the prophet

The 4yo is still a maiden after eight runs, but he has posted five 81+ RPR ratings in defeat. His new low handicap mark of 75 is attractive. He was a good runner-up in a novice stakes two starts back, making the winner work for the win, and that one was given a 90 rating. No rival is rated above 74 in this handicap. He’s had a nice four-month break and is making his debut for a new trainer, who has good stats and whose horses are running well.

The 8-year-old, rated much higher in the past, was a little below par in the last six months, but he did run well over this 7f C/D during December. His new low rating allows him to run in this weak-looking, low-grade 0-50 classified stakes. He has been ridden by some very inexperienced jockeys in his last six races and is in much better hands now.

The 3yo was beaten by just a neck at this track on his debut six weeks ago. Good RPR rating. The runner-up won next time out, and the winner has run well since under a penalty. Improvement likely, and he’s had a nice six-week break. This novice stakes looks weak.

The 6-year-old should be able to make his presence felt off his new low rating. He was rated 13 lb higher last May. He was unlucky earlier in the month when finishing fourth at this track. He travelled strongly and made smooth progress from off the pace but got short of room a furlong out. This handicap is not as strong, and he’s worth another chance.

Just two runs since last spring for the 8yo, and the trainer has given him time to freshen up. He has nine career wins and is a previous C/D winner. Back from a three-month break with a nice run at the end of last month at Wolverhampton. He was a good third that day, staying on well from the rear. That run should set him up nicely for this handicap. He is on a very handy mark now, and this small field should suit him.

Two recent runs at this track from the 4yo filly, not beaten far both times, after coming off an eight-month break. Her fitness should be spot on now. On a very handy mark in this low-grade 0??"55 rated handicap.