Jockey Hector Crouch has the short trip to Newmarket for five rides on The Rowley Mile. Read his exclusive preview ahead of Saturday’s action.
Hector Crouch Newmarket Preview, September 18th 2026
I don’t know a lot about Gainful (1.15), but she’s got a nice pedigree for connections being a homebred. Conditions should suit at Newmarket and, whilst likely to improve for her first day at school, she should go well on debut.
Hector Crouch at Newmarket: Hat’s Off
It’s always nice to put the silks on for His Majesty The King and I think it could be hat’s off with Food for Thought (1.50) in the Fillies’ Handicap over the straight mile. Her form from earlier in the season behind the serial winner Silver Lake looks strong and she’s got conditions in her favour to bounce back at HQ.
The William Haggas yard continue to enjoy a spectacular season (17 winners in the last fortnight) and Hardy’s Hero (2.25) could be another to add to their impressive tally in the 7f Handicap.
The son of New Bay spat his dummy out when tried in first time cheek-pieces here on The July Course but was better than the bare result last time out at Kempton when last of 7.. but beaten less than two lengths.
He’s been beaten a neck and a head in 7f Handicaps on The Rowley Mile this season, with his runner-up effort from The Craven Meeting holding up particularly well. He’s got a good chance if rediscovering the best of his form.
Hector Crouch at Newmarket: Lively Outsiders
Alaminos (3.45) makes his debut for the Ed Bethell yard having had an indifferent season for former handler Kevin Ryan. He ran a great race when second on seasonal debut from a mark of 82, but struggled in competitive handicaps at Chester, York and Newmarket. Back into calmer waters, he could cause an upset at a big price.
Emma Lavelle’s Squire Danagher (4.20) goes for the Cesarewitch Trial bidding to make up for a disappointing effort last time out at Goodwood. He hated the soft ground that day and will appreciate the return to a sounder surface. That 50/1 success in Sandown might be a shock, but the second and third have both won since so there’s still hope he’s got more to come.
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