John Burke

Hi all,

Oh boy, it was hot yesterday. Hottest day of the year in my neck of the woods. I was at Pontefract on Monday afternoon, and in hindsight, I wish I hadn’t gone — it was just too hot. Small fields all day, but given how quick the ground was, that wasn’t surprising.

Five of the seven races went to the favourite, so backers of the jolly were on good terms with themselves.

The standout on the day was Wujjood, a William Haggas-trained filly. The daughter of Sea The Stars built on her promising debut 15 days earlier by making all to win the mile novice. She got an easy lead, but I liked her attitude — much more professional this time. On pedigree, she should stay 1m2f and she clearly handles firm ground well.

Hi all,

In today’s main piece, I’m reviewing the weekend’s big race action.

Hi all,

Today’s big betting race in Britain is the Jenningsbet Northumberland Plate (3:15) — a full field of 20 line up for a tilt at the £81,000 first prize. It’s the centrepiece of a strong Newcastle card, which also features the Group 3 Chipchase Stakes (2:10).

ITV Racing will be covering the first five races live from Newcastle, plus three more from York to round out a busy afternoon of racing.

Inside today’s main piece I am approaching the ITV races at Newcastle from a different angle.

Hi all,

Here's a quick delve into the best of Friday's action at Newcastle.