This Class 5 handicap hurdle over two miles doesn’t look a strong race on paper and the ratings largely confirm that. With an average mark of just 91, this is more about race position and finishing ability than outright class.
The Comment Shaper suggests there is no natural front runner in the field, but several horses that like to sit just behind the pace. That normally creates a slightly messy race where the tempo builds gradually rather than being strong from the start. In these situations the race often favours a mid-division runner who can finish strongly late on.
That brings the focus firmly onto Berry Edge.
He tops the HRB ratings by a clear margin with a total of 283.8, well ahead of the rest of the field, and he arrives here in form after winning 19 days ago. Just as importantly, he is a course and distance winner, which is always a positive around Wetherby where track experience can matter.
The Comment Shaper also flags him as the strongest late finisher in the race, something that could prove decisive given the expected race shape. His typical run style of sitting midfield before staying on strongly looks ideal if the pace lifts turning for home.
Ashdown Forest is another horse who finishes his races well and could be the one to chase the selection home if the race collapses late, while Ice Jet represents a respected yard and may have more improvement to come as a four-year-old.
However, both sit some way behind the selection on the HRB ratings and neither has quite the same level of finishing strength.
In a race lacking depth, Berry Edge looks the most solid option. The ratings, recent form and expected race shape all point in the same direction.
Selection: Berry Edge
Confidence: Medium
The favourite makes the most appeal, but it is still a low-grade handicap where surprises are never far away.