Cherry Cola

The first win came at Great Yarmouth on 24 May 2023, and the second followed that September at Bath. Since then, nothing. Thirty-six months without a victory is a long drought, and recent form tells its own story: three, six, eight, five, six, and four—a succession of moderate placings that suggest Cherry Cola is running at the lower end of its range. In the last race, just one day ago, the horse came home fourth.

What makes Cherry Cola worth watching, though, is a clear strength at distance. Over the longer trips between a mile and three-quarters and two miles, the record improves sharply: 2 wins from 24 races, or roughly 1 in 12—double its overall win rate. This is where the horse's best chances lie. At the lowest level of competition, Class 6, Cherry Cola's record climbs again: 2 wins from 17 races, an 8% conversion rate that confirms it belongs at this grade rather than in stiffer company.

Jockey Rose Dawes has ridden Cherry Cola 23 times, winning twice—a 9% partnership win rate—suggesting a reasonable understanding between them. Trainer Sheena West, based at Lewes in West Sussex, has had a decent season overall, with eight winners already sent out. The challenge for this ten-year-old is simple: a drought of three years is hard to break, and recent form is flat. But at the right distance, in the right class, with the right ground, Cherry Cola's consistency suggests it still has moments left to give.