Topaz

The recent form reads 3-1-2-15-2, which shows flashes of ability mixed with one poor outing. That third place last time out and the second place before it suggest Topaz is still learning, still figuring out how to finish races. Four places from five runs means the horse is competing at a decent level and regularly gets into the money, even if the wins haven't come lately. Jack Channon's yard at West Ilsley in Berkshire has sent out 46 winners this season, so there's solid horsemanship behind the scenes. That counts for something with a young horse that needs developing and patience. The race at Salisbury where Topaz broke through — that debut win — likely came on a surface or at a trip that suited, and finding that sweet spot again could unlock more victories as the horse matures.