Timeform UK SmartPlays: Monday Feburary 17

Our first bet of the day comes in the twelve-furlong handicap (14:45) in which Whiskey N Stout is capable of building on his last run at Kempton. That was his first outing for new trainer Sean Curran after ten months off, and the manner in which he finished well off a strong pace bodes well for the future. He shaped better than his third-place suggested, and given that today's step up in trip is sure to suit and may arguably bring about an improved performance, today might be the day he can record his first career win. He remains lightly-raced and a bold bid is expected, although Josie's Dream looks on a very workable mark if able to transfer his form to this surface.
 
It's a handicap over an extended nine furlongs (15:45) up next and the one who makes the most appeal is newcomer Abyaat. Given he hails from the Hannon operation and that he's a full brother to Creese who made a winning debut over 7f as a juvenile, he would not have to be anything out of the ordinary to win here. It's unlikely he'll be  capable of showing the full extent of his abilities on his first start, but again that shouldn't be necessary if he can translate the respect he deserves on paper on to the track itself and he can follow in his sister's footsteps. Coillte Cailin did seem worried out of it last time but has always looked as if today's step up in trip should suit, and makes the shortlist. 

The final race under consideration is the valuable sprint handicap (16:45) in which there is likely to be plenty of early pace courtesy of Caspian Prince and Forest Edge. The vote goes to the very likeable Dangerous Age for whom a win today would take his all-weather record to six wins from 11 starts. His win over C&D in October made it a hat-trick and he was only beaten narrowly earlier this month at Kempton after a winter break. That run should have blown away the cobwebs and he should be spot on for today, although Swiss Cross is also worthy of respect in what looks a competitive contest. 

Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Wolverhampton

Back Whiskey N Stout @ 5.24/1 in the 14:45
Back Abyaat @ 3.7511/4 in the 15:45
Back Dangerous Age @ 5.59/2 in the 16:45