Low draw could prove key once again - expert analysis and key quotes for Pontefract's feature sprint handicap

Pontefract’s 5f is among the stiffest in Britain and suits a strong-staying sprinter. There is also a sweeping bend to negotiate and a ground-saving low draw is beneficial.

Two of the past three winners struck from stall one at odds of 10-1 and 13-2. The other was Live In The Dream, who made all from stall two before winning the Nunthorpe four months later.

Connections of Ventura Express (stall one) and Fahrenheit Seven (two) will be delighted with their starting berths. Half a length separated these horses when they met at Newcastle last month, but Fahrenheit Seven is effectively 6lb better off when factoring in jockey claims. 

Given Ventura Express’ strong record when fresh, there is no guarantee he will build on that. Fahrenheit Seven, a fast-improving four-year-old, is half his age and has more to offer in this type of race.

Wen Moon is next door in stall three and should go well. The ability to perform following breaks will stand to the returning Wen Moon, who was third in last year's running on heavy ground off 9lb higher. While conditions will be quicker, he has course-and-distance form on a faster surface.

Alzahir (stall five) returned to the sort of form he showed for David O’Meara last summer when seeming to benefit from wind surgery to plunder a 7f handicap at Doncaster recently.

He looks well handicapped under a 5lb penalty on that run, but the son of Sea The Stars may find this test too sharp, even allowing for Pontefract’s taxing uphill finish.
Analysis by Robbie Wilders

Going update

Watering has taken place to achieve good ground for the track's season opener. Clerk of the course Jonathan Mullin said: "It's been a tricky winter in terms of grass growth, but the recent sun has helped and I'm happy with where we are now." 

What they say

James Evans, trainer of Dream Composer
He's got a great course record as the stiff uphill finish suits him. We're into personal-best territory now with the mark he's got and he generally takes a run or two to get himself spot on. We're hoping he runs well and sets himself up for another productive year.

Alan O'Keeffe, assistant to Jennie Candlish, trainer of Alzahir
He won well at Doncaster and we're hoping we'll get away with the five furlongs up the hill. He showed plenty of early speed last time and has form over six, so we think it'll suit him. He's in good form and has race-fitness on his side.

Ivan Furtado, trainer of Nazron
He's a nice horse for the turf as he won well for Mr Varian on his last start on the surface at Windsor [in August]. He's had a wind op and we're expecting a good run, although we're disappointed with the draw [stall 11] and are going to need some luck.

Martin Dixon, part-owner of Intervention
The wide draw [stall ten] makes life quite difficult for him, but he goes there in good form and is still well handicapped on his best efforts. Although he's never won over five furlongs, the stiff five will suit him and he has run some good races over the trip.
Reporting by Andrew Dietz

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