Aramram

The current form makes for impressive reading too. The last six races read 4-9-3-7-1-1 in reverse order, meaning the two most recent outings have both been wins. The most recent of those came just three days ago at Doncaster — which turns out to be something of a happy hunting ground. Aramram has won twice from just three visits there, making it the kind of horse you quietly move up your shortlist whenever Doncaster comes around. Winning two from three anywhere is a 67% record; at a track as competitive as Doncaster, that borders on remarkable.

The wet ground angle is equally compelling. In soft or muddy conditions, Aramram has won twice from just three races — again that 67% figure. Most horses either love or tolerate the mud. This one seems to genuinely thrive in it, which is useful information when the forecast turns grey.

In the saddle, Joe Leavy has been the regular partner, riding in six of these races and winning two of them — one in every three rides together, which is an excellent ratio by any measure. Behind the scenes, Richard Hannon's yard at Herridge in Wiltshire is having a serious season, having already sent out 111 winners this year. That is the kind of operation where horses are placed carefully and prepared well, and Aramram's consistent record at the top end of the sport suggests it has been handled with exactly that sort of patience.

Class 2 races account for 15 of Aramram's 23 career starts. Winning only 2 of those 15 — roughly one in every eight — tells you this is genuinely competitive ground. The fact that it keeps showing up, and occasionally beating the best, is what makes it worth following.