Violet Goldsmith

What does offer some encouragement is the trainer behind her. Eve Johnson Houghton, based at Blewbury in Oxfordshire, has sent out 39 winners already this season — a genuinely strong return that marks her yard out as one that knows how to get horses ready to perform. When a trainer is operating at that level, a horse that has not yet found its feet is not necessarily a lost cause. Some horses simply take time to work out what racing is about, and a capable yard gives them the best chance of clicking eventually.

For now, Violet Goldsmith is a horse in search of her first breakthrough. Whether that comes with more experience, a different trip, or fresher ground conditions remains to be seen. She is still only three, which means there is time on her side — but she will need to show significant improvement to give her supporters anything to cheer about.