The old adage of backing the top weight in a nursery is the angle we're taking for the first of today's SmartPlays as we side with Richard Fahey's Regiment in the 14.40 at Catterick. A fair fifth behind three subsequent winners on debut at Doncaster in June, Regiment quickly put his experience to good use when scoring at today's venue earlier this month in determined fashion. He looks just the type to continue progressing and, with the opposition not appearing the strongest bunch on paper, it is hoped Regiment can kick the day off with a winner.
We stay at the Yorkshire venue for the second of today's selections, in which a chance is taken on Funding Deficit (16.10) backing up his Beverley maiden success two weeks ago. David Barron's charge has only graced the racecourse eight times and has been largely progressive; he is just the type his trainer excels with. His opening mark of 73 does not look overly excessive in the context of this line up, and Funding Deficit could offer some value against Lexington Place who has risen considerably in the weights for his recent hat-trick of victories.
It's off to Lingfield for the last of today's SmartPlays and recent winner Khelac (17.30) is selected to send us off with a winner. Philip Hide's three-year-old has improved for the application of blinkers of late and put up a career best to land a handicap on turf here a week ago. Most interesting was the manner of his victory, he won with plenty to spare suggesting a 6 lb penalty will be well within his compass. Clearly the least exposed in the line-up, Khelac looks to have been found an ideal opportunity to notch up the double.
Timeform UK SmartPlays:
Back Regiment @ 2.26/5 in the 14:40 at Catterick
Back Funding Deficit @ 4.57/2 in the 16:10 at Catterick
Back Khelac @ 4.03/1 in the 17:30 at Lingfield
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