Cartmel

Left-handed and tight, Cartmel is a sharp, distinctive track where speed, balance and the ability to travel strongly are particularly important. With runners constantly turning and races often unfolding at a good pace, horses that come under pressure early can find themselves struggling to keep tabs on the leaders.

There are only six fences to a circuit, so jumping plays less of a role than at many courses. The obstacles are generally fair, although the final few arrive in quick succession as the pace is increasing and can catch out less accurate jumpers. Despite this, the course has one of the lowest attrition rates in the country.

Cartmel’s defining feature is its exceptionally long run-in of around half a mile from the final fence, the longest in Britain. Races can change dramatically after the last, with leaders vulnerable to idling or tiring if committed too early. Timing, therefore, is crucial around this unusual track.