The Weekend Winners team turned its attention to Newbury’s bustling Saturday card, focusing on the headline Dubai Duty Free Handicap that aired on Sky Sports Racing at 2.47 pm. After a dominant performance in a 17‑runner handicap at Doncaster’s St Leger meeting, Almekarem emerged as the market favourite for trainer Sir Mark Prescott, even though the horse carries an additional five pounds compared with its Town Moor outing. Almekarem’s rise has been hard to ignore. The colt secured a convincing win at Doncaster, prompting the handicapper to increase his weight, a sign that the horse is being recognised for genuine ability.
The panel highlighted that the family line is rich with high‑class performers, boasting several siblings rated in the triple‑digit range, suggesting a strong genetic foundation for continued improvement. Other contenders received attention as well. Boyfriend has been penalised by the handicapper after a string of impressive recent runs, while Balzac appeared to have rediscovered his form following a gelding and a runner‑up finish at Ascot earlier in the month. The panel also noted the partnership of jockey Rossa Ryan with trainer Ralph Beckett aboard Gonna Fly, and the return of Jamie Spencer on Stem, a horse that finished a solid third at Sandown on the final day of that meeting.
One of the pundits summed up his expectations: “I think I know how this race is going to play out, even though the field is deep. The key will be a horse that can settle behind a strong early pace. I’m backing Almekarem because he showed a nice turn of foot in the Doncaster handicap and the pedigree suggests he can handle a step up in weight.” He added, “The horse has the gears, and the family has plenty of progression with triple‑digit‑rated siblings. He leads the market, but I believe he’s improving rapidly and can take the beating after a good performance last week.” The discussion then shifted to Stem, trained by Richard Hannon.
The analyst praised the horse’s recent form, noting a respectable run in the competitive Spring Mile at Newbury, a race whose form has proven reliable throughout the season. “He’s been tried over a variety of distances – eight, ten and even twelve furlongs this year – and I think he’s perfectly suited to the ten‑furlong trip today,” the commentator said. “At 8/1 he offers solid value and could be the one to capitalize on the pace scenario.” The panel also highlighted a less obvious selection: Merveilleux Lapin, a Polish Oaks winner trained by Owen Burrows. “I don’t often back a Polish Oaks winner, but she’s been consistent since joining the stable, even if she hasn’t secured a victory yet,” the expert explained.
“She ran well against progressive types at Ascot and, despite the recent dip in form for the Burrows yard, the trainer did produce a nice winner at Yarmouth not long ago. At 16/1 she represents a value play for me.” Beyond the race analysis, the segment reminded viewers to stay connected with the latest racing news, interviews, and features via the Sky Sports Racing app, ensuring fans never miss a story. The panel encouraged listeners to watch the full Weekend Winners programme on the At The Races YouTube channel for more in‑depth coverage.
In summary, Almekarem heads the betting thanks to a recent handicap victory and a strong pedigree, while Stem offers a credible 8/1 proposition based on versatility over distance and a solid recent run. Boyfriend and Balzac remain intriguing after weight penalties and a post‑geld resurgence, respectively. Meanwhile, Merveilleux Lapin provides a longer‑odds value option for those looking to gamble on a proven classic winner.
The race promises a blend of proven talent and hidden gems, making the Dubai Duty Free Handicap at Newbury a must‑watch event for punters and racing enthusiasts alike.