Newcastle stages a nine-race card today, all shown live on Sky Sports Racing, with several intriguing head-to-heads to watch.
5.00 Newcastle – Silent Strike v Bucklow Hill
The Read Meg Nicholls’ Blog At betmgm.co.uk Novice Stakes brings a re-run of the Lingfield contest as Silent Strike and Bucklow Hill meet again. Charles Hill’s Bucklow Hill made a winning debut despite his greenness at Lingfield 36 days ago and should have benefited from that schooling. He teams up again with Jason Watson and looks progressive.
Silent Strike was runner-up to that rival at Lingfield before breaking his duck at Kempton as a short-priced favourite. Part-owned by Brighton chairman Tony Bloom, he runs under new rider Callum Rodriguez and could close the gap on his old rival.
Also of interest in this contest are Nursia, who built on a promising debut to score over course and distance at the second attempt, and Soul Love, who impressed when winning on debut at Southwell and should improve for Karl Burke.
Additional notes: Lord Allen has resigned as BHA chair after six months, and Heltenham retained the Greatwood crown at Newbury.
5.30 Newcastle – Callianassa faces nine rivals in the Bet £10 Get £40 With BetMGM Handicap
Callianassa, trained by Brian Ellison, bids for a quick follow-up after landing a third course-and-distance success when beating Dosman here last month. With the runner-up having scored since, Callianassa looks the one to beat under Ben Robinson.
Ben Haslam’s War Howl arrives in form and has been dropped 2 lb to a mark of 80, which should make him competitive on just his second start for the yard. Tribal Wisdom, who finished runner-up at Southwell last time, also merits consideration despite a 1 lb rise.
Keep an eye on Jez Bomb for Sam England, while Caron and Night Breeze offer each-way options.
7.30 Newcastle – Classy Clarets v Fortunate Star in five-furlong Classified Stakes
A competitive Midnite A Next Generation Betting App Classified Stakes over five furlongs features Classy Clarets and Fortunate Star among the leading players. Classy Clarets took advantage of a falling mark to win at Wolverhampton earlier this month and will be a major contender if that form transfers here.
Fortunate Star opened his account for these connections with a comfortable victory in a 0-50 at Southwell and can run well again if the visor works a second time. Desert Master and Shatin Venture complete the shortlist for what promises to be a tight dash.
Look for live coverage and further race updates on Sky Sports Racing throughout the card.