Thoughts on today’s runners
Two runners today (16th May) at Salisbury and York. Outrage kicks things off in the 1.50 at York. Kieran O’Neill rides the gelding in the 5 furlong sprint. It is Outrage’s first run on the turf for the season following on from a successful all weather campaign. He missed the break last time and the run is probably best ignored. He is drawn in 21 of 22 so one hopes the bias is towards the stands side. This is actually a race his full brother won in 2015 so let’s hope that it can be kept in the family.
In a race where luck will inevitably play its part this looks wide open. Justanotherbottle has a bit of class and went very close in the stewards cup last year and if ready to go on his first run of the year sets a good standard. Cowboy Soldier looked good last time out and is open to further progression. Dark Shot is another with a bit of very good back form and ran well on his seasonal reappearance. Saaheq has been improving over the winter and carried that progression to the all weather.
Outrage races for Capture the Moment, who’s members will be enjoying a great days racing at York which caters fantastically for the owners as it does for the staff and horses. The prize money is also always excellent. He will be led up this afternoon by James Pulley
Chitra runs in the 4.25 at Salisbury. Richard Kingscote rides the filly in the 6 furlong handicap. The combination won a Newcastle six furlong handicap last season. She has won three times over the distance and been second twice. It is her seasonal debut, she is ready to return to the races.
The race is tricky to work as a few have a bit to prove, Warning Fire drops back in grade which will make life easier having already won at this level, last time out winner Spirit of May steps up in grade and if able to continue improving will be involved. Of the more lightly raced types Atty’s Edge who improved with each race could be the most interesting returning to action after a winter off. He progressed with each start.
Chitra will be led up Andy Williams and overseen by Shaun Johnson. She races for her breeders Gary and Lesley Middlebrook.
