The 18:43:00 at Sunderland delivers the standout contest on today's card — a Open Race — the premier class event over 261 metres with 6 going to post. It's a race that demands closer inspection, and the data backs that up.
A short-course dash where early pace and clean breaks decide everything. Cloncunny Black has the boldest early pace on paper from trap 4 but is dropping dramatically in trip, while Sunnyside Jayden breaks on terms from the rail as an All-Rounder. Mary Walloper is all finish with no jump and the 261 metre trip gives her nothing to aim at. Expect a blanket finish led by the pair that break cleanest.
Sunnyside Jayden (Trap 1, the red jacket) — trained by E Soppitt — emerges as the form pick. Recent form reads 2-2-2-3-4 — consistently placed. Last ran 15.81 over course and distance. Sunnyside Jayden is tactically versatile, able to lead or come from off the pace. The conditions are ideal: solid course form, comfortable at the trip. Best time over this trip: 15.54s. Top trainer, best-suited profile, best track figures — Strong pick.
Sunnyside Ted (Trap 5) is the principal danger. Recent form reads 1-3-6-3-2 — a winner last time out. Last ran 15.69 over course and distance. Field speed rating sits at 55/100. Same kennel, best class figure, real threat.
Of the remainder, Cloncunny Black (Trap 4, form 5-3-6-1-3) needs improvement on recent efforts; Mary Walloper (Trap 2, form 6-2-2-3-4) could benefit if the pace collapses; Tullymurry Shine (Trap 3, form 3-4-5-3-1) needs improvement on recent efforts; Havana Special (Trap 6, form 4-2-1-1-5) needs improvement on recent efforts.
Condition data reinforces the picture. The trap bias breakdown at Sunderland in this grade reads: T1:0% T2:33.3% T3:0% T4:25% T5:25% T6:0%. Just 42 OR-grade runs at this short sprint so trap bias numbers are noise. The 261m Sunderland sprint plays tight like Valley 260m — early pace and bend ability trump everything, and Closer profiles cannot get involved in time.
The Verdict: Sunnyside Jayden from Trap 1 gets the vote. Sunnyside Ted is the clear danger, but the edge on pace, form, and conditions favours the selection. A genuine betting race — and one where the data has a strong opinion.