A soft rustle of early-morning hoofbeats sets the mood at Southwell as grooms exchange warm smiles and trainers offer those small gestures that define a race day — a reassuring pat, a whispered word, a hopeful glance skyward. It is in these simple, human moments that the Southwell Race Preview truly begins. With runners stretching out under a pale winter sun and jockeys loosening their shoulders before the first leg-up, the card from 11:30am to 3:35pm promises competitive fields and plenty of narrative.
Race 1 – Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Stakes (11:30am, 2m 103y, Class 6)
The opening contest brings a varied mix of seasoned stayers and improving sorts. Young Endless looks relaxed in the prelims, while Daaris shows that trademark alertness. Hedonista and Different Drum both catch the eye, and Throne Hall shapes like one who enjoys the surface. Glitter Code and Billy Bathgate round off a field that should ensure a strongly run start to the day. Prize Money: £6,000.
Race 2 – EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes (12:00pm, 1m 14y, Class 5)
Two-year-old fillies take centre stage, and the paddock buzz is unmistakable. Albertini Star walks with poise, while Amalou shows an eager stride. Cospicua, Dash of Class, and Flagpole move with intent, while the composed Hotel California and Kelly Burn add depth to an interesting juvenile lineup. Prize Money: £6,300.
Race 3 – EBF Novice Stakes (12:30pm, 7f 15y, Class 4)
Plenty of raw potential lines up here. Barbury Boy’s steady temperament stands out. Big Money, Boy Star, and Breathe Easy warm up sharply. Flying Squad and Hurricane Laughter bring flair, while John Harrison arrives with a grounded, workmanlike attitude. Prize Money: £9,650.
Race 4 – Nursery Handicap Stakes (1:00pm, 6f 17y, Class 4)
The afternoon’s first handicap for juveniles features Ten Carat Harry, bright and forward in the ring. Meelaf, Eternal Solace, and Trust Amy have each shown recent improvement. One And Gone and Fermain shape like they will be suited by a strongly run six furlongs. Prize Money: £9,500.
Race 5 – Handicap Stakes (1:30pm, 1m 3f 24y, Class 5)
Older runners take their turn as Show Biz Kid and Forca Timao stride in with confidence. Si Solus, Life Is Rosie, and Must Believe look ready to make their presence felt. Jam Lass and Westcombe complete a field where stamina and timing could play decisive roles. Prize Money: £7,100.
Race 6 – Handicap Stakes (2:03pm, 7f 15y, Class 6, Division I)
A busy middle section of the card begins with Amber Honey, always reliable on the all-weather. Portoro, Onemorenomore, and Dion Baker move freely. Fistral Beach, Sherlock, and Up The Anti add intrigue to a race where finishing speed may matter more than early positioning. Prize Money: £6,000.
Race 7 – Handicap Stakes (2:33pm, 7f 15y, Class 6, Division II)
Division II presents another open contest. Sceptic stands tall in the ring, while No Knee Never shows spark. Prefer The Sister, Initial Blue, and Moonlight Bomb appear to have travelled well. Jazzit and Bullington Bry bring experience and depth to a race likely decided by tactical timing. Prize Money: £6,000.
Race 8 – Selling Stakes (3:05pm, 6f 16y, Class 4)
A stronger-than-usual selling event features Intervention, commanding attention with a powerful walk. Thurso and Fierce look tuned and alert. Prince of Pillo and Good Banter warm up with purpose, while Dyrholaey and Wodao add further substance to an assured field. Prize Money: £10,000.
Race 9 – Handicap Stakes (3:35pm, 6f 17y, Class 2)
The afternoon’s feature brings together a talented sprinting group. Berkshire Whisper arrives with calm demeanour. Bolo Neighs, We Never Stop, and Hucklesbrook show readiness for a strong-run six furlongs. Eye of Dubai, Dyonisos, and The Caltonian round out a high-quality finale likely to deliver a lively finish. Prize Money: £25,200.
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