Newton Abbot 5:30 Verdict

Reteti is top-rated on OR (105) and his recent form figures 5-2321 show a horse in good form, culminating in a win last time and consistent placings before that. He's fit having run 29 days ago, carries top weight deservedly, and the trend of improving finishing positions (3-2-1) points to a horse peaking at the right time. Son of Hypnos (102) and God of Fire (102) are the closest on ratings, but Son of Hypnos is a 9-year-old with a spottier profile (37-741) and needs to bounce off a big weight, while God of Fire's form figures (24/142) are more moderate with an inconsistent pattern including a break. Begin The Luck has a big level of absence (115 days) which is a concern returning fresh, and Clear Sky hasn't run in 180 days. Among the leading contenders, Reteti has the clearest recent upward trajectory in form, is race fit, and looks the most complete package for this trip and ground - his hurdles form suggests this 2m1f trip suits well based on his pattern of running. The headgear addition (hood) first time can often sharpen a improving type. I'll take him as the most solid, in-form, well-weighted selection. For each-way value, Raffles Nobu looks the type to go well without being the most fancied - consistent frame finishes (213535) at a workable mark (89), fit having run recently, and a trainer/jockey combo that can find some improvement. Not overly short in the market and has claims to hit the frame in a wide-open, competitive handicap.