Fine Form
Ellusive Butterfly CL – 4.02
can make it successive Listed triumphs when taking the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Eternal Stakes at Carlisle today.
Karl Burke’s Invincible Army filly was last seen coming out on top by three-quarters of a length in the Surrey Stakes at Epsom earlier this month, which was coincidentally her first win on turf.
The stiff finish on the Surrey Downs did not seem to affect Ellusive Butterfly despite a strong challenge from Greek Mythology and the Cumbrian track has similar characteristics which should suit.
She will have a 3lb penalty for that victory, but she has been improving all season and should make another bold showing.
A drop in trip could be the tonic for
Altareq CL – 4.35
to shed his maiden tag in the Stablemate By AGMA Carlisle Bell Handicap for Jim Goldie.
The four-year-old Frankel colt has come away with two third-placed finishes behind interesting types Diego Ventura and the royally-bred and owned Warrant Holder despite being slowly away on both occasions.
He disappointed last time out after another slow getaway, however, easing back to a mile from an extended 10 furlongs could sharpen him up, with Paul Mulrennan also in the saddle for the first time.
Harry Charlton’s
Wine Dark Sea CL – 5.05
can defy a 5lb hike to claim successive wins in the Stablemate By AGMA Cumberland Plate Handicap.
He tasted success on his only run in 2026 to date, winning by two lengths in an Ascot handicap over a mile and a half in May.
Charlton has clearly been patient with the lightly-raced four-year-old son of Ulysses and believes a furlong less will not affect his winning form.
I Can Dance CL – 3.30
will get his three-year-old campaign up and running with victory in the Lady Dacre Bell Handicap.
Trained by Charlie Johnston, the Bated Breath gelding will have to defy a 273-day absence for glory on his reappearance, but his pedigree suggests he has plenty of improvement in him.
A half-brother to 2022 Star Stakes winner and 1000 Guineas fifth Dance In The Grass – another Johnston horse – shows that the mile could also his optimum trip.
Kevin Ryan’s
Silesia CL – 2.30
can put her experience to good use in the Bet Smarter With Oddschecker+ EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes.
The Zoustar filly was placed behind two useful types on her first two runs before running well in the Hilary Needler at Beverley to be third.
The winner that day, Crystal Queen, was only beaten six lengths in the Queen Mary last week.
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