MERSEYSIDE handler Paul Green looks to be in with a great chance of plundering the Hilary Needler Trophy with his speedy filly, Sudden Impact (7.20).
Beverley's two-year-old dash often throws up championship material and by lifting the silverware Sudden Impact will surely book her ticket for Royal Ascot's Queen Mary Stakes in mid-June.
It all sounds very easy on paper, however there's no denying the huge promise of her Thirsk debut when weaving through the pack to nab third-spot with a turbo-charged final furlong flourish.
Sudden Impact must reverse the form with Charlotti Carlotti, who was second that day, but the selection is far better drawn than the latter and is confidently expected to gain deserved revenge.
Bryan Smart's stable is beginning to gather momentum, a trend which points to the prospects of Chasing Memories (6.50) in the Guest And Phillips Handicap.
Bred by Bryan's wife, Vicky, Chasing Memories is a daughter of Pursuit of Love, a sire predisposed to producing late-maturing stock.
Given that scenario it's no surprise the filly didn't achieve much in 2006, but hope springs eternal and Chasing Memories improved on prior efforts with a fair third on her recent reappearance.
In the 1¼-mile Weatherbys Insurance Handicap, previous course and distance scorer, Sir Arthur (8.20), is certain to be a popular choice with punters.
Sir Arthur, a big rangy sort with stacks of physical scope, is bidding to improve an already excellent record at the course for trainer Mark Johnston.
Although the four-year-old chestnut ran like a drain when well beaten on a lacklustre Newcastle return, the gelding's latest run at Musselburgh, when making the frame, was much more like his old self.
Cartmel stages the sole afternoon jumping action, a meeting at which Michaels Dream (5.15) rates the best bet in the closing EBF Handicap Hurdle.
Noel Wilson's hardy Malton-based eight-year-old has racked up an amazing 89 career outings to date, winning six races in all, as well as adding a further 24 second or third place finishes to his CV.
Such durability and consistency is quite remarkable, and the success story seems far from over since Michaels Dream shaped as if his turn was once again near when runner-up at Uttoxeter 11 days ago.
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