Beverley 2:20 Result

Top-rated at OR77, and his recent form figures 3-3731 show a horse in good, consistent shape with a recent win in there. Edward Bethell is a sharp, in-form trainer and Oisin Orr is a top-class jockey booking, suggesting stable confidence. He races off just 12 days since his last run, indicating he's fit and progressing rather than needing the run. He carries top weight but that reflects his superior ability in a fairly modest Class 5 field where the next best on official ratings (Mayaada 75, Northern Brave/Unchartedterritory 74) are all unproven at this longer 1m4f trip compared to his effective racing pattern. Valley Of Flowers and Clansman are more proven stayers but are both older, lower-rated and have had a breather since their last run (63 and 36 days), which could blunt sharpness on testing soft ground. Northern Brave and Unchartedterritory are interesting improving 3-year-olds but their profile suggests they are still working out this longer trip, and the barrier draws (5 and 2) are unremarkable. Prince Of Calypso's price should be short, but he looks the most solid, in-form and best-handicapped runner in the race, ticking boxes for trainer form, jockey booking and recent consistent placings/win. I'm happy to oppose more speculative types at bigger prices and back the horse with the strongestak claims on official figures and current form.