Passing Diamond

What makes Passing Diamond truly special is his mastery of Hexham. He has won three of his four races at the track, most recently just this week on October 10th, and this consistency at one venue suggests he genuinely thrives there. It is the kind of course preference that sharp trainers and punters alike keep in their back pocket — Hexham appears to suit his style or temperament in a way other tracks do not. His trainer, Ben Haslam, runs a yard at Middleham Moor in North Yorkshire that has already sent out 35 winners this season, and Passing Diamond has become one of its star performers down the home straight.

The one question mark is his record in the top class races: he is winless from three attempts at Class 4 level, suggesting there may be a ceiling to how high he can climb. But at present, that feels almost beside the point. A horse with a winning streak and a favourite track is the kind of story that catches people's attention, and Passing Diamond is writing it week by week.