The problem is form. Novak last won 11 months ago at Newcastle on 28 September 2025, and since then he has managed no better than fourth place across his last six races. His most recent outing, just a day ago, saw him finish second, which hints at some life returning, but the dry spell is notable. What makes this potentially fixable, though, is that Novak clearly has a type of ground he prefers. On fast, dry ground he has won 2 races from 9 attempts—a win rate of about 1 in 5—which is significantly better than his overall record. Give him the conditions he likes and he becomes a different horse.
Archie Young has been his most effective partner, winning 5 of 22 races together at a rate of nearly 1 in 4, which suggests real chemistry between horse and rider. At the track level, Novak competes predominantly in Class 5 races and has won 7 of his 52 outings there. Iain Jardine's yard at Carrutherstown has been in good form this season with 57 winners, so there is plenty of momentum in the stable. The trainer has spoken of hoping Novak can get his head back in front, particularly at Ayr where the owner is based. On the right ground and in the right race, it is not impossible. Novak is a horse who has forgotten more about racing than most will ever know—he just needs one more day when everything clicks.
| Course | Races | Results | Last visited | Win rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle Galloping |
43 | 3 wins, 10 seconds, 5 thirds, 25 other | 20 Apr | 7.0% |
| Ayr Galloping |
19 | 2 wins, 3 seconds, 1 third, 13 other | 10 Aug | 10.5% |
| Wolverhampton Galloping |
7 | 2 wins, 2 thirds, 3 other | 28 Oct | 28.6% |
| Southwell Galloping |
4 | 1 win, 3 seconds | 11 Mar | 25% |
| Musselburgh Sharp |
4 | 1 second, 3 other | 22 Jul | 0% |
| Hamilton Park Sharp |
3 | 1 win, 1 third, 1 other | 10 Jun | 33.3% |
| Redcar Galloping |
2 | 1 win, 1 other | 26 Aug | 50% |
| Carlisle Undulating |
2 | 2 other | 9 Sep | 0% |
| York Galloping |
1 | 1 other | 23 Jul | 0% |