His recent form makes for tough reading: a second place is the highlight of his last six outings, bookended by a couple of blank runs and finishes of 12th and 13th in between. That said, the second place shows there is something there — he can at least threaten on his day, even if converting that into a win has proved elusive. He raced just yesterday, so whatever is coming next is very much around the corner.
Jockey Conor Smithers has partnered him five times without a win between them, which at this point feels less like a partnership yet to click and more like two individuals sharing the same experience of almost-but-not-quite. Whether a change of rider might unlock something different is a question the team will likely be asking themselves.
At his best, Chesterbaylad is a horse that can finish second. The honest truth is that in racing, that gap between placing and winning can feel enormous — and right now, he is firmly on the wrong side of it. Supporters will be hoping the breakthrough comes soon, because 14 races in, patience is being tested.
| Course | Races | Results | Last visited | Win rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Down Royal Galloping |
4 | 4 other | 4 May | 0% |
| Gowran Park Undulating |
2 | 2 other | 22 Jan | 0% |
| Thurles Undulating |
2 | 2 other | 20 Nov | 0% |
| Punchestown Galloping |
2 | 1 second, 1 other | 13 May | 0% |
| Naas Galloping |
1 | 1 other | 3 Apr | 0% |
| Fairyhouse Galloping |
1 | 1 other | 11 Oct | 0% |
| Wexford Sharp |
1 | 1 other | 28 May | 0% |
| Downpatrick Undulating |
1 | 1 other | 25 Aug | 0% |