Kesta

The trouble is consistency. Kesta was ridden by Charles Bishop for that Nottingham victory, and the partnership has been productive when it clicks — two wins from seven races together, a 29% win rate. But the last six outings have been mostly forgettable, ranging from a distant fifth place to last-place finishes. The horse hasn't won since October, which is ten months of chasing form without the satisfaction of victory. When it does race in its usual Class 4 company, the record is stark: nought from six, which explains why it rarely stays at that level.

Eve Johnson Houghton's Blewbury yard has been in fine form this season with 42 winners to its name, so Kesta is in capable hands. The fact that it broke through at Brighton in April and then stepped up to a Class 2 win six months later shows the trainer has had the confidence to build its case. But right now, the horse is at a crossroads — genuinely talented enough for better races, yet desperately needing to rediscover the winning thread. Its last start was just a day ago, so there may be another chance coming soon enough.