A competitive Class 6 handicap over 1m2f at Brighton provides an intriguing betting puzzle, but recent winner Super Hit sets the standard and looks capable of following up his impressive success at Epsom last week.

The James Owen-trained five-year-old returned to form in style when landing an apprentice handicap over a similar trip on good ground. Crucially, he escapes a handicap rise because that contest was restricted to apprentices, meaning he competes from the same mark here. With his stable continuing to operate at an excellent strike-rate and conditions once again in his favour, Super Hit has obvious claims of completing a quick double.

The biggest threat could come from veteran campaigner Annexation, who arrives in excellent heart despite being winless this season. The ten-year-old produced one of his best efforts of the year when finishing second over this course and distance just seven days ago. Now 8lb lower than when scoring twice last autumn, he appears well treated and another bold showing looks likely.

Bownder is another with solid credentials. The four-year-old has been running consistently without getting his head in front and was a respectable third at Lingfield on his latest start. While he may ideally prefer slightly easier ground, his recent form suggests he should once again be competitive.

The inconsistent Boubyan is harder to assess. Both of his career victories have come from higher handicap marks than today’s rating, which indicates he is potentially well handicapped. If reproducing the form of his Pontefract second or Newcastle victory earlier in the year, he would have a realistic chance of making the frame.

Gone Rogue has shown flashes of ability and proved the trip is within range when runner-up at Windsor in May. However, two subsequent runs have failed to build on that effort, and he needs to rediscover his best form to challenge the principals.

Pershalla has struggled since breaking her maiden at Kempton in April and now drops back in distance after two disappointing handicap performances. A revival is not impossible, but recent evidence suggests she has something to prove.

Course-and-distance winner Voix De Bocelli completes the field but arrives out of form and will need a significant turnaround to feature.

Race Verdict

Super Hit brings the strongest recent form into the race and remains attractively treated despite his latest success. Annexation’s course form and favourable handicap mark make him the main danger, while Bownder and Boubyan appeal as the leading each-way contenders.

Predicted 1-2-3

1. Super Hit
2. Annexation
3. Bownder

Best Bet

Super Hit – expected to follow up his Epsom victory.

Value Bet

Annexation – handicapped to be very competitive and likely to run another big race at Brighton.