Author: Peter McNeile

Royal Ascot 2025 is fast approaching, and many people believe that this could be the year that racehorse trainer and former jockey Paddy Twomey finally gets a winner at the UK’s biggest horse racing event. 

Let’s dive straight in to find out more. 

Can Paddy Twomey win at Royal Ascot 2025?

Many horse racing fans, experts, and sports bettors believe that Paddy Twomey could win at Royal Ascot this year and that the most likely winner will be a horse called ‘Carmers’ in the Queen’s Vase race. 

Royal Ascot gets underway on Tuesday, June 17, at 14:30 (GMT) with the Queen Anne Stakes, followed by the Coventry Stakes, the King Charles II Stakes, and the St James’ Palace Stakes. 

On day 2 of the event, the first race of the day is the Queen Mary Stakes at 14:30. The Queen’s Vase race on day 2 is at 15:05, followed by the Prince of Wales, the Royal Hunt Cup, and the Windsor Castle Stakes.

The quickest, easiest, and most reliable way to determine if Paddy Twomey’s ‘Carmers’ is likely to win the Queens Vase race is to find out the latest odds currently being offered by the iGaming industry’s most trusted online sportsbooks. Look for sites that are well-known for having highly competitive horse racing odds. 

For example, when betting on horse racing in South Africa, the safest site to visit first for the best odds is the official 10Bet Africa online sportsbook. As we edge closer to race day, the odds for this particular race will become available. 

Since the start of the Irish Flat horse racing season in March, and right up until May 20, Twomey has had an impressive 12 winners from just 28 runners (Flat runners aged three years old and above). In other words, his recent strike rate is an unparalleled 42.90%. 

Which other races are there to look forward to at Royal Ascot?

Besides the Queen’s Vase and the other races mentioned above that you can watch and/or bet on days 1 and 2, there are plenty of other races to look forward to over the five-day event. 

The most hotly anticipated race is the Ascot Gold Cup on day 3 at 16:25. The other races on day three are the Norfolk Stakes, the Ribblesdale Stakes, and the Buckingham Palace Stakes. On day 4, June 20, you have the Albany Stakes, the Commonwealth Cup, the Coronation Stakes, and the King Edward VII Stakes, and then on the final day of the meeting, you have the Chesham Stakes, the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, and the Wokingham Stakes.

For jumping fans, the most keenly anticipated is the Queen Alexandra Stakes over 2m 4f, the longest race of the meeting. This brings together stayers who often ply their trade in the winter months around our better known jumps courses, and champion trainer Willie Mullins has an outstanding record in the race in recent years.

Who is favourite to win the Ascot Gold Cup?

As it stands, Illinois is the odds-on favourite to win the 2025 Ascot Gold Cup, followed by second odds-on favourite Candelari, and third odds-on favourite Trawlerman. Talking horse and former champion hurdler Constitution Hill was entered for the race, before connections wisely decided to focus attention on next autumn’s Jumps calendar. Here is a quick look at the latest odds for the top three favourites, which, don’t forget, are subject to change at any time. 

We have included all three odds formats (decimal, American/moneyline, and fractional), and the implied probability rate of each of the top three favourites to win. Here’s what it currently looks like:

• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Illinois. Odds: 2.25, +125, 5/4. IPR: 44.40%
• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Candelari. Odds: 3.75, +275, 11/4. IPR: 26.70%
• 2025 Ascot Gold Cup winner. Horse: Trawlerman. Odds: 5.00, +400, 4/1. IPR: 20.0%

Although it’s not a good idea to place too many outsider/underdog bets, they win often enough to make this enticing. Therefore, if you fancy a punt on an outsider in the Royal Ascot Gold Cup this year, then you might want to consider Divine Comedy, Feigning Madness, or Burdett Road, runner-up to Golden Ace in this year’s Champion Hurdle. 

These ones are all currently priced at around 101.00 (decimal odds), which is +10,000 in American/moneyline odds, and 100/1 in fractional odds, meaning they all currently only have a 1.00 chance (implied probability rate) of winning. These are the three least favourites to win. 

There’s also Al Nayyir, and Continuous, who are both currently priced at around 67.00 (+6,600 or 66/1) with a 1.50% IPR.

Final thoughts

Paddy Twomey is looking to break his duck and win his first-ever runner at Royal Ascot, which many believe he will do, so it will be interesting to see which horses he enters and which races they will take part in. 

If you decide to place a wager on any of the races at the upcoming Royal Ascot event, remember to conduct plenty of research, and don’t forget that betting on the odds on favourites still doesn’t always guarantee that you will see a return on your initial wagers. 

In contrast to the previous evening’s 38 runners, the seven race professional card on Saturday was graced by 64 runners and a division that made for an eight race treat for spectators.

However, the plague of small fields is still affecting the summer calendar, and three races failed to make it to 3 place each way betting. Let us hope this has as much to do with the dry Spring as any underlying issues with the horse population.

Ella Pickard ran 44 runners last term for 3 winners from her Somerset yard not far from Taunton. Her stats look very different this time around, as Stans The Man scored handsomely in the feature Farmers Fresh Handicap Chase under Ben Godfrey to make it 3 from 9 runners, a strike rate Dan Skelton would be proud of.

My Gift To You, trained by James Owen and ridden by champion Sean Bowen, was sent off the 3/1 favourite in this very open handicap, but Stans The Man was sent out in front and stayed there throughout, seeing off the challenges of Hidden Heroics and Ajp Kingdom to win by 12l. There’s no reason he should not continue flying the flag for the Pickard camp at this level.

Romanor has been a grand servant to the Seamus Mullins yard over the years, and it looked briefly as if he might return to winning ways in the lower class Supporting Dogs for Good Handicap Chase 30 minutes later. The winner of 6 of his 45 chases had to settle for second place again on a frustrating evening for the Salisbury Plain handler. Always prominent, he has picked off by Village Master and James Bowen for Warren Greatrex, the latter winning by 2 1/4l.

Mullins had reason to curse the division of the mares limited handicap hurdle he fielded 3 across the two races and narrowly escaped a winner. In the first division, Basilette was outpaced behind the 11/10 favourite Auntie Maggie, who made all under Jonathan Burke to win by 3 3/4l for Alistair Ralph.

The second division appeared a harder-fought affair, at least for the minor placings. Fillyfudge, beaten 6l in a similar contest here in March, went one better for Jack Quinlan and Newmarket handler Lemos de Souza, with an authoritative display and a 12l wining distance. Mullins’ two tussled for second and third, Sadies Diamond beating Masonbrook Meadow a neck. An evening of what might have been.

Six lined up for the Gambling Prince Novices Handicap Chase, a rare third steeplechase for this time of year. Iskar d’Airy was sent off 11/8 favourite on the back of a winning similar performance at Warwick in mid April, and saw off the challenges of Mary and Asian Star to win readily by 5l, Matt Sheppard’s Blackijo Dagrostis running on from the back into second. It was a first chase winner for the new father-son training partnership of Gary & Josh Moore, who endured a bleak season by their high standards last time around. By contrast, they are running at a strike rate of 29% at this early stage f the Jumps campaign.

Harry Cobden is not a frequent visitor to the summer jumps courses, but enjoyed a winning ride for Emma Lavelle on one of three rides for the evening, on Bethpage in the Cortaflex Handicap Hurdle over 2m5f. It was a textbook ride, staying handy throughout, and picking off the leader at the last to win by 3 1/4l. It’s always a pleasure to see riders with impeccable timing.

Anthony Honeyball and Rex Dingle travelled up from the West Country to win the opener, a novices hurdle, with Public Enemy. Always handy, he took it up two out and kept on.

The evening concluded with a handicap hurdle in the gloaming. If favourite backers had assumed this a shoo-in for the Skelton team, they were cruelly disabused by the James Owen – trained Laravie under 5lb claiming amateur Alex Chadwick. The winner had a little in hand and might reasonably be expected to go in again.

Huw Edwards enjoyed a memorable evening with a treble as Stratford staged its farewell to the Point-to-Point season with the annual Horse & Hound Cup meeting, now run under the auspices of long time Stratford sponsor Pertemps Network, on a night when field sizes were badly affected by the low population of pointers still in training following the dry Spring.

Edwards, who finished the season with 19 winners between the flags, rides principally for Joe O’Shea, with whom he has enjoyed a vintage season, courtesy of Gracchus de Balme, whose faultless Spring campaign saw him win the Rando Aintree Foxhunter, and Friday’s Pertemps Network Stratford Foxhunter, two of the three marquee foxhunter chases of the season.

This, however, was a considerably easier task than either of the 9 year old’s previous two outings. Making all, he was joined at the half way point by a group including Learntalot, Jeffrey’s cross, Empire de Maulde and Latenightfumble. But Edwards was able to give his horse a breather, and they went on again approaching the last, and the winning distance of 15l told a story of his dominance of the race.

O’Shea and his owner, David Malam, are like husband and wife, not always speaking with one voice. To hear their post-race discussion was like walking into a 1970s TV sitcom, but there is little doubt that O’Shea can train. He has an outstanding record in foxhunter and hunter chases.

Edwards had begun the evening with another winner for O’Shea, this time with Barton Snow in the Pointing Pointers Restricted Hunters Chase. Prominent throughout, the eight year old joined Largy Pearl at the final fence and ran on to score a comfortable 4 3/4l victory for owners the MMI Partnership. He should be one to look out for in open company next season.

The second leg of the treble was in the evening’s other feature, the Point-to-point.co.uk John Corbett Cup, the acknowledged championship for novices. This time riding for Laura Richardson, Jeux d’Eau followed up his victory midway through last month in the Lady Dudley Cup, with an authoritative 8l win over Red Delta, a welcome return to prominence for Fiona Needham, who lost Sine Nomine earlier in the year.

The 10 year old Famous Clermont is, like Gracchus de Balme, a winner of the Aintree Foxhunter, but was no match for that horse in this year’s race, the only blemish on an impeccable season that’s seen victories at Milbourne Port, Cothelstone twice and Holnicote, all bastions of West Country pointing.

He made light work of a repeat victory in the Olly Murphy Racing Stratford Ladies Open Championship Chase, restricted to lady riders, having beaten Imperial Esprit 3l in the corresponding race last year. Imperial Esprit was back in the ruck this time around, but the main challenge emanated from Fairly Famous, representing Gina Andrews, who, but for pecking at the last, might have narrowed the winning margin to less than the 1 3/4l, Imperial Esprit a further 2l back in third.

Only four lined up for the innovative Free horseracing tips at Tipsterreviews.co.uk Handicap Hunters chase. East Anglia – based David Kemp has enjoyed a fabulous record at this event over the past few years, represented by Law of Gold and Rebel Dawn Rising.

The last of these made this race his third consecutive winner at this meeting following victory in the John Corbett Cup in ’23 and this race again in ’24. Presentandcounting led till the eighth, when Walkin Out took over, but Dale Peters had the top weight well in touch, and picked off Lesley Jefford’s contender around the final bend to win by 1 3/4l, giving no less than 26lb.

Amateur David Maxwell is a rarity in the hunterchase scene nowadays and much missed. The appearance of his Harry Derham -trained Joker de Mai in the closing White Swan Hotel 2 miler had the bookmakers running for cover, sending him off at a prohibitive 8/15 favourite. However, others also had designs on the race, and it was Heidi Palin on the Skelton – trained Frere d’Armes who won the day, asserting his authority with a comfortable 13l victory over The Big Lense.

As the final leg of the prestigious American Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes stands as a defining test in thoroughbred racing.

Scheduled for June 7, 2025, the same day as our own Epsom Derby, the 157th edition promises high-stakes drama, especially with a potential rematch unfolding at a temporary venue. Due to renovations at Belmont Park, the race once again moves to Saratoga Race Course—bringing with it a shorter distance and added uncertainty. This historic event, steeped in tradition and star power, draws attention from racing fans across the globe, including an enthusiastic audience in the United Kingdom.

America’s oldest Classic

Known affectionately as the “Test of the Champion,” the Belmont boasts the longest history among the three American Triple Crown events. It first took place in 1867, making it 157 years old in 2025, compared to the Kentucky Derby’s 151st running and the Preakness Stakes’ 150th running.

This enduring legacy places it among the oldest stakes races on the continent; for instance, the Travers Stakes at Saratoga began just three years prior in 1864. The race’s deep roots contribute to its significant standing in the sport.

Saratoga’s unique challenge and distance alteration

For the second consecutive year, the Belmont Stakes is being hosted away from its traditional home at Belmont Park due to ongoing renovations at that facility. The historic Saratoga Race Course serves as the temporary location for the 2025 running.

This shift necessitates a change in the race distance from its famed 1 1/2 miles – a length that could only be accommodated by Belmont Park’s large oval – to 1 1/4 miles, matching the distance of the Kentucky Derby and Saratoga’s own signature Travers Stakes.

This revised distance, coupled with a substantial $2 million purse, alters the strategic demands on contenders and connections alike and is expected to have a significant impact on Belmont Stakes betting odds. The first Belmont Stakes, by comparison, featured a $2,500 purse, about $54,000 in today’s money.

A Field teaming with talent and storylines

The lineup for the 2025 Belmont is expected to feature some of the top three-year-old horses in training, highlighted by the possibility of a compelling rematch between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness victor Journalism.

Baeza waiting in the shadows

Baeza, who finished third in the Kentucky Derby, is also an anticipated runner, potentially playing a spoiler role in the expected showdown. Historically, the betting favourite has a reasonable success rate, winning about 42% of the runnings (66 out of 156 races).

Sovereignty’s strategic path

Trained by Bill Mott, Sovereignty arrives at the Belmont well-rested after capturing the Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, and subsequently skipping the Preakness Stakes. This five-week break is a deliberate tactic by his connections, Godolphin, aimed at maximizing the colt’s performance potential over the 1 1/4-mile distance.

His pedigree, being sired by Into Mischief and out of the stamina-laden Bernardini mare Crowned, suggests an aptitude for this trip. A recent workout covering four furlongs in under 50 seconds indicates he is in peak condition.

Journalism’s resilient campaign

Journalism, trained by Michael McCarthy, showed immense courage in the Preakness Stakes.

Just two weeks after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, he returned to go one better with a determined performance. Ridden by Umberto Rispoli, he overcame traffic trouble in the Preakness stretch to rally powerfully.

While his pedigree through sire Curlin suggests he can handle 1 1/4 miles, running three demanding races in five weeks represents a significant challenge. Trainer McCarthy is still evaluating the colt’s condition to confirm his participation, which would make him a top betting choice.

Pedigree, Preparation & Choice

Success in the Belmont Stakes often hinges on a horse’s pedigree providing the necessary stamina for the distance and smart preparation by the training team. Horses rested since the Kentucky Derby, like Sovereignty and Baeza, hold a potential advantage over those competing in all three Triple Crown events. this is one reason why US Triple Crown winners are as rare as hens’ teeth.

Baeza is a half-brother to recent Kentucky Derby and Belmont winners, making him one to watch.

His pedigree is well-suited for the distance, blending McKinzie’s lineage with the stamina influence of Big Brown through his dam, Puca. Noted trainers like Todd Pletcher, who has four Belmont victories, understand the unique demands of this race.

A field rich in talent

Beyond the top contenders, several other promising horses are under consideration for the Belmont, adding depth and complexity to the race. Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert, is aiming to return after missing the earlier Triple Crown races due to a foot issue, bringing intriguing early speed based on his Wood Memorial victory. Chad Brown’s Hill Road earned his spot with a strong closing performance to win the Grade 3 Peter Pan Stakes, a traditional stepping-stone to the Belmont.

Heart of Honor, an English-bred colt who competed in the UAE Derby before running in the Preakness, represents an international dimension to the potential field. Adding to the intrigue, twenty previous Belmont Stakes winners have had names starting with the letter ‘C’, while eighteen have started with ‘S’.

Some potential contenders carry fascinating family histories that resonate within the sport. The dam Puca, for example, is on the verge of achieving rare distinction. Her son Baeza could potentially emulate his half-sibling Dornoch, who won the Belmont Stakes just a year prior.

This accomplishment would see Puca join Better Than Honour as the only mares to produce back-to-back winners of this classic race. Puca also produced 2023 Kentucky Derby winner Mage, highlighting her exceptional success as a broodmare with multiple Triple Crown race winners.

Navigating the Saratoga challenge

The 2025 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga promises a captivating conclusion to the Triple Crown season, featuring a blend of speed and stamina over the altered 1 1/4-mile course.

Racing fans should consider how the temporary venue and distance change might influence race dynamics, potentially favoring tactical speed and horses with sufficient rest.

Understanding the pedigrees of the runners, their recent form, and how they handled previous Triple Crown races provides valuable insight into who might thrive under the unique conditions presented at Saratoga.

You can watch the Belmont live on Sky Sports TV. Sky Sports Racing TV channel for those who subscribe to Sky Sports normally costs £22 per month with a 24-month minimum term, alongside a new 24-month Sky TV contract.

A new summer Jumps Championship worth £30,000 launches at Cartmel next weekend, concluding on September 19 at Newton Abbot, which will reward owners, riders, trainers, and smaller handlers through the summer months, a period when the lesser lights of the sport often win more prominence around our summer courses.

Each category will reward its winner with £7,500, based on a points system for race winners, and placed horses in fields over 5 to encourage stronger fields. And stronger fields are certainly needed this month as the unseasonably dry Spring takes its toll on field sizes, where, despite well watered ground, trainers have been sitting on their hands awaiting a little more cut in the ground.

In warm sunshine, 37 faced the starter in our latest fixture for what proved a miserable day for layers with four short-priced jollies winning, and with healthy margins too, the six races producing an aggregate winning distance of 50l.

The best finish of the day came about in the William Hill More Top Prices Mares Handicap Hurdle, where top weight Summerleaze was expected to make it a four-timer for the successful Bowen yard under new champion Sean. The field was well bunched down the back straight, led by Bright Sunbird, but turning in, it was Summerleaze who set sail for home from All Under Control. Joe Anderson found his way to the inside rail and fairly scooted past both in the final 100 yards on Portobello Girl however, to double Alistair Ralph’s season tally in this opening month, and win by 3/4l.

Bowen was in the runner-up berth in the second of the two mares races later in the afternoon, a mares handicap chase over 2m 3f. Toby Wynne got a great tune out of 2/1 favourite Irish Lullaby, who showed her rivals a clean pair of heels from some way out to win on debut. Bowen on Fancy Stuff for Tom Gretton, went second two out, but could make little impression on the leader, and the winning distance of 4 3/4l allowed some margin. Another winner from the Oliver Greenall/Josh Guerriero partnership.

Bowen rarely goes away empty-handed from meetings of this calibre, and his afternoon had begun in the best possible fashion with a pillar to post victory for brother Mickey in the opening 2m 6f Novices hurdle on All Inn Hand. Not the most competitive race with five runners, Bowen sent the 2/5 favourite into an early lead, kicked on at the halfway point, and asserted fully from two out, coasting home by 22l. The stable is likely to be a player in the new Summer Jumps Championships, with a portfolio of faster ground horses.

It was the turn of younger brother James in the novices handicap chase to maintain the Bowen name among the winners, this time for Warren Greatrex. The Lambourn handler is not best known for his summer runners, but Bowen has an excellent winning strike rate for him at 16%. In fact, the partnership would likely show a profit for each way betting too. A five year trend has 63& of Gretrex-trained, Bowen – ridden horses finishing in the frame. The six year old Tactical Affair continued the Bowen love-in with this meeting with a flagfall to judge run in front to justify his 6/4 favouritism. Rory’s Story was a respectful 10l second.

For all that he has no marquee chaser or hurdler to brighten Saturdays, Alan King is a barometer of consistency, year on year, clocking in £3/4m in prize money for his owners in each of the Jumps and Flat calendars. This total is made up largely by bread and butter horses like Baskerville, who broke a sequence of nearly races by switching to the larger obstacles in the 2m6f handicap chase for a 12l victory under Tom Cannon over Nickelforce. He may need to brush up his jumping, but looks likely to figure again at this level.

Ten lined up for the concluding bumper, where a Gina Andrews graduate of Point-to-Point bumpers made a successful transition to Rules racing for Sheila Lewis. Lord Cauvelliere and second placed Eddie My Eagle met at Bitterley in early April, and repeated the placings here under Callum Pritchard to give the Welsh wizard something to dream about over the summer.

The dry Spring is playing merry hell with the early season Jump fixtures, producing a spate of small fields. Just 31 runners stood their ground for Stratford’s Thursday evening fixture, that after the abandonment of a novices handicap chase with 3 declarations, and the division of a novices hurdle in its place. Stratford’s watered ground is well regarded in the sport, but trainers are a conservative bunch, and you rue a decision at leisure, if your horse gets a leg.

A six race card then with one chase is not the greatest advertisement for the sport, but spectators had reason to be encouraged after the first, with just half a length separating long odds on favourite Therapist from the runner-up, Crystal Glance. The Henderson team at Seven Barrows is not a stable generally in the vanguard of Summer jumping, so their runners are always worth a second glance. Freddie Gordon deputized ably for the injured Nick de Boinville, and the winner had plenty in hand at the close of this mares handicap hurdle.

Alas, the rest of the evening’s entertainment looked a little one-sided, the remaining five races accumulating 65l of distance between first and second, the highlight being a short-priced double by Olly Murphy in races 2 & 3, both ridden by new champion rider Sean Bowen, who has every reason to be cheerful.

The first of these was Sir Galahad, a four year old graduate from the flat, yet to be beaten in two outings over the smaller obstacles. Alas, this, however, was no dragon-slaying; the six competitors have plenty to prove that racing is their forte, but take nothing away from the winner; he took it up 2 out and never saw another horse for a resounding 28l victory. No great surprise at 1/3.

Bowen has enjoyed a fertile association with Summerleaze since he joined the Murphy School of Excellence in February, and this latest 14l win over Special John in the 2m 6f Solidcam UK Partner Novices Handicap Hurdle completed a hat-trick started here in March. Now that Summerleaze has won his spurs, so to speak, expect to see him in fully fledged handicap company, where he is capable of winning again.

The second half of the card proved a welcome chance for punters to get their teeth into some odds-against favourites.

Daisy Hitchins had good reason to thank the BHA for dividing this 2m 6f novices handicap hurdle. It is doubtful Broomfield Gale would have beaten Summerleaze in the original manifestation of the race, but in this weaker company, the 7 year old mare overcame her reluctance to line up, and made a beeline for the finish from two out, 11l the margin of victory. Robbie David enjoyed the ride.

There was a pillar to post victory in the only chase of the evening, the Len’s Light Supports British Farming Mares novices handicap. Ella Pickard’s Fox Wallace led the rest a merry dance, and it only needed ben Godfrey to shake the reins on the home turn to ensure an 8l advantage at the line.

The conclusion of the evening, a VE Day Handicap Hurdle over the minimum trip, also produced a one horse race. At least, that must be what Time Interval might have thought when sent into a lead on the final circuit. Spartan Robby and Raby Mere closed 2 out, but the winner had enough in hand to hold a 3 3/4l advantage where it counts.

The Preakness Stakes, long viewed as a distinctly American tradition, has recently captured the imagination of British bettors. While the Kentucky Derby has always enjoyed some attention overseas, not least as part of Godolphin’s fantastic Saturday special with both Guineas, the middle jewel of the U.S. Triple Crown is carving its own niche.

British racing fans, already familiar with flat racing’s nuances, are finding new appeal in the Preakness’ speed, prestige, and growing accessibility through global betting platforms. Understanding why this Baltimore spectacle is gaining traction offers insight into how transatlantic betting interests are evolving in 2025.

Familiarity with flat racing formats is drawing interest

British bettors have a deep-rooted passion for flat racing. From Royal Ascot to the Epsom Derby, the United Kingdom boasts some of the world’s most celebrated turf events. The Preakness Stakes, though shorter in length than many British classics, mirrors the format and pace that British fans understand. A race contested over one and 3/16 miles suits those who appreciate tactical positioning, early speed, and dramatic late surges.

Unlike steeplechases or longer handicap races common in Britain, the Preakness offers a familiar dynamic. Bettors accustomed to analyzing pace scenarios, jockey tactics, and sectional timings find it easy to apply their skills. This sense of crossover familiarity helps reduce perceived risk, making it easier for UK bettors to engage confidently with the American classic.

Media coverage and streaming access are expanding reach

Until recently, watching the Preakness Stakes from Britain required either niche satellite subscriptions or late-night highlights. Today’s bettors enjoy unprecedented live access. Major UK bookmakers now offer direct streaming of the Preakness through their apps and websites. Additionally, mainstream sports broadcasters increasingly cover the U.S. Triple Crown races with expert analysis tailored for British audiences. Enhanced national media coverage is also helping demystify the event. Previews, post-position breakdowns, and historical features introduce British bettors to the storylines behind each contender. This richer narrative context elevates the Preakness from a distant curiosity to a meaningful betting opportunity. As a result, interest surges not just among veteran racing fans but also among casual punters looking for something new and exciting.

The appeal of international betting odds and offers

Another driving factor is the growing competitiveness of betting odds. British sportsbooks are sharpening their U.S. racing markets to attract more volume. Unlike the past, where odds were often non-competitive or limited to major favorites, today’s offerings are robust and comprehensive. Bettors now enjoy early prices, enhanced odds specials, and unique prop bets tied specifically to the Preakness.

The globalisation of racing markets has also made it easier for British punters to find better value. With multiple platforms now offering detailed coverage, researching horses, jockey stats, and track conditions has never been simpler. This depth of information gives bettors an edge when exploring opportunities like evaluating the latest 2025 Preakness odds, where finding slight advantages in pricing or matchup markets can lead to smarter wagers.

Promotions around American races have become especially attractive. Some UK bookmakers provide free bet offers tied to Triple Crown races, including money-back promotions if a horse finishes second or third. These betting incentives lower entry risk for new bettors while amplifying the excitement around the event. As offers become more aggressive each year, more British punters find it worthwhile to place a stake on the Preakness.

British appreciation for tradition and narrative

British racing fans have long cherished events steeped in tradition, and the Preakness offers a rich, compelling history. Run since 1873, it stands only behind the Kentucky Derby in terms of American racing prestige. The symbolism of the Black-Eyed Susan blanket, the tight turns of Pimlico, and the pursuit of Triple Crown immortality resonate deeply with those who value pageantry and legacy in sports.

Many British bettors are drawn to the layered stories surrounding Preakness contenders. Whether it’s a Derby winner chasing history, a fresh challenger seeking redemption, or a late-blooming long shot defying expectations, these narratives align with the British love of sporting drama. The ability to follow these arcs, fuelled by comprehensive coverage and accessible odds, makes wagering on the Preakness more emotionally engaging than ever before.

Social betting culture and big event appeal

The rise of social betting communities also plays a role. Betting in Britain is no longer a solitary activity. Forums, group chats, and social media platforms buzz with discussion about major events, and the Preakness is becoming one of them. Influencers and tipsters across platforms such as Twitter and TikTok have begun covering the U.S. Triple Crown with more regularity.

This communal experience transforms Preakness into more than just another race. It becomes a shared event—something to discuss, analyze, and celebrate among friends and online communities. Bettors enjoy comparing tips, sharing predictions, and celebrating wins together. For many, participating in the Preakness discussion is just as rewarding as the betting itself.

A fresh alternative to crowded British race programmes

The British racing calendar is dense, especially during the spring and summer months. Yet, the Preakness offers something slightly different. Scheduled outside the major UK racing festivals, it provides a welcome change of pace. Bettors who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by domestic fixtures find the Preakness a refreshing alternative.

Its singular focus on three-year-old colts and its fixed place in May give it breathing room in a crowded season. For those who love big-race atmospheres but want to diversify their betting portfolios, the Preakness offers the ideal combination of prestige, simplicity, and excitement.

What the future holds for the Preakness in Britain

Looking ahead, the upward trend of growing interest seems likely to continue – and bookmakers are investing more in U.S. racing products. Cross-promotions tied to major global racing events, including the Breeders’ Cup and Dubai World Cup, hint that American racing will only become more integrated into British betting culture.

Moreover, the appetite for marquee, story-driven sports events is growing. British bettors, always eager to find an edge or uncover an overlooked gem, are embracing the Preakness as a fixture worth circling on their annual calendars. With every thrilling stretch run at Pimlico, the bond between the Preakness Stakes and Britain’s passionate punters grows a little stronger.

The prolonged dry spell is playing havoc with field sizes, albeit it hasn’t prevented Champion Trainer contender Dan Skelton sending runners far and wide in defence of his challenge against Willie Mullins, now breathing down his neck after a rampant Cheltenham, Aintree and Ayr. Skelton was a surprise absentee from Stratford yesterday, when easy pickings were on offer with only 35 runners in total.

The six race card reflected the change of the seasons, with just two steeplechases, one a Hunters chase. Pottlerath made the best of a week turnout for the Racecourse Streams On Racing TV Extra Handicap Chase over 3m, run at a muddling pace, some 32 seconds below standard. The starter was already one runner down at flagfall, Groom de Cotte being withdrawn on account of the ground, but the judge had an even less arduous task, only three finishing. Pottlerath is no champion, but scored his fourth over fences, and first past the post since running up a hat-trick in Summer ’23. He added a 17th success to Matt Sheppard’s best ever season in numerical, if not yet prize money, terms, with son Stan in the plate for an unchallenged 5l victory over Getthepot.

Richard Hawker was the beneficiary of the withdrawal of Milton Harris’ licence in mid-summer last year when taking charge of Presenting Yeats. The nine year old son of four time Ascot Gold Cup winner has but a smidgen of his sire’s talent, but returned to form in the Alan Adcock 90th Birthday Handicap Hurdle over 3m. Held up at the back of the field, he made headway around the final bend to win handily by 9 1/2l from Clover Pass, under Harry Reed.

Two mares races made up part of the card, the first a maiden hurdle, where Keep On Cobbling under Sam Twiston-Davies, improved on her second at Doncaster a month ago when landing the odds in the opener for Henry Daly by 2 1/2l from El Fabienne.

The second mares’ contest, the Howley Energy & Water Handicap Hurdle, attracted just 4 runners. Three met the last together, but Magical Annie took a heavy (and it turned out, fatal) fall, hampering Honeywort, and leaving the Nicky Henderson – trained Therapist to pick up the pieces, a distance clear under Nico de Boinville.

James Owen generated a short-priced across the card double with Jackpot Cash at Stratford and It’s A Love Thing at Musselburgh on the flat. The length winner of a novices handicap hurdle was the latest in a strong suit of winners for the Newmarket yard: 10 from the latest 39 runners.

Allmankind, once a leading light at Skelton’s, is now treading the light fantastic in hunter chases, and will likely return for the Hunters meeting at the end of May after a 1 3/4l win with plenty in hand in the closing 2m6f hunters evening for Alex Chadwick and Mrs J Owen.

When you’re faced with deciphering a race card, handicapping might seem like an enigmatic science. You’re not alone—even seasoned bettors struggle with the complex weight assignments that define modern horse racing. The difference between profit and loss often hinges on your ability to interpret these carefully calibrated systems. Dear old Admiral Rous has a lot to answer for!

While 60% of casual bettors overlook vital handicapping factors, understanding these principles gives you a statistical edge that bookmakers would prefer you didn’t have.

Key Takeaways

• Handicapping equalizes competition by allocating different weights to horses based on their abilities and past performances. The handicapper’s intention is for all runners to finish in line abreast at the winning line, weighting them to their optimal performance and ability.
• Professional handicappers analyze speed figures, earnings, class levels, and fitness indicators to identify value betting opportunities.
• Weight penalties are applied after victories to ensure stronger horses carry more weight in subsequent races.
• Ratings are dynamically updated to maintain fairness as horses demonstrate improvement or decline in performance.
• Successful handicap betting requires a balanced assessment of statistics, track conditions, and team dynamics, avoiding overemphasis on single metrics.

Core Principles of Handicap Weight Assignment

While many casual racing fans focus primarily on horse pedigree and jockey skills, the handicapping system serves as the fundamental equalizer in horse racing through its sophisticated weight allocation principles. By strategically adjusting weight assignments, racing officials aim to level the playing field, ensuring that no single horse has an overwhelming advantage based solely on past performance.

Weight assignments follow strict standards: minimum weights for different race categories, benchmark-based calculations, and adjustments for horse ratings. These calculations take into account factors such as age, gender, and past race conditions, further refining the balance between competitors.

Post-victory penalties reflect win quality, while dynamic rating updates guarantee fairness through performance-based modifications. This ensures that consistently strong performers carry appropriate weight increases, preventing dominance by a single horse while allowing developing contenders to remain competitive.

The primary goal of these meticulously calculated weights is to create a fairer competitive field for horses of varying abilities competing against each other. By maintaining this balance, the sport remains both unpredictable and engaging, fostering excitement for bettors, trainers, and fans alike.

But handicapping is not a science; this is why you’ll hear trainers reporting that their horse has been unfairly treated by the handicapper, although you never hear them say he’s been leniently weighted! It’s an irony of races at the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National, mother of all handicaps, that trainers are often seeking a higher handicap mark, else they won’t make the cut in the race. A racecard description of the Long handicap illustrates the weight a horse would carry were the race conditions not to stipulate a minimum weight to be carried.

Crucial Factors Professional Handicappers Analyse

Professional handicappers distinguish themselves from casual bettors by meticulously analyzing five interconnected factors that distinctly impact race outcomes.

These experts prioritize fitness indicators, class levels, and timing patterns that casual observers typically overlook. Experienced handicappers carefully evaluate horses that have not raced recently by looking for ample workout evidence or a history of performing well after layoffs.

Looking ahead, evaluating potential 2025 contenders early in the season offers bettors a valuable edge, as identifying rising stars before market prices adjust is a hallmark of professional strategy. Look for these parameters:

1. Performance metrics – speed figures and earnings correlate with 26% and 55% win rates respectively
2. Physical compatibility – surface/distance suitability determines ideal performance conditions
3. Team dynamics – top trainers achieve ~18% win rates and equipment changes signal intention

Strategic Betting Approaches for Handicaps

Beyond understanding the factors that influence race outcomes, successful handicappers must develop systematic betting approaches tailored to handicap racing’s unique dynamics.

Consider each-way bets for competitive or large fields, exactas when strong favourites dominate, and boxed wagers for unpredictable “Chaos Board” situations.

Shop across bookmakers for ideal lines, and track odds movements that signal sharp money. In short, follow the market.

Focus on value bets where horses’ true chances exceed their market price.

Establishing clear objectives for your betting goals helps maintain discipline when faced with the unpredictable nature of handicap races.

The World’s Best known Handicaps

Across the globe, major handicaps represent the pinnacle of weight-based racing challenges, drawing international attention and substantial purses. These prestigious events test both horses and handicappers alike.

1. Aintree Grand National (UK) – The world’s most famous steeplechase handicap, featuring 30 jumps over 4.5 miles.
2. Melbourne Cup (Australia) – “The race that stops a nation,” offering $8 million in prize money. This 3200-metre race has become known for attracting international competition and features festive attire.
3. Yulong Stud Newmarket Handicap (Australia) – Premier sprint handicap recognized among global elite races.

Handicapping in Flat vs Jump racing

Handicapping principles apply across horse racing formats, but their execution differs between flat and jump racing.

 In flat racing, speed and acceleration often dominate, so weight assignments are finely tuned for shorter distances.  In contrast, jump races involve longer distances and obstacles, placing greater emphasis on stamina and jumping form when assigning handicaps.
 Fitness and recovery play a larger role in jump racing as well, given the physical toll of repeated jumps.
 Understanding the nuances between these formats ensures that bettors tailor their strategies appropriately to each racing style.

Glossary of Key Handicapping terms

• Weight Penalty – Extra weight assigned to a horse after a win, designed to balance the competition,
• Official Rating (OR) – A numerical value assigned to a horse’s ability by the racing authority, used to determine its handicap weight,
• Each-Way Bet – A bet that covers both winning and placing, effectively two bets in one,
• Benchmark Race – A race type where horses are weighted relative to a standard rating, allowing comparability,
• Class Level – A ranking of race difficulty, helping to evaluate a horse’s past competition quality,
• Boxed Wager – A betting strategy that covers all combinations of selected horses finishing in set positions,
• Chaos Board – A betting term describing a race with no clear favorite and unpredictable outcomes.

Common Mistakes Bettors Make in Evaluating Handicaps

The complex world of handicap betting presents numerous pitfalls that can derail even experienced bettors’ strategies when evaluating weighted races.

You’ll often prioritize raw statistics while neglecting vital intangibles like horse health, jockey-trainer relationships, stable form, and track-specific biases.

Weather conditions and recent performance trends provide essential context.

Without accounting for these non-quantifiable factors, you’re making decisions with incomplete information—a common route to handicapping failure.

Many bettors fall into the trap of overvaluing speed when handicapping races, failing to balance this metric with other crucial performance indicators.

There’s a racing adage that the sport allows you to get close up to the action, mingling among the jockeys and trainers, or watching from a fence, unlike some stadium – based sports. Stratford racegoers on Saturday certainly had their share of close-up action after one of the runners in the opener decanted his rider, and jumped into the public enclosures. Happily, that effort alone was enough to slow him to a trot whereupon a member of staff was able to usher him back into the pre-parade ring.

By comparison, events on the track were somewhat less eventful. St Pancras, successful in a listed juvenile hurdle at Musselburgh in February, and a subsequent second to Mambonumberfive in the Grade II Adonis Hurdle at Kempton, made all in this less exalted all-age company to maintain his excellent record over the smaller obstacles for Toby Lawes and long time owners Andrew & Sarah Wates. On-Course bookmakers, sponsors of the entire card, ensured no-one got rich however; the four year old went off at a prohibitive 1/5 under Kevin Brogan.

A novices handicap followed with a similar-sized 10 runner field, in stark comparison to Sunday’s Ascot card which attracted just 30 runners, and a winner that might have been designed for the sponsors. Get The Value disputed the lead in the Cash Is King Handicap Hurdle, and bar a blunder at the last, had the race in safe keeping from the home bend, winning by 6l. It was a welcome return to the winner’s enclosure for John O’Shea, whose winner drought had extended back to November, less so for rider Kielan Woods, his 45th of the term.

The feature Green Diamond Handicap Chase proved a somewhat select affair, attracting 4 declarations, which became three after the withdrawal of Pedley Wood at the start. Newmarket runners are an unfamiliar sight at Stratford, and spectators might have been forgiven for thinking winner Mahon’s Wood was in Gigginstown Stud colours, but trainer Dylan Cunha has a 100% record with his jumps runners, and Mahon’s Wood never saw another horse in his 3 1/4l pillar to post victory.

Second-placed combination Olly Murphy and Sean Bowen in that handicap made a winning return an hour or so later when combining to justify 7/2 favouritism in the 2m 6f Service With A Smile On Course Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle with Tropical Speed, who saw off the largest field of the day to overcome 11 others. If truth be told, the smiles of on-course layers were, by now, more than a little false, this being the fifth of six winning favourites through the course of the day.

The Tizzard yard passed the £1m prize money marker earlier this month, and Siam Park became winner number 61 for Brendan Powell in the other chase of the day, the 2m3f Better Value With Racecourse Bookmakers Handicap. The six year old wasn’t pushed to land the odds and might readily defy a penalty.

Selling races exist but few nowadays, and Stratford remains one of the last bastions of this genre of race. Time was when they produced a steady stream of revenue for racecourses, but the frequency of public auctions nowadays has made them largely redundant, except as a winning opportunity for low – rated horses. This privilege was afforded to Honneur d’Ajonc, who kept close to the pace throughout under Alex Chadwick, and scored by 2 3/4l over the inappropriately – named Greatness Awaits for trainer James Owen. there was no bid for the winner.