Slaine has relished running over intermediate trips, so looks worth a wager at 15/8 with Bethard in the 2m 4f mares’ handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter on Friday (16:55).
Trained by Neil King, this five-year-old has posted improved form in recent weeks. After breaking her maiden tag at Ffos Las in June, Slaine was second over course and distance.
Having since come out and won, advertising the form of her run behind Takingitallin, this daughter of Brian Boru is thriving.
Slaine scored by 2 3/4 lengths at Southwell where she had her rivals strung out in-behind. It was a taking display, yet there may be further improvement to come.
Bryony Frost, who is two from four aboard Slaine, is in the saddle again. King’s stable is also in fine form on a 25 per cent strike rate in the last 14 days at the time of writing.
Turning out under a 7lb penalty may not be enough to stop Slaine from going in again. She’s in the form of her life and remains unexposed in handicap company after just three starts.
Competitive handicap for Slaine at Uttoxeter
There are dangers in a small but select field of five. Really Super won off 115 last autumn and is sure to come on for her return over hurdles.
The topweight in this was an unlucky close-up third at Market Rasen earlier this month. Really Super was denied a clear run after three out, but rallied to go down by three-quarters of a length.
Despite her penalty for being quickly turned out, Slaine still gets 3lb from that Amy Murphy trained rival though.
Silk Run, meanwhile, gets the services of on-fire champion jockey Richard Johnson. The pilot of Tom Lacey’s mare is on an incredible 44 per cent strike rate in the last fortnight.
It’s Slaine who appeals most, however, and she can follow-up here
Bet of the Day: 15/8 with Bethard, Slaine in the mares’ handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter.
