Thanks Dad

His best haunt is Southwell, where he has won twice from twelve races — not dominant by any means, but a horse that clearly runs well there. His most recent victory came at Great Yarmouth on 14 August, roughly seven weeks ago, suggesting he has at least one more win in him this season. Since then, however, form has been patchy. His last six races tell an unforgiving story: fifth, eighth, first, sixth, eighth, tenth. Only one run has landed in the placings, which hints that his recent success at Great Yarmouth may have been the exception rather than the rule. He typically competes in lower-grade races — winning 2 of 17 at Class 6 level — and that is where he is most likely to find another opportunity.

Kieran O'Neill, his regular rider, has drawn a blank from seven races together (0 wins), which is worth noting as the yard weigh up their options. Scott Dixon trains him from Rolleston in Nottinghamshire, a yard that has been productive this season with 33 winners overall. Thanks Dad remains active and will race again, but he is a horse that needs a sympathetic ride at the right distance and track to show what modest ability he possesses.