Date: Monday, 16th February 2026 | Time: 17:30
Track: Wolverhampton (Tapeta) | Distance: 7f (Class 6 Handicap)
We are early in the evening card at Dunstall Park for race two, a 7f handicap that looks solved by the data. In low-grade races like this, you want a horse that can secure track position and has a clear ratings advantage. We have exactly that in Bad Habits.
The Selection: BAD HABITS (IRE)
Trainer: Ruth Carr
Jockey: Miss Taryn Langley (5)
The HorseRaceBase ratings for this contest are glaring. Bad Habits sits on a total of 233.8, rating him 18lbs superior to the field average. That is a massive statistical edge in a Class 6 handicap.
He is a Course & Distance winner who arrives in peak form, having finished a narrow second here just 10 days ago. He led that day and was only headed in the final strides. With Timeform predicting a “weak/steady” pace, he has the tactical speed from Stall 7 to get to the front or sit second on the shoulder of Faster Bee. If he dictates the fractions, he won’t be caught.
The Danger: OLDBURY LAD (IRE)
Trainer: Miss G Harris
Jockey: Thomas Greatrex
The main threat is the horse drawn in the hotspot—Stall 2. Oldbury Lad won over this track and trip in the same race meeting as the selection (10 days ago). He doesn’t have the raw ratings ceiling of Bad Habits, but his map is perfect. He will sit on the rail, do zero work, and try to pounce if the leaders tire. A solid option for the forecast.
The Dark Horse: NAMMOS
Trainer: James Owen
Jockey: Ashley Lewis (5)
Watch the market on this one. Nammos makes her second start for James Owen, a trainer with a 21% strike rate with stable switchers at this track. She had a quiet run at Southwell five days ago, but today the first-time visor goes on. The quick backup plus headgear signals intent. If the front two cut each other’s throats, she is the one to pick up the pieces.
The Verdict
The data points one way. Bad Habits has the form, the rating, and the pace map to control this race from the outset.
Win: BAD HABITS (IRE)
Forecast: Bad Habits to beat Oldbury Lad
Next Best: Nammos (Keep safe if strong in the market)