Seven Nation Army

That victory came over seven furlongs at the Irish track on 30 July, and it is over this middle distance — anywhere from seven furlongs to a mile — that the colt really shows its best. Over that trip it has won 1 of its 3 races, a 33 percent win rate that is markedly better than its overall record. This suggests the trainer, J P O'Brien, has found the right distance and may be working towards races suited specifically to the horse's strengths. O'Brien's Owning Hill yard is in top form this season with 160 winners to its name, so the horse is in a place where it will get thoughtful handling. The colt raced again just yesterday, which means it is being kept busy — typical for a young horse still learning the game — and it is clearly sound and healthy enough to race regularly.

What makes Seven Nation Army worth watching is not a glittering record but the shape of its recent form and the clear sweet spot it has shown at seven furlongs to a mile. It is still early in its career, and horses at this age are often all over the place before they settle. Two places in the last three races suggests it is becoming consistent, even if it has not yet strung together the kind of run that would mark it as one to follow seriously. For now, it is a horse in development.