Sweet Cicely

The recent form is uninspiring. In its last six races, the best result is a fourth-place finish; the rest are seventh, seventh, ninth, and sixth — nothing approaching the winner's enclosure. Just a day ago Sweet Cicely was racing again, still searching for that elusive first victory. When saddled by regular partner Oisin Orr, the horse has managed five races without a win between them, suggesting no particular chemistry or improvement under this jockey's guidance.

Trainer Mike Sowersby's yard at Little Barugh in North Yorkshire has sent out eight winners this season, so the stable is not without ability. But Sweet Cicely remains one of those horses that, despite repeated opportunities, simply hasn't delivered a win. With 27 races run and zero victories to its name, this is a horse that may be approaching the end of its racing career, or one that will need to find a path to success elsewhere. For now, Sweet Cicely is a living reminder that not every racehorse finds the winner's podium, no matter how many times it tries.