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.

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    5:15 Newmarket 1 May 2026 – Close Brothers Fillies’ Handicap (Class 3)

    5:15 Newmarket 1 May 2026 – Close Brothers Fillies’ Handicap (Class 3)

    Date: 1 May 2026
    Course: Newmarket
    Type: Handicap (Class 3)
    Distance: 6f (Row)

    This competitive Class 3 handicap sprint for fillies and mares over six furlongs at Newmarket features a mix of lightly raced types and proven performers. The race offers an intriguing test, with several horses showing solid form and potential for improvement this season. The sprint distance promises a fast and tactical contest on the Rowley Mile course.

    🚫 Betting Assessment

    Race Verdict: No Bet

    Reason for Verdict: The race appears highly competitive with no standout runner clear-cut enough to justify confident wagering. Several contenders offer promise but form is inconsistent and there are question marks about fitness or progression for many entrants.

    📊 Race Quality Rating

    Score: 68/100

    Grade: Medium Risk

    Confidence: Moderate-Low

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Lady Roxby Progressive

    Showed good progression last season and her close third over course and distance last September sets her up nicely going into this race. Positive reappearance run suggests she remains in decent form.

    Powdering Course Winner

    Inconsistent so far this season but a creditable recent effort and previous success at Newmarket make her a danger if putting it all together.

    Cinque Verde Experienced Sprinter

    Has three wins from last season and a good fourth over this track and trip. The comeback run in March may have been needed to freshen her up for this assignment.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Angel Love Handicap Debut

    Made all impressively on AW last November on debut and looks to have untapped potential stepping up into handicaps for the first time.

    Mercury Day Unexposed Sprinter

    Remains unexposed over sprint trips with a close third over 6f last June. Could be involved if continuing to improve.

    Slay Queen Potential

    Two wins as a 2yo but faced a tough agenda afterward. Now back in handicap company and her early promise keeps her on the radar.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Anaisa

    Listed winner at two but fairly modest form for the grade and only a respectable comeback run. More likely an each-way chance at best.

    Fantasy Obsessor

    4yo who showed early promise winning first two starts last summer but underwhelming form since reduces confidence.

    Lady Kodiac

    Below par on reappearance and will need to bounce back significantly to feature here given her previous 2-3 form.

    Lightning Polka

    Promising debut last autumn but has failed to progress and needs a marked step up after a break to compete.

    Orchid

    Better on AW than turf with 0-4 here, but some decent runs and lightly raced; unlikely to improve enough to challenge top picks.

    Paradise Walk

    Runner-up on all three lifetime starts but needs to improve markedly for her handicap bow despite being with a capable stable.

    Cuban Lady

    Lightly raced 4yo who showed some solid handicap form last term but none quite strong enough to make her a top chance here.

    📌 Race Summary

    • The race features a mixed field with no clear standout, making it highly competitive and tricky to call.
    • Lady Roxby looks the most progressive and proven over track and trip.
    • Powdering and Cinque Verde offer course form and recent fitness arguments in their favour.
    • Several lightly raced fillies can run well but their inconsistency lowers confidence in strong betting support.

    Best Profile: A proven progressive filly with solid track record and fitness edge, like Lady Roxby, is best suited in this competitive 6f handicap sprint.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Lady Roxby

    Main Danger: Powdering

    Each-Way Value: Angel Love

    Lady Roxby’s positive last season and good reappearance effort set her up as the most likely winner despite a tough race. Powdering’s previous course win and stronger recent form make her the main threat, while Angel Love’s potential on handicap debut offers each-way value in an open contest.

    Betting Verdict: No Bet

    Reason: Despite having selections, the race’s competitive nature, inconsistent profiles and several question marks mean wider wagering is not recommended.

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    Aspire Cleaning & Facilities Throughout Scotland Handicap (Class 5)

    Aspire Cleaning & Facilities Throughout Scotland Handicap (Class 5)

    Date: 3 May 2026
    Course: Hamilton
    Type: Handicap
    Distance: 1m ½f (1m 68y)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This competitive Class 5 handicap over a mile and a half furlong at Hamilton features several seasoned runners, including a previous winner of this event. The field is well-balanced between proven stayers and horses looking to step up in trip. Track form and stamina will be key factors on this course and distance.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Arkenstaar Course Specialist

    Arkenstaar is a solid contender having won this race two years ago and generally performs well at Hamilton, though he lacks a recent run which may be a slight concern here.

    Izzari In-Form

    With three career wins and an eye-catching return at Newcastle, Izzari looks primed to continue his good form stepping back in trip slightly.

    Native Instinct Potential Stayer

    Having dropped to a dangerous mark, Native Instinct could capitalize with this step up in trip, suggesting stamina might be a big advantage.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Native Honey Tricky Return

    Realistically treated on handicap marks but last week’s underwhelming effort at Musselburgh casts some doubt on his current form.

    Starliner Reduced Mark

    Despite a lengthy losing streak, Starliner’s reduced handicap mark means he can’t be discounted entirely in this competitive field.

    Sanafi Zabeel Uncertain Profile

    Lightly raced and a German winner, Sanafi Zabeel is difficult to assess; betting market clues will be vital here.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Polygram

    Has yet to score for the current stable and has shown only poor form in previous handicaps, making victory unlikely.

    Quiet Resolve

    Although successful on the AW, Quiet Resolve has no wins on turf and has changed trainers, so this profile appears weak for this race.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Course specialist Arkenstaar has a solid chance despite lacking recent racing.
    • Izzari arrives in good form and holds strong claims after a promising return.
    • Native Instinct’s stamina step-up and falling mark could prove pivotal.
    • Others such as Native Honey and Starliner provide each-way interest but have reservations.

    Best Profile: Arkenstaar combines proven course form with a suitable trip and has previously won this event, making him the standout profile.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Arkenstaar

    Main Danger: Izzari

    Each-Way Value: Native Instinct

    Arkenstaar’s prior success at Hamilton and this race, plus his stamina credentials, give him the edge despite his recent absence. Izzari is in form and likely to run well again, while Native Instinct offers good each-way value given his mark and distance potential.

    Reason: Arkenstaar’s proven ability on this course and over similar distance combined with his class 5 experience make him the most reliable pick. Izzari’s current form is strong enough to challenge, and Native Instinct’s potential for improvement at this longer trip adds depth to the selections.

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    Coolmore Auguste Rodin Irish EBF Athasi Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) (3yo)

    Coolmore Auguste Rodin Irish EBF Athasi Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) (3yo)

    Date: 4 May 2026
    Course: Curragh
    Type: Flat – Group 3 Fillies
    Distance: 1 mile

    🚫 Race Overview

    This mile contest for three-year-old fillies at the Curragh is a key early-season Group 3 event, featuring several promising types who have shown ability at two or in early starts this year. With a mixture of unbeaten smart winners and proven performers seeking to step forward, the race shapes as a competitive test of class, stamina, and potential for progression into higher-level contests during the summer.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Drop Dead Gorgeous Key Prospect

    Half-sister to four Group 1 winners, she impressed with a smart debut win at Naas in March and looks the most probable progressive type in the field stepping up in class here.

    Killashee Warrior Form Horse

    Showed clear improvement on her juvenile form when running well at Leopardstown recently, finishing ahead of four rivals here. Could bounce again and is respected.

    Sinmara Improver

    Promising debut last October and followed with an emphatic wide-margin victory at Gowran, indicating she has plenty of scope to develop further this season.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Black Caviar Gold Juvenile Form

    Loss of a shoe on her return hindered her chance, but she showed high-class juvenile form last season, making her a strong danger if back to that level.

    Caught U Sleeping Consistent Performer

    Produced winning and Listed place performances at two and looks solid based on her seasonal reappearance beating a below-par rival.

    Pollenca Promising

    Has confirmed her promise with a course 7f maiden win on heavy ground in March, stepping up to a mile could suit this filly well.

    Wild Bessie Progressive

    Did well to beat a Ballydoyle-trained odds-on favourite at Cork; clearly open to further improvement this season.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Alphecca

    Picked up a good prize at two but was unplaced in a handicap last week; looks out of her depth at this level.

    Kensington Lane

    Useful at two but a poor run in a Group 3 at the Curragh and only a fair seasonal debut suggests she may struggle here.

    Mayflower

    Won her only race at two and is closely matched with several here on form, but lacks recent experience and high-level exposure.

    Sky Watch

    Improved last season and won a Dundalk maiden, but requires a step up to compete with the main contenders here.

    White Sand Beach

    Consistent maiden and fifth foal out of top-class Alice Springs, but needs a major improvement to feature in this Group 3 contest.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Drop Dead Gorgeous is the standout on breeding and early form with strong Group 1 family connections.
    • Killashee Warrior and Sinmara both appear to be improving and could challenge for the win.
    • Black Caviar Gold, despite a mishap on return, holds significant juvenile form claims.
    • The remainder of the field is either less experienced or lacks Group 3 class proven credentials.

    Best Profile: Drop Dead Gorgeous – a smart debut winner related to multiple Group 1 stars, looks like the one to beat stepping up to this level.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Drop Dead Gorgeous

    Main Danger: Black Caviar Gold

    Each-Way Value: Sinmara

    Drop Dead Gorgeous has the pedigree and early form to dominate, but Black Caviar Gold’s juvenile class makes her a serious threat if she recovers fully from her return setback. Sinmara offers each-way value with improving form and potential to progress.

    Reason: Drop Dead Gorgeous’s smart debut and strong pedigree place her narrowly ahead; Black Caviar Gold’s class and experience make her the main danger, while Sinmara’s wide-margin win recently suggests she could upset the favorite if progressing well.

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    Betwright Windsor Flat Season Opener Fillies’ Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 3) (2yo)

    Betwright Windsor Flat Season Opener Fillies’ Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 3) (2yo)

    Date: 4 May 2026
    Course: Windsor
    Type: Flat Race
    Distance: 6f (6f 12y)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This novice stakes event for 2-year-old fillies at Windsor features a competitive lineup of promising debutants, including well-bred recent purchases and some with early racecourse experience. The race marks the flat season opener at Windsor and is expected to be a strong form indicator with a moderate class 3 level on offer over a sharp 6-furlong trip.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Chanter Le Blues In Form Yard

    With a 100,000gns yearling price and belonging to a stable enjoying a strong start with juveniles this term, Chanter Le Blues commands respect.

    Girl Scout Well-Bred

    Bought for 110,000gns and sired by Perfect Power, Girl Scout is in excellent hands and looks to have solid chances.

    Bymiddaytomorrow Strong Breeding

    Priced at 90,000gns as a yearling, she is the stable’s first 2-year-old runner of 2026 and appears a likely type on pedigree.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Beauty Box Experienced

    The sole runner with actual race experience from the Newmarket Craven meeting, suggesting she could run a bold race despite the inexperience of others.

    Roxelina High-Class Purchase

    A 170,000gns foal, owned by a party with a strong juvenile record, adding intrigue to her debut bid.

    Love Is Interesting Runner

    Bought for 90,000 euros and by Sioux Nation from an all-weather winner, monitor the betting closely for clues.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Arabica Queen

    Purchased for £28,000, this filly’s owner-trainer yard’s 2-year-old results so far in 2026 have been disappointing, reducing confidence here.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Competitive 6-furlong novice stakes for 2yo fillies at Windsor, class 3 level.
    • Key chances include several well-bred newcomers with high purchase prices.
    • Only one participant has prior race experience, Beauty Box Showed.
    • Stable form and pedigree are important factors in assessing potential.

    Best Profile: A well-bred filly from a form-studded yard with juvenile success so far in 2026, ideally suited to 6f.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Chanter Le Blues

    Main Danger: Beauty Box

    Each-Way Value: Girl Scout

    Chanter Le Blues is selected for being from a stable with a strong juvenile start this season, combining good price and solid pedigree. Beauty Box represents the main danger due to prior experience on the track. Girl Scout offers strong each-way value given her breeding and trainer’s profile.

    Reason: Stable form and pedigree advantages, combined with early season juvenile success, place Chanter Le Blues ahead, while experienced Beauty Boxed cannot be discounted. Girl Scout’s profile provides a good value alternative for each-way bets.

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    EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 2) (2yo)

    EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 2) (2yo)

    Date: 3 May 2026
    Course: Newmarket
    Type: Flat – 2 year olds
    Distance: 5f (Row)

    🚫 Race Overview

    This novice stakes contest for 2-year-old fillies over 5 furlongs at Newmarket features a competitive line-up with a mix of proven performers and promising newcomers. The £40,000 Tattersalls EBF race is set to test early speed and precocity, with several well-bred fillies and notable auction purchases primed to make an impact. Expect a sharp sprint where experience could prove decisive against the unexposed.

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Call Me Tomorrow In-Form

    Shaped well when second over C&D last month and looks to hold leading claims here with further progress likely.

    Crownbreaker Strong Pedigree

    Half-sister to July Cup winner Mill Stream and a 550,000gns purchase; from a yard that has already broken its 2-year-old duck this season. A notable contender.

    Pageant Girl Recent Winner

    Enhanced her debut form stepping up when winning at Ripon over 6f just eight days ago. This is a tougher assignment but she should be competitive.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Efsixteen Promising Debut

    A 350,000gns breeze-up purchase with a sharp pedigree coming into an in-form yard. Unexposed but interesting for a trainer in good form.

    Lazurite Newcomer

    Highly regarded newcomer who cost £175,000 as a yearling; dam was a Listed winner and she has several winning siblings, marking her as one to note.

    Havana Sprite Market Watch

    150,000gns yearling and half-sister to a minor 5f 2-year-old scorer; dam won at two. Market support could reveal more about her chances.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    Donna Beauty

    Half-sister to four winners out of a useful German mare but lacks obvious early speed or form to suggest she can make a significant impact here.

    Holi Scarlett

    Bred to be sharp but had a modest €17,000 yearling price. Could struggle to make an impression in a competitive heat of this nature.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Strong contest between proven fillies and high-class newcomers.
    • Call Me Tomorrow holds strong claims based on recent Newmarket form.
    • Crownbreaker brings powerful pedigree and is from a successful juvenile stable.
    • Pageant Girl’s recent win signals she is competitive despite step up in class.

    Best Profile: Call Me Tomorrow combines form and potential progression, making her the benchmark for this race.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Call Me Tomorrow

    Main Danger: Crownbreaker

    Each-Way Value: Efsixteen

    Call Me Tomorrow showed encouraging form at Newmarket last month and is likely to improve further, making her the most solid pick. Crownbreaker’s pedigree and trainer form suggest she can challenge strongly. Efsixteen, although unexposed, offers each-way appeal given the trainer’s current hot streak and her sharp breeding.

    Reason: The selection balances proven Newmarket performance, pedigree, and trainer form. Call Me Tomorrow’s experience over the course and trip gives her an edge, while Crownbreaker’s class and Efsixteen’s potential offer competitive threats.

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    Pertemps Network King Charles II Stakes (Listed Race)

    Pertemps Network King Charles II Stakes (Listed Race)

    Date: 1 May 2026
    Course: Newmarket
    Type: Flat / 3yo Listed
    Distance: 7f (Rowley Mile)

    This Listed contest at Newmarket’s Rowley Mile features a high-quality field of promising 3-year-olds racing over seven furlongs. The race has garnered attention due to the presence of the odds-on favourite Cerro Blanco, fresh off a commanding debut win at the course and distance. Other key contenders include proven performers from Group and sales races, making this a competitive and intriguing event early in the season.

    🚫 Betting Assessment

    Race Verdict: No Bet

    Reason for Verdict: The race looks highly competitive with multiple plausible winners, making it difficult to justify a confident wagering stance at this stage. The favourite is promising but unexposed at this level, and the threats have strong cases but little form to separate them fully.

    📊 Race Quality Rating

    Score: 7.8/10

    Grade: High Quality Listed Race

    Confidence: Moderate-Low

    ⭐ Main Contenders

    Cerro Blanco Favourite

    Odds-on favourite after an impressive winning debut over course and distance. Looks a very bright prospect with plenty of scope to improve at this Listed level.

    Ellusive Butterfly Group 3 Proven

    Fourth in the Group 3 Fred Darling was a solid effort, though settling issues may hold him back. Could be close at the finish if he gets things right.

    Jel Pepper Strong Sales Race Winner

    Won a big-field sales race over this course and distance last October. Expected to make a bold bid from the front or close up.

    Maximized Consistent

    Held third in a recent course effort behind Cerro Blanco. May remain second string in the stable but can’t be discounted for placing claims.

    ⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

    Saber Strike Promising Debutant

    Made a ready winning debut at Redcar last November and looks a very likeable prospect stepping into Listed company for the first time.

    Stellar Sunrise Handicap Winner

    Returned with a commanding handicap win at Newbury showing solid form, suggesting leading claims if taking to Listed company well.

    ❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

    — No clear outsiders —

    All runners have respectable form, so no true long shots expected to upset the key protagonists.

    📌 Race Summary

    • Cerro Blanco is the standout favourite following a decisive debut win.
    • The race is competitive with several credible challengers from sales and Group 3 races.
    • Settling and experience at this level may prove key given the quality of the field.
    • No obvious form standout beyond the favourite, leading to a tight betting market.

    Best Profile: Young, improving 3yo showing clear potential at Listed level and early season race sharpness.

    🏁 Final Verdict

    1st Choice: Cerro Blanco

    Main Danger: Jel Pepper

    Each-Way Value: Stellar Sunrise

    Cerro Blanco’s comfortable debut win makes him the most convincing option, but with little experience at Listed level and a tightly matched field, the danger from consistent performers like Jel Pepper must be respected. Stellar Sunrise offers each-way value based on returning handicap form.

    Betting Verdict: No Bet

    Reason: Despite some attractive contenders, the race lacks a definitive standout beyond the favourite, presenting too many uncertainties for confident wagering.