Bellatina

Trained by Charlie Johnston at Middleham Moor in North Yorkshire, Bellatina is part of one of the most productive yards in the country right now. Johnston's team have sent out 128 winners already this season — a remarkable volume that speaks to the depth and quality of horses they are working with. Being part of that setup matters. Horses trained there tend to be well-prepared, well-placed, and given every chance to win. When a yard is firing at that rate, you pay attention when one of their younger horses starts showing promise.

At just two years old, Bellatina has plenty of time on her side. Horses this age are still figuring things out — the racing environment, the competition, the pressure of the track. Finishing second in her most recent race, having been seventh and eighth before that, is a meaningful step forward. If she takes another step like that next time out, a first win could be very close.