Willow Wood

What is worth noting is the sheer volume of firepower behind the horse. Trainer Ed Walker, based at Upper Lambourn in Berkshire, has sent out 75 winners already this season — that is a yard operating at serious volume and clearly in good form. When a stable is firing on all cylinders like that, even the slower learners in the string tend to benefit from sharp preparation and experienced handling. Willow Wood may not have delivered yet, but it is not for lack of professional support.

Raced just one day ago, Willow Wood is very much in the middle of its campaign. Three-year-olds often need time to mature and find their confidence, and with only four races on the clock, the sample size is still small. Whether the form turns around is an open question — but with Walker's yard in such good shape around it, this is one worth keeping an eye on.