THE ANTEPOST ANGLE - HAYDOCK SPRINT CUP

Another one of John Arnold's look ahead to one of the biggest races as he previews the Sprint Cup from Haydock. History:

The Haydock Sprint Cup is one of the premier sprint races in the UK. Established in 1965, this Group 1 race spans a distance of six furlongs and is open to horses aged three years and older. The race attracts a top-class field, showcasing the speed and talent of some of the best sprinters in the world, making it a highlight of the British racing calendar. With its historic significance and competitive nature, the Haydock Sprint Cup has garnered a reputation as a pivotal event for both horses and trainers looking to establish their credentials in the sprinting division.

Over the years, the Haydock Sprint Cup has seen many remarkable performances from legendary sprinters, with notable winners including the likes of Dayjur and Battaash. The race often serves as a key indicator for future breeding success among its participants, with champions frequently becoming influential sires or broodmares.

Trends:

Age- 5 of the last 12 winners were aged 3, 7 of last 12 winners were aged4 or older

Price- 4 of last 12 winners were fav/joint favourites, 7/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting

Last Run- 5 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race, 5/12 winners placed on last run 

3/12 ran in the Nunthorpe on their last run, 0 of the 3 won, 1 placed. 2/12 winners ran in the July Cup on their last run 1 of the 2 won, 2 placed

Course Form- 8/12 winners had 1 previous run at Haydock, 5/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at Haydock 

Distance Form- 11/12 winners had at least 4 runs over 6 furlongs, 9/12 winners had at least 3 previous wins over 6 furlongs 

Rating- 11/12 winners had a rating of 109 or higher

Contenders:

The antepost market at the time of writing is led by LAZZAT who has enjoyed an outstanding season thus far. He was dominant at Royal Ascot to win the Jubilee Stakes and was beaten by just over a length by Sajir in France in the Prix Maurice de Gheest. The Territories gelding will give another bold show in this contest. I like how he settles and powers home the course will suit his style of running, I'd expect James Doyle to partner him again. NO HALF MEASURES the Cable Bay filly caused a massive upset in the July Cup at Newmarket winning readily at a huge price of 66/1. Richard Hughes will have her primed again for this and I believe another bold show is pending. She came second at the course over five furlongs at the end of May as well. Harry Eustace has enjoyed a stellar season with his flagship horse being TIME FOR SANDALS. The Sands of Mali filly touched over Arizona Blaze in the Commonwealth Cup at the Royal Meeting and that form has been franked since. Last time out in the King George Stakes at Goodwood she was third to JM Jungle who likely heads to the Nunthorpe and may well turn up here too. I think the consistency of Time for Sandals will put her in the mix at Haydock come early September. Importantly she has won and been placed on Good to Firm, Good and Soft ground this season. 

Selections

LAZZAT (WIN)

TIME FOR SANDALS (E/W)

written by John Arnold