Chemdawg

That single win came at Roscommon in May 2024, now nearly two years ago, and it remains the sole high point of a career that has otherwise been defined by almost-but-not-quite. Six places from 25 races shows there's enough ability here to be involved, but converting that into victories has proved stubbornly difficult. The most recent form — a second followed by three blanks, then a couple of thirds before that — suggests Chemdawg is doing something without quite doing enough.

The partnership with jockey Phillip Enright is a curious one to keep coming back to. They've teamed up 14 times without a single win between them, which is a long run of shared disappointment. That said, Chemdawg's overall record isn't exactly overflowing with victories for anyone to claim, so it's hard to lay the blame anywhere in particular.

Where the horse does make most sense is over a trip of one mile six furlongs to two miles — proper staying distances that suit a horse with stamina rather than speed. At those trips, Chemdawg has won 1 from 8, a win rate of 12%, which sounds modest but is actually three times better than its overall record. It's a reminder that small samples can reveal a genuine preference, and trainer Oliver McKiernan's yard in Rathcoole, Co Dublin, has sent out four winners this season, so the operation is capable of placing horses well when the conditions are right.

Chemdawg raced just yesterday, so it's very much in active service, and at seven there's still time for another day like Roscommon in May 2024. But on the evidence of 25 races and one win, this is a horse that asks its supporters to be patient — very patient.