Date: Saturday, 7th February 2026
Track: Southwell (Tapeta)
Race: Midnite Are Upping The Betting Game Handicap (Class 5, 5f)
The nightcap at Southwell is a fascinating five-furlong sprint that, on paper, looks destined to be decided by the early sectional times. We have a field of nine, but the pace map is the critical angle here. When you have multiple horses who only know one way to run—flat out from the stalls—it usually pays to look for something sitting just in the pocket.
The Pace Scenario
Looking at the run comments and history, Birkenhead (4) and Street Life (7) are the designated rabbits. Run comments for Birkenhead include “made all” and “led”, while Street Life is noted for “soon led” and “set strong pace”. Add in the favourite, True Promise (1), who also likes to be prominent (“led”, “chased leader”), and we have a recipe for a cut-throat pace up front.
At Southwell, even on the Tapeta, if they go too hard too early, the finishers come into play inside the final furlong.
The Contenders
True Promise (6/4)
The market leader drops in trip from 6f. While he has been consistent (form figures 2223), he carries top weight (9-9) against race-fit rivals. The drop to the minimum trip is a query; if he can’t match the early speed of the dedicated 5f horses, he might find himself out of his comfort zone early. At 6/4, he offers very little value in a handicap this competitive.
Birkenhead (11/1)
The 9yo is in a rich vein of form with back-to-back seconds over this Course and Distance (C&D). He will blast from Stall 8. His danger is that he won’t get a solo lead with Street Life inside him. He’s brave, but he might just set the race up for others.
Popular Dream (7/1)
A C&D winner three starts back. He is a hold-up merchant (“held up in rear”, “headway over 1f out”). If the leaders capitulate, he is the one most likely to pick up the pieces late on. He’s a live danger, but he needs luck in running.
The Verdict: Ay Gee Ell (IRE)
The selection is AY GEE ELL.
Richard Fahey’s gelding ticks every box for this specific race setup.
Class Drop: He was last seen finishing a creditable 3rd (beaten only 1.1L) in a Class 4 over this C&D on 21st January. Dropping back to Class 5 today makes him effectively well-in.
Tactical Speed: Unlike the pure front-runners, his run comments show he “tracked leaders” and is “prominent” without needing to lead. From Stall 2, he can sit just off the pace war, save his energy, and pounce when the leaders tire.
Recent Form: His win here in December was dominant, and his speed figures stack up well against this field.
He has the class edge, the right draw, and the tactical versatility to handle however the pace unfolds.
Selection: Ay Gee Ell (Win)
Danger: Popular Dream (Each Way saver)