Perfect Arch

The horse typically runs in Class 5, which is effectively the entry level of British racing — the races designed to give horses like this the best possible chance of a win. From 11 races at that level, the record still reads zero. That is a tough stat to look past. Its most recent burst of form shows a third place four races ago, which is the closest thing to encouragement in a sequence that otherwise reads as a string of also-rans.

Bruce Lynn has taken the ride seven times and hasn't been able to change the story either, drawing a blank on every occasion. Simon West's yard in Middleham, North Yorkshire, has sent out five winners this season, so there is clearly ability in the team — Perfect Arch just hasn't been the horse carrying it. The good news, if there is any, is that the horse is still active and still showing up. A third place recently means it is competitive enough to place, and in racing, sometimes the right race on the right day is all it takes. Whether that day comes at nine years old is the question Perfect Arch's supporters will be quietly asking themselves.