Ms Cindy Kate

That said, there is genuine reason to keep watching. Ms Cindy Kate is trained by Nicky Richards at Greystoke in Cumbria, one of the most respected yards in the north of England. Richards has sent out 39 winners already this season — that is a serious number, and it tells you this is a team that knows how to get horses ready to win. When a trainer of that calibre keeps running a horse, it usually means they believe there is more to come. Patience is part of the job in racing, and Richards has earned the benefit of the doubt.

Ms Cindy Kate ran just one day ago, so she is very much a horse in active training and mid-campaign. At 5 years old, she is still relatively young and learning. Whether a step up in distance, a change in conditions, or simply more experience unlocks something better remains to be seen — but the trainer has options to explore.