4:33 Catterick Tips

Eagles Whistle looks a potential improver stepping up in trip, though stamina does remain a slight question mark. He was last seen finishing 2nd in a Class 5 handicap over 1M½F, beaten 1¼ lengths off 60, shaping better than the bare result. He was slowly away that day but stayed on well late, suggesting this longer distance could bring out further improvement. He has been in good form on the all-weather, winning three classified stakes races at a lower level in a short space of time, including over a similar intermediate trip. Those runs highlight his current well-being, even if they came in weaker company. He now steps up again in distance over 1M4F in a 0??'65 off 61, and there are reasons to think he could stay further, particularly given some stamina influence in his pedigree. While not guaranteed to see it out, his recent finishing effort offers encouragement. If he settles and breaks on terms, he could unlock further improvement and looks one to consider at this level.

Valid excuses when 7th of 10, beaten 34 lengths at Southwell over a mile and three quarters last month, having bled from the nose. Will strip fitter for that race, which was following an absence of 140 days, and will welcome the drop in trip. Seemed ready to run a decent race last time out despite the lengthy absence, being sent off second favourite.

Gastronomy returns from a 181-day break following wind surgery, and his record suggests he can go well fresh, having placed off similar layoffs on his last three returns. Stamina is his standout asset. He last won in 2024 over 1m6f in a Class 5 handicap off 66 and was also 3rd over the same trip last season, beaten just 1¾ lengths off 64. He also has a win over 1m4½f on the all-weather off 61, reinforcing his ability to stay well. His more recent all-weather form has been underwhelming, which likely explains the drop in the weights. Now down to a mark of 58, he looks well treated based on his past staying performances. The slight concern is whether this trip is on the sharp side, as he may ideally want further, but in a race lacking depth, his proven stamina could prove a major asset. If returning in similar form post-surgery, he is likely to be staying on strongly at the finish and could outrun his odds.