Joe Tizzard's Dorset training operation has been in fine form, sending out 52 winners already this season, and West Orchard has been part of that story. Most of his wins—four out of five—have come in Class 5 races, which is where the horse operates best. He can handle tougher company on his day, but he is not a horse built to compete at the highest levels. The real highlight came last April at Fontwell Park, where he won convincingly despite being headed turning in. That victory, after he had picked up a minor leg issue over winter, showed he still had something to offer.
The last six races tell a mixed story: a couple of placed efforts and a couple of ordinary runs sandwiched around that Fontwell success, which came six months ago. He raced just a day ago and appears to be staying in work, suggesting the yard believes there is still racing to be had. Brendan Powell has been his most frequent partner, though the pair have managed just one win from 20 attempts together—suggesting West Orchard may find his best opportunities with different tactics or different hands. At nine years old, he is in the veteran stage, but the fact that he keeps getting sent out suggests Joe Tizzard sees races for him. For a horse with his level of ability, reaching five career wins is a respectable tally, and Plumpton is always worth watching.
| Course | Races | Results | Last run | Win rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wincanton Galloping |
10 | 1 win, 3 seconds, 6 other | 25 Feb | 10% |
| Fontwell Park Tight |
6 | 2 wins, 1 second, 2 thirds, 1 other | 24 Apr | 33.3% |
| Plumpton Sharp |
5 | 2 wins, 1 third, 2 other | 16 Mar | 40% |
| Taunton Undulating |
3 | 3 other | 30 Dec | 0% |
| Chepstow Galloping |
2 | 2 other | 11 Oct | 0% |
| Exeter Undulating |
2 | 2 other | 10 Mar | 0% |
| Newton Abbot Sharp |
1 | 1 other | 17 May | 0% |
| Ludlow Undulating |
1 | 1 other | 27 Nov | 0% |
| Ffos Las Galloping |
1 | 1 other | 23 Oct | 0% |
| Ascot Galloping |
1 | 1 other | 19 Nov | 0% |