Brighton stages a competitive-looking seven-race card on Monday, Sept 18th. A gorgeous course that invariably produces great finishes and high drama.
Let’s have a closer look at a couple of contests – I’ve already previewed and plumped for one in the 13.55 in a companion piece, so let’s turn our attention to the rest of the action.
16.45 – Evasive Power @ 4/1
Young Billy Loughnane has been one of the very best ‘finds’ in racing in recent years. Natural ability off the scale, winners flow, plaudits arrive deservedly. He’s got another bright chance on Monday in my book aboard Evasive Power.
Robyn Brisland trains, and interestingly Billy was on top last time out at Chepstow when a running-on second in this grade over a furlong shorter. Billy retains the partnership and gets an extra furlong in which to work his magic.
Evasive Power returned from a little spring break seemingly energised, and as he’s won over a mile this trip of 7f at this stage of his career might be just the ticket, bearing in mind how the cards were played at Chepstow.
He’s a pound lower, on 56, than his last winning mark, and has known during his career a time when he was in the mid-80’s! A sprinkle of young Mr Loughnane’s special talent and we might just be cheering this one home.
17.20 – Areille @ 3/1
Anyone who has seen the Nap of the Day piece will know I admire jockey David Probert. He takes the ride on Jack Jones’ Areille here over an extended 5f+, and once again we’re in the value brand section of Class 6 handicappers.
The 4-yr-old returned from a high summer break of some 51 days with a fine 4th beaten just 2l, at Redcar. That was over 6f, so back in trip a hundred yards or so, which I don’t think will be an issue.
She began her racing life in Ireland and actually won at this trip in Sligo 3 years ago. She won at Fairyhouse off 70 ridden by Billy Lee just over a year ago, and if getting remotely adjacent to reproducing any of that old sparkle we’re got a wonderful chance.
Her last 3 runs have all been very consistent and she deserves to get her head in front again. The booking of Probert is a massive plus.
