In the Sunracing.co.uk Handicap (2.20) at Southwell on New Year’s Day, Angel Palanas proved no match for Black Salt over 6 furlongs at the Nottinghamshire track two weeks ago, but the latter has won both starts on Fibresand with plenty in hand and looks one to follow. Angel Palanas has been raised 2lb for that effort, but won easily on his previous start, over course and distance, the previous week and, even in this slightly higher grade, deserves another chance to confirm that promise.
Karl Burke’s five-year-old has been a regular at Southwell over the last twelve months or so, winning four of his twelve starts, including twice over course and distance, and appears to be at the top of his game at present. He’ll need to be, to record his first win in 0-95 company off a career-high mark of 81, but has made good progress since returned to Fibresand in November and may not have finished yet.
Middleham Moor trainer Karl Burke has a highly respectable 12-53 (23%) strike rate with his older horses at Southwell over the last five seasons, for a healthy level stakes profit of 35.83 points, and Angel Palanas looks to have every chance of improving that record. The Mayson gelding has struck up a good relationship with apprentice Jonathan Fisher and the partnership may, once again, be able to show some exposed rivals a clean pair of heels.
Selection: Southwell 2.20 Angel Palanas to win