Box Clever

Trained by Jonathan Portman at Upper Lambourn, Box Clever was picked up for just £3,000 a year before her first win. She has already earned over £9,600 in prize money — a tidy return on that modest investment. Her recent form shows the occasional blip: she ran ninth twice in her last six races, and failed to place in one outing, but those dips are balanced by two strong placings at seventh and third. Her overall record of 2 wins and 6 places from 12 races (a 17% win rate, or roughly 1 win in every 6 races) reflects a horse who is consistently competitive but still finding her feet at the higher levels.

What catches the eye is her long stride and her preference for room to run. Portman has clearly tailored her races to suit her natural style, keeping her to the 7-furlong distance where she appears to thrive. The trainer sees real potential as she matures and strengthens — the implication being that Box Clever may only get better next season. With her uncanny ability to win at Salisbury and a yard that has been prolific this year with 46 winners, she looks a horse worth watching on tracks that suit her running style.