Squealer

At six years old, Squealer has earned 4 wins from 32 races — a modest 12% win rate that tells you this is a horse working hard for its living. But the numbers hide something important: on normal ground, the horse comes alive. Four of those wins have come from just 17 races on such conditions, a win rate of roughly 1 in 4, which is genuinely strong. Put Squealer on softer or faster ground and the win rate drops dramatically. Rowan Scott, who has ridden the horse in four of those victories, describes an electric turn of foot once the horse switches on — but getting there requires the right surface and tactical patience.

The frustration for Tinkler and Scott is bad luck rather than bad form. Squealer hasn't won in six races, but three of those have come at top level (Class 2), where one win from ten attempts shows the horse is operating at the limit of its ability. The handicapper, Scott notes, has got his measure. Recent draws haven't helped either. The plan is to return to York for the final meeting of the season, where the horse has already proved it belongs. Squealer needs quick ground and the confidence that a win brings — but if the surface is right and luck turns, there may be another local triumph waiting.