Anton Mauve

What does give the team reason for optimism is where the horse is trained. Kevin Philippart De Foy operates out of Newmarket, the heartland of British racing, and his yard has sent out 40 winners already this season — a serious tally that tells you this is not a stable that simply makes up the numbers. Horses trained by Philippart De Foy tend to be placed with care, and a yard firing at that rate clearly knows how to get the best out of its horses. Anton Mauve may simply be a work in progress, learning his trade under patient hands.

At three years old, there is time on his side. Many horses take several races to figure out what is being asked of them, and a first win can come suddenly once everything clicks. For now, Anton Mauve is one to keep an eye on rather than one to shout about — but in a stable with 40 winners behind it this season, do not be too quick to write him off.