Nottingham 19 May 2026 Horse Racing Tips

2:20 – Racedays At Nottingham Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 4, 3yo+) – 1m ½f

The 2:20 Racedays At Nottingham Novice Stakes features a competitive field of novice horses, including proven runners and promising newcomers.

Runman – undefeated in two starts; respected despite penalty in pursuit of novice hat-trick.

Adamlyi – narrowly missed at Leicester on return; winner has since shown strong form.

Lucky Camino – half-brother to multiple winners; market will reveal potential.

Other runners:

  • Atlas Mountain – room for improvement; may suit handicaps more
  • Carly Minogue – modest ratings in previous starts
  • Florizelle – little impact in 7f AW race
  • Lean d’Aislingean – expensive yearling; debutant
  • Moreedd – well-bred but underperformed; expected to progress
  • Mr Bollinger – gelded; shorter trip may suit
  • Peace And Quiet – late debut; market interest key
  • Revelio – average maiden form; handicaps more suitable

First Choice: Runman

Next Best: Adamlyi

Each Way: Lucky Camino

2:50 – Family Fun Raceday Sunday 31st May Novice Stakes (GBB/GBBPlus Race) (Class 3, 3yo+) – 1m 2f

The 2:50 Family Fun Raceday Novice Stakes includes a mix of improving runners and late debutants, with a few proven performers in the frame.

Knights Charge – impressive 5-length Lingfield AW win; expected to improve further.

Bay Royale – comfortable Nottingham winner; holds Irish Derby entry.

Outflank – finished clear third at Salisbury; strong contender on the weights.

Other runners:

  • Barak Warrior – better suited to handicaps
  • Cliff Danger – recently gelded; longer-term prospect
  • Cloud Forest – Godolphin runner; market support key
  • Liam Mera Kai – bumper/hurdle form suggests Flat debut may be tough
  • Semele – needs more to compete
  • Shopaholic – unlikely to overturn Lingfield form
  • Zurna – unproven stable newcomer; market to guide

First Choice: Knights Charge

Next Best: Bay Royale

Each Way: Outflank

3:20 – Dine In Sherwoods Restaurant Handicap (Class 6, 3yo 0-65) – 1m 2f

The 3:20 Dine In Sherwoods Restaurant Handicap sees horses stepping into handicap company, with a mix of consistent performers and unexposed types.

Sports Day – placed twice at Yarmouth since going handicapping; latest effort behind a well-handicapped rival.

Stepanov – handicap debut; pedigree suggests improvement.

Aurelune – could improve stepping into handicap company.

Other runners:

  • Grindleton – consistent form matching Sports Day
  • Houndswood Willow – may progress with step up and headgear
  • Labiche – needs more after reappearance
  • Lady Lauren – seeking first win after nine attempts
  • Mohaab – experienced, still a maiden
  • Premier Cru – slipped in form but could bounce back
  • Tenison – unreliable; needs to prove herself
  • Thimble – pedigree indicates improvement over new trip
  • Veld – expected to progress stepping up in trip

First Choice: Sports Day

Next Best: Stepanov

Each Way: Aurelune

3:50 – Events And Hospitality At Nottingham Racecourse Handicap (Class 4, 3yo 0-80) – 1m ½f

The 3:50 Nottingham Racecourse Handicap features a mix of progressive types and consistent performers looking to make their mark in handicap company.

Domination – recent Ripon win on stable debut; expected to improve further.

North Force – consistent performer with solid claims in this field.

Capichera – consistent form; fair mark.

Other runners:

  • Beyond The Bar – yet to replicate early promise
  • Chapter – still developing; ability shown on heavy going
  • I’m Just Ken – more suitable class-wise here
  • Island Bear – may improve back on turf
  • Rosa Inglesa – progressive over 7f; could stay 1m
  • Runswick – may benefit from return to handicap company

First Choice: Domination

Next Best: North Force

Each Way: Capichera

4:20 – Conferences And Events At Nottingham Racecourse Fillies’ Handicap (Class 5, 3yo+ 0-70) – 1m ½f

The 4:20 Nottingham Fillies’ Handicap features fillies stepping up in trip, with several unexposed types and proven course performers.

Saliko – undefeated at Nottingham with two wins over 1m2f last July; intriguing return.

Wondrous Light – in good form over about 1m this season; untested at this distance.

Ziata – placed in all three starts; capable of further improvement.

Other runners:

  • Espanita – struggled last two 7f AW runs
  • Galileo Charm – not matched AW form on turf
  • Huggable – low experience but shown promise
  • Jamie Sommers – consistent; first-time headgear
  • Katalyst – performance depends on headgear
  • Porth Eilian – interesting handicap debut
  • Pretty Ambitious – finished well down-field on AW debut
  • Pretty Spirited – close third at Doncaster; could stay competitive
  • Stella Lucente – consistent over 7f; trip likely suitable
  • Volendam – latest turf win at Bath suggests good form

First Choice: Saliko

Next Best: Wondrous Light

Each Way: Ziata

4:55 – Racedays At Nottingham Racecourse Handicap (Class 6, 4yo+ 0-55) – 5f

The 4:55 Nottingham Racecourse Handicap features sprinters with a mix of promising handicappers and long-standing maidens.

Irish Dancer – justified favoritism at Catterick last week; remains a strong contender despite penalty.

Bang On The Bell – on favourable handicap; close third recently over this C&D.

Sonic Si – yet to win in 13 runs but has shown decent form on AW; turf may suit.

Other runners:

  • Barmyblade – struggling in six outings
  • Charging Bull – inconsistent maiden; last at Lingfield
  • Chasing Gold – no wins in 13 starts; showed steady form last year
  • Diamondsinthesand – last victory at Bath over 5.6f; recent runs poor
  • Dunnington Lad – well beaten on reappearance
  • Masterclass – won here last May; unpredictable since
  • Mister McGregor – long-standing maiden; now wearing a visor
  • Nad Alshiba Snow – seeking first win after 18 starts
  • Poetic Jack – inconsistent this season; no wins in over a year
  • Timebar – runner-up here last season; market support notable on return
  • Top Star – 12-race maiden; new headgear

First Choice: Irish Dancer

Next Best: Bang On The Bell

Each Way: Sonic Si

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    Clem Murphy Memorial Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes (Group 2)

    Clem Murphy Memorial Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes (Group 2)

    Date: 4 May 2026
    Course: Curragh
    Type: Flat / Group 2
    Distance: 1m 2f

    🚫 Race Overview

    The Mooresbridge Stakes at the Curragh features a competitive 1m2f field of experienced 4yo+ horses. Key contenders include the returning Adelaide River, who impressed in last year’s Irish Derby but is unproven on this comeback and after time in Australia. The field also includes established fillies like Minnie Hauk, who has top-level form though the trip might be slightly stretching her. Conditions look likely to suit horses preferring firmer to good ground, as the recent soft ground testers have struggled.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Minnie Hauk Proven Performer

    Dual Oaks winner and Yorkshire Oaks victor, Minnie Hauk also finished second in the Arc. Though slightly unproven at 1m2f, her class and consistency put her among the main contenders here.

    Beset Strong Form

    Has developed into a dependable mare, though best on easier ground. Faces the stiffest task of her career in this Group 2 contest but her progress and form at Naas make her a notable contender.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Adelaide River Potential Class

    Placed second in the 2023 Irish Derby for Ballydoyle, back after a spell in Australia. Fitness and form are uncertain, so best watched this time.

    Shaool Improving

    Highly progressive at three, though underwhelmed on seasonal return in a race won by Beset. Can feature if returning to the level of her best 3yo form.

    Tiberius Thunder Capable

    Capable performer but with mixed form last season and shown to dislike soft ground. Could be a danger if conditions improve and he returns to best.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Edward Hamilton

    Has finished last in both races since winning a Dundalk maiden. Looks to have a supporting role here and unlikely to feature prominently.

    📌 Race Summary

    • The race features a mix of proven Group performers and emerging middle-distance types.
    • Minnie Hauk holds the strongest proven form at this level but the trip is a question mark.
    • Beset’s consistent improvement and suitable ground preferences make her a serious candidate.
    • Adelaide River’s comeback post-Australia is the biggest unknown with potential for surprise.

    Best Profile: Minnie Hauk’s class, experience at Group level, and current form slightly edge her as the benchmark for this 1m2f contest.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Minnie Hauk

    Main Danger: Beset

    Each-Way Value: Shaool

    Minnie Hauk’s proven class at the highest level makes her the top selection despite the slight uncertainty over trip. Beset, progressing well and suited by good ground, is the main danger. Shaool offers each-way value if rebounding from a modest seasonal return.

    Reason: Minnie Hauk’s outstanding career profile and recent consistency provide a solid foundation for victory, with Beset as the main rival based on form and conditions, while Shaool remains a live outsider worth investment on each-way terms.

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    Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Handicap (Class 3) (3yo 0-90)

    Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Handicap (Class 3) (3yo 0-90)

    Date: 8 May 2026
    Course: Chester
    Type: Flat Handicap
    Distance: 5f (5f 15y)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This five-furlong sprint at Chester is contested on good going with all runners starting from inside stalls. The race features a mix of three-year-olds showing various levels of form from recent runs and previous seasons. Positioning out of the stalls and early pace could be important over this short distance. A few horses carry well post a recent good effort, while others seek improvement stepping down or up in class. Stall position is a notable factor due to the fast nature of the track and distance.

    ⭐ Key Runners

    Ambishio Sharp 5f Suitor

    Shows clear improvement following a gelding operation and is well suited by the sharp five-furlong trip. Inside stall should aid a good position early on.

    Alvin Improved Form

    Better form recently with an easy win at Bath and a good third at Lingfield. Carries a handy weight but drawn wide in stall 11.

    Schrodinger’s Cat Good Draw & Speedy

    Runner-up at Thirsk on recent stable and handicap debut. Drawn well and known for speed, making it relevant over this trip.

    ⚠️ Others to Note

    Kolkata Knight Promising Return

    Showed promise on return at Wolverhampton and may be ahead of his official mark. Wide stall (12) could pose a challenge.

    Proof Game Recent Winner

    Returned in good shape with a reappearance win over Ambishio at Southwell. Consistent trainer stable suggests he might be competitive again.

    One And Gone Good Gate Speed

    Despite a tricky wide draw, the horse showed fine gate speed at Sandown recently which could be important in this fast-paced sprint.

    Wyle Cop Well Drawn

    Good position drawn here and recent performance at Southwell came in a lesser handicap. Potential for this class and trip.

    📌 Race View

    • Early speed and good gate position critical over the sharp 5 furlongs
    • Weight carried and recent form important clues at Class 3 level
    • Stall draw some horses face a wide trip which can affect finishing chance
    • Track shape and good going likely to favour well-positioned runners

    Summary: This sprint is likely to be run at a fast pace with an emphasis on a good start and effective positioning. Wide stalls present a potential challenge for some, while others benefit from inside draws. Recent form and suitability to five furlongs are notable factors as the race shape comes together quickly on relatively good ground.

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    2:08 Nottingham 9 May 2026 1m ½f (1m 75y) Best Odds Guaranteed At Betano Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 4) (3yo+)

    2:08 Nottingham 9 May 2026 — 1m ½f Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 4) (3yo+)

    Date: 9 May 2026
    Course: Nottingham
    Type: Novice Stakes (Flat)
    Distance: 1m ½f (1m 75y)

    This novice contest at Nottingham presents an intriguing puzzle with four known runners, each showing varying degrees of potential and form. The race shape may well be dictated by Qarreeb, who demonstrated front-running promise here over a mile on reappearance, and the likelihood is for a solid pace given more exposed rivals Lightening Thunder and Romanticizing have shown good recent form under similar conditions.

    🚫 Betting Assessment

    Race Verdict: Cautious approach advised

    Reason for Verdict: Presence of lightly raced types and uneven recent form distributions suggest a tightly contested affair with no clear short-priced selection. Market clues strongly recommended for final verdict.

    📊 Race Quality Rating

    Score: 63/100

    Grade: Moderate novice contest

    Confidence: Moderate-low

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Lighting Thunder Capable of Return to Form

    With recorded RPRs in the mid-80s from close seconds in both starts, Lighting Thunder holds the strongest form claims here. Looks well treated on old form and is handicapped to be competitive when stepping up marginally in trip. The key question is whether he can replicate those efforts after recent absence; a return to form needed but clearly capable.

    Romanticizing Open to Further Improvement

    Promising third on Kempton debut last month and possesses a striking pedigree indicating scope for development. Well worth monitoring for signs of progression especially as the step up in distance and move to turf may suit. Still unexposed in this sphere.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Qarreeb Largely Reliable at this Level

    Improved on reappearance when running a front-running third over 1m here, showing he handles these conditions and the race distance well. Could have more to offer but needs to maintain his level to prevail against more progressive types.

    Flag Of Eva Needs to Return to Form

    Looks to be facing a tough starting point, particularly given the probable preference for longer trips in his profile going forward. Will likely benefit from a step up in journey in time.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Forever Endless

    A modest 4,200gns purchase as a 2yo, he arrives without any prior form and no obvious claims on this occasion. Given the standard set by others and the strength of the market validation needed, he is best watched.

    Midsummer Storm

    Well held in two attempts at Newcastle this year, Midsummer Storm has struggled to land a blow and would require a notable return to form to feature competitively here, which currently appears unlikely.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Lighting Thunder’s consistent near-top RPRs make him the benchmark in this novice event.
    • Romanticizing and Qarreeb present respected dangers with room for improvement.
    • The race likely to be run at a decent gallop, favouring those who can settle well.
    • Forever Endless and Midsummer Storm currently lack the form to recommend with confidence.

    Best Profile: Lighting Thunder, combining relevant experience and deemed workable mark.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Lighting Thunder

    Main Danger: Romanticizing

    Each-Way Value: Qarreeb

    Lighting Thunder’s established form and competitiveness at this trip makes him the principal contender, assuming a return to form needed after a break. Romanticizing’s strong pedigree and promising debut place him as the main challenger, with Qarreeb’s front-running style offering each-way appeal.

    Betting Verdict: Cautious selection recommended

    Reason: Mixed form lines and presence of unexposed runners advise a careful market watch. Lighting Thunder holds the most tangible claims but a clear market leader is unlikely to emerge until race proximity.

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    8:00 Wolverhampton (AW) Tapeta – Raceday Ready Handicap (Class 6) (3yo 0-60)

    8:00 Wolverhampton (AW) Tapeta – Raceday Ready Handicap (Class 6) (3yo 0-60)

    Date: 5 May 2026
    Course: Wolverhampton (AW) Tapeta
    Type: Handicap Class 6 (3yo 0-60)
    Distance: 7f (7f 36y)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This is a competitive Class 6 handicap over 7 furlongs with mainly inexperienced or lightly raced three-year-olds. The going is standard on the Tapeta surface at Wolverhampton. Several runners are looking for improvement on their handicap debuts or trying to build on modest recent form. The draw is outside, which could factor tactically. Overall, the race looks open, with no standout dominant performer.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Poetic Grace Encouraging Handicap Debut

    Showed promise on last month’s handicap debut and looks open to further progress over 7 furlongs. Could improve with a step up in distance and experience.

    Apex Star Low Mileage

    Finished third of five over C&D on handicap debut last month. Still lightly raced and holds potential, but will need to find more to win.

    Castlekeely In-Form Stable

    Best official rating came on sole AW start and represents an in-form stable. Risky but not impossible in a wide-open race.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Amber Hamur Handicap Debut Experience

    Weakened into fourth on handicap debut over 7f on Polytrack in March but still has time on her side and could improve with experience.

    Power Of Chora Unexposed Sprinter

    Showed late progress over 6f last time on handicap debut. Step up to 7f may suit, but improvement will be essential to figure here.

    Evolve Drops in Grade

    Yet to highlight much in handicaps but drops in grade with cheekpieces added. Remains a risky proposition.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Amakhala

    Poor form in four handicap runs this year and hard to fancy stepping back up to 7f.

    Amazing Anita

    Promising run in March but no progress since and drawn wide in what looks a tricky race shape.

    East India Breeze

    Failed when one of the market leaders on handicap debut in January. Blinkers now tried but must improve significantly.

    Musical Soldier

    Unplaced in six starts so far; requires substantial improvement back up to 7f to be competitive.

    Pink Diamond Girl

    Weakened to seventh on C&D handicap debut in March. Low mileage but needs to raise her game.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Open Class 6 handicap featuring mainly inexperienced 3-year-olds.
    • Poetic Grace represents the main hope after an encouraging handicap debut.
    • Apex Star and Castlekeely offer potential from low mileage and in-form stable respectively.
    • Several runners need marked improvement or face tough draws to win.

    Best Profile: An unexposed 3-year-old with recent encouraging handicap form over this distance, such as Poetic Grace.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Poetic Grace

    Main Danger: Apex Star

    Each-Way Value: Castlekeely

    Poetic Grace looks to have the best chance based on promising recent handicap debut and scope for improvement. Apex Star is the main threat on form and low mileage, while Castlekeely could sneak a place given connections’ good run of form.

    Reason: Poetic Grace’s upward profile and recent performance over 7 furlongs mark her out as the best bet in an open handicap, with Apex Star and Castlekeely offering logical dangers based on experience and stable form.

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    National Stud Handicap (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-90)

    National Stud Handicap (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-90)

    Date: 2 May 2026
    Course: Newmarket
    Type: Flat Turf Handicap
    Distance: 1 mile

    This competitive Class 3 handicap at Newmarket over a mile features a field of experienced and lightly raced horses. With many competitors having proven themselves on all-weather tracks rather than turf, this race presents an intriguing challenge, especially for those returning from winter breaks or stepping up on recent form. Several horses look ready to take a notable step here, while others have question marks surrounding their turf ability or current form.

    🚫 Assessment

    Verdict: The race lacks a standout performer on recent turf form, with many relying on AW performances or long losing runs. This lowers the race’s predictability and strength.

    📊 Race Quality Rating

    Score: 68/100

    Grade: Medium Risk

    Confidence: Moderate-Low

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Classic Encounter In Form

    Good third here on final 4yo start and shaped well on recent return; looks ready to strike and well-handicapped after rest.

    Man Of La Mancha Form Player

    On a roll last seen with two wins; big chance if ready after winter break and stepping back into a suitable race.

    I Still Have Faith Each-Way Appeal

    Long losing run but knocking firmly at the door; appeals for each-way bets due to consistent shape and solid handicap mark.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Skipper In-Form Handicapper

    Returned to Britain with a win at Redcar 12 days ago; only 2lb higher here and expected to be involved again.

    Earl Of Rochester Untapped Potential

    Lightly raced and making handicap debut first run for new trainer; holds claims if showing improvement.

    Footwork Respected on Recent Form

    Recent low-key efforts but two runs earlier in the campaign give solid claims for a better run here.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Advancing

    Mostly performed on AW and below par last time; has something to prove back on turf in this contest.

    Carron

    Better on AW than turf historically and struggled in recent turf attempt; looks a long shot here.

    Cogitate

    No better than midfield in a stronger contest recently and only modestly lower mark today; unlikely to threaten.

    Final Night

    All wins on AW but mark has risen significantly; doubtful to be effective on turf at present.

    Mr Professor

    Below par since last major win and would prefer soft ground; unlikely to pose serious threat.

    Slipper Time

    Disappointing final 3yo run stepping up to 1m, though bred to stay; remains a risky proposition.

    Spanish Voice

    Unbeaten in one turf start but out of form last two AW runs; drop in trip could help but still a risk.

    Sterling Knight

    Recent runs underwhelming; needs improvement aided by Ryan Moore to figure prominently.

    Twisting Physics

    Encouraging sixth in recent run but very lightly raced; still unproven at this level.

    Zryan

    Two AW wins in winter but currently out of form and questions remain about return to turf.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Several runners stepping up on AW form to prove themselves on turf.
    • The betting likely will focus on multiple horses showing signs of readiness and recent improvement.
    • Lightly raced contenders add unpredictability, especially those fatigued by winter campaigns.
    • Race could be strongly influenced by fitness and the ability to handle Newmarket’s Rowley Mile.

    Best Profile: A horse with proven recent turf form or winning form coming off a well-timed break with a mark that offers scope for progress.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Classic Encounter

    Main Danger: Man Of La Mancha

    Each-Way Value: I Still Have Faith

    Classic Encounter has shown solid form on turf and looks well handicapped after a break, making him the most convincing choice. Man Of La Mancha’s winning ability and recent form make him the main threat if fully wound up. I Still Have Faith’s consistent shape and handicap mark offers strong each-way appeal in a competitive race.

    Betting Verdict: Medium Confidence

    Reason: No standout but several contenders with valid claims; best to focus on proven turf form and recent readiness.

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    Ladbrokes Ormonde Stakes (Group 3)

    Ladbrokes Ormonde Stakes (Group 3)

    Date: 7 May 2026
    Course: Chester
    Type: Flat, Class 1, 4yo+
    Distance: 1m 5½f (1m 5f 84y)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This Group 3 contest over just under 1 mile 6 furlongs at Chester features experienced older horses. The going is good, which typically suits a strong stamina test, and the race has a history of close finishes. The inside stalls might influence the early positioning, with pace likely to be steady before the race quickens in the final stages. Several runners have previous experience and form at Chester, adding an element of course knowledge to the event.

    ⭐ Key Runners

    Al Qareem Good Strike-Rate

    Has a strong record at Chester (1 win, 1 second in 2 starts), including a solid run in this race last year. Consistent performer with experience over this trip.

    Illinois Previous Winner

    Won this race last year and finished just a neck behind the stablemate Jan Brueghel in the 2024 St Leger. Proven over staying distances at the highest level.

    Jan Brueghel Top Ratings

    Strong form with 5 wins from 7 starts, including the 2025 Coronation Cup. Holds the highest official ratings in the field, showing top-class ability over middle-distances.

    ⚠️ Others to Note

    Beylerbeyi Versatile Handicapper

    Consistent in handicap races and has shown versatility, but stepping up in class here will present a challenge on debut at Group level.

    Rahiebb St Leger Run Close

    Finished a neck 2nd in the St Leger, marking him as a solid stayers’ prospect and an interesting contender against Ballydoyle’s representatives.

    Mount Atlas Reappearance Effort

    Ran well when reappearing this season but faces tougher opposition this time and finished mid-field in this race last year.

    Real Dream Struggling for Wins

    Hasn’t registered a win since 2023 and will need to improve to be competitive under these conditions.

    Sons And Lovers Group 2 Winner

    Carrying a 5lb penalty for a Group 2 handicap success in Riyadh, faces a stiffer task stepping up in class here.

    📌 Race View

    • Strong stamina and experience over long distances are key factors.
    • Good ground likely to favour consistent performers.
    • Inside stalls at Chester may impact early positioning and tactics.
    • The Ballydoyle-trained runners bring closely matched form from top staying races.

    Summary: The race is expected to be a tactical contest over a testing distance, with stamina and course experience important. The pace may start moderate before a stronger finish, testing the staying qualities of the field.