Today’s horse racing tips: race predictions, best bets and preview for Sunday at Pontefract

It’s shaping up to be an exhilarating day at the races, with a variety of compelling contests taking place across the country. Herrin Kendrick’s horse racing tips have been on fire this week, and he’s eager to maintain that winning streak as he turns his attention to the exciting action at Southwell and Pontefract on this fine [Sunday, 18th August].

Among the diverse fields, there are several key contenders to keep an eye on, and the competition will be fierce as these horses battle it out for top honours. Read on as we delve into the standout races of the day and highlight some of the horses that could make headlines, including Kendrick’s carefully selected tips, culminating in our highly anticipated Nap of the Day.

Horse Racing Tips Sunday 18th August 2024

Today’s Focus Races

Today’s racing action features a mix of experienced campaigners and promising up-and-comers, making for a captivating day on the turf. At Pontefract, the 4:15 race will see a number of horses vying for glory, with The Cookstown Cafu looking to capitalise on a return to a favourable course and distance. But he won’t have it easy, as other competitors like Terries Royale and Walbank will be pushing to upset the odds with strong showings of their own.

Meanwhile, over at Southwell, races such as the 3:20 will see Leyhaimur aiming to build on her recent success, though she’ll face stiff competition from other well-bred runners in the field. Each race presents its own unique set of challenges, from course familiarity to weather conditions, all of which will test the endurance and strategy of both horse and rider. The diverse skill sets required for these different events will surely keep fans on the edge of their seats, waiting to see who emerges victorious.

Nap of the Day

Our Nap of the Day goes to The Cookstown Cafu, a horse who has shown a real affinity for Pontefract. He is unbeaten in two starts over this course and distance, which bodes well for his chances today. Dropping down in class, this Kevin Ryan-trained gelding has a golden opportunity to return to winning ways. His recent form has been encouraging, and the fact that he’s now 6lb below the mark from which he won last year only strengthens his case. With Rowan Scott aboard, he is well-placed to capitalise on this ideal set of circumstances.

David Simcock’s filly Leyhaimur is an improving talent who recently opened her account with an impressive win at Kempton. Racing off a mark just 3lb higher today, she’s well-positioned to make further strides forward. The pedigree suggests she has even more to offer, and with Hayley Turner in the saddle, expectations are high. The slightly increased weight shouldn’t be an issue given her current form, and the familiar conditions at Southwell should play to her strengths. Look for her to be in the mix as she aims to continue her upward trajectory.

Walbank represents a strong chance in the 6:15 at Pontefract. Trained by George Boughey, this speedster didn’t quite fire last time at Goodwood, but that run came after a layoff, and he’s expected to strip fitter for this outing. Well drawn in stall two, he should be able to utilise his natural pace to good effect. David Egan takes the ride, and with the benefit of that last run under his belt, Walbank could prove a tough nut to crack in this competitive handicap. His class is apparent, and if he’s back to his best, he should be right there at the finish.

The 5:15 at Pontefract presents a tougher challenge, but Knights Affair looks up to the task. After a less than ideal run over 1m4f, this David O’Meara-trained stayer returns to a more suitable distance today. His easy win over 2m at Musselburgh last month highlighted his ability over longer trips, and while this race is a step up in class, he’s shown enough to suggest he can handle the competition. With Daniel Tudhope in the irons, expect Knights Affair to be a strong contender in this field.

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