Welcome to Wolverhampton: a guide to betting at Dunstall Park

Next week it will be all about jump racing, but with the wet weather still causing problems for turf tracks, all-weather action from Wolverhampton is the main event in Britain on Saturday. While not everyone's favourite betting medium, all-weather racing has grown in recent seasons, with an all-weather championship and an increasing number of fixtures. Here are some hints and tips if you are having a dabble at Dunstall Park.

The draw can be crucial

Like a lot of Flat tracks, Wolverhampton does have a draw bias and it pays to have a low-numbered berth, especially in sprint races. However, the same also applies to contests over 7f and the extended mile. Getting trapped wide can significantly diminish a runner's chances, with the jockey left facing the dilemma of either sitting and suffering or dropping back in and potentially having a wall of horses in front in the home straight.

Prominent position often pays off

Wolverhampton is a fairly sharp track, and unless the early pace is too strong, more often than not you want to be closer to the front rather than held up.

Wolverhampton Saturday card

When assessing form and race replays for the card, it can be prudent to concentrate on runners who are able to travel strongly and quicken.

The need for speed

You really need to have pace to succeed at Wolverhampton. With its short straight the track does not particularly suit horses who take time to hit top gear.

Many races come down to who has travelled well to the final bend and is in a position to slingshot into the straight. A similar running style works at Lingfield as well, so bear that in mind when looking at the form.

Who rides the track well?

Luke Morris could probably ride round the track blindfolded and the busiest jockey in the weighing room often finds himself in the winner's enclosure.

Adam Kirby is another who does well at the course, along with Silvestre de Sousa, and all three are in action. Jack Mitchell is having a very good year at the course, with six winners from 15 rides, and his record also compares favourably to the aforementioned jockeys over a longer period.

Who are the trainers to follow?

Most of the trainers with runners on the card have good records at the course, but the pair who stand out for Saturday with strike-rates above 20 per cent are Archie Watson and Simon Crisford. They each have one runner; Watson runs Glen Shiel (2.45) and Crisford saddles Rock Of Diamonds (3.20).

Read our Wolverhampton previews . . .

1.35: Fox Power pick of the weights in Lincoln Trial

2.10: Tom Collins cast his judgement on this competitive sprint

2.45: talented sort looks worthy favourite says top tipster

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