7:15 Ripon Tips

Modern Times looks to have solid claims here, particularly with his recent runs suggesting he’s not far off a winning mark. His seasonal return at Ripon Racecourse can be upgraded. Finishing 5th, beaten just 2L off 75, he never really got a clear run and shaped better than the bare result. He built on that next time at Pontefract Racecourse, finishing 3rd behind the now 90-rated Veblen Good ??' a solid piece of form. He’s already a course-and-distance winner at Ripon, having landed a maiden over 6f in June 2025, which is a big positive. Looking further back, his 2nd at Thirsk Racecourse behind Smart Vision (now 87-rated) and his close 4th at York Racecourse in a strong Class 3 both suggest he has the ability to be competitive off his current mark. Now eased 1 lb to 74 and with a decent draw, he looks well positioned. If getting a clearer run this time, Modern Times has the form and profile to be right in the mix.

Winner on return at Southwell after seven months away. Musical Touch goes back on turf in a grade on a mark that gives a live chance.

First Folio runs well on straight tracks and has been a stalwart when racing at Ripon. If able to go again, it should run well here.

Winner at Beverley last autumn who has mostly struggled since but took a step forward from reappearance when midfield over course and distance last month. Has slipped to just 1 lb above that last winning mark now, so it would be no surprise to see him run well.

Charlie Mason had been running consistently well until a rare below-form effort at Doncaster in March. It might be worth chancing a bounce back with a good seven-pound claimer now taking the ride. Each-way chance.

Grant Wood, 7-year-old grey gelding. A bit below form at the all-weather track at Newcastle, but that was a higher-grade race than today. Reunited with David Nolan, he looks a good each-way bet at around 9/1.

4th over 7 furlongs at Thirsk last month and will come on for that run following a 5-month absence. The drop in trip will suit, too.

The Dods yard have actually started pretty well compared to last season, and Novamay was a bit of a standard-bearer for them last year. Available at big odds, but I think worth an each-way go, all things considered.

Getting on in years and shown nothing last two runs. Hope is the form they gave shown at this track and race in particular. This race is surely the main target again. At the price and with four places, worth a look.