I’ll post a few notes about tomorrow’s racing now as I have a busy day tomorrow riding on Thomas the Tank Engine around the Watercress line. I may even take the kids with me.
At this time of year, and with little evidence to go on, I tend to concentrate on looking for 4yos with a progressive profile. There are a few going at Doncaster, although sadly I’ve found myself mostly going for favourites. They’re all good if they win though.
2:50 – the first name I look for at this meeting is Barry Hills, as he always seems to have one or two lined up early. Zaahid looks the right type – straightforward looking horse who can win well on his day, a high win rate, will appreciate the cut and from a stallion whose progeny may mature late. Well backed for the Lincoln but didn’t get in. May not be the strongest race.
3.25 – Looks a good renewal and a number I like. Both Wi Dud and Prime Defender will go well here and I’d have assumed I’d be going for one of them, but I just can’t get away from Utmost Respect. This cheap purchase was slow to come to hand at 2 and has looked a little backward at 3, but has scored well nonetheless – he has talent and has the scope to be progressing faster than his more mature rivals in this race. Distance and going will surely suit.
4:00 – the Lincoln, and absolute standout for me is Yeaman’s Hall. A late developer as a 2yo (and a late foal) he should still be maturing, and hasn’t run since July. His canny trainer has always liked him. If he is on a progressive path then the 259 days since his last run should allow him to put distance between himself and his handicap mark, which is low in any case. Soft ground good, William Buick taking off 3lb also good, won first time up last season. Significantly he has been gelded since his last run, which he may have needed and which may bring him on further. Every important box ticked and a strong betting proposition at 9.4 IMO.