Wolverhampton Preview – 3rd February 2025
Wolverhampton Preview – 3rd February 2025 🏇 All-Weather Action Under the Lights! Welcome to Wolverhampton, where the Tapeta track sets the stage for an evening of thrilling flat racing. From promising debutants in the 16:27 Novice Stakes to seasoned handicappers battling it out over 2 miles in the 19:00, expect fierce finishes, bold front-runners, and late closers flying home. With top jockeys like Rossa Ryan, James Doyle, and David Probert in action, and trainers like Charlie Appleby and Sir Mark Prescott fielding key contenders, it’s a card packed with betting opportunities and potential upsets. Get ready for fast-paced drama under the floodlights!
A Very Coldjack
2/3/202515 min read
Note From Coldjack: I’ve been asked to share my screen and host the evening races from Wolverhampton via Facebook Messenger. I’m preparing for what always turns out to be a raucous night with hobbyists and racing enthusiasts getting royally pissed—and maybe even winning some money. It’s an experience I definitely don’t want to miss!
I’ll be demonstrating how I collect racing data and utilise the custom GPT Horse Racing Expert (HRC) alongside my Fairbot setup between races. This is an invitation-only event to showcase how I get things done.
🏇 Wolverhampton Predictions Review & Debrief – 3rd February 2025
Here’s an updated, accurate review of the race results, alongside the performance of both the Trixie Bet #1 (Win-Only) and Patent Bet #2 (Each-Way) selections. I’ve also included observations for Swinger and Tricast betting opportunities.
🎯 Trixie Bet #1: The Consistency Play (Win-Only Bet)
1️⃣ Arlecchino's Rex (17:00 Wolverhampton - 7f Handicap)
Prediction: Strong contender with proven C&D form and consistent recent performances.
Result: Unplaced (Not in Top 4) ❌
Analysis: Arlecchino’s Rex failed to feature prominently, as Blue Anthem claimed victory. Despite solid form, the horse underperformed, and the first-time hood may not have had the desired effect. A disappointing start for the Trixie.
2️⃣ Khutulun (17:30 Wolverhampton - 7f Handicap)
Prediction: Expected to bounce back with strong form at the distance.
Result: 4th (Unplaced) ❌
Analysis: Narrowly missed the placings, just outside the top 3. Ornately won with a well-timed run, while Khutulun’s effort lacked the finishing kick needed. A frustrating near-miss.
3️⃣ Payment Plan (19:00 Wolverhampton - 2m Handicap)
Prediction: Banker of the Trixie due to exceptional recent form.
Result: 2nd (Beaten by a Short Head) ❌
Analysis: Payment Plan fought hard but was beaten by Easter Icon after a steward’s inquiry confirmed the original result. A tough loss, as he looked the likely winner for much of the race.
💷 Trixie Bet #1 Verdict:
Outcome: 0/3 winners ❌
Returns: No payout as this was a win-only bet, requiring at least two winners.
Reflection: Despite logical selections based on form, none of the horses managed to win. Close finishes for Payment Plan and Khutulun added to the frustration.
🚀 Trixie Bet #2: The All-Ways Patent (Each-Way Bet)
1️⃣ Paratrooper (16:27 Wolverhampton - 1m1f Novice Stakes)
Prediction: Strong debut expected due to elite Frankel pedigree.
Result: 2nd ✅ (Each-way payout)
Analysis: A solid debut, finishing second behind the favourite Alpine Trail. The pedigree angle was spot on, providing a positive start for the Patent.
2️⃣ Lightningboltzoom (19:30 Wolverhampton - 1m4f Handicap)
Prediction: Lightly raced with potential for improvement.
Result: Unplaced (Not in Top 4) ❌
Analysis: Failed to meet expectations, finishing unplaced as High Court Judge dominated the race. Possibly didn’t handle the step up in trip as well as anticipated.
3️⃣ Wedgewood (18:30 Wolverhampton - 5f Handicap)
Prediction: Course specialist with strong C&D form, expected to run well fresh.
Result: Unplaced (Not in Top 4) ❌
Analysis: Didn’t feature prominently. The layoff may have left her needing the run, and she couldn’t match the pace of the front-runners.
💷 Patent Bet Verdict:
Outcome: 1 place (Paratrooper), 2 unplaced
Returns: Small return from Paratrooper’s place, but not enough to cover the full stake.
Reflection: The high-risk Patent produced a modest return thanks to Paratrooper, but the other selections failed to deliver.
📊 Race-by-Race Summary
Race 1 - 16:27 Wolverhampton (1m1f Novice Stakes)
Result: 1st Alpine Trail / 2nd Paratrooper ✅ (Patent place)
Review: Paratrooper performed as expected, securing a valuable place.
Race 2 - 17:00 Wolverhampton (7f Handicap)
Result: Unplaced for Arlecchino's Rex ❌
Review: Underwhelming run despite strong expectations.
Race 3 - 17:30 Wolverhampton (7f Handicap)
Result: 4th for Khutulun ❌
Review: Narrowly missing out on the places. Solid effort but not enough for the Trixie.
Race 4 - 18:00 Wolverhampton (1m4f Handicap)
Wildcard: Sydney Whistler (2nd) ✅
Review: Great run from the wildcard, proving the analysis was sharp.
Race 5 - 18:30 Wolverhampton (5f Handicap)
Result: Unplaced for Wedgewood ❌
Review: Failed to perform after a break. Course form didn’t carry over.
Race 6 - 19:00 Wolverhampton (2m Handicap)
Result: 2nd for Payment Plan ❌
Review: Tough loss, beaten by a short head. Couldn’t capitalise on strong form.
Race 7 - 19:30 Wolverhampton (1m4f Handicap)
Result: Unplaced for Lightningboltzoom ❌
Review: Disappointing. Didn’t show the expected progression.
🔀 Swinger and Tricast Observations
Best Swinger Opportunities:
Race 1: Alpine Trail & Paratrooper – Low odds but an easy Swinger win.
Race 4: Patrol & Sydney Whistler – Strong exacta and swinger combo, yielding solid returns.
Race 8 (20:00): Just Ten High & Southbank – Consistent performers, ideal Swinger bet.
Tricast Highlights:
Race 1: Alpine Trail / Paratrooper / Baikal – Paid £15.60, a straightforward Tricast with key contenders.
Race 5: Rosenpur / Gustav Graves / Nelson Gay – Paid £99.70, showing good value for small stakes.
Race 7: High Court Judge / Moon Over The Sea / Harlington – Paid £51.40, decent value with the favourite landing.
⭐ Overall Debrief & Final Thoughts
✅ Wins/Placers:
Paratrooper (Patent Place) ✅
Sydney Whistler (Wildcard, 2nd Place) ✅
Patrol (Winner in Main Card, Not in Bets) ✅
❌ Misses:
Arlecchino's Rex, Khutulun, Payment Plan, Wedgewood, Lightningboltzoom – All underperformed relative to expectations.
💷 Profit Analysis:
Trixie Bet #1 (Win-Only): ❌ No payout – No winners landed.
Patent Bet #2 (Each-Way): ✅ Small return thanks to Paratrooper’s place.
Swinger/Tricast: Profitable opportunities identified, especially in early races.
📢 Key Takeaways:
Win-only bets carry high risk; even strong form doesn’t guarantee victory.
Each-way bets (Patent) offer safety nets, as seen with Paratrooper.
Swinger bets were valuable in races with clear top contenders.
Tricasts provided strong returns in races with standout favourites.
Let me know if you'd like detailed bet calculations or further strategic insights.
Trixie Bet #1: The Consistency Play (Lower-Risk, High-Probability Selections)
🎯 Selections:
1️⃣ Arlecchino's Rex (17:00 Wolverhampton - 7f Handicap)
Key Factors: Proven C&D winner, strong recent form with an excellent second at Kempton, first-time hood could bring improvement, David Probert booked (positive jockey stat).
Recent Form: 1-2 (strong consistency).
Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆
2️⃣ Khutulun (17:30 Wolverhampton - 7f Handicap)
Key Factors: Proven course and distance form, strong second two starts back, the drop back to 7f is ideal, cheekpieces continue to improve focus.
Recent Form: 1-2-6 (reliable performer, excuses for the sixth over an unsuitable trip).
Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆
3️⃣ Payment Plan (19:00 Wolverhampton - 2m Handicap)
Key Factors: 3 wins from last 4 starts, thrives over this distance, handles Wolverhampton well, manageable 4 lb rise in weights.
Recent Form: 1-1-2-1 (outstanding consistency and progressive profile).
Confidence Rating: ★★★★★
💷 Bet Type: Trixie (4 Bets = 3 Doubles + 1 Treble)
Focus: Aim for at least two winners for a strong return.
Potential Returns: Strong if two land, excellent if all three deliver.
Trixie Bet #2: The All-Ways Patent (Higher-Risk, Higher-Reward Play)
🚀 Selections:
1️⃣ Paratrooper (16:27 Wolverhampton - 1m1f Novice Stakes)
Reasoning: Elite Frankel pedigree, half-brother to a 1,000 Guineas runner-up, trained by Karl Burke who excels with debutants. Market moves could be key.
Recent Form: Debutant (risk factor: lack of racecourse experience).
Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆
2️⃣ Lightningboltzoom (19:30 Wolverhampton - 1m4f Handicap)
Reasoning: Lightly raced and progressive, strong second last time, step up in trip likely to suit, potential for rapid improvement.
Recent Form: 2 (eye-catching last effort).
Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆
3️⃣ Wedgewood (18:30 Wolverhampton - 5f Handicap)
Reasoning: Three-time C&D winner, returns fresh which could be key, course specialist flying under the radar at potentially juicy odds.
Recent Form: Fresh from a break (adds uncertainty but good previous C&D form).
Confidence Rating: ★★☆☆☆
💷 Bet Type: Patent (7 Bets = 3 Singles + 3 Doubles + 1 Treble)
Focus: One winner can cover much of the stake, two winners bring profit, and all three winning would yield excellent returns.
Potential Returns: Higher variance but greater upside with value selections.
🚀 Summary:
Trixie #1 (Consistency Play):
Focused on solid, in-form horses with a high probability of success. Payment Plan is the banker, with Arlecchino's Rex and Khutulun offering excellent support.Trixie #2 (All-Ways Patent):
A higher-risk bet with horses that have strong potential but some question marks. Paratrooper has an elite pedigree, Lightningboltzoom is progressive, and Wedgewood is a course specialist who could bounce back big.
🏇 Race 1 - 16:27 Wolverhampton (1m1f Novice Stakes)
1️⃣ Alpine Trail
Trainer: Charlie Appleby | Jockey: James Doyle
Sire: Dubawi (IRE) | Dam: Pollara (IRE)
Key Form: Making his debut, this €550,000 yearling is a half-brother to French 2-y-o winner Palazzo. His dam was a classy 1½m winner, suggesting both quality and stamina.
Why: Appleby's stellar record with debutants, combined with the Dubawi pedigree, makes Alpine Trail an exciting prospect. The strong market support and top jockey booking of James Doyle further boost confidence for a winning start.
2️⃣ Paratrooper
Trainer: K. R. Burke | Jockey: C. Lee
Sire: Frankel | Dam: Pivotique
Key Form: Another debutant with an elite pedigree, being a half-brother to 1,000 Guineas runner-up Cloak of Spirits. His dam’s ties to Dubawi add depth to his credentials.
Why: Outstanding breeding and the Burke yard’s strong record with precocious types make Paratrooper a serious contender. Expect him to be competitive, especially if the race unfolds at a steady pace.
3️⃣ Baikal
Trainer: Sir Mark Prescott Bt | Jockey: L. Morris
Sire: More Than Ready (USA) | Dam: Orrery (USA)
Key Form: Placed third at Newcastle over a mile last time, having been well-backed. Showed promise despite not meeting expectations, suggesting more to come with that experience.
Why: With two runs under her belt and market confidence on previous starts, Baikal’s experience could be key. Sir Mark Prescott’s runners often improve with racing, making her a solid place prospect.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Staffordshire
Trainer: Simon & Ed Crisford | Jockey: J. Mitchell
Sire: Ghaiyyath (IRE) | Dam: Porcelain Girl (IRE)
Key Form: Fourth on debut at Kempton over 11f, showing early keenness but staying on well. The drop in trip could suit as he learns to settle.
Why: Potential for improvement second time out, especially with tactical changes. If he’s learned from his debut, Staffordshire could surprise, particularly in a race lacking established form.
🏇 Race 2 - 17:00 Wolverhampton (7f Handicap)
1️⃣ Arlecchino's Rex
Trainer: Mark Usher | Jockey: David Probert
Sire: Belardo (IRE) | Dam: Queen Margherita
Key Form: C&D winner in November and an excellent second at Kempton last time, travelling strongly before being outpaced by a progressive rival. First-time hood could eke out further improvement.
Why: Proven over course and distance with strong recent form, Arlecchino's Rex has shown consistency and a competitive edge. The addition of a hood may sharpen him up, and David Probert’s return in the saddle is a positive.
2️⃣ Invincible Melody
Trainer: Ralph Beckett | Jockey: Rossa Ryan
Sire: Invincible Army (IRE) | Dam: Roger Sez (IRE)
Key Form: Lightly raced, finishing fifth in a novice at Kempton last time. Steps up to 7f for his handicap debut with blinkers and a tongue strap applied for the first time.
Why: Represents a top yard known for improving horses in handicaps. The headgear combo suggests intent, and stepping up in trip could unlock his potential, making him a serious contender.
3️⃣ Kaleidoscope Eyes
Trainer: Michael Appleby | Jockey: Alistair Rawlinson
Sire: No Nay Never (USA) | Dam: Fantasy In Blue
Key Form: Dominant front-running winner over C&D just 14 days ago, making all to score impressively. Up 6 lb but clearly thriving at this trip and track.
Why: Comes here in winning form with proven course and distance success. If allowed an easy lead again, she could be hard to peg back despite the rise in the weights.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Inconspicuous
Trainer: Michael Keady | Jockey: S. M. Levey
Sire: Inns Of Court (IRE) | Dam: Bishop's Lake
Key Form: Improved on stable debut when fourth at Lingfield over 5f, staying on well under first-time blinkers. Steps up in trip, which should suit based on running style.
Why: The trip increase looks ideal, and he’s shown signs of life after switching stables. Could sneak into the places if building on his latest effort, offering value in the betting.
🏇 Race 3 - 17:30 Wolverhampton (7f Handicap)
1️⃣ Khutulun
Trainer: James Ferguson | Jockey: S. D. Bowen
Sire: Mohaather | Dam: Jufoon
Key Form: Made an impressive start to her handicap career with a win at Chelmsford and followed up with a strong second at Wolverhampton over this trip. A solid sixth at Chelmsford over a mile last time suggests the return to 7f is ideal.
Why: Proven at the course and distance, Khutulun’s form is rock-solid. The drop back to her preferred trip should play to her strengths, and cheekpieces continue to bring out the best in her. She looks poised to bounce back to winning ways.
2️⃣ Ornately
Trainer: James Fanshawe | Jockey: Daniel Muscutt
Sire: Kingman | Dam: Intricately (IRE)
Key Form: Lightly raced, showing modest form in three novice events. However, she’s bred to be much better, and this is her handicap debut off what could be a lenient mark.
Why: Ornately’s pedigree screams potential, and James Fanshawe knows how to unlock improvement on handicap debut. With a hood retained, expect sharper focus, and she’s likely to take a big step forward.
3️⃣ Piranha Rama
Trainer: David Evans | Jockey: George Downing
Sire: Massaat (IRE) | Dam: Piranha (IRE)
Key Form: Three-time winner last season, including a strong effort at Chelmsford. Below par in her last two starts but capable of bouncing back based on earlier form.
Why: A proven winner with course experience, Piranha Rama is dangerous if she recaptures her best form. Her past success over similar conditions makes her a reliable each-way shout.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Miakoda
Trainer: James Owen | Jockey: Darragh Keenan
Sire: Blue Point (IRE) | Dam: Dew Line (IRE)
Key Form: Market support on stable debut hinted at ability, though he didn’t deliver. The removal of blinkers and addition of a first-time hood could be the key to improvement.
Why: A change in headgear often sparks improvement, and Miakoda’s strong early market support last time suggests connections see potential. At a bigger price, he’s worth a speculative play.
🏇 Race 4 - 18:00 Wolverhampton (1m4f Handicap)
1️⃣ Patrol
Trainer: Dylan Cunha | Jockey: Rhys Clutterbuck
Sire: Dark Angel (IRE) | Dam: Laurelita (IRE)
Key Form: Winner at Southwell in December and followed up with a strong second over 9.5f here, running on well despite missing the break. Now steps up in trip, which looks a positive move given his strong finishing style.
Why: Proven form on the all-weather with consistent performances, Patrol looks ready to strike again. The step up in distance should suit, and his strong late kick makes him the one to beat in this small field.
2️⃣ No Release
Trainer: Ed Dunlop | Jockey: L. Morris
Sire: Without Parole | Dam: Rainbow Spirit
Key Form: Back-to-back runner-up finishes, including a solid second over 8.6f here just two days ago. Handles the surface well and should relish the return to a longer trip.
Why: No Release’s consistency and stamina suggest he’ll be right in the mix. Blinkers seem to have sharpened his focus, and his recent quick return could catch his rivals off guard if he maintains that form.
3️⃣ Unknown Journey
Trainer: Paul Attwater | Jockey: Edward Greatrex
Sire: Inns Of Court (IRE) | Dam: Nothing Compares
Key Form: Fourth here over 9.5f last time, shaping as though the step up to 1m4f will suit. Blinkers applied for the first time, which could spark further improvement.
Why: Lightly raced and open to progress, especially with the new headgear. If he stays the trip, Unknown Journey could surprise at a fair price.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Sydney Whistler
Trainer: J. S. Moore | Jockey: K. T. O’Neill
Sire: Havana Gold (IRE) | Dam: First Secretary
Key Form: Unexposed with just three starts in maidens, now stepping up significantly in trip on handicap debut.
Why: A complete wildcard due to his unknown potential at this distance. The big step up in trip could bring unexpected improvement, and he’s worth keeping an eye on for market support.
🏇 Race 5 - 18:30 Wolverhampton (5f Handicap)
1️⃣ Buraback
Trainer: Derek Shaw | Jockey: Lewis Edmunds
Key Form: On a C&D hat-trick after two convincing wins last month. Both victories showcased strong finishing speed, with a bold bid likely despite a 5 lb rise.
Why: Buraback is in flying form, thriving over this course and distance. The winning momentum, combined with Derek Shaw's excellent record here, makes him the one to beat. His front-running style suits Wolverhampton perfectly, and the market confidence is a bonus.
2️⃣ Gustav Graves
Trainer: Derek Shaw | Jockey: Joanna Mason
Key Form: Four wins last year, including a recent C&D success. Backed that up with a solid second at Newcastle, confirming consistent all-weather form.
Why: Another strong contender from the Derek Shaw yard, Gustav Graves thrives on this surface. His consistency and recent form suggest he'll be right in the mix again, especially with a handy draw and Joanna Mason’s strong rapport in the saddle.
3️⃣ Level Up
Trainer: David Evans | Jockey: Rossa Ryan
Key Form: C&D winner who bounced back to form with a solid second at Southwell just four days ago. Wearing a visor, which seemed to sharpen his focus.
Why: Level Up looks primed to run a big race again. The quick turnaround suggests confidence from connections, and Rossa Ryan’s booking is a notable positive. Expect him to be prominent early and tough to peg back if replicating his last effort.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Wedgewood
Trainer: Tony Carroll | Jockey: Luke Morris
Key Form: Three-time C&D winner with strong form at Bath last season. Returns from a break, which could have freshened her up nicely.
Why: Wedgewood might be flying under the radar but has the course credentials to surprise. If fit after the layoff, her past performances suggest she's capable of hitting the frame at big odds, especially with Luke Morris’s tactical nous.
🏇 Race 2 - 19:00 Wolverhampton (2m Handicap)
1️⃣ Payment Plan
Trainer: John Butler | Jockey: Lewis Edmunds
Key Form: Thriving since stepping up to 2m, winning 3 of his last 4 starts, including a decisive victory over 2m 120yds here just 16 days ago. A 4 lb rise seems manageable given his progressive profile.
Why: Payment Plan is in outstanding form, relishing the extended trip. His strong finishing kick suits Wolverhampton perfectly, and Lewis Edmunds knows him well. With a handy draw and the ability to dictate or sit handy, he’s the one to beat.
2️⃣ Daaris
Trainer: Kevin Frost | Jockey: Rossa Ryan
Key Form: Consistent stayer with solid placed efforts in his last three runs, including a close third over 1m5f here last time. A course winner in December over 1¾m, showing he handles Wolverhampton’s surface well.
Why: Daaris is ultra-consistent and has the benefit of Rossa Ryan’s expertise in the saddle. He stays this trip well, and his tactical versatility makes him a big danger, especially if the pace is strong, allowing him to pounce late.
3️⃣ Grand Duchess Olga
Trainer: Julia & Shelley Birkett | Jockey: C R Lyons
Key Form: Runner-up over 1m5f here last time out, having made most of the running. Handles Wolverhampton well and remains on a competitive mark.
Why: A gutsy front-runner, Grand Duchess Olga could get an easy lead, which is often advantageous over this trip. If she can control the pace, she’s a major player, especially with her proven stamina and battling qualities.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Easter Icon
Trainer: Gary Brown | Jockey: George Bass
Key Form: Course winner who’s fit from hurdling, despite an unseated rider last time out. On an appealing mark based on past flat form.
Why: Easter Icon is an interesting outsider, bringing fitness from jumps racing. If he translates that stamina to the flat, he could outrun his odds, particularly if the race turns into a slog where his jumping experience could shine through.
🏇 Race 3 - 19:30 Wolverhampton (1m4f Handicap)
1️⃣ High Court Judge
Trainer: James Owen | Jockey: Hector Crouch
Key Form: In scintillating form with a hat-trick of wins, including an effortless success at Lingfield just 10 days ago. A C&D winner, thriving on the all-weather circuit.
Why: High Court Judge is the class act here, thriving under James Owen's care. His recent victories have been with authority, suggesting he’s still ahead of the handicapper. His ability to travel strongly and quicken when needed makes him the standout pick.
2️⃣ Lightningboltzoom
Trainer: Paul Attwater | Jockey: Edward Greatrex
Key Form: Lightly-raced and progressive, finishing a strong second at Southwell over 1m3f last time. Looks ready to improve further with more experience.
Why: This unexposed gelding shaped well last time, showing a strong turn of foot. The step up to 1m4f should suit, and he’s likely to give High Court Judge plenty to think about if building on his latest effort.
3️⃣ Harlington
Trainer: Joe Tickle | Jockey: Cieren Fallon
Key Form: C&D winner in November and runner-up over this track and trip just 16 days ago. Consistent at Wolverhampton and handles the surface well.
Why: Harlington enjoys Wolverhampton and is in good heart. His front-running style could see him dictate the pace, and with Cieren Fallon in the saddle, he’s likely to be in the mix at the finish.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Pysanka
Trainer: Mark Loughnane | Jockey: Billy Loughnane
Key Form: Four-time C&D winner with solid all-weather credentials. Disappointed last time but left poorly placed, suggesting a better run could be on the cards.
Why: Pysanka is a Wolverhampton specialist who thrives over this trip. A poor showing last time can be forgiven, and he’s got the potential to bounce back at a nice price, especially with Billy Loughnane’s strong record on the all-weather.
🏇 Race 4 - 20:00 Wolverhampton (6f Handicap)
1️⃣ Just Ten High
Trainer: Dylan Cunha | Jockey: Rhys Clutterbuck
Key Form: In top form, winning at Southwell in December and finishing a close second there last time. Consistent with headgear applied and looks primed to strike again.
Why: Just Ten High has found a rich vein of form, and his consistency in similar conditions suggests he’ll be tough to beat. The blinkers and tongue strap combo are working wonders, and he remains well-handicapped to deliver another strong performance.
2️⃣ Porfin
Trainer: Phil McEntee | Jockey: Grace McEntee
Key Form: C&D winner with solid recent form, including a win at Lingfield and a strong second at Southwell last time. First-time visor could sharpen him up even more.
Why: Porfin is thriving at the moment, and his versatility over 6f-7f is a big asset. The visor could eke out further improvement, and his current form suggests he’ll be right there at the business end once again.
3️⃣ Autumn Angel
Trainer: Tony Carroll | Jockey: Jack Doughty
Key Form: C&D winner in January, followed by a slightly below-par fifth here last time, though not disgraced. Capable of bouncing back.
Why: Autumn Angel’s recent blip can be forgiven, given her consistent performances prior to that. She enjoys Wolverhampton, and a return to her best form would see her firmly in the mix, offering solid each-way value.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Southbank
Trainer: Stuart Williams | Jockey: Rossa Ryan
Key Form: C&D winner who was a strong second here last time, following a win at Chelmsford. Solid performer on the all-weather.
Why: Southbank has the form and track record to surprise at decent odds. Rossa Ryan’s booking adds further confidence, and his consistency makes him a lively contender to outrun his price.
🏇 Race 5 - 20:30 Wolverhampton (6f Handicap)
1️⃣ Zaman Daar
Trainer: Ismail Mohammed | Jockey: Benoit D L Sayette
Key Form: Ran respectably over C&D last time despite a very slow start. Has been eased 2 lb since, making him well-handicapped to strike.
Why: Zaman Daar’s last run suggests there’s more to come, especially if he breaks on terms. The drop in the weights and booking of a top jockey are strong positives. Expect him to be finishing fast if getting a clean run.
2️⃣ Cooperation
Trainer: Michael Appleby | Jockey: Alistair Rawlinson
Key Form: Bounced back to form with a strong second at Southwell just 10 days ago. Looks ready to go one better.
Why: Cooperation showed plenty of zip in his latest effort, and this consistent type is knocking on the door. He’s well-handicapped and with Appleby’s runners often improving for a run, he’s a major contender.
3️⃣ Global Effort
Trainer: Phil McEntee | Jockey: Grace McEntee
Key Form: C&D winner with three consecutive third-place finishes, showing solid consistency. Visor back on, which previously brought good results.
Why: Global Effort is ultra-consistent and loves Wolverhampton. The return of the visor could sharpen him up, and his ability to stay on strongly makes him a solid each-way option in this field.
🎯 Wildcard Pick: Nevernay
Trainer: Kevin Frost | Jockey: Joanna Mason
Key Form: Slipping down the weights and fitted with a first-time hood and tongue strap, which could spark improvement.
Why: Nevernay is on a dangerous mark and the headgear combination could unlock potential. If he responds well, he’s capable of outrunning his odds, especially in an open race where small improvements can make a big difference.