The 20:19:00 at Newcastle delivers the standout contest on today's card — a Open Race — the premier class event over 640 metres with 5 going to post. It's a race that demands closer inspection, and the data backs that up.
Pace is the key question here. Hardwick Teddy (Trap 1) and Ballymac Camilla (Trap 2) both possess genuine early speed, which sets up a contested front end. That early battle could play into the hands of a closer — and there's one in the field.
Hardwick Teddy (Trap 1, the inside berth) — trained by S Caile — emerges as the form pick. Recent form reads 1-2-3-2-1 — 2 wins from the last 5 starts. Last ran 39.19 over course and distance. Hardwick Teddy is a confirmed front-runner who likes to lead from the lids, with an early-pace rating of 100/100. The conditions are ideal: solid course form. A speed rating of 60/100 relative to this field confirms the edge on raw pace. Best time over this trip: 39.19s.
Tammy The Best (Trap 4) is the principal danger. Recent form reads 1-2-3-5-1 — 2 wins from the last 5 starts. Last clocked 29.09 at Newcastle. Tammy The Best is tactically versatile, able to lead or come from off the pace.
Of the remainder, Jacktavern Lab (Trap 6, form 1-4-2-4-3) could benefit if the pace collapses; Ballymac Camilla (Trap 2, form 4-6-3-5-1) needs improvement on recent efforts; Untold Kuna (Trap 3, form 2-3-2-3-3) could benefit if the pace collapses.
The Verdict: Hardwick Teddy from Trap 1 gets the vote. With 2 wins from the last 5 starts, the form is there to see. Tammy The Best 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.