Monday promises a packed racing schedule, featuring meetings at Brighton, Newton Abbot and Wolverhampton, all broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. Among the headline attractions is Danehill Star, the Tony Carroll‑trained gelding, who is eyeing a third straight win in a £20 bet to get £40 free bet handicap at Matchbook.com. Danehill Star has been in scintillating form lately, having secured victory in each of his last two outings. The first win came over the same course and distance, where he edged out his rival by a half‑length.
He then exploded in his next start at Bath, winning by more than five lengths, a performance that left punters and handicappers alike taking notice. Handicappers have not ignored his recent exploits; they have lifted his rating by ten pounds following those two triumphs. Nevertheless, the dominant manner of his Bath victory suggests that the added weight may not be enough to stop him from completing a hat‑trick. If he can stay on this upward trajectory, Danehill Star could very well cement his status as a leading contender in the Brighton handicap.
Among his rivals, Newfangled perhaps represents the most significant threat. The horse won the same race last season while carrying just a pound less than the current mark.
Since then, Newfangled has hit form at the perfect time, having produced a credible third‑place finish at Windsor in his most recent run. That performance indicates he still possesses the class to challenge for the top spot. Another local specialist, Dion Baker, has found the going tougher after a rise of 36 pounds since he began his winning streak at the track in late May. Starting from a 73‑pound mark, he has been knocked down two pounds in the current handicap, which could give him a renewed chance.
If he can recapture the early‑season momentum that saw him dominate lower‑class races, he may be a factor in the finish. On The Inlet is also worth watching.
The horse showed promise earlier in the season and could be competitive again if he can return to the class level where he previously thrived. A drop back in class, combined with his natural ability, might see him finish strongly. Turning to the novice hurdles, the Dovecote fourth, Matiwo, returns in the Jodie Standing Point‑To‑Point Recruits Novices' Hurdle.
Matiwo displayed considerable promise as a juvenile hurdler last season, winning a solid novice at Newbury and then delivering a brilliant fourth‑place effort in the Grade Two Dovecote Hurdle, where he ran among the best. Notably, he beat future Grade One Top Novices' Hurdle winner Storming George on that day.
His current form, coupled with an unexposed rating, places him well above the rest of the field, making him a tough nut to crack on his seasonal reappearance. Ride Like A Girl showed potential after a wind‑surgery win in May but has not progressed since. If he returns for his final run after a short break, his experience and fitness could make him a competitive contender, especially if the pace suits his running style.
Scott's Legacy could pose a serious threat if he makes his hurdle debut, having impressed in a strong bumper win at Southwell in March. A successful transition to hurdles would add a fresh dynamic to the race and could see him challenge the more established novices. Pappano brings a high level of ability, having been rated 96 on the flat and previously contesting Willie Mullins' Triumph Hurdle. Though his two hurdling starts have not yet showcased his full potential and he ran overly keen in his last outing, the horse still has much to prove and could surprise the field with a late surge.
In other news, record‑breaking 1‑33 outsider Najidi Storm is set to face the formidable Wootz in the Download the At the Races App Novice Stakes. Najidi Storm made a striking debut, winning by half a length with a powerful turn of foot.
He followed that up with two subsequent wins, including a fourth‑place finish in the Cambridgeshire behind the eventual winner Gavriel. However, he struggled in heavy ground at Goodwood, becoming the shortest‑priced loser in British racing history at 1‑33. Despite that setback, his pedigree is impressive – he is a brother to St Leger winner Logician and half‑brother to the talented Okeechobee – indicating ample room for improvement. Wootz, on the other hand, caught the eye with a six‑and‑a‑half‑length debut victory before being well‑fancied at Windsor, where he hung left badly and was unable to beat the classy Song Of The Clouds.
With more experience under his belt, he is expected to continue his progression and could be the horse to beat on the day. Additional entries include Al Jolson, who won comfortably on his second start, and Shadow Boxer, who is set to benefit from the extra furlong after a solid debut in April. Both horses bring youthful vigor and could make an impact as the race unfolds. For fans who never want to miss a story, the latest racing news, interviews and feature articles are available on mobile through the Sky Sports Racing app, ensuring you stay up‑to‑date wherever you are.
The race card continues with several other contests: at 4.27pm in Brighton, Royal County Glory will aim for a hat‑trick; at 5.00pm, Macanudo also seeks a third win. Over at Newton Abbot, Depalma targets his first fence win for the Skeltons at 1.50pm, while Gore Point looks to rebound at 3.00pm against last‑time‑out winner Juggernaut. Saint Polo, at 3.35pm, hopes to return to form after a poor chase start, targeting a four‑win streak over hurdles. A clash of unexposed and progressive talent will see Kom Tu Voudras face Kilnew Supreme at 4.10pm.
Wolverhampton offers its own excitement with Majestic Flame aiming to regain form after a promising debut in the hot Goodwood maiden at 5.30pm, followed by a 0‑75 handicap featuring Trappy at 8.00pm. Finally, at 8.30pm, The Anthony Gover will chase a course and distance hat‑trick. All of these events highlight the depth and variety of British racing this Monday, providing ample opportunities for punters and enthusiasts alike to enjoy high‑quality competition across the country.