14:00 Musselburgh
Serenity Now won really nicely at Towcester last time out and although he has to cope with a seven pound rise for that win, he is in great form and should run his race. The extra three furlongs here today maybe an issue however, as he didn't last home at Hexham over two and a half miles two races ago. Craig gallagher is on board again claiming seven pounds, so assuming he is able to get the distance, he must have a chance.
Claude Carter is at the bottom of the weights and has been in reasonable form this year with a good second two weeks ago. This is a class above that race however and he has been raised eight pounds for that performance. Given that he is now 11 years old it can be assumed there is not a lot of improvement to come, and having never won at this level, it's hard to see him starting to now.
Now This Is It is the top rated in the field and his most recent run was sixth in a stronger looking race than this. This will be his fourth race back after a long break of nearly two years and although he is coming down the weights, he doesn't look to be as good as he was, and therefore I can't see him being good enough to carry top weight to victory.
Sleep In First has been consistent lately and was second in a good handicap at Aintree in June. He hasn't really kicked on from there though, however his last two runs have been on ground that was plenty firm enough, so back on good ground today there is a chance he could get involved if he runs his race.
Western Way has jumped up the weights this year due to being in really good form and will need to defy another three pound rise if he is to triumph here today. He has been running over longer distances and I think the drop back down in trip will help along with the booking of Richard Johnson. As long as he can keep Western Way handy I think he can use his stamina to run away from them at the business end of the race and at the prices, he represents the value.
Today's Selections
Musselburgh 14:00 Western Way - 1 point @ 11/4 (Ladbrokes, Betvictor)