'He holds a strong each-way chance' - progressive types take on seasoned handicappers in interesting sprint

Progressive sprinters Ormolulu and Rebel Empire fought out the finish to a race over this course and distance six days ago and another duel could be on the cards this time.

Ormolulu came from the rear to mow down Rebel Empire in the closing stages then and the pair reoppose on the same terms here, with both carrying 5lb penalties and the latter once again carrying 7lb more.

Rebel Empire earned his by winning authoritatively at Lingfield just two days later, which will give connections hope he can reverse the form, but this is a much stronger race.

They race in alternative styles as Rebel Empire tends to run up with the pace while Ormolulu is held up, but the pair are drawn next to each other in stalls four and five so ought to get a clean run at things.

The duo should fear Many A Star, as the eight-year-old won two races, including one over this course and distance, when languishing around this mark of 78 in April. 

Second to the subsequent Stewards' Cup winner Get It off 10lb higher in June, his recent Chelmsford third can be upgraded as he broke furthest from the rail and was posted wide the whole way.

Fellow course-and-distance winners Papa Cocktail, Tyke, Haitus and Glendown are preferred in that order by the market, but could find the top three in the market too strong.
Analysis by Maddy Playle

What they say

Tim Palin, racing manager to Middleham Park Racing, owners of Rebel Empire
He was impressive at Lingfield on New Year’s Day and the extra five-pound shouldn’t stop him. Before that he was just run out of it at this track by today’s opponent Ormolulu when he led everywhere bar the last furlong and if things had panned out differently we could well have won. Apprentice Tyrese Cameron is a cool customer and keeps the ride.

Jamie Osborne, trainer of Many A Star
He’s been extremely unlucky with draws and how races have panned out on recent outings but he’s well capable of winning a race like this off his current mark. If there is a God he’ll get his head in front here.

Gemma Tutty, trainer of Ormolulu
We’re running her back sooner than ideal after her win last time but the second has since won at Lingfield so we thought we’d better get her out again under a five-pound penalty.

Michael Herrington, trainer of Papa Cocktail
He’s back at his best trip of six furlongs after dropping back to five last time when he hit the line strongly. He’s a hold-up horse and my only concern is if they harrow the track too deep as he ideally wants it quick.

Luke Morris, rider of Tyke
He looked to run a bit free over seven furlongs at Newcastle last time and could be dangerously well handicapped now he’s back in trip and at a track where he has won before. He has a nice draw and goes there with a strong each-way chance.
Reporting by David Milnes

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