18th September 2012

A disappointing day yesterday saw 2 horses come close but not close enough as form figures finished 2, 2, 3; although that doesn't tell the whole story as the third horse was last in a 3 horse race. Sweet My Lord didn't appear to be travelling well at all, Bispham Green was slow to get away and gave the eventual winner too much space and Tropical Three ran well on debut and looks one to potentially follow, we will see what impact that first run has in the future. On to today's racing and two races in particular stand out.

16.00 Yarmouth

This 5 runner 6 furlong conditions stakes really has some flair about it and on ratings and class shown so far this season can be narrowed down to Lui Rei, Sirius Prospect and ARTISTIC JEWEL. The former has had a mixed season including a win at Epsom of top weight and a good third in the Steward's Cup, but has also had some pretty ordinary runs. His 5 pound claimer certainly helps to throw him into the mix, but he faces two Listed class winners who should have enough to see him off today. That being said, Sirius Prospect's season hasn't shown much, as highlighted by his shocking last run at Ascot. Every horse is entitled to a bad run and to bounce back, but this isn't just a one off with Sirius Prospect. Admittedly his 2 and a quarter length 7th to Black Caviar stands out on the form sheet, but of those to race since then, only Moonlight Cloud and Society Rock have shown good form, and they definitely rate far higher than Sirius Prospect. As a result preference is for Artistic Jewel, who conversely has had a decent season, culminating in a very good third to Mince last time out. She will appreciate the fast ground, and although conceding weight to the gelding, can carry on her good form. 9/4

17.00 Yarmouth

WILLIE WAG TAIL has been frustratingly unlucky in his past two runs and this smaller field race should ensure that he faces no problems in running like last time. His official rating has risen with decent runs, but not enough to suggest he cannot defy this mark. That form should ensure he holds Expert Fighter, even with the swing in the weights. Fleeting Image will find it much harder to get past Maria's Choice today, but both will need to improve significantly if they are going to get past the favourite. 6/5

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer