Beverley 5:05 Result

Top-rated at 68 and carrying top weight for good reason - recent form reads -55312, showing improvement with a placed effort last time out (3rd) after a couple of wins buried in that sequence. The gelding is clearly going the right way and the step up to 2m on Heavy ground shouldn't be an issue given the demanding stamina test this trip/going combination presents, which should suit a battle-hardened stayer. Jardine's yard is competent with these lower-grade handicappers, and Jack Nicholls takes over the ride. Main dangers are Marbuzet, who has useful recent form (24-509) and a big drop in class/weight advantage with a 5lb claimer, and Time Turner who is progressive for Bethell's yard but stepping up in trip slightly. Pfingstberg and Punxsutawney Phil both carry big question marks after lengthy absences (696 and 527 days respectively) - hard to trust fitness. Shopaholic and Spooky Wooky are workmanlike but look to be a tier below on assessed ability. Jedhi Knight is the least exposed on official rating and has been running consistently, but lack of class edge at the bottom of the weights makes him vulnerable in this stronger race. Elemental Eye's rating and recent placed effort just edges it as the most solid, proven contender for this specific test, and looks the value versus the market picture where Marbuzet may be sent off favourite on recency of runs.