Clonakilty

His most productive spell came at the shorter end of his range, but it's over a mile and six furlongs to two miles where he has shown his best form in percentage terms, winning 1 from 4 races at those distances — a 25% win rate that suggests the stamina test suits him. Most of his racing has come in Class 4 company, which is a solid mid-level tier, and he has won 3 of his 16 races at that level. His most recent victory came at Southwell in April 2024, now over two years ago, and he hasn't added to the tally in the six races since — a dry spell that will not have gone unnoticed at the yard.

Sean Bowen has been in the saddle more than anyone else, riding him in 10 races for 2 wins, meaning the pair have clicked at a rate of 1 in every 5 together — a partnership that has clearly been worth persevering with. Trainer Lizzie Quinlan has spoken previously about believing Clonakilty had more improvement in him than his results showed, and that he was worth freshening up mentally as much as physically. That kind of comment from a trainer tends to be honest rather than promotional — it suggests a horse who needs things done right rather than one who is simply short of ability.

What makes Clonakilty interesting in 2025 is the combination of an active campaign — he raced just yesterday — and a trainer who has sent out 4 winners this season from his Cumbrian base. Quinlan's yard is clearly in form. Whether Clonakilty can contribute another win to that tally is the question, but with the right conditions and that trusted partnership with Bowen back in place, he is not a horse to dismiss.