Velvet Rhythm

The pattern becomes clearer when you look at ground conditions. Velvet Rhythm thrives on fast, dry ground, winning 3 of every 7 races on those surfaces — a 43 percent win rate that towers above its overall record. Wet or muddy ground is a different story entirely, and any trainer worth their salt will be watching the weather forecast carefully before committing the horse to a race. Its first win came at Newmarket in May 2026, but the real sweet spot has been Catterick Bridge, where it last won three months ago in July. That was its fourth victory overall, and since then the horse has struggled, picking up a third place and a fifth but no wins in six recent outings. It is currently active and was last seen in the paddock just a day ago, so the yard are clearly keen to get it back on track.

Charlie Johnston's Middleham Moor yard has been in fine form this season with 131 winners, so there is no shortage of expertise in the corner. The question now is whether Velvet Rhythm can rediscover the form that made it unbeatable at Catterick Bridge — and whether the next race comes on a day when the ground is firm underfoot.