Thoughts on Today’s Runners

Two runners at Southwell today (Monday 26th of April). Helm Rock was third last time out over course and distance under Kieran O’Neill who retains the ride in the 4.30 a mile novice race. He should strip fitter for that recent run.

The standard is set by the runner up from that previous effort at the track Arctic Emperor. Regal Vega showed enough on his debut that a small step forward would make him equally competitive. Thunderclap caught the eye once getting the hang of racing late on behind Arctic Emperor and is another who can build on that experience. Punta Arenas could be particularly suited to the surface looking at his pedigree but will need to have taken a fair bit from his debut.

Helm Rock is owned by Capture the Moment. A syndicate managed by Daniel and Claire, owners get lots of regular updates on the development of their horses and great experiences on the racecourse and at Sarsen Farm.

Secret Acquisition runs in the 5.05 a mile and three furlong handicap and will also be partnered by Kieran. The filly made a bright start to her career as a two year old but things have not been plain sailing since and she bids to get things back on track after some disappointing efforts. She wears a hood in a bid to help her settle a little better and she was over racing last time out, which certainly didn’t help her cause.

The race looks quite open as a few of these have a bit to prove at present. Although some of their rivals have put up better performances in the past Contingency Fee and Sociologist have both been reasonably consistent of late and have decent course and distance form. Rick Blaine might appreciate the surface having won on heavy going but shown little since over a variety of trips.

Helm Rock will be led up James Pulley, Secret Acquisition will be led up by Ilse Belien, they will be overseen by travelling manager Shaun Johnson.