The Danger: He has drawn the coffin box—Stall 1. However, at Lingfield over 6f, Stall 1 is only a coffin if you miss the break. If Marsh pings the lids, he can rail and dictate. His 60% win rate on this surface suggests he loves the synthetic stuff.
6. Ziggys Condor (IRE) (100/30)
Trainer: R A Fahey | Jockey: Warren Fentiman (5)
Another last-time-out winner (Newcastle, Jan 24th). He likes to lead or sit handy, but Stall 8 is a serious headache. To get to the front, he’ll have to burn petrol crossing Lazzar and Silky Wilkie. If he gets trapped wide on the turn, his race is over.
5. Amazonian Dream (IRE) (10/1)
Trainer: B R Millman | Jockey: Lewis Edmunds
The “Dark Horse.” His run on Jan 20th was better than the bare result (3rd). The comments note he “rallied inside final furlong” and was running on well. If the leaders cut each other’s throats, he’s the one picking up the pieces late.
The Verdict
The race sets up as a tactical battle between Lazzar (Stall 1) trying to hold the rail and Silky Wilkie (Stall 2) sitting on his shoulder.
While Lazzar is progressive, Silky Wilkie is the superior animal on figures. The critical factor is Jack Nicholls’ 5lb claim. It effectively handicaps Silky Wilkie to run off a mark of 77 while officially rated 82. That is too much of an advantage to ignore for a horse that arrives in winning form.
Ziggys Condor will likely have to work too hard from the wide draw, and while Amazonian Dream offers each-way value, the winner should come from the inside.
I’m siding with class and the weights advantage.
Today’s Selection:
WIN: Silky Wilkie (IRE) @ 5/2
The 5lb claim is the differencemaker. Draws perfectly to stalk Lazzar and pounce in the straight.
Next Best: Lazzar (IRE) @ 9/2
Will likely lead, and if he gets a soft fraction, he’s the one to catch.
The “Value” Play: Amazonian Dream (IRE) @ 10/1
One for the forecast/tricast. Will be finishing fastest if the pace is hot.