Horse Racing Tips for Epsom Handicap 2024

The 2024 edition of the Group 1 Epsom Handicap may not feature the absolute cream of the crop, but the wide draws of many top contenders inject a fascinating level of unpredictability into the race.

The famed mile at Randwick often favours genuine middle-distance runners, especially if the race tempo heats up early.

This year’s running promises plenty of movement in the opening stages, given the lack of natural leaders and that is why the bookies are having a hard time separating the field.

With a likely cat-and-mouse pace scenario, there’s great value to be found and I have landed on an imported 6YO hitting peak form third up.

 

 

Epsom Handicap 2024 Tips and Best Bets

Track Conditions:

With some rain forecast in the lead-up, Randwick should remain on the better side of a Good 4 or at worst a Soft 5.

Expect an early on-speed advantage, gradually shifting wider as the competitive fields start to kick in later in the day.

 

See who the All-In boys like in the Epsom Handicap

 

The Speed Map:

The lack of pace suggests we might see a tactical race, with Major Beel ($10.00) likely to lead from a middle gate under a light weight.

He could be joined by longshot Kintyre ($28.00), while Berkshire Shadow ($36.00) might sit just off the leaders.

Key contenders like My Oberon ($17.00), Royal Patronage and Detonator Jack ($20.00) will have to work from wide gates, aiming to sit just off the speed.

Meanwhile, Kovalica ($7.00), Nugget ($13.00), and Arctic Glamour ($27.00) are expected to be part of the second group, settling mid-pack.

Tom Kitten ($10.00) and Democracy Manifest ($16.00) will likely come from the back, looking to swoop late.

 

 

The Favourites:

It’s an open race without a clear favourite, but the market is likely to settle between Royal Patronage, Kovalica, and Ceolwulf ($7.50).

Given the nature of this year’s field, it wouldn’t be surprising if the top pick ends up priced around $6.00 or higher.

Despite a tricky draw, Royal Patronage stands out the most to me.

His ability to sit within three or four lengths of the lead makes him a standout compared to his rivals here.

From the Wootton Bassett line, known for handling varying track conditions, this middle-distance performer is well-suited to dry ground.

Racing with 56kg on the compressed weight scale could be a real advantage for him in this open field.

 

Neil's Best Bet: Royal Patronage

Royal Patronage is my top pick.

He’ll need some luck early from the wide draw, but his form and weight make him a standout in this race.

 

The Dangers:

Ceolwulf and Tom Kitten down on 54kg are both legitimate threats if they get the right run.

At longer odds, don’t overlook Berkshire Shadow and Chrysaor, who both have the potential to storm home late.

 

Neil’s Top Four:

1. Royal Patronage
2. Ceolwulf
3. Tom Kitten
4. Chrysaor

 

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