Split Elevens

Trainer John Butler, based at Newmarket, describes him as "a bit of a character who holds a bit back for himself" — the kind of horse who doesn't always show his true ability but has proved he can deliver when it matters. Butler's yard has had a prolific season already with 39 winners, and Split Elevens has contributed three wins of his own this year, which has lifted him 9 pounds higher in the handicap rankings. The trainer has also spotted something intriguing about the horse's potential over longer distances; after his only attempt at a mile proved successful at Brighton last season, Butler believes there may be more mileage in testing him further up in trip, suggesting the horse still has room for improvement.

Recent form shows Split Elevens ticking along nicely. In his last six races he has finished second, second, second, won once, fourth, then second again — a pattern that speaks to a horse who is competitive and regularly in the mix, even if he is not finishing with the consistency you might hope. Jockey Darragh Keenan has ridden him nine times and won once together, suggesting they have had some encouraging moments but nothing to suggest an obvious perfect match. Split Elevens raced as recently as yesterday and appears very much in active work, which means he is ready to be aimed at his happy hunting ground or given another chance to prove Butler's theory about the extra distance.