Molly a Jolly Good Bet

The closing sprint handicap at Bath (17:45) today looks sure to be run at a frenetic pace, with more than half the field having made the running in similar events recently, and both the pace set-up and the nature of the track suggesting that the race will fall to one of the few hold-up performers in the race. Of those with such a running style, Danziger has underperformed on her last 2 starts, and hails from a yard which is going through a quiet spell of late. Amber Heights can be slowly away, and needs consideration, but is arguably best over slightly further (below best in 2 tries over C&D), and the one who makes most appeal is Molly Jones.

Derek Haydn-Jones' filly hasn't scored since making a winning debut in a nursery at Lingfield (turf), but she's fallen more than a stone below that mark, and has hinted strongly at a return to form over this C&D on her last 2 starts. Third to subsequent winner Chosen One here in April when unfancied, she built on that effort when going down only to the thriving Above The Stars last time. Her conqueror that day has gone on to win no less than 3 times since, and despite being 1 lb out of the weights here, Molly Jones still looks to be well treated on the basis of that run. Guaranteed the strong pace she needs once more, it will be a huge surprise if she doesn't go very close.

In contrast to the Bath contest, the Racing Excellence 'Hands and Heels' Apprentice Series Handicap at Lingfield (18:05) appears devoid of tactical pace, and the sole front runner is also partnered by the most tactically-astute jockey in the contest. Sinchiroka made all to win over 9.5f at Wolverhampton in March, and it's easy to forgive a poor effort when unable to dominate a stronger field on turf at Newbury last time. This task, against wholly-exposed rivals, is much more appropriate, and gives the promising Eoin Walsh a chance to showcase his burgeoning talent.  He should be able to set the pace to suit his own ends, and if doing so, will prove hard to peg back.

Recommendations:
Back Molly Jones @ 8.2 in the 17:45 Bath (NAP)
Back Sinchiroka @ 5.4 in the 18:05 Lingfield (NB)