Thursday Round-Up – Week 9, 2024

The BGBF British Breeders Stakes, commencing at Nottingham on Monday, might see a late surge of entries due to notable absentees. Most of the KSS Syndicate's Kings and Queens are at Hove this weekend, eyeing the Central Park's Kent Plate. Absent from this year's event is last year's winner, Romeo Command, due to a recent trial-related soreness. Trainer Patrick Janssens noted, "I don't have anything else in the kennel good enough to win it."

Trainers Kevin Hutton and David Mullins also won't have runners, citing the youth of their contenders. However, Jimmy Fenwick has entered Coppice Gracie, and Kevin Ferguson, a consistent supporter, will have 'Acombs' in contention. The spotlight, however, will be on Signet Goofy, the Steel City Cup winner, boasting a remarkable 50%+ strike rate. Trainer John Mullins affirmed Goofy's participation, along with Smores and Dick Turpin. The 36-runner event, closing on Friday, offers £12,500 to the winner, concluding on Monday, March 18.

Sheffield's Sunday Best

Sheffield Racing Manager Andrew Mascarenhas anticipates Sunday's open race card to be the best since the track's new schedule launch in January. Last week marked a turning point with a full card of 12 races. While entries didn't match the previous week, consistent participation from trainers is noted. The highlight is the Queen Mother Cup, part of the four-bend final featuring Links Maverick.

Mascarenhas sees this Queen Mother Cup as one of the best in years, with every runner boasting open race-winning form. The three heats are expected to be competitive. Ela Maestro is likely the favourite, having shown strong performance in his initial track appearance. Maximum Security, a seasoned performer, adds intrigue to the event, with considerations of retirement after this year's 'Three Steps.' The third heat remains intriguing, with notable contenders like Savana Heross, displaying good form and track mastery.