An intriguing Class 5 handicap rounds off the card at Lingfield, with several lightly raced fillies taking on established handicappers over seven furlongs on good-to-firm ground.

The vote goes to Stormy Music, who makes her handicap debut after showing steady improvement in three novice starts. Andrew Balding’s three-year-old has seen her Racing Post Ratings rise with each outing and now steps into handicap company from what could prove a lenient opening mark. The booking of Oisin Murphy is another major positive, and with her pedigree suggesting there’s considerably more to come, she’s taken to improve past these more exposed rivals.

The chief danger is Hilltop, a reliable course-and-distance winner who arrives after an unlucky third over this track and trip in May. She has solid handicap form, handles conditions well and should once again give a good account, although her exposed profile leaves less room for improvement than the selection.

Mojito is difficult to dismiss despite a disappointing effort when favourite at Salisbury. She had looked progressive when winning on her handicap debut at Doncaster and a subsequent break suggests something may have been amiss. If returning to that earlier level, she has the ability to feature prominently.

Kaori appeals as another with place claims after bouncing back to form at Yarmouth last time. The return to seven furlongs could suit, while Sayidah Aleen is an interesting outsider. She shaped with promise in maidens over this course and distance before an underwhelming handicap debut over six furlongs, and the return to seven furlongs, combined with first-time tongue-tie alongside cheekpieces, could spark improvement.

The race doesn’t appear blessed with abundant early pace, suggesting a steadily run contest where tactical positioning will be important. Horses able to race prominently without doing too much early may hold a significant advantage.

Prediction

1. Stormy Music
2. Hilltop
3. Mojito
4. Kaori

Best Bet: Stormy Music
Value Alternative: Sayidah Aleen
Likely Pace: Steady to even, favouring those racing close to the leaders.