Today’s Advice

Big Red (1650M H4) – This ex-Australian six-year-old broke his Hong Kong duck over course and distance in May this year from recent winner I Can. He had looked an unlucky type previously with some decent figures on the clock from seven furlongs to a mile. He was withdrawn back in June on vet’s advice and had been kept very busy with plenty of trackwork since returning at the end of July, before his latest seasonal debut. That race fifteen days ago saw him race at his heaviest weight of 1,305lbs, when having his first start in 210 days. On that occasion he had a nice blow-out over six furlongs, and looked to have every chance two furlongs out before weakening inside the final furlong. That race should have him spot on for today’s (1.10) Happy Valley and he should appreciate the return to today’s longer distance. He has been giving a kind draw in stall two, and seven pound apprentice Ellis Wong who has ridden twenty three winners in 2024 including two aboard both Dragon Delight and Sergeant Pepper, takes the ride again having won on him back in May. He looks the right price for a sporting interest today.

Arlecchino’s Rex (7f 36y Nursery) – This Mark Usher trained two-year-old won nicely after a 120 day break over course and distance last month by 3 1/4 lengths from Flaine. The second, third, and sixth horses in that race have all won again since, and the way the winner travelled gave encouragement that there could be even more to come. He raced prominently that day before taking up the running over a furlong out and winning readily. Although raised 9lbs by the handicapper he still gets into this (0-65) from a handy racing weight. Favourite for today’s (1.12) Wolverhampton, Blue Seeker has been heavily punted since betting opened for this contest two days ago, and connections are obviously expecting a much improved performance following a 59 day break. His best effort would appear to be his sixth place finish when beaten 7 lengths behind Gallant at Kempton over six furlongs, another race where three horses have come out and won since. He may appreciate the return to today’s longer distance, but at the prices i will side with the course and distance form of the selection.

0.5pt e/way Big Red (12/1 General) 1.10 Happy Valley

1pt win Arlecchino’s Rex (3/1 William Hill, 11/4 General) 1.12 Wolverhampton