Keep Grating

The encouraging detail lies in what happens when the distance suits him. Over seven furlongs to a mile, Keep Grating has won 1 of his 3 races — a 33 percent win rate that stands out sharply against his overall record. That single victory came at Great Yarmouth on 2 August, eight weeks ago, and it matters because it proves he can do it. The fact that he has finished in the placings in 4 of his 6 races suggests a horse with natural ability that is still maturing; he is competitive, just not yet consistent enough to win whenever sent to the track.

Richard Hannon's yard at Herridge is one of the most prolific in the country, having already sent out 118 winners this season, so Keep Grating is in proven hands. The trainer clearly believes in the horse — he was just raced yesterday — which indicates Hannon sees something worth developing. For a two-year-old eight weeks between wins, finding the right trip and the right race remains the puzzle. At his current level, Keep Grating is a horse worth watching rather than one to write off, though punters should expect more time before he becomes a regular winner.