Phil's Dream

The recent form makes for sobering reading. In his last six races he has finished fifth, eleventh, eighth, first, second, and twelfth — which means one bright spot followed by a collapse. That single win from his past six outings, and just 2 wins from 25 overall, puts him in the category of horses that are useful for a yard but unlikely to feature in big races. He has won roughly 1 in every 12 races (8% win rate), which is respectable rather than impressive. Jockey Donagh O'Connor, his most frequent partner, has ridden him ten times and managed just one win together, suggesting neither horse nor rider has found the perfect rhythm.

The fact that Phil's Dream raced just yesterday and is still actively campaigned by McConnell's yard indicates the trainer believes there is something left in the tank. At six years old he is in the middle stretch of a racing career, old enough to be experienced but young enough to improve. Whether he can find another victory before his form dips further is an open question — but his record on all-weather ground means there will always be races for him to target.