Thoughts on today’s runners

Helm Rock and Percy’s Lad have travelled up to York today (Friday 7th October). They both line up in the William Hill Autumn Mile Handicap at 2.40pm. It’s never ideal to be running two against each other however this was a great target for both horses. In a big field handicap one always needs a bit of luck in any case.

Helm Rock

Helm Rock is partnered by Dylan Hogan who was aboard the gelding for a career best performance last time out when winning at Haydock. The gelding seems at his best when the going is soft, so the forecast late morning raining will do his chances no harm. He is drawn nicely in stall 1.

Helm Rock runs in the colours of owners of the Capture The Moment VII Partnership. He will be led up by James Pulley who cares for him daily at home. He was a yearling purchase by Daniel & Claire for the partnership which they manage. There are currently shares available in a stunning Cable Bay Colt.

Percy’s Lad

Tom Eaves partners Percy’s Lad, the pair were out of luck when taken on at the front end last time at Goodwood, having broken the track record together when winning at Chester on their previous run. They are drawn in 12. Whilst he has mainly run on faster ground this summer he had good form on Heavy as a two year old so seems versatile on that front.

Percy’s Lad runs for owner Alan Kerr. He will be led up by Sammy Barnett who cares for him daily at home. A triple winner Pecy’s Lad was a £30,000 Horses in Training purchase by Daniel and Claire last October. The sale this year runs 24-27th of October, get in touch if you’re keen to find a star.

Race Analysis

A very competitive race. Substantial has been progressing and once has to feel a bit sorry for those who took him and Helm Rock in the same race at Kempton in May! He was a good second last time at Goodwood ahead of Percy’s Lad. However his wide draw could make things hard. Isla Kai is a big danger as he had excuses on his last couple of starts and softer going would be fine for him too. Bopedro and Empirestateofmind are also capable of being involved.