Commanche Red secured a profit for each-way backers yesterday, finishing second at 11/1. Looking well, he stayed on likeably up the straight, going down by half a length to the Paul Nicholls trained favourite Ecco. Esprit De Somoza ran well for Gary Moore and placed at 20/1.
Today's Race
Racing in the UK is currently limited by very low temperatures. We are lucky to still have a card at Wolverhampton and a 7 furlong handicap for three year olds to get stuck into.
Today's Contenders
Two David Evans horses: Almost An Angel ran well at Newcastle last time, rallying to finish second; gelded since. Say It As It Is is a risky proposition but was more focused over CD last time.
Fashion has some smart breeding and must be interesting on her first start for Mark Prescott and in handicap company. Surprised she is not shorter odds (the RP Forecast suggested 7/2). Drifting in the market after wind surgery.
Impressions Dream makes her handicap debut for Clive Cox. The 27 Dec run here over 6f looks pretty decent.
Imperial Dawn is a Dawn Approach colt running for Paul and Oliver Cole. Has been a bit disappointing but looks well capable in this company. Inexperienced 7lbs claimer rides.
Highly Dancer is available at double figure odds. David O'Meara trained and nicely bred; a disappointment so far but the filly has run to reasonable figures.
Tom Mix has shown a good deal of early speed and the move to seven furlongs suggest he'll be ready here. Trainer Ivan Furtado has had three winners from his last three runners. Market support for the Marco Botti filly Tamigi also.
So I move to the betting market to get some hints about what's expected here. No-one seems to have much idea. Fashion is a risky bet, going against the market, but is tempting on her first start for the Mark Prescott yard at 8/1. A steadier gamble is Almost An Angel. The 3yo bay ran a strong race on Tapeta at Newcastle on 31 December. Gelded since and wears a first time visor. The experienced and skilled Tom Queally is booked for the horse's fairly quick return to racing action.
Today's Tip
(To Win) ALMOST AN ANGEL (9/2 Betfair, 4/1 General)
Recent Results
9 Feb: 3.50 Kempton (AW) Commanche Red (E/W) 2nd/10 @ 11/1
8 Feb: 4.30 Wolverhampton London 4th/12 @ 11/2
7 Feb: 4.10 Leopardstown Livelovelaugh (E/W) 3rd/22 @ 28/1
6 Feb: 2.45 Leopardstown Or Jaune De Somoza (E/W) 6th/20 @ 40/1
5 Feb: 4.15 Newcastle (AW) Bobba Tee 3rd/11 @ 17/2
4 Feb: 3.00 Southwell (AW) Gulland Rock (E/W) 4th/11 @ 40/1
3 Feb: 7.30 Kempton (AW) Zhui Feng 1st/9 @ 4/1
Account (Level Stakes Profit)
Feb 2021 LSP: +15.8
All 2021 LSP: +15.8
