As the gates of Warwick and Newbury prepare to swing open to a day full of racing action, Harry Skelton provides a comprehensive preview of the runners ready to thunder down the tracks. With a blend of optimism and seasoned insight, Skelton highlights the potential and challenges facing several promising horses.
Warwick Races: A Surge of Talent
The first horse to keep an eye on is SHAREYOURBISCUITS, who makes his racecourse debut at 12:55 pm. Without previous racing experience, he’s a bit “greener than spring grass” but has shown promise at home. Skelton is hopeful that, despite the daunting task, this young horse will run well, gaining valuable experience for a bright future.
In the 1:30 pm race, KART D’ESTRUVAL is under watch. His last run at Wetherby left much to be desired, as he stopped unexpectedly and made a worrying noise. With his wind addressed and plenty of work under his belt, Skelton suggests “a watching brief” for now, looking to see improvement as he drops back to two miles.
L’EAU DU SUD is the one to watch in the 2:05 pm race, always having had this race in his sights before heading to Cheltenham. Carrying a Grade 1 penalty, he’s certainly got a “tall order,” but seems well-prepared for the impending challenge.
Cheekpieces for the first time might just be the key for WEST BALBOA at 2:40 pm. Aiming for a confidence boost from recent hurdle runs, the two miles five furlongs journey at Warwick could be just what she needs to regain top form.
The spotlight shifts to LE MILOS in the 3:15 pm race. After a solid run at Chepstow, he is a horse keen to lock into that winning thread again. According to Skelton, he’s been a “great horse altogether,” and there’s hope this race will see him pull ahead.
Making a switch back to hurdles, PANIC ATTACK comes into the 3:48 pm race with confidence after a recent win over fences. Her improvement is noticeable, prompting optimism about her chances.
Closing Warwick’s action, the bumper features RENE’S WALK at 4:23 pm. She’s following in the footsteps of her dam, Rene’s Girl, known for her toughness. With a commendable first run at Wetherby, she’s set to continue her promising trajectory, as Skelton hopes for another strong finish.
Newbury’s Competitive Scene
Over at Newbury, the seasoned jumpers have their moments to shine. WILLIETHEBUILDER enters the 3:35 pm race fresh from a break. Disappointment haunted his last run at Ascot, but a steadier ground and better run plan could see him in the prize money.
Finally, rounding off the day are newcomers GREAT FLEET and REALCO in the 4:45 pm race. Great Fleet impressed with his staying power at Market Rasen, while Realco’s victory at Exeter under a penalty marked him as a promising stayer. Skelton sees both as having strong futures over two-and-a-half miles in hurdle races next season.
Conclusion: A Day for Dreams and Determination
The horses riding at Warwick and Newbury represent the perseverance and dreams at the heart of racing. Harry Skelton, drawing on his vast experience, paints a picture of potential victories, comebacks, and new beginnings. With each race, these horses take another stride into a future brimming with possibility, embodying the spirit of the sport and the skill of their trainers.
