Kings Merchant

The horse has shown real sparkle on fast, dry ground, winning three of his last ten races on those conditions — a 30% win rate that hints at what he's capable of when the surface suits him. He reached the winner's circle most recently at Chester three weeks ago, and his form across his last six races reads 5-4-1-2-8-7, showing touches of consistency mixed with more ordinary efforts. He tends to compete at Class 4 level, where he has won two from nine races. Away from his best track, Kings Merchant has found Thirsk productive ground, with two wins from seven starts there, suggesting he has a couple of courses where his the yard understand how to play to his strengths. Kirby's yard is in good form this season with 36 winners already, and with Rodriguez aboard whenever possible, Kings Merchant remains an active and occasionally profitable prospect in modest company.