13:50 Wolverhampton – Doctor Parkes @ 16/1 (each-way)
In Thursday’s opener at Wolverhampton, old-timer Doctor Parkes looks as though he might just be an outsider with a real chance.
Stuart Williams’ charge may be an 11-year-old, but he has lots of solid form in the book and could quite easily go well in a race that probably won’t take much winning.
In the past, this gelding would’ve no doubt been a bit too good for this lot – you’ve only got to take a look at some of his efforts off handicap marks in the high 80’s to work that out – but, just as it does with everyone, age might have caught up with him slightly. However, despite disappointing when racing wide throughout last time, his recent runs haven’t been completely without a promise. Finishing 4th over C&D back in December is certainly respectable, as was his 4th place finish over this trip at Chelmsford just over a month ago.
The two runs mentioned above both came at a higher level (class 5) so it’s felt that a repeat of either performance would see him go well in this lesser event.
On speed figures, Doctor Parkes is just about the best of this bunch, although many of his best showings are from some time ago. Having said this, even some of his runs back in late 2016 rate among the best in this field.
There a couple of younger types in here who could well be on the upgrade, Powerful Dream, Dashing Upgrade and Goodwood Crusader all have decent enough claims, but it would be hard to get behind any of those with any real confidence, especially at the prices.
A sure-fire-winner Doctor Parkes is not, but if you’re looking for an outsider who should be capable of outrunning his price-tag early on Thursday afternoon then the Stuart Williams trained veteran fits the bill.
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